Methodology & Philosophy

K9 Lifestyle promotes responsible pet guardianship and balance of the physical, mental and emotional needs of the canine companion.

Our goal is to create a clear channel of communication between the human and canine species and bring awareness to the requirements of a balanced and content companion. This harmonious relationship is attained through understanding and calm assertive leadership.

Our process works by:

  • Assessing the dog’s temperament: are they timid, fearful, anxious, over-excited, over-reactive or possess strong dominance characteristics?
  • Assessing the capabilities of the family/carers: are they capable of working as a team, are they physically capable to use the prescribed techniques, are there limitations in their environment, what is their moral belief of training and behaviour modification, what is their time availability and what is their financial situation?
  • Assessing the severity of the problem or need for it to be resolved: is it life threatening, is it causing social difficulties, is it causing frustration, is it harming the dog or others, is it costing money for it to continue?
  • Assessing whether the emotional, physical and mental needs of the dog are being met.
  • Assessing which methods and techniques will suit the dog and owner the most efficiently.
  • Demonstration and application of prescribed treatment methods and plan

The K9 Lifestyle Fundamentals:

  • Be humane
  • Establish leadership
  • Create a clear channel of communication – show the dog how to ‘win’
  • Build trust
  • Build confidence
  • Build the bond
  • Promote the spirit of the dog

K9 Lifestyle is committed to supporting our clients through all stages of their training and modification process via email and/or telephone communication and personal guidance.

SEND AN ENQUIRY

"Thank you Damian for your amazing ability to transfer our very playful lab into a very obedient dog. Your very friendly service and professional training manner was outstanding.

More importantly you were able to instruct us on how to maintain Bulla’s obedience training to ensure he received a consistent ‘message’. Being able to control Bulla’s enthusiasm has certainly made walking along the beach a more enjoyable experience and his temperament is exemplary."

- Trent, Jodie and Millie

“After a very embarrassing and frightening hour on the beach one day trying to catch my four month Border Collie Puppy, I felt like I had won the lottery, when gave an enthusiastic  recommendation for Damian. He really helped me see things from Nell’s angle and taught me a number of simple techniques that made a big difference to how well I was able to work with Nell.

Nell is still a very spirited and highly active dog, but now she is very responsive and reliable – an absolute pleasure to take out – whether its having miles of off leash fun on the beach or an on leash walk through local streets and reserves."

– Anne and Nell

Jan Juc

“Not only did Damian’s training of my very excitable Boxer Staffy Cross give me the confidence to handle and enjoy Dodge, but in addition he went above and beyond the professional standards of training and had a personal approach with us. Damian really impressed us with his impeccable training skills, as well as maintaining and respecting Dodge’s spirit and character. I can’t thank you enough Damian and I look forward to continuing our training.”

– Debbie and Dodge

Anglesea

"Thank you Damian for your amazing ability to transfer our very playful lab into a very obedient dog. Your very friendly service and professional training manner was outstanding. More importantly you were able to instruct us on how to maintain Bulla’s obedience training to ensure he received a consistent ‘message’. 

Engaging in your professional service was certainly worth the investment not only for own benefit but more importantly for Bulla who is a very happy, fun loving obedient dog.  We would be more than happy to recommend your professional service. Many thanks for all your assistance."

– Trent, Jodie and Millie

Torquay

I asked for help from K9 Lifestyle for my Great Dane Charlie who had developed a very annoying habit of barking very loudly at the door when outside and wanting to come in. This became particularly problematic when I had guests over or was over at friends houses and wanted him to stay outside.

Damien was friendly, professional and developed an immediate respect with Charlie. Within three weeks (and 2 follow up sessions) this issue has reduced dramatically and I am confident will completely go away with my continued training of him. I would 100% recommend Damien to any one I know having problems with their canine friends."

– Elly

Torquay