Canny Dog, Science Based Dog Training

Canny Dog Science Based Dog Training is owned and operated by dog trainer Imogen Poropat. Imogen Poropat has had a lifelong passion for animals and a scientist's calling to seek fact and practical results. A native of the East Bay, Imogen grew up in the constant companionship of her family's and neighbors' dogs, gaining an intuitive grasp of dog psychology and behavior. Having a keen interest in science, however, she knew intuition was only part of the picture. In 2012, she earned a Master's in Animal Behavior and Welfare from Newcastle University in England. Since coming home to the Bay Area, she has worked professionally with a large variety of dogs, from a four pound toy Maltipoo to a 110-pound black Russian terrier. Not content to rest on her laurels, she is currently pursuing a prestigious certification from the Karen Pryor Academy, a leading pioneer in positive reinforcement training.

Imogen will provide a sound and humane learning environment for your dog. She will use positive reinforcement to select for the desired behaviors, in the form of well placed rewards and a tool called a clicker. This approach is proven to produce fast and long term learning. Crucially, she will also work with you and your family to ensure that the training is tailored to the individual dog and circumstance.

Training as it is understood today is really about maintaining a healthy, communicative relationship with your pet, which can only increase the joy in your life together. Dogs learn best – just like humans and all animals – when communication is clear, positive, appropriate to the species, and tailored to the individual. Imogen's training provides just that.