The Dogfather –
Your Personal Dog Trainer
Creating
Happier Lives
through Stronger Bonds
My Vision
My vision is a world where the well-being of both dogs and humans flourishes, free from any strains or sufferings caused by their interactions.
My Mission
My mission as The Dogfather is to enhance the lives of dogs and their owners by providing affordable and personalised educational guidance and solutions.
With a focus on personalised dog training strategies, I’m dedicated to deepening the connection between you and your dog. Join me on a journey to create a strong and meaningful partnership that enriches both your lives.
My Philosophy
In my world, dogs are part of the family. That has an immediate impact on how I communicate and work with dogs.
This is my philosophy.
No Violence
I reject the long-held principle of dominance, aligning myself with scientific understanding. My interaction with dogs resembles that of a father with his children, based on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. Coercion, violence, and pain have no place in dog training.
Rules, Boundaries, Limitations
Just like any other family member, dogs have rules, boundaries, and limitations to adhere to. A world without rules is a chaotic one from a dog’s perspective, one that doesn’t make any sense. For dogs to feel at ease, they must always know their limits and what they are allowed to do within them, or in other words: they need structure.
Responsibility
As with any other member of my family, I am responsible for my dog throughout their life, a duty I must fulfill multiple times a day, on Christmas Eve as well as during the World Cup final, even with a fever or in storm and hail. This includes regular daily walks, ample and appropriate stimulation, and the best food I can afford.
For Life
This responsibility only ends with the animal’s passing, and not a day sooner. Under no circumstances will I part with my pets, not for an apartment, not for a job, and certainly not for an allergic mother-in-law.
For the method I practice, which is recognised and practiced worldwide, to work, my clients must be willing to make adjustments to their own philosophies. I will neither assist in teaching a dog to relieve him- or herself on a balcony nor show how to stop a chained dog from barking. I am more than willing, though, to teach how to stop chaining dogs.
From Teenage Dog Walker
to Certified Dog Trainer
My journey kicked off with a simple summer job: walking the dogs in my German neighbourhood during my teenage years. It wasn’t long before their owners took notice, commenting on the positive changes they observed.
This feedback sparked a deeper interest in fostering better relationships between humans and their four-legged friends.
In my early 20s, I delved into a rigorous dog training education with one of the best mentors the German world of dogs has to offer, resulting in my official certification in 1998.
Compassionate Dog Training
In 2015, during my time in the USA, I became a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers with the aim of advancing my education. This progression subsequently enabled me to achieve the esteemed CPD-KA title.
Today, I am The Dogfather, and my focus remains grounded in delivering practical, ethical, and compassionate dog training. This approach not only simplifies your life but also nurtures discipline and harmony in your pet’s daily routine.
Fueled by genuine passion, honed through practical experience and comprehensive education, I stand ready to guide you and your canine companion toward a life of mutual understanding and companionship.
Frequently Asked
Questions
How much professional experience do you have?
I started my training in 1995 with one of the best trainers in Germany and finished in 1998. In the same year, I was recognised by my local authority in northern Germany as a licensed dog trainer.
This means that I have been officially working with dogs for 25 years. But in reality I have spent my whole life in the company of dogs.
Where do you operate?
I make house calls between Lisbon and Cascais
In which languages do you teach?
I speak fluent German, English and Spanish and teach in these languages. My Portuguese is not yet good enough to use in class.
Do you work with Pitbulls and other "potentially dangerous" breeds?
Yes. There are no breeds that are potentially more dangerous than others. There are only breeds that bite harder than others and won’t let go.
Do you offer regular dog walks?
No. If the dog doesn’t cause any problems on the leash, you’re better off with a local dog walker for a better price.
Can you train my dog for me?
Through one-on-one training, I can lay down the foundation. Nevertheless, it doesn’t guarantee your dog’s instant obedience towards you. That’s why extra sessions are required, where I’ll guide you on the commands your dog has learned, how to execute them, and what steps to take if they decide not to cooperate.
However, that doesn’t really make sense. I would always advise doing it right: I work with you and your dog, preparing you for the lifelong task of daily dog education. You’ll have to do it anyway 🙂