Renee Cardoza

(CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, SDC)

How Renee Got Started

Her journey began with the arrival of her puppy Ragnar (on the right), plunging her into the unfamiliar world of dog training. Puppyhood proved more challenging than expected. Determined to learn, she enrolled Ragnar and her other dog, Lily (on the left), in group training classes.

Through these classes, she deepened her bond with both dogs and grew in confidence as they achieved their training milestones. Her interest in dog training blossomed into a passion she hadn't anticipated.

Her ultimate goal is to share her journey and expertise with others, helping them foster a stronger connection with their dogs, just as she did.

Certifications and Experience

In 2018, she attended Animal Behavior College and completed their comprehensive dog training course, where she received her ABCDT certification. Under the guidance of an experienced dog trainer, she honed her skills and knowledge in the field. The following year, she relocated to Visalia to work at a board and train facility, gaining extensive experience with diverse dog breeds and addressing various behavioral issues.

In 2021, she transitioned to a nonprofit organization specializing in training service dogs for Veterans and individuals with disabilities. Here, she achieved certification as a Service Dog Coach (SDC) through Cooperative Paws. Throughout her career, she has pursued further certifications, including becoming a Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and Certified Behavior Consultant Canine- Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.

To stay current in the evolving field of dog training, she commits to continuous education, ensuring she remains abreast of industry advancements and techniques. In 2024, she fulfilled a longstanding aspiration by launching her own business, Savoir Faire Dog Training LLC.

Training Style & Methods

Her goal is to foster success for both clients and their dogs by tailoring her teaching style to each individual. She understands that everyone is on a learning journey and approaches challenging cases without judgment. Providing ongoing support during and after sessions is a priority for her, and she maintains strict client confidentiality unless given explicit permission to do otherwise.

In her sessions, she emphasizes holistic and positive training methods, steering away from aversive equipment or practices. Instead, she relies on rewards such as treats, play, and attention as forms of reinforcement. The majority of her techniques are grounded in science-based methods from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Some of these effective techniques and methods include the following:

• Desensitization

• Counter conditioning

• Classical conditioning

• Operant conditioning

• Premack’s Principle

• Adjusting rates of reinforcement

• Marker training (including clicker training)

• Shaping

• Luring

• Capturing

• Reward based training

• Training alternative behaviors