Brandon Hayes’ Dog Training Bio

Why am I qualified to train your dog?

I have been working with dogs since I was born in 1985.  I have never been without a dog in my life.  I started volunteering (training, walking, feeding, and caring) in shelter programs in the year 2000 and realized that working in these programs is great, but I began to wonder.  How can I stop dogs from arriving here in the first place?  This question guided me into the world of dog training and behavior modification.

I now work at New England’s esteemed Olympia Kennels (olympiakennels.com) in Chester, NH.  I work side by side with New England’s most experienced trainers and behavior specialists, as well as some of the regions top dog sport competitors.  I am responsible to train, in both obedience and behavior modification. Many of the dogs that I train are either knocking on the door of a dog shelter, or the door of death. I train and mentally rehabilitate dozens of dogs per month.  I handle and train all breeds and all ages. My day to day dog handling experience can’t be rivaled anywhere in the industry.

{I can’t thank my current employers enough for giving me this great opportunity and responsibility}

Why am I here at Nord Osten Kennel? 

Well, I grew up in Rowley, MA; arriving in 1988 and have known Cathy and been her next-door neighbor since then.  I grew up with her children and she has been nothing but a caring and positive influence in my life.  When she asked me if I would teach her obedience and behavior modification classes, I gave her the only answer I could… “Of course, when do I start?”

My goal and passion: To integrate dogs into people’s lives as seamlessly as possible.  That is to say I will work with your current dog, serious behavior problems and all, and fit him into your life, creating as few disturbances as possible.  Dogs are meant to be faithful and loving companions to us humans, and it is my opinion that as soon as they become the slightest of burdens their positive role in our lives has been effectively destroyed.

My training theory:  All a dog needs is leadership, and a strong bond with its owner.

1. To form leadership (social/pack structure) we must provide: Protection, a fair/clear set of rules, obedience training, and exercise (controlled walks, runs, hikes, bikes etc. to match your dogs energy level)
2. To create a strong bond we must share: Affection, shelter, nourishment, grooming, health-care, and play. (Notice play is not listed as exercise!)

  My training method: a results-based, balanced mixture of classical & operant conditioning, pack structure, dog psychology, and common sense.  If it works, which means it yields reliable results, stick with it. If it doesn’t, then it’s time to try something else!  The best methods of training and behavior modification yield reliable results in a timely fashion.  I offer a mutual guarantee to all of my clients:  If you hold up to your end of the training process you will see significant improvement in your dog’s obedience and behavior.  If not I will train with you until you do!