Jeff Dowling
Jeff Dowling, 53, is owner of Molly Canine Academy in Slovan, serving Washington and Allegheny counties. The former Vermont resident also owns Contain-A-Pet of Pittsburgh, a company that installs electronic dog fences. Dowling has trained thousands of dogs to live in harmony with their owners since 1991. His motto is: “I make bad dogs good and good dogs better.” Here is a conversation about his approach to dog obedience training.
Q. What breeds work best as family pets?
A. I think any breed can work as a family pet, but you need to consider the family’s lifestyle. For example, most terriers are high-energy, strong-willed dogs and not necessarily for the first-time dog owner. Labs and goldens are good choices but can be very hyper for the first couple of years. I always will help people find a dog if they ask for the help.
Q. How do you get inside the head of a dog?
A. Dogs are essentially pack animals, and they are looking for leadership and attention. That’s what I do with patience, consistency and repetition.
Q. How did you get into the business?
A. I actually started in 4-H in high school in Vermont.
Q. Where did you train?
A. The Anthony Jerone School of Dog Training & Career Inc. He was a dog trainer in Vietnam.
Q. How many dogs do you train?
A. Up to 10 to 12 a week.
Q. Why do you prefer to train in people’s homes?
A. It’s the dog’s environment. One-on-one works best. I believe that training your dog in a familiar environment with the participation of all family members when possible makes for a more confident dog and owners.
Q. How did you end up in Slovan?
A. My girlfriend is from here. She had a house here.
Q. What is the best advice you offer dog owners?
A. Dog owners can’t humanize their dogs. They are dogs. They think like dogs, not humans. Many of the behaviors they have, such as jumping and play biting, is typical dog behavior and easily correctable by a qualified trainer.
Q. What is your favorite part of your job?
A. I love making a dog part of the family and showing people it is possible to have a well-trained dog with just some work.
Q. Is there anything you would like to add?
A. Training by a qualified trainer should be an expense that every dog owner should consider. Classes are better than nothing, but private, in-home training is usually the best option. It is my opinion that every dog can be trained, but not every owner. I will always help rescue groups at no cost.
For more information visit: www.mollys-canineacademy.com.