I have grown up with dogs my entire life. I have owned dogs both big and small, young and old. We got our first dog when I was six years old, and I haven't been without ever since! I have experience with well-mannered dogs, anxious dogs, hyper-active dogs, ill-behaved, aggressive dogs, and countless other doggie types. Just the first four types I listed account for the dogs I've personally owned! As a junior higher, I was a part of the Lakeside 4-H's dog group. Obedience training and showmanship was the main focus of that group, but I was also taught about dog health and mentality through it as well. My pup was a terrible show-dog on account of the fact that she gets anxious around people, but the experience helped grow the both us. I learned how to help her deal with her anxieties, and she learned to trust me better. She has her ups-and-downs, and I'm not a perfect trainer, but we love each other regardless! In addition to personal experience and 4-H, I've watched a LOT of "The Dog Whisperer" over the years; I have learned to understand the ways in which dogs think and act. Cesar Millan is regarded as a dog-training genius, and for good reason. He is my role model for dog interaction and training. If you have never checked out his show, I would highly recommend it. Your pooch will totally thank you!