Canine Behaviorist

By Michele Forto

What is a Canine Behaviorist?

The services of a canine behaviorist go beyond that of a basic dog trainer.

Behaviorists take a scientific approach to understanding the causes, functions, development, and evolution of canine behavior.

Since many behavior problems are complex, behaviorists conduct in-depth evaluations of a pet’s history, environmental factors and specific behaviors to develop a treatment plan.

In the comfort of your own home, we can teach you how your dog views the world, show you how to humanely train your dog, and demonstrate new ways to effectively handle problem behaviors. Ultimately, we can make life with your dog easier and more rewarding for you both!

Dr. Robert Forto, PhD-Canine Behaviorist:

Robert Forto earned his bachelors degree in Veterinary Science and took his first canine trainers courses in the early 1990’s.

After finishing his undergraduate degree, Robert was a professional musher and conducted a wolf migration study in Alaska.

He later went on to complete a Masters degree in business administration and became a certified canine trainer. His classes focused on animal behavior, animal learning, canine psychology, counseling and biopsychology.

His Doctorate dissertation addressed human-canine communication in the sport of dog sledding and how the history of dog training from a scientific point of view influenced today’s mushers.

Over the years Robert has worked with veterinary clinics, humane societies, volunteered for behavior-help-hotlines, headed a service dog training program, and attended numerous behavioral seminars. Robert teaches people how to become canine instructors and how to effectively open and operate a dog training business with business opportunities through Dog Works Training Centers.

Robert is a member of the Foundation for Service Dog Support, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, the International Sled Dog Racing Association and numerous other clubs and associations. He continues to stay informed about current canine behavior modifying techniques.

Robert currently resides in Colorado with his wife and business partner, Michele, his three teenage children and dogs Ineka, a 12 year old retired sled dog and Qyain a 2-year old imported German Shepherd. Robert is training for his first Iditarod.  He is planning on returning to school to obtain a graduate degree in counseling and he is a practitioner of neuro-linguistics.

What to Expect From Us:

1. Compassion, Respect, Support and Guidance.

1. Professional consultants who pursue continuing education.

1. Training materials that are scientifically accurate, user friendly and designed to meet your specific need.

1. A consultant who has prepared for your in-home appointment ahead of time to ensure that all issues are addressed.

1. A customized training protocol devised specifically for you and your dog.

1. A report summarizing your appointment with us.

If you would like to learn more about our training services or becoming the owner of a Dog Works Training Center, please contact us at 303-578-9881 or by email at train@denverdogworks.com

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Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the business manager for Dog Works Training Centers and is the co-host for The Dog Doctor Radio Show and Mush! You Huskies. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com