Meet the Trainers

My name is Reid, and my journey into the world of dog training began in an unexpected and life-changing way. At the age of 18 years old, I experienced a traumatic event when I was mauled by a friend's XL Pit-bull mix. While it was a frightening experience, it ignited in me an insatiable curiosity about dog behavior rather than pushing me away from dogs. 

Determined to understand the intricacies of canine behavior, I welcomed a German Shepherd into my life. Eager to train him myself, I dove headfirst into the process. However, I soon realized that I had missed several crucial steps along the way. Unfortunately, I encountered several trainers who labeled my dog as aggressive and suggested the unthinkable… putting him down. 

Refusing to give up on my furry companion, I continued my search for answers and eventually found a dedicated training team that taught me the logistics of dog behavior and the reasons behind my dog's reactions. This pivotal moment not only transformed my understanding of dogs but also inspired me to pursue a career in dog training.

Over the past decade, I have mentored under several elite trainers, gaining invaluable experience and knowledge in the field. I have had the privilege of helping rehabilitate hundreds of dogs, each with their own unique challenges and stories. My passion lies in utilizing reinforcement techniques that foster trust and communication between dogs and their owners.

I believe that every dog has the potential to thrive with the right guidance and support. My mission is to empower dog owners to build strong, healthy relationships with their pets, ensuring a harmonious life together. 

Thank you for visiting our website! I look forward to working with you and your furry friends, helping them become the best versions of themselves.

Hi, I’m Shawna, lifelong animal lover, dog mom, and co-owner of Canine Potential Dog Services alongside my husband, Reid.

Dogs have been my passion for as long as I can remember. If you asked anyone from any chapter of my life, they’d tell you I’ve always had a deep love and curiosity for dogs. Today, helping people build that same kind of connection with their own dogs is what I enjoy most.

I founded Canine Potential to create a safe, supportive space where dogs and their humans can learn, grow, and build strong, respectful relationships without sacrificing the fun along the way.

After graduating from a professional dog training school in Ohio in 2019, I continued expanding my knowledge through mentorships with experienced trainers and hands-on work with dogs of all breeds, ages, and personalities. Every dog is unique, which is why I take a thoughtful, individualized approach to every training journey.

I’m a proud member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) and a certified AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator, committed to using methods that are effective, humane, and uphold the highest industry standards.

When I’m not training, you can usually find me enjoying life with my husband, our twin boys, and our four boisterous pups (plus the occasional foster). I love photography, hiking, gardening, fish-keeping, and geeking out over canine behavior studies (often with a coffee in hand) and a new training challenge on my mind.

I’d love the chance to meet you and your dog and help you uncover just how much potential your canine truly has!