Why Work With Us?
Mark Ehrman is a certified dog trainer with a diverse training background centred around modern, science-based training. An extensive resume of formal dog training and nearly two decades serving as a degreed automotive engineer gives him the expertise and analytical power to accurately diagnose, explain, and resolve your canine’s behavioural issues.
Mark puts the reins in your hands, providing you with the techniques and skills required to see lasting results and build a closer bond with your dog. His patience and thorough, relatable explanations give dog owners a fresh new insight into changing their canine’s behaviour.
LONG LASTING
Not Quick Obedience
Various studies have revealed the negative consequences of adopting a “pack leader” approach based on absolute control, or using harsh corrections and aversive tools to punish bad behaviours. Teaching pet owners to use evolved, humane training methods reduces aggression, improves the willingness of your canine to listen, and promotes a happier life. Mark prioritises maintaining a caring relationship with your dog, over quick fixes and using aversive tools to punish improper behaviour. Mark can help you reframe your dog’s behaviour, and introduce new techniques to help you and your dog deal with challenging situations better.
CONTINUOUSLY LEARNING
& Improving
When Mark counsels you on the best training methods for your dog’s situation, rest assured that he is providing the most modern, effective advice available. He believes that when we know better, we do better, and is constantly expanding his training, attending conferences, and learning as dog training evolves.
Hundreds Of Case Studies Near You
Mark has been instrumental in bringing modern positivity training to the Sydney area. As the first Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainer in Australia, he’s committed to showing people how to promote good manners and behaviour without harming, scaring, or intimidating the dog. View 150+ 5-star reviews on Google:
Learn More About Mark
Training & Qualifications
“When we know better, we do better”
“Pros & Cons, not Rights & Wrongs”
- Certificate III in Dog Training and Behaviour from the National Dog Trainers Federation
- With the Academic Achievement Award
- Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainer (VSPDT)
Professional Organisations:
- Association of Pet Dog Trainers Australia, Treasurer and Professional Dog Trainer Member
- Association of Professional Dog Trainers USA, Professional Member
Ongoing Courses:
- Aggression in Dogs Master Course (2020)
- School of Canine Science Puppy Lab (2022)
- APDT AUS 4-day conference: 2021 (online), 2019, 2013
- APDT USA 4-day conference: 2022, 2020 (online), 2018, 2016, 2014
- First Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainer in Australia (2015)
- Canine Social & Psychological Development Course (with honours) (2014)
- Dangerous Dog Handling and Assessment (2012)
Techniques & Methods
Mark is a degreed engineer and worked in the automotive industry for nearly 20 years. During that time, he owned a dog with behavioural issues, and in 2006 completed a course in dog training. That was when Mark discovered his calling and decided to pursue it full-time as a career. He later left automotive to pursue his passion for dog training.
Like many trainers, Mark studied and began training using traditional punishment and “pack leader” (dominance) based methods and philosophy. Since then, the “pack leader” and dominance-based training philosophy has been debunked. Other studies have proven conclusively that dogs trained using aversive punishment-based techniques (technically called “positive punishment”) develop into more aggressive dogs. In short, avoid using positive punishment at all costs.
The alternative way to train our dogs is to manage consequences in a neutral or positive fashion, without using pain, fear, intimidation, physical force, etc. This modern style of training uses Positive Reinforcement. Mark has joined this philosophy wholeheartedly, which he demonstrated by becoming the first Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainer in Australia. He has an absolute refusal to condone check chains, shock or e-collars, physical force, and other similar training tools.
Unfortunately, many people who claim to be “positive” trainers (or “balanced” trainers) still use punishment, force, or outdated dominance methods. There is always a humane alternative when you find the right dog trainer, as this Victoria Stillwell article explains. If anyone tells you to do something to your dog that you aren’t comfortable with, then don’t do it!
Mark welcomes any questions or conversations about his training methods and why he believes this is the only way forward with training our pet dogs, cats, or any other animal!
Teaching & Mentoring
In addition to teaching clients, Mark also helps educate and train other dog trainers and pet care professionals. His teaching and mentoring positions include:
- Lecturing vet nursing students at TAFE NSW on dog body language and behaviour
- Faculty Advisor for The Victoria Stilwell Academy (VSA) Dog Trainer Online Students
- In-person mentor for VSA students in Sydney
