Rome was built for reactive dogs.

Rome was started specifically for reactive and anxious dogs that don't do well with unfamiliar dogs, people, or environments. We're findings yards and other private spaces in Ballard for these dogs so they can still get safe, off-leash play. Caring for your special dog goes beyond exercise though! So, we've gathered all the high-quality trainers that we could find that cater to those specific needs. This is the second post of this series, and we're highlighting Adam of Arch Canine Training!

Trainers for reactive and anxious dogs

Aggression in dogs is not the same as reactivity. For example, completely non-aggressive dogs may start reacting in a negative way specifically around other dogs that they don't know well. Reactive dogs are typically easily overly stimulated, and once they reach a certain level of stimulation, they're not able to regulate back down to a normal state. If you just learned that your dog is reactive, congrats! Learning that your dog is reactive is sometimes the hardest part of knowing how to manage your dog's behavior.

We mention this because all of the trainers in this series are specifically those who understand the nuances of reactive dogs, not aggressive dogs. Reactivity in dogs comes out in so many different ways, so it's important to work with someone who understands the nuances and can truly support you.

Adam | Arch Canine Training

The basics

Certifications | Self-taught through extensive hands-on experience, apprenticed under another trainer. Adam is focused on continued education through attending seminars, workshops, and online programs.  

Services | Private training and board & train programs 

Methods | Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) based approach, 80-90% reward-based training 

Tools | Flexible approach starting with flat/martingale collars, e-collars and prong collars if needed.

Experience with reactive or anxious dogs

History | Adam's experience stems from four years in dog daycare environments, where he specialized in working with dogs that didn't thrive in typical daycare settings due to their reactivity. His interest grew as he worked with these challenging cases, leading him to focus on helping reactive dogs and their owners find solutions.

Type of reactivity | Specializes in leash reactivity, aggression, and separation anxiety. Particularly those stemming from fear-based behaviors.

Case Study | From Daycare Dropout to Off-Leash Success

One of Adam's notable success stories involves a pit bull who had been asked to leave daycare due to behavioral challenges. Through dedicated training and understanding the dog's specific needs, Adam helped transform this pup's life. Today, this former "problem dog" enjoys off-leash activities and no longer requires anxiety medication.

I worked with Adam Kremer through Heads Up and he was phenomenal.

I have a 7-year old pitbull that I rescued last year who’d never had any training, had extreme separation anxiety, super reactive to the door, and was on pretty heavy anxiety meds.

Adam realized that my dog may be in need of a little confidence, some more clear boundaries and healthy walking routines!

The change I saw in her (and myself!) every week was awesome. He went above and beyond, writing up tips and recovering what we practiced via email, he helped me set goals with my dog and was such a great cheerleader and coach for myself and my dog.

I was nervous initially because Adam recommended working with a prong collar and e-collar, but he constantly checked in with my comfort level, explaining the tools and how to use them safely and was clear that we used them to distract my dog and get her to focus, never to provoke fear in her.

He also tailored all of our lessons to issues I was having with training and questions I had, while also having ideas and recommendations on how to get to the next level.

With his help we got my dog off meds, she’s not reactive to our doorbell, has started crate training and is such a confident walker and listens to me. I had 8-week private lessons weekly at Volunteer Park. I’ve recommended them to several friends now and may reach out again for more help with crate training.

I am so happy I decided to train with Adam. They’re super educated and passionate about training. Thanks Adam and team!

- Nnneka/Mocha

Case Study | Breaking Free from Confinement Fear

Another powerful transformation involved a dog with severe confinement phobia and separation anxiety. When this pup first came to Adam's board and train program, they were exhibiting self-harming behaviors while trying to escape confinement. Through patient work and consistent training, the dog made remarkable progress, eventually becoming comfortable enough to accompany their owner to various locations with confidence.

More on Adam

Adam approaches dog training as a conversation with the dog rather than a lecture, focusing on building a relationship with the dog rather than simple command-based training. He believes in building strong training foundations, building the relationship between the dog and owner. Adam’s adaptive approach to training focuses on what works best for each individual dog and their family.

How to work with Adam

Private training sessions are available at your home or local parks. For more intensive cases, Adam offers a comprehensive board & train program based in Ballard, ranging from 3-6 weeks with four follow-up lessons included.

Click here to visit Arch Canine Training's website to learn more!

Adam has access to special rates for Rome bookings! If you're interested in using a Rome yard for a session with Adam or just want one to book a yard for fun, ask him for the discount code!