About
Justine Boddy
CPDT-KA, FDM
My journey as a dog trainer began in Zurich, Switzerland, where enrolling in a dog training class wasn’t optional—it was mandatory by law. Having grown up with German Shepherds and spent years dog walking and sitting from the age of 15, I thought I understood dogs well. That first class quickly humbled me and sparked a deeper curiosity about truly understanding dogs—and helping them integrate confidently into everyday human life.
Since then, I’ve gained over five years of professional training experience in Switzerland and Colorado, in addition to more than ten years of hands-on dog care including group hikes with up to 10 dogs. I’ve taught group classes ranging from puppy foundations to obedience and socialization, and I’ve worked extensively with private clients and complex behavioral cases.
Beyond dog training, I bring over 15 years of experience coaching people in fitness and sports. This background allows me to break down complex concepts, adapt in real time, and support you as you guide your dog in a way that fits your lifestyle and values.
Life with my Dogs
Rio was adopted from Greece after he followed tourists back to their hotel. When I heard about him, I went to meet him—and brought him home. While he’s social, athletic, and full of enthusiasm, he also struggled with separation anxiety and resource guarding early on. Working through those challenges reinforced the importance of meeting a dog’s emotional needs while providing clear structure and guidance.
Fynn, adopted at six years old from a shelter, came to me from Spain and is mixed with Spanish Greyhound. He is the dog who ultimately led me to become a professional trainer. When he arrived, he was deeply fearful, avoided connection, and quickly learned how to open cabinets—and even the freezer. His intense prey drive and complex behaviors challenged me to rethink boundaries, clarity, and relationship-building.
Developing trust with Fynn and watching both dogs grow into confident companions has shaped how I approach every client relationship: with patience, structure, empathy, and realistic expectations.
Training Philosophy
In Switzerland, dogs are deeply integrated into daily society—welcomed in public spaces and expected to navigate the human world with confidence. Strong animal welfare standards and progressive training laws shaped my education, requiring humane, science-based approaches that are clear, fair, and respectful to the dog.
Just as importantly, dogs are treated as the species they are. Not “just a dog,” and not small humans—but animals with specific instincts, drives, and needs. Respecting their natural tendencies and providing appropriate outlets for them is central to helping them feel balanced and secure. When we understand what a dog truly is, we can meet those needs thoughtfully rather than unintentionally working against them.
The German word commonly used instead of “training” is Erziehung, meaning guidance and education. This concept is foundational to my work. Rather than simply teaching commands, I focus on guiding dogs to move through life with us—building confidence, resilience, patience, and emotional balance.
I believe effective training balances compassion with structure. Dogs need clear expectations, consistent boundaries, and supportive environments where they can practice success. Clarity creates confidence—for both dogs and their people.
Certifications & Seminars
Certifications
CPDT- KA
Certified Dog Trainer - ISCDT
L.E.G.S Family Dog Mediator (FDM)
Pet CPR & First Aid
Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
Seminars & Workshops
Emotion Regulation
Play Way with Dr. Amy Cook
Predation Substitution
Mantrailing
Intro to Odor Detection & Differentiation