Our Story
Lovely to meet you!
Hi, I’m Donna, owner and trainer at Next Level Canine. Originally from the UK (yes, the accent is real, and no, I don’t drink tea 24/7—just most of the time), I moved to Canada in 2002 and never looked back—well, except maybe for the fish and chips. I now call Kelowna, BC home, where I spend my days working with amazing dogs and their equally amazing (if slightly less furry) humans. My journey into dog training began with my own pup, Dempsey, who kindly taught me that even a professional can be outsmarted by a dog.
I believe training should be as enjoyable for your dog as it is for you (OK, maybe more so for your dog). That’s why I stick to reward-based, positive reinforcement methods—because who doesn’t like getting paid for doing something right? No prong collars, no punishment, no fear, no force. Just good old-fashioned communication and a pocket full of treats. Think of it as teaching your dog to be polite without turning into that strict School Principal (or Headmaster if you’re from my part of the world).
I take my training seriously, but I don’t take myself too seriously. My methods are rooted in science (because, let’s face it, it works), and I’ve spent years learning the best ways to help dogs learn in a way that’s fun for everyone involved. I don’t use aversive techniques—your dog won’t learn through fear, but rather through trust, communication, and maybe a few extra belly rubs along the way.
If I sound like your type of person, I’d love to work with you.
Why dog training is the job for me
I’ve always been drawn to working with animals, but dog training truly became my calling when I realized how much joy comes from helping dogs and their owners build better lives together. It’s not just about teaching dogs to sit or stay—it’s about solving real problems, creating harmony, and watching that ‘lightbulb moment’ when everything clicks. Seeing the transformation in both the dog and the owner’s confidence as we work together is incredibly rewarding, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. This isn’t just a job—it’s my passion.
Strengthening your connection with your dog
My goal isn’t just to teach your dog new tricks—it’s to help you and your dog build a bond that lasts a lifetime. I offer ethical and effective training, tailored to your needs. Let’s make the journey fun and rewarding for both of you!
If you’re ready to transform your relationship with your dog and build a stronger, lasting connection, I’m here to help.
Together, we’ll tackle challenges, build skills, and create a stronger bond between you and your dog. Ready to get started? Click below, and let’s unleash your dog’s potential together!
“We’re so relieved and grateful”
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