Our Training Philosophy
We believe good training comes from establishing a healthy relationship with clear expectations and good communication. The primary training system that we follow is NePoPo® where the dog executes a command every time with heart and soul. We use a balanced training approach that utilizes both classical conditioning and all four quadrants of operant conditioning. In essence training needs to look like real life and feel like play.
Schedule a Training Evaluation
Contact us to schedule an in-person or online evaluation
About Hodge Canine
Our Values
Communication
We are open about how we do things, and why we do them. We believe in clear communication between trainer and owner as well as between owner and dog.
Quality over quantity
Typically larger facilities start to focus on quantity over quality due to covering larger expenses. We would rather do more with less dogs at one time than less with more dogs.
Empathy
We value putting ourselves in the owner’s shoes AND looking at the world from their dog’s perspective. If we can understand both sides, we can bring both parties together to create a lasting companionship and more harmonious home.
Continued Education
Joe has attended some of the most elite canine schools and will continue to learn, research, and grow as an expert in the field. Likewise we believe it is important to educate each owner the “why” behind each training decision we make.
Joe grew up always having a dog in the house but his first real experience working with dogs came when he was in the military. As a former Army Ranger at 3rd Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment he worked alongside numerous K9s. Towards the end of his military career he started working as an Army K9 handler before being medically discharged in 2016.
While transitioning out of the military Joe’s wife Emily purchased him an 8wk old lab mix named Porter as a wedding gift. He started spending his free time training Porter and ultimately decided to pursue canine training as a full-time career. He has been mentored and coached by some of the best trainers in the world. He has continued his education by attending Animal Behavior College, American K-9 Interdiction, and NePoPo® Gold School.
In 2021, after working as the Training Director for one of Arizona’s largest board and train facilities, he decided to pursue his own training business. Joe lives in Chandler, AZ with his wife Emily and his two daughters Miliana and Cecilia.
Hodge Canine Services
Private Lessons
Private lessons are perfect if you would prefer a more hands-on approach to your dog’s training program. We will meet with you one-on-one and guide you through the necessary steps to train your dog. In-home training is available within the East Valley Phoenix metro area.
Board and Train
Have your dog come live with us in our home to be intensively trained for 2, 4, or 6 weeks. After their stay, you and your dog will complete what are called transfer lessons. During these lessons we teach you what we taught your dog and “transfer” them back into your home.
Custom Training
Every dog and every family has a unique story and situation. Partner with us to develop the perfect plan that will meet your training goals. Online training, advanced public access training, and additional specialty training programs are available.
