Last Updated on January 15, 2026 by Kim Crawmer, KPA CTP, LFDM
Today I’m thrilled to share a guest post from Sarah, one of my incredible puppy clients. Sarah is originally from France and brought her Maremma Sheepdog puppy, Caia, home from Prancing Pony Farm to live an adventurous life in Hawaii. As a first-time dog owner committed to positive reinforcement training, Sarah dove headfirst into learning—trying multiple well-known training programs to find what worked best for her and Caia.
What I love about Sarah’s story is her honesty about the learning curve and her willingness to pivot when something wasn’t quite right. She beautifully illustrates why there’s no single “perfect” training method—the best approach is the one that matches how YOU learn while meeting your dog’s needs.
I’m especially proud that Sarah mentions how Caia’s early socialization here at the farm set her up for success. That foundation of confidence and adaptability has allowed Sarah to take Caia anywhere—from construction sites to beaches to city adventures.
Take it away, Sarah!
My Dog Training Journey: What I Tried, What Worked, and What I Wish I’d Known Sooner
Guest post by Sarah Hauser, Caia’s owner
When we committed to getting Caia from Prancing Pony Farm, I knew I wanted to raise her with positive reinforcement—but I also had zero real experience. Like any first-time dog owner, I felt a mix of excitement, motivation, and “oh wow, I really hope I don’t mess this up.”
So I threw myself into learning. I tried several well-known training systems, each with very different styles:
- Susan Garrett — “Home School the Dog”
- The DIAL Method
- Karen Pryor Academy — Better Vet Visit + Foundation Course
Each one shaped Caia’s upbringing in its own way.
Starting With Susan Garrett: Games, Enthusiasm & Strong Bonding
I listened to Susan Garrett’s podcast even before Caia came home. Her game-based approach felt joyful and accessible, so I signed up for Home School the Dog as soon as Caia arrived.
What I loved:
The ItsYerChoice game taught Caia impulse control in a clear, fun way. I could play it with food, toys, the door—anything she wanted. It helped her learn how to focus even when treats were present.
Some early games were perfect for bonding and building a positive foundation.
Where I struggled:
Susan is warm and conversational, but the course format is dense. During that period of new puppy + construction + work, I needed something more succinct and structured.
The DIAL Method: Clear, Science-Based, and Grounding
Kim introduced me to the DIAL Method at the perfect time. It felt like a crystal clear summary of everything I had been learning for months.
It cuts through outdated myths like “you need to be the alpha” and focuses on what behavioral science actually says. Dogs don’t need dominance—they need clarity, enrichment, and consistency.
It’s beautifully approachable and grounding.
Karen Pryor Academy: Structure + Mechanics = Real Breakthroughs
The biggest turning point came when we tried trimming Caia’s nails. The second attempt scared her, and I didn’t want to lose her trust. Kim suggested the Better Vet Visits course.
Within three weeks, Caia went from scared to relaxed and smiling while I trimmed her nails. It’s now one of our most bonding routines. Karen Pryor Academy’s style—clear steps, precise mechanics, no fluff—fits how my brain learns best.
That’s why I’m beginning their Dog Trainer Foundation Course.
💡 **Perfect Timing!**
Since Sarah raves about Karen Pryor Academy in this post, I should mention: all KPA courses are 20% off through the end of January. This is the sale I wrote about last week—and it’s truly the best time to invest in your training education.
Curious which course might be right for you? I broke down the options and shared why I’m such a KPA fan in last week’s post.
What I’ve Learned
- Positive reinforcement works for every species
- You can train in tiny micro sessions throughout the day
- Good guidance is essential
- Pick a program that matches the way you learn
- Pivot if needed—there’s no one right path
Thanks to Kim’s exceptional early socialization, Caia has been adaptable to everything: travel, new environments, tiny house life, construction noise, beaches, city outings—the works.
She amazes me every day.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best dog training method for first-time owners?
A: The best method is one that uses positive reinforcement principles AND matches how you learn best. As Sarah discovered, what works brilliantly for one person might feel overwhelming for another. The key is finding structured, science-based guidance that fits your learning style.
Q: Can you use multiple training methods with the same dog?
A: Absolutely! As long as they’re all based on positive reinforcement principles, combining elements from different programs can work well. Sarah used games from Susan Garrett, concepts from the DIAL Method, and mechanics from Karen Pryor Academy—all complementing each other.
Q: How long does it take to train a livestock guardian dog?
A: Training is an ongoing process, not a destination. However, with consistent positive reinforcement and proper early socialization (like all Prancing Pony Farm puppies receive), you can see significant progress in specific behaviors within weeks. Sarah transformed nail trimming in just 3 weeks using the KPA Better Vet Visit course.
Q: Is the Karen Pryor Academy good for livestock guardian dog breeds?
A: Yes! Positive reinforcement training works for all breeds and species. KPA’s structured approach is particularly helpful for LGD owners because these intelligent, independent dogs thrive when they understand what you’re asking and are motivated to participate.
Q: What is your top recommended program for people who are completely new to dog training?
A: The best place to start with dog training is the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Foundations course. As Sarah and another of our clients, Violet, discovered, it’s easier to understand for first-time dog trainers, and its step-by-step format and use of multiple learning tools ensure success for dog and owner alike, and make learning fun. The Dial course is not a training course but more of a program for understanding your dog and integrating them into your life. Both programs work well together to set you on the right path with your new LGD.
Start Strong: Prepare for Success Before Your Puppy Arrives
Getting a Maremma puppy is a significant investment—in time, money, and emotion. The difference between a successful working LGD and a frustrated owner often comes down to understanding your dog from day one.
The Dial Method® helps you:
- Understand what your Maremma actually needs (they’re fundamentally different from other dogs)
- Set up your environment and routines for success before the puppy arrives
- Communicate clearly with your independent thinker
- Build confidence instead of second-guessing every decision.
Closing Note from Kim:
Sarah’s journey perfectly illustrates what I tell all my puppy clients: the best training method is the one you’ll actually use consistently. There’s no single “right” way—what matters is finding an approach that matches your learning style, fits your lifestyle, and uses science-based positive reinforcement principles.
I’m incredibly proud of the work Sarah has put into Caia’s training. The foundation we build here at the farm during those critical early weeks gives puppies like Caia the confidence and resilience to thrive anywhere—but it’s dedicated owners like Sarah who turn that potential into reality.
Ready to invest in your dog training education? The Karen Pryor Academy courses Sarah mentions are currently on sale through the end of January! Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or looking to refine your skills, KPA’s structured, science-based approach delivers real results. Learn more about the current sale here.
And if you’re considering adding a Maremma Sheepdog to your family, contact me to discuss available puppies and upcoming litters. Every puppy receives the same comprehensive early socialization that set Caia up for success.
