​About Us

Our method of training: We use certified methods of dog training that intentionally reward desirable behaviors and prevent reinforcement for undesirable behaviors. We will never use rough handling, leash pops, physical manipulation, pinch, prong, or electric collars or any other kind of pain-causing device to force our dog into compliance. We want to show our pets how to succeed, and give them the opportunity to become active participants in our training relationships.

What we believe about dogs: Dogs are complex creatures with instinctual drives that must be satisfied, and it is our responsibility to fulfill those needs. We fully believe that dogs are not moral creatures, do not have an innate idea of what is "right" or "wrong," and that it is our duty as owners to show them which behaviors are acceptable to us. Our goal is to build organic training relationships between dogs and their owners. Understanding each other takes time, compassion, and skill!
Picture
Rio

Who We Are:

Picture
Melissa & Rio
Lead Trainer & Owner: Melissa Hawkins BS, CCS
We are deeply committed to giving each client a comprehensive view into their individual dog’s needs and behavior, and making clear the steps towards behavior modification and training new skills. We firmly believe that each dog is unique, and that changing behavior is never a “try this one trick” solution. The mark of an exceptional dog trainer is a passion for continuing education, and for chasing after the most current data in the field. We are a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the Pet Professional Guild (PPG) for access to webinars, research, and new discoveries. We understand that science changes, new data appears, and behavior isn’t static!
CERTIFICATIONS:
  • The School of Canine Science: 2019 / The Puppy Lab Certificate
  • Northwest School of Canine Studies: 2015 / Certificate in Canine Studies (CCS)
MEMBERSHIPS:
  • APDT: Association of Professional Dog Trainers
  • PPG: Pet Professionals Guild
RECENT SEMINARS:
  • (2018) Vaccine-Related Issues presented by Jean Dodds DVM & hosted by the PPG
  • (2018) Separation Distress presented by Alexandra Santos & hosted by the PPG
  • (2018) Why Balanced Training can Lead to Mental Imbalance for Dogs presented by Dr. Karen Overall & hosted by the PPG
  • (2017) The Science of Predation & Drive presented by Nando Brown & Jo-Rosie, hosted by The Dog Spot
  • (2017) What You Need to Know About US Service Dog Laws & Terms presented by Sharon Wachsler & hosted by the PPG
  • (2017) A Brief History of Corporal Punishment presented by Jean Donaldson & hosted by the PPG
  • (2017) John McGuigan, the Glasgow Dog Trainer & Behavior Consultant Seminar, hosted by the NWSCS
  • (2017) Current Spay & Neuter Research: New Insights presented by Dr. Nancy Kay & hosted by the PPG
  • (2017) The Effective Use of Toys as Rewards presented by Kamal Fernandez & hosted by the PPG
  • (2016)  Nando Brown Seminar hosted by Grace Dog Training & Behavior, Denver CO
Picture
Daylon
Seattle Puppyworks Onsite Manager & Co-Owner: Daylon Hawkins
A former Amazonian, Daylon is the onsite manager and co-owner of our puppy-centric studio, Seattle Puppyworks! Having an innate passion for high quality services and helping puppies succeed in life, his cheerful and hardworking dedication to the pups in our care makes all the difference. He is currently pursuing certification with the School of Canine Science (SoCS). He also works behind the scenes keeping our website shipshape, and manages the occasional office paperwork blizzard.
All Rights Reserved. Cultivated Canines, LLC ©️ 2019
UA-87768061-1