Training Philosophy


At The Balanced Canine, we know that every dog we encounter is a unique individual. We use methods that encompass the four quadrants of operant conditioning rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. Our objective is to address the specific needs of the dog in front of us and create an individualized training plan.

We look at every dog as an individual.

Meet our founder and lead trainer

Kathryn Wisniewski, CPDT-KA

Kathryn is a seasoned professional, certified with the CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers), an AKC evaluator, and armed with a comprehensive skill set and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of animals and their human companions.

Kathryn is a dedicated professional with a deep-rooted passion for animals and a wealth of experience in dog training. Her unwavering love for animals sparked at a young age, inspired by her family's cherished beagles, Millie and Jayden.

Kathryn's career in animal training took root at Southwick's Zoo with immersion in the training and care of diverse exotic animals. Driven by an insatiable desire to expand her expertise and leave a lasting impact, she embarked on a transformative journey to Australia. Her active engagement with native species, including Dingoes (an ancient lineage of dog found in Australia), deepened her understanding of animal behavior and conservation, fueling her passion for making a difference in the field.

Kathryn's practical experience as a Veterinary Assistant further enriched her knowledge of animal behavior and health. She also spent several years as a lead trainer at PetCo, where she honed her skills in dog training and behavior modification, helping numerous pet owners navigate the challenges of canine companionship.

Recognizing the profound impact that behavior modification can have on the lives of both animals and their owners, Kathryn pursued further education at the prestigious Highland Canine School for Dog Trainers in Harmony, North Carolina. Kathryn graduated top of her class with extensive hands-on experience training pet, police, detection and service dogs amidst a diverse mix of behavior modification cases. 

Kathryn is a seasoned professional, certified with the CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers), an AKC evaluator, and armed with a comprehensive skill set and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of animals and their human companions. Her vast experience, combined with her compassionate approach, enables her to provide personalized solutions to address behavioral challenges and strengthen the bond between pets and their owners.

Kathryn graduated from Merrimack College in 2018 with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. She currently resides in Blackstone, Massachusetts with her German Shepherd Rumor.