In 2024, we had the pleasure of photographing Lauren and Dougie from Tidal Tails Dog Training not once, but twice. We wanted to spotlight the amazing work they do for our community. On a personal note, Lauren worked with our goofball, Phoenix, for six months and can not recommend their services enough. Without further ado, let’s introduce Team Tidal Tails!
Tidal Tails Dog Training is now based in Nova Scotia, Canada! It is owned and operated by Lauren Waye, certified Dogma Dog Trainer (DDT) and Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP). Offering personalized in-person and online dog training, committed to using reward based and force free training methods. At the time of this interview, Tidal Tails was based in North Vancouver, British Columbia. You can find out more about Tidal Tails on their website www.tidaltailsdogtraining.ca or follow their fantastic work on Instagram @tidaltailsdogtraining
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
My journey began with a small dog walking business, where I discovered my keen understanding of canine behaviour and meeting their unique needs. Driven by my desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of dogs and their guardians, I decided to pursue my passion further and become a certified dog trainer.
Q: What achievements are you most proud of?
Continuing education is very important to me. My commitment to positive reinforcement training is something I value greatly in my work with animals. Preventing fear, anxiety and stress keeps things fun for all! I am proud to be a Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP). My time learning from Dogma Academy has been an absolutely incredible experience. The education I gained from the Dogma Dog Trainer (DDT) program has prepared me with the skills and knowledge I need when working with people and their beloved pets. Outside of the skills I have gained from the DDT program, I am incredibly grateful for the community of like minded pet pros who I feel that I can call on when I need support. Team R+ for the win!
Q: Have there ever been any challenges, if so, what were they?
Running a small business as a dog trainer comes with unique challenges. Balancing schedules, managing different training plans tailored to clients’ specific needs, and staying updated with the latest education in dog training can be demanding. Additionally, there’s marketing my business, handling admin work and staying active on social media. Despite these hurdles, the joy of helping dogs and their people build stronger relationships using a kind and compassionate approach makes it all worth it. I absolutely LOVE what I do and feel so grateful to have found a career that bring me such joy and fulfilment.
Q: What has your business taught you about yourself?
Building Tidal Tails Dog Training has created space for my true self. My business allows me to express myself creatively in the design of my brand and website. I enjoy interacting with people and of course their furry pals. I love being active and spending so much time in the beautiful outdoors. Throughout the process of building my business, I have found great value in community building. Shoutout to all the other small businesses out there who have supported me in this journey.
Q: What are the top three tools / tips you refer to the most often? Why do you like them?
Positive reinforcement training is all about finding what motivates your dog. We use food, toys, praise and real-life rewards to reinforce desired behaviour. I aim to help clients enhance the relationship they have with their dog by teaching them how to use these methods to clearly communicate with kindness and compassion.
As for gear out on dog walks, I absolutely love all of my biothane gear from Sirius Dog Wear and Canine Steele. They are also an aversive free zone just like I am and I love to support businesses who practice and understand the value in positive reinforcement.
My new found favourite interactive toy is the Puller Dog Rings. You can use them to play fetch or tug so they are great for meeting your dog’s needs both physically and mentally. This kind of play is great for building engagement, which will in turn enhance the bond you have with your dog! I found this toy at the In The Raw shop in North Vancouver.
Q: What refills your cup outside of work?
Taking time in nature to slow down and reset. I love to ski and snowshoe in the winter and go camping in the spring and summer. I just got a stand up paddle board so I’m looking forward to getting out on the water this summer!
Q: Tell us about your furry pal! What’s their name?
Douglas A.K.A. Dougie just celebrated his 2nd birthday! He is a large mixed breed pup weighing in at 80lbs.
Q: How did you pick his name?
The BCSPCA named Douglas and his litter mates after the trees that grow locally on the North Shore. Dougie got his name from the Douglas Fir tree.
Q: What led you to find Douglas?
After a couple years of healing from the heart break of having to say goodbye to my last pup, I was ready to start the search for a new dog to fill the gap in my home and my heart. I was looking to adopt a dog from a local rescue. My partner saw Dougie’s puppy profile photo online, we then sent in an application. After some interviews over the phone, we got to meet Douglas and took him home with us that day! Dougie’s mom was called in to the BCSPCA as a stray. The officers attended to the call and later found 9 puppies with her. Dougie was the last of his brothers and sisters to be adopted out from the West Van shelter. He has brought so much joy, love and laughter into our lives ever since!
Q: When is Dougie most in his element?
Dougie loves to go hiking with his dog friends! His ears flop around all day long. After a good run around on the trails he loves to cuddle up on the couch. This big lapdog has a lot of love to give.
Q: What is his favourite activity when you’re outdoors together?
Douglas loves to splash around in the rivers and fetch sticks.
Q: What makes Dougie unique?
Dougie has the silliest ears! People often stop us out on the trails to tell Dougie how great his ears are. They flop around in all different directions.
Q: What has he taught you about yourself?
Douglas has taught me the importance of taking things slow and trusting your instincts. As a puppy he was quite cautious in a lot of situations. Meeting new people, exploring new environments and trying new foods. Slowing down to take in your surroundings and trusting the information you gather in these situations can set you up for success. I believe this is applicable in so many different aspects of life.
Thank you for reading this blog post. If you are interested in learning more about dog training, please visit https://www.tidaltailsdogtraining.ca/. If you would like to reach out to Lauren directly, please email hello@tidaltailsdogtraining.ca
Did you know? We have special pricing for local pet businesses, reach out and we would be happy to work with you to make your brand come to life through photographs!
All photographs taken by Bernice at Pooch in the Park Photography
