Highland Canine Training Launches New Location In Concord, NC

For almost two decades, Highland Canine Training has provided successful dog training programs to dog owners across North America. Our mission to strengthen the human-canine relationship continues at pace, with over twenty dog training locations spanning the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Our organization was founded in North Carolina, and we are proud to retain a strong presence in our home state. Not only is North Carolina the site of our NC Dog Training Center, but we also have numerous professional dog trainers located across the state who are committed to improving outcomes for dogs and their owners.

Recently, Highland Canine Training launched a new location in Concord, NC. Shana Parsnow is our trainer in this area. Shana has been an important member of our team for several years, leading our Working Dog division to train Police K9s who serve communities across our nation. Shana is excited to expand her work by offering pet dog training to dog owners in Concord, Kannapolis and Salisbury.

We caught up with Shana for a quick question-and-answer session, in order to learn more about her dog training philosophy, what clients can expect when working with her, and the challenges and rewards that come with working as a professional dog trainer. If you’re located in Concord or the surrounding areas, you can reach out to Shana with your dog training questions at (704) 615-2216 or by emailing shana@highlandcanine.com.

Many of our readers will know you as the Manager of Highland Canine's Working Dog Division. How does training pet dogs differ from training working dogs (and how is it similar)?

During my career, I have worked with several different types of dogs – but for many years, my main focus was Police K9s & working dogs. I feel like there are certainly things that differ between training people’s pet dogs and working dogs, yet the basics still remain the same. Most of the time while training pet dogs, you have to find ways to help their owners properly engage and communicate with their dog to improve their quality of life; that rings true teaching handlers to work with their new working dogs, too. My opinion is that whether you are dealing with working dogs or family pets, communication is key to a functional and happy relationship between humans and dogs.

Tell us a little bit about your dog training philosophy.

I feel my dog training philosophy is very simple. Cater to the individual dog’s needs, changing courses if needed, and lots of communication with the owner. I believe taking time to explain in depth all the why’s to the dog’s owner is extremely important for success in training. The more the owner understands about their dog, the better they can communicate with them.

Do you have a favorite dog breed?

I can’t help but love my Malinois! Some days when they’re dragging me on leash, or accidentally biting me on the hands going for a ball, I question that – but still stick by them being my favorite! Working with so many of that breed over the years has taught me so much it’s honestly hard to explain. I have come to love and respect their intensity and quirks, making them all so similar yet so different. Owning two of my own there is never a dull moment, but I wouldn’t change a thing, and will likely always own one!

Is there a particular aspect of dog training you find enjoyable, and why?

Personally, I find all aspects of dog training enjoyable, but I really enjoy having one-on-one time with a dog. To me there is nothing better than a nice long walk, working on obedience while the dog enjoys being out and running around. Allowing the dog to “be a dog” and get out some energy before training is important to success when teaching new things!

What can clients expect when they work with you?

Clients can expect me to be very in-depth about what their dog needs, and they will be given realistic expectations. I am very honest and upfront about what I see when I evaluate a dog and will do everything in my power to help the dog and the owner reach their goals!

What is the most challenging part of working as a professional dog trainer?

The most challenging part of being a professional dog trainer for me, and likely a lot of others, is seeing so many dogs in shelters, bad situations etc., and the stars just don’t align. My heart breaks when there are dogs out there that need training like we at HK9 provide, but there are circumstances that just don’t make it possible.

People always tell you “you can’t save them all”, which is unfortunately true, but it doesn’t ease the heartache for those of us that have such a passion for dogs and what we do. Luckily, there are some amazing people out there that dedicate their lives to the dogs that are in need, and help make their outcomes positive!

What is the most rewarding part of working as a professional dog trainer?

I think the most rewarding thing as a dog trainer is seeing a positive outcome from proper training. Whatever the reason for training may be, helping improve the life of a dog and their owner is something truly amazing and never gets old! Getting positive updates about dogs you worked with makes my day every single time. Truly couldn’t imagine doing another job!