Gaby Dufresne-Cyr - Dog Trainer and Animal Behaviour Teacher
Gaby Dufresne-Cyr is a prominent figure in the world of animal training and behaviour. With a background in psychology and education, she has dedicated her career to understanding and improving the lives of domestic and exotic animals. Gaby is renowned for her innovative social cognitive learning approach to training, which focuses on building secure attachments based on trust, respect, and clear communication between humans and animals.
The avant-garde thinker is not afraid to think outside the box; consequently, she innovates by including multiple learning theories in her classroom and training protocols. According to Gaby, "Long gone is the idea that behaviourism is the only way animals learn."
As the founder of the Dogue Academy, Gaby has played a pivotal role in shaping the field of domestic and exotic animal training. Her approach emphasizes the importance of considering each animal with unique needs, personalities, and learning styles. Through her work, Gaby aims to empower both people and animals to achieve harmonious relationships built on cooperation.
In addition to her work at the Dogue Academy, Gaby is a sought-after speaker, sharing her expertise at conferences, workshops, and seminars around the world about animal training, behaviour, and alternative learning theories.
In her spare time, Gaby practices dog, wolf, horse, and rat animal-assisted therapy. She loves to write, draw, research, and organize social events. Make sure to grab a copy of her books.
An Introduction to Social Cognitive Animal Training (2025)
Beyond the Lure: How to Train Dogs series (2025)
Animal-Assisted Therapy: Superstars Change Teen Lives (2023)
Dog in the Mirror is God: A Spitiual Approach to Treating Human and Animal Behaviour Problems (2018)
About Gaby's Dog Training Approach
Gaby's training methods are grounded in behaviourism, social cognitive, constructivism, and situativism learning theories. Her science-based training involves rewarding problem-solving and effective decision-making to increase desired behaviour. She helps animals associate good behaviour with positive outcomes, establishing a secure attachment and the animal's locus of control.
In addition, Gaby also incorporates elements of behavioural science and communication into her training approach. She teaches professional dog trainer students how to effectively communicate with their dogs through body language, voice tone, and clear, consistent cues. By improving communication skills, Gaby helps strengthen the bond between dogs and people, leading to better cooperation and understanding.
One of the key principles of Gaby's approach is empowerment. Rather than relying on dominance or coercion, she encourages animals to make choices and learn at their own pace. Her approach motivates dogs to become active participants in their training, leading to greater engagement, enthusiasm, and success.
Overall, Gaby Dufresne-Cyr's training approach is characterized by its holistic, individualized, and compassionate nature. By prioritizing the animal's umwelt*, she helps dogs and students build strong, trusting relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. Consent training is at the core of her practiceand professional dog trainer certification course.
Make sure to follow Gaby on social media for updates, events, and social gatherings.
*Umwelt: how an individual animal experiences its surrounding world or environment.
Gaby's Experience
Animal-Assisted Therapist - EMSB*
Animal Behaviour College Professor
Animal Training College Professor
Animal Behaviour Consultant
Domestic Animal Trainer
Exotic Animal Trainer
Wolf Behaviour Field Guide
Veterinary Assistant
*Montreal English School Board
Gaby's Education
Applied Human Science, Family Life Educator
Animal CPR and First Aid
Advanced Exotic Animal Training
Wolves, Coyotes, Foxes, & Bison Training
Captive Wolf Management
Advanced Ethology
Dog Emotion and Cognition
Chicken Behaviour and Management
Horse Care and Management
Advanced Exotic Animal Enrichment
Domestic Animal Safety and Health
Animal Rights
Animal Grieving