Get to know our trainers
Training Philosophy
Hugo believes successful dog training is built on communication, consistency, trust, and understanding the individual dog in front of you. He focuses on helping owners better understand their dogs while creating structure and clarity that allows dogs to feel confident and secure. His approach combines patience, fairness, and real-world practicality, always adapting training methods to fit the needs of both the dog and the family. Above all, Hugo believes that building a strong relationship between dog and owner is the foundation for long-term success, harmony, and trust.
Inspiration
Hugo’s passion for animals and dog training began early in life while growing up in Montijo, Portugal. Surrounded by animals and inspired by both of his grandfathers—one a horse trainer who also trained his own dogs, and the other a breeder of rabbits and chickens who shared the same love for working with animals—Hugo developed a natural connection with dogs from a young age. His professional journey into dog training truly began after being introduced to the world of dog shows through a Belgian Shepherd. What started as training and competing with his own Australian Shepherds quickly evolved into helping others train, handle, and care for their dogs. Through years of hands-on experience, Hugo discovered a deep passion for improving communication between dogs and their owners while helping dogs become confident, balanced companions.
Professional Experience
With over two decades of hands-on experience, Hugo has worked with a wide variety of dogs across obedience, behavior modification, competition training, and boarding programs. Early in his career, he successfully trained and handled dogs for shows and competitions, eventually expanding into board-and-train programs, puppy training, rescue and shelter dog rehabilitation, aggressive behavior modification, and security work. Hugo also bred and raised Australian Shepherds for several years, producing successful competition dogs, including a junior female dog that earned a world championship title in France. Over time, his services expanded to include workshops, remote training support, pet selection guidance, and helping shelters prepare dogs for successful adoption. Since moving to the United States in 2012, Hugo has continued working extensively with dogs displaying anxious or aggressive behaviors, while also helping families with puppies, obedience training, and improving overall household harmony. His experience working with dogs of all backgrounds and temperaments has helped him develop a calm, adaptable, and highly intuitive approach to training.
Training Focus
Hugo has extensive experience working with dogs displaying anxiety, fear, and aggression, and he is especially passionate about helping dogs and owners overcome behavioral challenges together. In addition to behavior modification, he enjoys working with puppies and adolescent dogs to build strong foundations through structure, socialization, and clear communication. His background in dog sports and competition training also gives him a unique understanding of canine drive, engagement, and advanced obedience, allowing him to tailor training programs to each individual dog’s temperament, energy level, and goals.
Want to Join Our Training Team?
Join a team committed to ethical, positive reinforcement-based training.
We’re looking for qualified and experienced dog trainers who share our approach to compassionate, science-based training. If you have the skills, knowledge and dedication to support dogs and their families, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply to Join Our Team