For over 35 years, I've been passionate about two things: understanding how dogs learn and helping people become better trainers. This unique combination has taken me from representing Canada four times at European dog competitions to earning a Master's in Education and supporting educational institutions across the country.
My expertise in dog training spans decades of hands-on experience at the highest levels of the sport. I've had the privilege of learning from some of the world's most respected dog trainers and have represented Canada internationally, competing four times at European championships. This competitive experience taught me not just advanced training techniques, but the critical importance of clear communication, systematic skill building, and the precise timing that separates good training from exceptional results.
Working with dogs at this level requires an deep understanding of learning theory, behavior modification, and the ability to break complex skills into teachable components—skills that translate directly into effective course design.
My formal education includes:
Professional Master of Education with specialization in Indigenous Education from Queen's University
Bachelor of Education (With Great Distinction) from the University of Lethbridge
Teaching Second Language Certificate from the University of Calgary
For over seven years, I've worked as a Learning Experience Designer at Lethbridge Polytechnic, where I:
Design accessible, inclusive curriculum for diverse learners
Conduct best practices research in educational programming
Facilitate professional development workshops for faculty
Coordinate complex educational projects and program reviews
Create learning resources that translate complex concepts into practical skills
What sets me apart is my ability to bridge the gap between practical dog training expertise and professional educational design. I understand:
How dogs actually learn - not just theory, but real-world application tested at the highest competitive levels
How humans learn about training dogs - the common challenges, misconceptions, and breakthrough moments
How to structure learning - using proven educational principles to maximize skill acquisition and retention
How to make training accessible - ensuring content works for diverse learning styles and experience levels
2024 Lifelong Learning Employee Excellence Award - Recognizing innovation in educational development
2024 Leadership & Creating Community Award - Acknowledging commitment to inclusive education
International Competition Experience - Four-time Canadian representative at European dog competitions
Educational Innovation - Creator and host of "Learning Innovation: The Teaching and Learning Podcast" (8,400+ downloads)
I believe that exceptional dog trainers shouldn't have to struggle with course creation, technology, or educational design. Your expertise deserves to be shared in ways that truly serve both dogs and their humans. My mission is to help experienced trainers transform their hard-earned knowledge into professional, engaging online courses that maintain the integrity and effectiveness of hands-on training.
Whether you're looking to scale your impact through online education, create certification programs, or develop specialized training courses, I bring both the practical credibility and educational expertise to help you succeed.
While dog training course development is my specialty, my broader background in project management, curriculum design, and technical writing allows me to support professionals across various industries with their documentation, educational, and administrative needs.
Ready to transform your training expertise into exceptional online education? Let's discuss how my unique combination of competitive dog training experience and professional educational design can serve your goals.
Contact:
Email: mcladonn@uregina.ca
Phone: 403-715-6847
Location: Coalhurst, AB