5 Powerful Ways a Family Dog Mediator Can Transform Life with Your Dog
What Is a Family Dog Mediator and How Can They Help You and Your Dog?
At Paws N’ Play, we’re not just about training dogs—we’re about building relationships and understanding between dogs and their families. As a Licensed Family Dog Mediator (FDM), I bring a unique, relationship-focused approach to helping dogs and their humans live in harmony.
What Is a Family Dog Mediator (FDM)?
A Family Dog Mediator is more than a trainer. We bridge the gap between dogs and their humans by addressing the root causes of behavior and crafting practical, compassionate solutions. Unlike traditional training, which often focuses on obedience, the FDM approach is holistic, taking into account your dog’s behavior, environment, genetics, and more.
As a Licensed Family Dog Mediator, I don’t just ask, “How can we change this behavior?” I ask, “Why is this behavior happening, and how can we support your dog’s needs while meeting your goals?”
The Science Behind It: The L.E.G.S.® Model
As an FDM, I’m trained in the L.E.G.S.® model developed by Kim Brophey, which identifies four key areas that influence behavior:
Learning: Past experiences, training, and socialization shape current behavior.
Environment: A dog’s home life, surroundings, and daily stimuli impact their emotions and actions.
Genetics: Breed or breed mix plays a significant role in instincts and tendencies.
Self: Personality, health, and emotional state complete the picture.
Understanding these four elements helps me create solutions that respect your dog’s instincts and your family’s lifestyle.
How Is an FDM Different from a Dog Trainer?
While traditional dog training often focuses on commands like “sit” or “stay,” an FDM takes a deeper look at what’s motivating your dog’s behavior. As a Licensed Family Dog Mediator, I work to understand:
Why your dog’s behavior is happening (e.g., barking, pulling, reactivity).
How your dog’s breed-specific traits influence their actions.
How to develop realistic, humane strategies that fit both your goals and your dog’s personality.
For example, if your dog pulls on the leash, it might not be about disobedience—it could be overstimulation, anxiety, or a strong scent-driven instinct common in hounds.
Who Can Benefit from a Family Dog Mediator?
Many families turn to an FDM when traditional training just isn’t enough. A Licensed Family Dog Mediator can help with:
Behavioral challenges: Reactivity, fear, resource guarding, or excessive barking.
Breed-specific guidance: Understanding how genetics influence behavior and enrichment needs.
Adoption transitions: Helping rescue or shelter dogs adjust to their new home.
Family dynamics: Ensuring harmony between dogs and every human family member.
Why I Became a Licensed Family Dog Mediator
I became an FDM because I believe dogs are individuals—not problems to be fixed, but beings to be understood. Too often, we try to suppress behaviors without realizing they’re communication signals. Through the Family Dog Mediator approach, I help families build stronger, more fulfilling relationships with their dogs.
What to Expect When Working with Me
As a Licensed Family Dog Mediator, I create customized plans based on the L.E.G.S.® model:
Assessment: We start by reviewing your dog’s history, environment, and behaviors.
Education: You’ll learn how your dog’s instincts and traits affect their actions.
Solutions: We develop compassionate, practical strategies for your dog and family.
The result? A better relationship with your dog—built on empathy, trust, and mutual understanding.
Let’s Build a Stronger Bond Together
At Paws N Play, I’m here to help you and your dog thrive. If you’re ready to dive deeper than basic training and build a truly connected relationship with your dog, let’s talk.
Contact me today to learn how working with a Licensed Family Dog Mediator can make a lasting difference for your whole family.
