“I’m Zach, owner of Collaborative Dog Training and a proud partner of Brown Paws Rescue. My first mentor was my grandpa, Wallace Havens, who spent his life working with animals. He taught me to read body language, understand what drives behavior, and look for the “why” before deciding what to do next.

I built on that foundation through a bachelor’s degree in biology, animal behavior research, published work in Ethology, and ongoing mentorship with nationally recognized dog trainer Tyler Muto.

My dogs have been some of my best teachers. My late Goldendoodle, Jenny, taught me how to help fearful dogs live full, enriched lives. Rehabilitating Kota, our seven-year-old rescued German Shepherd mix, taught me how to manage reactivity and aggression in the home and remains one of my proudest accomplishments. Juneau, our five-year-old Siberian Husky, has been my biggest challenge and keeps me in a constant mindset of learning and improvement. Huskies are helpful like that.

My training is relationship-based, science-based, and grounded in peer-reviewed research. I focus on understanding the dog in front of me, using positive reinforcement, clear communication, and practical strategies that make the right choice easier than the wrong one. I also want training to feel approachable for people, so I spend a lot of time explaining the “why” and helping owners build skills they can realistically use at home.

Outside of training, I’m usually spending time with my wife, Kendra, listening to music, watching movies, skiing, climbing, or finding some new topic to learn way too much about.

Don’t change your dog. Change your approach.”

Zach Havens, Owner/Trainer of Collaborative Dog Training