About Me

r+ stands for positive reinforcement – a dog training philosophy that emphasises rewards such as food, praise, toys and games instead of intimidation and punishment and recognises that these are the kindest and most powerful tools for shaping and changing a dog's behaviour. My name is Christine Runde, and at r+ Dog Training I employ this science-backed method to help you build a lasting relationship with your dog based on trust and affection. Together, we can work out what uniquely motivates your dog, and use this knowledge to both address unwanted patterns and establish the skills and behaviour you want to see in your canine family member. 

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I am an accredited and fully insured dog trainer who combines a lifelong passion for animals with over 10 years experience working in the canine industry. I hold my NSW TAFE Statement of Attainment in Dog Training and have completed the Puppy Class Instructor Course run by industry leaders Steve and Vicki Austin. I endeavour to continuously educate myself in all areas of dog behaviour, and have also participated in, among others: Vicki Austin's 'Dog Aggression Workshop'; the Canine Principles 'Dogs and Children' course; a 'Trick Training Workshop' with Peta Clarke; 'Game-based Training' with Absolute Dogs; and 'The Puppy Lab' through the School of Canine Science. I am a member of 'Ryan's Members Lounge' via Tate Animals, and am currently enrolled in a 3 year course run by the School of Canine Science, titled 'The Behaviour Bible'.

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Before establishing r+ Dog Training, I spent two years working as a Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Therapy Dogs Officer, where my role included assessing Therapy Dogs and program applicants to match clients with suitable dogs. I have also personally raised five Guide Dogs as a Puppy Raising Volunteer, and participated in a range of other volunteer activities. For example, I have conducted therapy dog visits to hospitals, nursing homes and other care facilities across Sydney, as well as trained new therapy dog volunteers. I am also a trained nurse, and have worked as an Anglicare Care Worker.

 

This diverse background uniquely positions me to combine my experience working with children on the autism spectrum, people with PTSD and elderly individuals with Alzheimer's with my in-depth knowledge of dog handling to provide individualised, sensitive support to families and their dogs no matter the home situation.

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Having been denied a dog as a child, I have spent the years since making up for lost time. I am the proud dog mum of Isla, a Labrador, as well as two rescue cats, Teddy and Luna.