Maria Karunungan didn’t plan on becoming a dog trainer. But when you talk to her, it’s easy to see how it happened. “All dogs benefit from positive reinforcement training,” she says. “But every dog is different. The training has to match what motivates the dog and what the humans want to achieve.”

Maria is the owner of Fetch the Leash, a Burlington-based training service that focuses on science, compassion, and clear communication. With a doctorate and several professional certifications, she leads a team that brings both knowledge and warmth to their work. Each team member is committed to helping people better understand how to work with their dogs, reach their goals, and build stronger, happier relationships.

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“It means we don’t use fear, pain, or intimidation,” Maria explains. “Instead, we use what we know from scientific research to build trust and help dogs learn. Fear gets in the way of learning. Trust opens the door.” Whether they’re working with a brand-new puppy, a busy teenager, a nervous rescue, or a dog struggling with separation anxiety, Maria’s team helps families figure out what their dog needs to thrive and how they can support that growth.

STARTING SMART

When is the right time to start training a dog?

Maria says it’s always a good time. “A lot of skills, like manners or basic obedience, can be taught at any age,” she says. “Older dogs enjoy the challenge and the attention just as much asthe younger ones.”

That said, she notes that early puppyhood comes with some important windows. “Things like body handling, vet visits, and getting used to new environments are important to start early,” she says. “It’s a lot to take in when they’re small, so the more you can do gently and early on, the better.” Maria compares dog training to learning an instrument. “You don’t start with Mozart. You start with scales and short pieces. The same goes for dogs. You build the skills step by step.”

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A DIFFERENT APPROACH

One of the most misunderstood issues in dog training, Maria says, is separation anxiety. “It’s not a behavior problem. It’s a panic disorder. These dogs aren’t being bad. They’re scared.” Unlike other training issues, separation anxiety doesn’t respond well to traditional training programs. “The problem is the person leaving. So, it has to be solved at home, with the guardian involved,” she explains. “I work with families on a plan that builds tolerance slowly and safely. Usually, we work in fifteen-minute sessions, once a day.” Maria says her job is part trainer, part coach. “This type of work can be slow, and you need someone in your corner reminding you that it’s okay to go at your dog’s pace.”

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Maria is also passionate about debunking long-standing myths. One of the most harmful, she says, is the dominance theory. “The idea that you need to dominate your dog is outdated and not backed by science.” These methods often involve physical or verbal corrections that suppress behavior without addressing why it’s happening. “It strips the dog of choice and can make them afraid,” she says. “Instead, we teach people how to reinforce the behaviors they want and build reliability and trust through consistency.”

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FINDING THE RIGHT FIT

Good training depends on a strong match between trainer and client. Maria encourages people to ask the right questions. “Ask what happens when the dog gets something right, ask what happens when they get it wrong, and ask if there are gentler options,” she says. “Your trainer should be able to explain clearly and respectfully.” She also stresses that dog owners should feel supported, not judged. “You’re reaching out because you care. That should always be met with kindness.”

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Maria says every dog she meets teaches her something. “They remind me to enjoy the little things, like the joy of a really great stick.” That spirit is what sets Fetch the Leash apart. Maria and her team aren’t trying to hand out strict rules or one-size-fits-all routines. They’re there to help people and dogs understand each other a little better. When asked what new dog owners should focus on first, she smiles. “Show them where the bathroom is. Then let them explore and start to feel safe.”

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She encourages people to think about their own preferences. “Do you want your dog on the couch? Sleeping in a crate? Decide what works for your life, then we can make a plan to help you achieve those goals.” At the end of the day, she says, training is about more than obedience. It’s about listening, connecting, learning with your dog, and having a little fun along the way. Because when training is done right, it’s not just the dog who grows, it’s the whole relationship.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FETCH THE LEASH

Fetch the Leash

85 Pearl Street

Burlington, VT

www.fetchtheleash.biz