As a handler, Anna Maija wants to make it as easy as possible for her dog to run the course. She emphasizes understanding the dog’s line and knowing their common strengths as a team. “I feel like I’ve succeeded when I can be confident that my dog and I are working together as a team.”

As a coach, Anna Maija is enthusiastic and encouraging. “I want my students to understand the answers to two questions: ‘how’ and ‘why’. When you figure out the “why” part, it’s easier to remember things. You also get a better understanding of handling the dog’s line, which is one of my favorite things to teach.”

“I’m always excited to help my students to understand the meaning of connection, commitment and cue. Teaching handling techniques is another one of my favorites, whether it’s teaching a single handling technique or adapting it to sequences. I also really enjoy teaching basic skills to puppies or beginners.”

“Coaching agility is my passion. I strive to make sure that the dog and handler teams I work with gain new skills in every training session they attend. I also get a lot out coaching personally. Every student is teaching me how to be a better coach!”

Certificates

OneMind Dogs Coach	OneMind Dogs Foundation for Agility	OneMind Dogs Handling Techniques 1