Meet the Trainer, Maureen May
My journey with dogs began in 2001 when I fostered my first of many dogs through Circle Tail, a Cincinnati-based nonprofit that trains service dogs for individuals with disabilities. That experience was transformative—it opened my eyes to the remarkable intelligence, life-saving abilities, and unwavering devotion of working dogs.
In 2004, I earned my Professional Dog Trainer Certification from the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers, solidifying my commitment to understanding canine behavior and effective training methods.
I continued my work with highly skilled dogs by becoming a K-9 Search Specialist with FEMA/Ohio Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue where I certified multiple dogs for search and rescue. Through this intensive experience, I learned how to develop and channel a dog’s natural instincts to locate and help save lives. Once again, I was inspired by the deep bond between dogs and humans, and their innate drive to work alongside us.
In 2005, I combined my education and hands-on experience to launch 4 Paw Down Canine Obedience, providing professional training to dog owners in the Cincinnati area. My approach is rooted in the belief that dogs genuinely want to please us. By helping owners understand and communicate clearly with their dogs, I teach them how to bring out their dog’s very best.
My professional training experience has been shaped through ongoing education and mentorship with respected educational institutions and dog experts across the United States, including:
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National K-9 School for Dog Trainers, Columbus, Ohio, Certified Professional Trainer Certificate
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The International School for Dog Trainers, led by Martin Deeley—an internationally recognized gundog and pet dog trainer, and former Co-Founder and Executive Director of the International Association of Canine Professionals.
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The Monks of New Skete’s, The Art of Training Your Dog, guided by Brother Christopher, Prior of New Skete, amd Marc Goldberg, professional trainer and founder of ChicagoDogTrainer.com
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Canine KinaestheticsTM Bodywork by Maryna Ozuna, Certified Provider
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Robin MacFarlane, a highly regarded and influential expert within the dog training community.
I am also a proud member of the International Association of Canine Professionals, maintaining a commitment to continued learning and the highest standards in the field.
My Dog Training Philosophy
Dogs are deeply social creatures. They thrive on connection, clear communication, and a sense of belonging within their human pack. Dogs aren’t looking to challenge us—they’re looking to understand us and to feel included in the family.
My philosophy centers on teaching owners how to strengthen that bond.
I believe that effective training begins with clear, consistent communication. When owners learn how to “speak dog,” they unlock the ability to guide behavior in a way that is both meaningful and lasting. Rather than relying on confusion or force, I focus on teaching dogs what to do—helping them succeed through structure, clarity, and reinforcement.