Hi, I’m Ashley.
Ashley Foster, B.S., CBCC-KA, is a canine behavior consultant with over 30 years of professional experience working with dogs and their owners.
My StoryI began working professionally with dogs in 1994 and founded Complete K-9 in 1997, now known as Dogs by Foster.
My work has evolved over decades of hands-on experience, continued education, and a deep focus on understanding dog behavior at its core, combined with practical understanding and compassion for how those behaviors impact the daily lives of the people involved.
My Approach to Behavior
Throughout my career, I have worked extensively with both basic and advanced training cases and complex behavior challenges, collaborating with clients and veterinary professionals.
My approach is grounded in working with every dog as an individual, using thoughtful, accurate assessment; identifying underlying causes of behavior; and applying targeted, evidence-based, humane strategies that support lasting change.
Rather than focusing solely on obedience or surface-level behavior, my work centers on understanding emotional states driving behavior, learning history, and environmental factors that influence how behavior develops and changes over time.
My Philosophy & Methods
Early in my career, I was trained in traditional, correction-based methods, and 10 years in, I recognized that they did not align with my values or passion for the depth of the human-dog relationship, and aspired to work with dogs without causing harm.
I transitioned to using humane, science-based approaches in 2007 and do not use aversive tools such as shock, prong, or choke collars, nor does she rely on outdated dominance-based models.
My Perspective
I have been immersed in all facets of the dog world, from show dogs to therapy work to rescues and everything in between, and has shared my life with a wide range of dogs, including those with significant behavioral challenges.
My work is grounded in an understanding of the importance of the human-animal bond, and I believe that thoughtful, meaningful behavior change supports the relationship between dogs and the people who care for them - this work improves lives.
If you’re ready to better understand your dog’s behavior and what to do next, the first step is an Initial Consultation.
My Professional Experience
Over three decades of professional experience, beginning with a 2-year training apprenticeship and hands-on work with over 50 breeds
Bachelor of Science in Zoology with a focus on behavior
CBCC-KA (Certified Behavior Consultant Canine); previously CPDT-KA certified (2006–2015)
President, Board of Directors — Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
Completes a minimum of 20 continuing education units annually
Developed a course on canine communication and advocacy for the Canine Rehabilitation Institute
Provides presentations for podcasts, veterinary hospitals, universities, and dog organizations
Developed and managed a large-scale daycare, boarding, and training facility for 8 years
Created Gentle Handling Practices for facility and hospital staff, and provides trainings for veterinary staff.
Trained and placed human-animal teams for a University based Animal-Assisted therapeutic program for 10 years.