Meet Bruna - Behaviour Specialist for Reactive & Large Dogs

Calm Canine Care's Trainer hugging her border collie Akira which was the inspiration for her training career

Why I Started Calm Canine Care

My connection with animals started early.

Growing up in an unstable environment, I learned to notice body language, emotional states, and the subtle signals others often miss.

That instinct later became one of the foundations of how I work with dogs today.

I began formally studying canine behaviour in 2015 while completing my Bachelor of Science in Biomedicine and working within a developmental neuroscience research group.

Around that same time, I rescued a Border Collie puppy who showed early signs of fear, anxiety, and reactivity.

Like many owners searching for help, I first trusted a highly recommended trainer using prong collar and “police K9” methods.

Instead of progress, my dog became more fearful and less confident.

That experience changed the direction of my life.

I sought help from a behavioural veterinarian who became an important mentor.

She introduced me to a better path: canine enrichment, positive training methods, behavioural science, and the work of researchers such as Alexandra Horowitz.

From there, I continued studying through professional courses, including Dog Emotion and Cognition with Dr. Brian Hare at Duke University.

Today, I continue developing my skills through ongoing education, including studies with Victoria Stilwell Academy and conferences focused on modern dog behaviour.

Why Calm Canine Care Exists

Pessoa sorridente com cabelo ao vento, segurando cabeça de cachorro de pelos brancos e pretos, próximo a uma árvore, com lago, árvores e céu com nuvens ao fundo.

The name Calm Canine Care is also a tribute to my own dog, Akira, who had a profound impact on my life.

Living with Akira deepened my understanding of canine behaviour, trust, and the importance of thoughtful training. That experience continues to shape the way I work with every dog and owner I help today.

I created Calm Canine Care to offer owners the kind of help I wish I had found sooner: calm, science-based guidance for dogs dealing with fear, reactivity, overstimulation, and everyday behaviour challenges.

My approach focuses on understanding what is driving the behaviour, reducing unnecessary stress, and building practical skills that improve real life—not just training sessions.

✔ Reactive dogs who bark or lunge on walks
✔ Fearful rescues adjusting to a new life
✔ Large dogs owners struggle to physically manage
✔ Dogs who seem constantly overstimulated or unable to settle
✔ Households dealing with tension, chaos, or stress

Who I Help

Need help with your dog’s behaviour?

Whether you're dealing with reactivity, fear, pulling, or tension at home, we’ll identify the cause.

Then build a clear plan that works in real life.