Haku & Co - Training People for Dogs in Grossdietwil and all of Switzerland
We stand for respectful and scientifically founded dog training, in which people and dogs can grow together. We accompany people and their dogs on their journey to a harmonious and secure relationship with each other, and are ready to help them face any challenges together.
From individual training to needs‒oriented exercise - we will accompany you on your journey to becoming a well adjusted human-dog team.
Every human-dog team is different, and that’s exactly how the training should be as well. Maybe you’re currently stuck in a challenging situation: the walk is stressful, dog interactions are challenging, or the basics aren’t quite right yet. Or maybe your joint life is going well, but your dog is missing the right exercise that properly challenges and fulfills him.
Regardless of where you are on your journey, with us you will find the right path. Whether that is targeted individual training for the issues and concerns you face on a day to day basis, or group training in which your dog can work appropriately, and that you as a team grow closer.
We will help you understand what your dog is trying to say to you and teach you how to communicate with each other in a manner that works for both of you, as those who understand each other can build trust.
Our training is violence free, fair and scientifically founded and designed to help deepen the bond between Humans and their dogs. A true bond builds from trust, rather than pressure - but this is something you have to work for, with dogs as well as humans. We will help you on this journey.
We are constantly educating ourselves further and bringing new approaches into our training, but don't worry we keep it practical and direct to the point for our clients. If you want to know more, we are always available for a conversation.
Our Offers
How our training can help you and your dog
We adjust our training to your needs and your situation. No human-dog team is identical - every situation and challenge that you face is different. In turn, the lessons and solutions will also be different.
Groups/Group Training
In our groups, your dog will train under realistic conditions with other dogs, everyday triggers and a lots of distraction. Our diverse groups offer opportunities for every human and their dog, strengthening the bond between them as well as promoting self-confidence and social competence for the dog.
Coaching for humans and dogs facing larger challenges.
Our training for Problem dogs is designed for human-dog teams that are faced with challenges on a daily basis: your dog is scared of everything and runs or hides away at sounds or movement? Or calm walks are impossible, encounters with other dogs lead to chaos, your dog is aggressively pulling on the leash, is reactive or completely unresponsive to commands outside? Instead of a relaxed co-living, you’re constantly faced with stress and insecurity, and the day-to-day life with your dog is not what you expected or hoped for.
We can help you address these and other challenges in our customized training for Problem dogs. We adjust our training to address individual concerns and needs to ensure lasting results and a more relaxed everyday life with your dog.
Are you interested in our training?
If you are interested in our individual training, group training or for a training that addresses specific challenges you face, just click on the button below and leave us a message with your contact denials. We will reach out to you as soon as possible and decide with you what fits your and your dog’s needs the best.
These values are important to us.
Our dog school stands for individual, violence-free and scientifically backed dog training. We adjust our training to suit you and your dog, building trust through our methods and helping you understand your dog’s language in order for you to have a harmonious co-existence.
Individual
We adjust our training to your needs and your situation. No human-dog team is identical, and every situation and challenge you face is different. In turn, the lessons and solutions will also be different. For this reason we offer individual and tailored and coordinated approaches that will be of the most help to you in your current situation.
Fair & Needs-oriented
We stand for violence free, welfare-oriented and scientifically founded dog training methods. A good bond with our dogs cannot be achieved through pressure, force or other inappropriate training methods (see Methodology below). Our methods are based on trust, and this is something one must earn from their dog through hard work and dedication. We will help you achieve this.
Communication
We will help you understand what your dog is trying to say to you and how to communicate better with each other. If you cannot understand one another, it is difficult to build up trust.
Scientific
We are constantly educating ourselves further and bringing new approaches into our training, but don't worry we keep it practical and direct to the point for our clients. If you want to know more, we are always available for a conversation.
Our dog training methods
Because we are constantly educating ourselves, and adjusting our approaches to meet the individual needs of each human and their dog, there is no specific “Method” that we work according to. However, the following teaching methods/approaches almost always are included in some shape or form.
Educated and certified under the training regulations and teaching methods of the SKG, these are of course anchored in our approach and training. The SKG places high value on the protection of dogs, needs-oriented learning and exercise according to the newest scientific findings.
Dog Training “FairPlay”
There is no room for violence and pressure in dog training and in a harmonious coexistence between Humans and dogs. We focus on a positive learning experience and work according to the “Least Intrusive Functionally Effective” (LIFE) model - the principle of minimal human intervention paired with the highest possible functional effectiveness.
Eduardo J. Fernandez, The least inhibitive, functionally effective (LIFE) model: A new framework for ethical animal training practices,
Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 71, 2024, Pages 63‒68, ISSN 1558‒7878,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2023.12.001.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2023.12.001.
Understanding “problem dogs” instead of correcting them
Leslie McDevitt is an American Canine Behavioral Consultant, specialized in the behavioral modification of so-called “problem dogs.” The central principle of her method is in creating a dialogue-centered training, in which the dog actively helps shape how it learns, rather than just passively reacting to signals and commands. This approach is based on operant conditioning with positive reinforcement, but goes beyond it by allowing the dog to guide its own counter conditioning process.
More self‒control for your dog
Grisha Stewart’s “Behavioral Adjustment Training” is based on giving a dog (in (in a safe and controlled environment) maximum control over how it handles a particular situation. Socially appropriate behavior is rewarded with functional reinforcers, rather than food, and human intervention is kept to an absolute minimum.
About us
Patrick
Hi everyone, I’m Patrick, the founder and CEO of Haku & Co - Training People for Dogs.
I grew up in Germany and have been living in Switzerland with my wife, our two children, our three dogs - Haku, Mylla and Ivy (see below), and our cat Nevada for the last 16 years.
After finishing my education at the University of Mannheim/Heidelberg to be a Doctor, I went into industry where I held various positions in information technology and clinical research in Germany, the USA and Switzerland. Dogs are my greatest passion and my greatest teachers.
Vivienne
I’m Vivienne and I support Patrick in all things digital content and communications at Haku & Co.
I grew up in Germany and the USA, and briefly lived in Australia for a few years, and have now been living in Switzerland for the last 16 years.
Since childhood, I’ve had a passion for animals and animal welfare. I adopted my dog Ranger, who sadly passed in 2023, from a rescue in the USA.
Haku
The namesake for our human-dog school.
Mylla
Confident, very present, and a real whirlwind.
Ivy
At 13 years old, Ivy is the "grandma" of the team.
Haku’s Story
As you probably have guessed, Haku (japanese for: white, pure, clear, far reaching, encompassing) is the namesake for our dog school.
Haku came into our lives in September 2021, and quite literally fundamentally changed them. He is the reason why I accompany people and their dogs on their own journeys today. He taught me more about communication and leadership (in particular where my weaknesses in these fields lie) than any leadership training that I have ever visited in my many years of professional experience. Moreso, he mercilessly displayed areas where I do not lead - or at the very least not lead in the way he needs for him to trust me.
To tell his entire story here would go beyond the scope of this text, but long story short, there were three defining events in Haku’s life that shaped our journey to today: diagnosed with an osteochondrosis at 6 months old, a bite attack from another dog, and at the age of 3 he was diagnosed with Sebaceous Adenitis (an autoimmune condition of the skin). Sebaceous Adenitis is not a known illness in the BBS breed. It more commonly occurs in Akita’s and Poodle’s. When Haku first started exhibiting the first clinical symptoms of this condition, he developed behavioral issues, which we could not properly attribute at the start. After diagnosis, and with the right medicine and dermatological therapy, as well as targeted behavioral modification training, we are now a good, playful team and can do (nearly) everything together. Haku’s favorite pastime is nose work (in the form of scent tracking and mantrailing).
Qualifications and Resume
We are constantly educating ourselves further and integrating new, scientifically founded approaches into our trainings, that are designed to help you and your dog tackle your individual challenges.
Here is an overview of our affiliations and my professional journey as a dog trainer.
Affiliations
KV Uri (Jugend & Hund und Mantrailing Übungsleiter)
Resume
2010 - present:
Self-taught training and education in puppy and young dog training.
2021 - present:
Gaining experience in multi-dog handling.
2024
Certified SKG Dog Trainer
2025
Youth and Dog 1 Certification
2025
Advanced training (for dog trainers) in mantrailing
2026
Advanced training “Managing Hunting Behavior”
Consultation before bringing a dog into your home
A dog should fit to your schedule, expectations and opportunities. We will consult with you before you bring a new dog into your home so you can make the best, informed decisions - from choosing the best fitting dog to answering important questions regarding care, training, time commitments and joint living. This way, you are equipped from the very start to the specific needs for a relaxed co-existence.
FAQ
What kind of training offers does Haku & Co offer?
Our dog school offers a wide variety of individual and group training opportunities. In
individual training we work on targeted topics such as leash training,
basic commands, encounters, recall as well as working with
anxious and “problem” dogs. In our group training we offer guided walks,
Mantrailing, Companion Dog training, Scent Tracking and
Everyday Basics training. Our training facility is located in Gondiswil but we are also mobile,
coming to you to help exactly where the daily challenges really are.
Does Haku & Co work with non-violent dog training?
Yes, with no exceptions. Non-violent dog training is the foundation of what we do. We are
members of the Initiative for Violence Free Dog Training and emphasize the value of
positive reinforcement and the Least Intrusive Principle - the principle of
the least possible intervention to yield the best results. Additionally, we also work with proven methods such
as Grisha Stewart’s Behavioral Adjustment Training (BAT) and
Leslie McDevitt’s dialogue-oriented approach. At Haku & Co. we build bonds based on trust, not
on pressure.
What qualifications does Patrick, the trainer at Haku & Co., have?
Patrick is an SKG (Swiss Kennel Club) certified trainer and brings over 14 years of
dog training experience to the table. In addition to this, he is a member of the
SprichHund network and the
Society of the White Shepherd Dog Switzerland (SWSD). Patrick is also constantly educating
himself and updating his training approaches based on the newest,
scientifically founded training methods.
Does Haku & Co. offer mobile dog training?
Yes! In addition to training at our training area in Gondiswil, we also offer
dog training on the go, coming to you to address your concerns where they exist. Specifically
with topics such as leash training, everyday training and known walking paths
or behavior at home, it is actually more effective to train on-site, at or near your home. This
way we can address the challenges you face directly where they occur, regardless if it's at your door, in your
neighborhood or on your usual walks.
Can Haku & Co. help with anxious and “problem” dogs?
Our work with anxious and “problem” dogs is the core of our dog school. We help with concerns
such as leash reactivity, separation anxiety,
fear of the outside, excessive barking, hunting behaviors or
insecurity towards other dogs. Our approach:
Understand “problem” dogs instead of correcting them. In our communication-centered training
approach, your dog can actively participate in and shape its behavioral modification process
and learn new strategies in a safe environment. Dogs from rescues or animal welfare organizations are also
welcome here.
What is Mantrailing and how is it done at Haku & Co.?
Mantrailing is a form of nose-work in which a dog uses the scent of an
individual person to track them. It is a species-appropriate and fair exercise that promotes
self-confidence in dogs and strengthens the bond between a dog and its person.
Patrick is a certified Mantrailing trainer and offers Mantrailing as an integral part of Haku &
Co.’s group training. This exercise is suited for every breed and age!
What does an Individual Lesson at Haku & Co. look like?
In individual lessons, we dedicate ourselves to the needs of you and your dog. The first step
is to analyse your situation and determine clear training goals - regardless if it is
leash training, recall training, encounter training, or other
challenges. Every part of the training is tailored to you, as no human-dog team is the same.
Per your choice, the training can take place at our training place in Gondiswil or closer to
home. This way we can ensure that what you learn is directly applicable in your day to day life.
When do the next group training and guided walks start?
Our group training and guided walks regularly take place in Grossdietwil. Our
groups are purposefully small so that we can assist every human-dog team individually. Your dog
thereby trains under realistic conditions - with other dogs, every day triggers, and lots of distractions. You
can find out our current dates and if there are available spots via WhatsApp at + 41 79 614 40
00 or via E-mail at info@hakuco.ch. Feel free to connect with us, we will find
a suitable option for you.
Do I need to attend a dog course in Switzerland? Is Haku & Co. certified for such courses?
In many Kantons, people who are first-time dog owners or people who have a specific breed of dog, are required
to attend a mandatory dog course. Regardless of the legal obligation,
professional dog training is recommended for every human-dog team. Haku & Co. operates
according to the training guidelines set forth by the SKG (Swiss Kennel Club), who values
species-appropriate learning and the protection of dogs. Patrick is an SKG certified trainer,
which guarantees a recognized and high-value education in Switzerland. On top of this, Haku & Co. is a member of
the Initiative for Violence-Free Dog Training and operates on
positive reinforcement and according to the Least Intrusive Principle - the
principle of least possible intervention to yield the best results.
How can I schedule an appointment at Haku & Co.?
You can reach out to us easily through our contact form on our website, via
WhatsApp at + 41 79 614 40 00 or via E-mail at
info@hakuco.ch. Describe your concerns or needs to us - whether that’s
puppy training, individual lessons, interest in our
group training offers, or more serious concerns, and we will reach out to you shortly to find
the best possible start for you and your dog.