At Bark Busters, every trainer has a story, a path that led them to helping dogs and their families. For Liza Fournier, your Bark Busters trainer in Brampton and Etobicoke, that path started with a lifetime of working alongside animals, from horses to dogs, and a first career built on coaching and helping people reach their goals.
We asked Liza what drives her, which breeds hold a special place in her heart, and the one thing she wishes every dog owner knew.
What Brought You to Dog Training?
“Dog training came from a combination of experiences that all came together over time. In my first career, I developed strong coaching, advisory, and people skills. I learned how important communication, leadership, patience, and understanding are when helping others achieve their goals.
I also had the pleasure of owning and working with horses, including both pleasure horses and Standardbreds, which taught me so much about animal behaviour, trust, and the importance of clear, consistent communication. Alongside that, dogs have always been part of my family. Over the years, I have experienced both the challenges and incredible joys that come with living and working with dogs of all personalities, breeds, temperaments, and behavioural needs.
What became increasingly clear to me was how much our relationship with our animals influences their success. When we learn how to communicate clearly, provide guidance, and build trust, everything changes. Seeing that transformation firsthand ignited a passion that eventually became a reality and a career.
Today, what drives me is helping others achieve that same connection with their dogs. There is nothing more rewarding than watching families gain confidence, strengthen their bond, and discover the joy that comes from truly understanding and communicating with their canine companion.”
What Is Your Favourite Breed?
“I can not get enough of Bully breeds! That is why I share my life and home with one and still so fondly remember the past four who have crossed over the rainbow bridge.
Bully breeds have incredible personalities. They are often goofy, affectionate, loyal, and full of heart. They form deep bonds with their families and love hard! At the same time, many Bully breeds can be strong-willed, stubborn, excitable, and sometimes a little too confident in their decision-making. Their strength and determination mean they need clear leadership, consistency, and guidance to help them become the best versions of themselves.
As a dog behaviourist and trainer, I find these dogs incredibly rewarding to work with because once trust and communication click into place, they give you everything they have. There is nothing quite like watching a Bully breed learn to relax, make better choices, and develop a strong partnership with their family. It all comes down to building a relationship rooted in trust, respect, and understanding.
Seeing these amazing dogs go from misunderstood or challenging to confident, well-mannered companions is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job!”
What Is the Best Part About Being a Trainer?
“One of the most rewarding parts of this job is meeting families who feel like they have hit a wall. They love their dog deeply and have spent countless hours researching, trying different methods, and doing everything they can think of to change unwanted behaviours. They often come to me exhausted, frustrated, and worried that nothing will ever improve.
Showing them a different way to communicate with their dog and watching the transformation begin is something I never take for granted. There is nothing quite like seeing the smile spread across a client’s face when they realize their dog can make better choices, or witnessing the tears of joy that sometimes come when they experience a breakthrough they never thought possible.
For me, it goes so much further than changing behaviour. It is about rebuilding trust, restoring confidence, and helping create the relationship they have always dreamed of having with their dog. Watching that bond strengthen and seeing both the dog and their family finally understand each other is what makes this work so incredibly fulfilling.”
What Do You Wish You Could Tell Every Dog Owner?
“The most important thing I want every client to know is that there is always hope. Every dog has the ability to learn, and every family can build the relationship they have been hoping for with the right guidance. My goal is to help you understand why your dog behaves the way they do, teach you how to communicate with clarity and confidence, and create lasting results. When trust, communication, and leadership become the foundation of your relationship, both you and your dog can thrive.”
Ready to Work With Liza?
If you live in Brampton, North Etobicoke, or the surrounding areas, Liza is your local Bark Busters trainer. She specializes in puppy training, aggression, separation anxiety, leash pulling, excessive barking, and general obedience, all in the comfort of your home.
Every Bark Busters training program comes with our Written Lifetime Guarantee, so you will have ongoing support for the life of your dog.
Contact Liza today to schedule your in-home training session.
