Our Training Philosophy
At Street Wise Canine, our approach is clear, supportive, and practical — for both dogs and their humans.
We train using a simple 3-step method that meets each dog where they’re at:
1. Teach Focus First
Before we ever ask for behaviors, we teach dogs how to pay attention, regulate themselves, and engage with their handler.
A focused dog is a trainable dog — and a more confident one, too.
2. Teach Behaviors Second
Once focus is consistent, we start layering in training skills: engagement games, obedience foundations, problem-solving tasks, and enrichment-based learning that makes sense to the dog.
We build skills with the dog, not just at them.
3. Proof at the Dog’s Speed
We don’t rush dogs through distractions or pressure them into “performing.”
We proof behaviors gradually — in real-world environments — only when the dog is ready to succeed.
Because trust creates reliability, not just repetition.
We lean toward positive reinforcement-based training, but we don’t believe in rigid formulas or judgment.
Every dog is different. Every handler has a story.
We meet people where they are — whether they’re brand new to training or working through real-life behavior struggles.
You’ll never be shamed for using a tool, for being unsure, or for trying something that didn’t work.
Our job is to teach, support, and guide you toward a better relationship with your dog — one that feels good for both of you.
At the end of the day, the goal is always the same: to bring out the best in each dog, in a way that works for both the dog and the owner.
Meet Cher & The Chihuahuas Behind Street Wise Canine
I’m Cher Wood, and I’ve been training dogs professionally for 17 years—but my journey with dogs started long before that.
I grew up in the world of dog breeding and showing—my parents bred Scottish Terriers, and I was handling our Scotties in the show ring before I was even a teenager. Summers were spent working as a dog groomer, which only deepened my understanding of canine behavior, body language, and handling skills.
It wasn’t long before I transitioned into training full-time, establishing a highly successful dog training business in Ottawa, Ontario. After years of building a strong client base, I made the move to Delhi, Ontario, where I now run Street Wise Canine, bringing my experience and passion to a whole new community.
Of course, none of this would be complete without mentioning my six Chihuahuas—the tiny but mighty pack that runs my household. These little dogs have taught me more about training than any textbook ever could, proving that good training isn’t about size—it’s about understanding the individual dog in front of you.
Reviews
Cher is incredibly committed to fulfilling the needs of dogs. Her in-depth knowledge of canine enrichment and dogs’ innate needs combined with her creative ability to think outside the box makes Cher & Streetwise an amazing resource to the dog community.
Read moreJessica O'Neill
11 days ago
Molly and I enjoyed the sessions for reactivity, we learned new ways to control reactivity on walks, in the house and created a food drive. We finished the course and still have alot of work to do but the more we work together the easier the reactivity decreases. With any dog training sessions the work is not completed at graduation but gives you the tools to continue to build a bond and achieve your goals with your furbaby. Thank you Street Wise Canine Dog Training Annette
Read moreannette dearlove
5 months ago
Great Instructors and well run class. Will be returning for more training
Read moreAl Brown
5 months ago
Very comprehensive course with lots of support during and after the course was completed.
Read moreIzzy McCoy Hunter
5 months ago
Angela Stuyt
6 months ago
Took my scaredy-cat cat of a pup to classes hosted by Cher and Melissa, hoping to bring herout of her shell and to improve our bond and obedience. She is a completely different dog to when we started!! I CANNOT recommend their course enough!! They are excellent instructors and offer great opportunities to work and strength yours and your dogs skills where your dog is at. Truly game changing for us!!!
Read moreLaurie A
6 months ago