Instructor
Steven Lung
Pack Lead - Functional Canines
About me
Steven Lung. Thanks for stopping by. Here I share more about myself and why I started Functional Canines.
Some history. As a young kid, I grew up with a bloodhound named Bobbi. His entire life was limited to a single yard. My parents saw him as no more than a security system. He had zero training, so walks were impossible. Any attempts failed as he would easily pull wherever he wanted and bark at all dogs. I had a soft spot for him but could do nothing as a little kid.
Forward to my adult life. After dog sitting for a friend numerous times, I fell in love with her chocolate lab, Bailey. Bailey would insist on sharing my bed and pillow, remaining in contact with me. I loved it.
When would be the day I get my own "Bailey"? For years, like many of you, life was so busy that I could not see how a dog may fit into the picture. In particular, I would not be able to deal with an untrained dog. That would just add stress and complexity.
I saw a window opening to get a dog as I began to settle. With my obsessive personality, I began to devour everything I could on dog training for two years! My early experience with Bobbi, the bloodhound, set a clear expectation that such a scenario would not be repeated. This dog would thrive and enjoy an amazing life - proper training was the key.
What happened? Well, this - Functional Canines. Not only a change in careers, but I have also since moved to a travel trailer named Hueso Hueco. I would never have done any of this without the companionship of my pup. What about the reasons for a dog not being a fit for my busy lifestyle? Out. The. Window. Besides the fun of a dog, Luna has been a great benefit to my sense of well-being. I smile more. I spend more time outdoors. I have made more friends. And like Bailey, Luna sleeps in bed with me. These benefits gained from our relationship with our dogs are why I started Functional Canines.
I never planned to start this. But after enough people asked me for help, I found that I absolutely love helping dogs and their people! To see the quick progress is fun. Dogs are so smart but just need some clear direction from us. They want to please us. To see owners relieved to know that life with their dogs does not have to be a battle of wills. More cuddles instead and a source of happiness in a time when many of us could benefit. It has been the case for me.