Meet Your Instructor

A Trusted Professional

Adam Winston

Educated. Experienced. Certified.

Biography

Adam Winston is the founder and lead trainer at Dogs in Our World (DIOW), where he blends a trauma‐informed, science‐based approach to canine behavior with engaging public education. As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Fear Free Certified Professional, he partners with individuals, families, and communities to foster deeper emotional bonds between people and their dogs.
Holding a Certificate in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington, Adam draws on a decade of hands-on experience—from serving as an Animal Care Technician with King County Regional Animal Services to leading behavior consultations and pack dynamics at Country Inn Pet Resort & Spa. He has designed and delivered customized training programs in both public and private settings, including municipal animal control agencies and correctional facilities.
Before dedicating himself to animal behavior, Adam served honorbly, overseas, in the U.S. Air Force as a broadcast journalist, honing his skills in communication, logistics, and creative problem-solving. Today, he leverages that background in storytelling and multimedia to produce the Dogs in Our World podcast, host educational workshops, and craft digital content that empowers people to better understand man’s best friend.
Through DIOW, Adam’s mission is to leave every community he serves stronger than he found it…one empowered dog guardian at a time.

Free Consultation

DOGS IN OUR WORLD

Educate. Empower. Elevate a dogs world.

Educate. Empower. Elevate a dog’s world.

Adam has helped hundreds and informed thousands.

Frequently Asked Questions

See answers to common inquiries below

Dog training focuses on clear skills and cues—like sit, recall, or loose-leash walking—while a behavior consultation dives deeper into emotional and habitual challenges such as separation anxiety, reactivity, or compulsive barking. At Dogs in Our World, our trauma-informed, science-based approach ensures you not only teach new skills but also address the root causes behind unwanted patterns. Ready to learn more? Visit our Services page or Contact page for a free consultation.

Unlike conventional obedience classes that rely on rote repetition, Adam blends his certified expertise with a Fear Free and LIMA philosophy to tailor each plan through the lens of dog training and behavior science. At Dogs in Our World, we emphasize partnership, emotional well-being, and positive reinforcement techniques over outdated, aversive methods. This compassionate, evidence-based framework transforms training into a fun, motivating experience for both dog and guardian. To explore this unique approach, visit our Services page or reach out via our Contact page.

Dogs in Our World currently offers in-home and corporate visits throughout the Tumwater and Olympia, WA area. If you’re outside that region, you can still access Adam’s expertise via Zoom—delivering the same trauma-informed dog training and behavior coaching right to your living room. To schedule an in-person or virtual session, head over to our Services page or reach out on our Contact page.

Absolutely. Adam specializes in science-backed strategies for dogs that are reactive or fearful, combining positive reinforcement, desensitization exercises, and gradual exposure techniques. Every plan is trauma-informed, tailored to your dog’s pace and comfort level. Start with a free consultation to discuss your dog’s specific triggers and goals. Visit our Contact page to book your free consultation.

Yes. With a background as an Animal Care Technician at a municipal shelter, Adam is experienced in safely assessing and rehabilitating dogs with bite histories. Using a trauma-informed, least intrusive approach, he creates customized behavior plans to build trust and reduce risk. If your dog has past bite incidents, schedule a free consultation via our Contact page to determine the best path forward.

Everyone involved in your dog’s life is welcome—family members, friends, pet sitters, dog walkers, and any primary caregivers. Including your whole support network helps reinforce consistent cues and strategies across your household. At Dogs in Our World, our dog training and behavior sessions are more effective when everyone speaks the same “training language.” To coordinate group invitations or ask about virtual observers, visit our Services page or drop us a note on our Contact page.

Yes. Adam is a Fear Free–certified professional who follows the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) guidelines, meaning we prioritize rewards, motivation, and emotional well-being over force or corrections. At Dogs in Our World, positive reinforcement forms the core of our dog training and behavior approach—treats are part of the toolkit, but we also tap into play, praise, and life rewards to build lasting, joyful partnerships. Learn more about our philosophy on the free DIOW podcast or connect via our Contact page.

While Adam isn’t a licensed mental health counselor, he understands the emotional impact of dog behavior challenges, loss, and tough decisions. If you need a compassionate ear to discuss your concerns—whether you’re weighing rehoming options or grieving a beloved companion—feel free to reach out. Dogs in Our World is built on community, empathy, and science-backed support. Message Adam directly for a free chat from the Contact page.

At Dogs in Our World, community comes first. If cost is a barrier, reach out via our Contact page to discuss sliding-scale options, barter arrangements, or discounted packages. Whether you have skills in design, carpentry, or marketing, let’s find a creative way to trade your talents for dog training and behavior coaching. No dog—and no guardian—should be left without support.

The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification sets a clear, industry-recognized standard for basic obedience, workplace etiquette, and public manners. Ensuring your office dogs hold a CGC title demonstrates to employers, landlords, and clients that each dog has mastered foundational skills like sit, stay, and polite greetings. To learn how to prepare your team for CGC testing, visit our Services page or contact us.

Not at this time. Dogs in Our World focuses exclusively on dog training and behavior education. For trusted boarding and dog-sitting referrals, Adam recommends the Country Inn Pet Resort & Spa in McCleary, WA, and Ilio Paws in Tumwater, WA.

Dogs in Our World currently focuses exclusively on dog training and behavior and does not offer grooming services. For trusted grooming referrals, Adam recommends Country Inn Pet Resort & Spa in McCleary, WA, and Ilio Paws in Tumwater, WA—both uphold strict vaccination and behavior policies to keep your dog safe and comfortable. If you need help preparing your dog for grooming or have questions about other service offerings, visit our Services page or get in touch via our Contact page.