David Putman shares the raw and transformative story behind The Art of the Dog, a Buffalo-based dog training practice rooted in patience, resilience, and deep connection. What began 12 years ago with the adoption of a highly reactive rescue dog from the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter quickly became a life-changing journey. Faced with fear, uncertainty, and daily challenges, David learned firsthand what it takes to rehabilitate dogs that others might give up on.

Working out of a small, improvised carriage house space, David built his practice under less-than-ideal conditions, tight quarters, makeshift training areas, and constant adaptation. Through trial and error, he developed systems to safely manage dogs, creating structured environments with layered barriers and outdoor training zones that prioritized both human and animal well-being.

As his work grew, so did his impact. Combining training with photography and community engagement, David found ways to give back, supporting shelters and reinvesting in the mission that started it all. Now, with the development of a new, purpose-built facility in Buffalo, he is reimagining what a dog training environment can be: expansive, safe, and designed for both rehabilitation and education. The space includes dedicated training areas, grooming and care facilities, and improved indoor-outdoor connections that support healthier, more effective interactions.

In this talk, David reflects on the evolution of his practice, from working alone with one difficult dog to training other trainers and shaping a broader community approach. His story is about more than dogs, it’s about persistence, learning through doing, and building something meaningful from the ground up.