OUR STORY

From the beginning, the core of Oregon Tails goal was to enjoy, and to help others enjoy to the fullest extent. We began as an off-leash, unstructured dog walking service in Northeast Portland in 2008. It quickly became evident that we needed to learn how to support dogs so that they were able to overcome their need to chase other animals, defend themselves, or let their excitement, fears or anxiety take over their actions.

What Oregon Tails is today is the product of our time spent devoting our lives to learning how to communicate in such a way that each dog we interact with feels supported, heard, felt and enjoyed.

the jentle method™

The Jentle Method was created by Jonathan Czinder (owner, lead handler & educator of Oregon Tails) and is practiced with each dog we work with. We use it with the Oregon Tails Pack members, we teach participants of our Student of the Dog workshops the Jentle Method and practice it to rehabilitate all foster dogs we have had. Besides our energy, it is our main form of communication with dogs.

The Jentle Method is a series of 11 exercises increasing in difficulty. Throughout the practice of the Jentle Method, handler and dog begin to feel one another, respond to each other and ultimately begin moving together more harmoniously. The exercises themselves give a simple structure and task to perform whereby more attention can be given to feeling the dog, how they move, where resistance, fear, lightness or excess energy may lie. This helps the handler work on their timing and balance when it comes to supporting the dog through these moments and in life outside of their practice.

Through the functional movement and skills developed within Jentle Method, a two way conversation begins which can really pave a smooth path forward in life, one with more peace, enjoyment and understanding. Learn the Jentle Method™ ➝

WHO WE ARE

We are a family who’s central focus is the sustained enrichment and feeling of enjoyment in the lives of animals and humans alike. Our biggest body of work comes in the form of mankind’s best friend, the dog. Since 2008 we have tirelessly devoted ourselves to guiding, teaching, and encouraging personal growth in dogs of all of breeds, personalities, histories, and behaviors. We each have a unique background, experience, and leadership style to offer; but at our core we all have chosen to embody and live by the qualities of patience, understanding and intentional action on the fundamental level of Being.

We believe that the mental health and well being of a dog comes not just from loving them, but being able to communicate with them and guide them safely through anything life may throw their way. We believe that spending time with dogs in intentional and meaningful ways free from distraction, force, or luring, fosters and nourishes a bond that is worthy of the term “best friends”. We are about aligning two completely different species in humans and canines on a plain of both feeling and understanding, of Being. A place where humans and dogs listen to and respect each other more often than when they do not. We consider and speak of ourselves as companions to our dogs, not owners. We believe there is a clear and tangible distinction between the two and created a dog handling methodology in the Jentle Method, to fit our vision of being a companion. 

We believe that we, humans, are the X-factor in a dog’s success in life; and it is our goal to offer ourselves as a reliable source—a coherent, thorough and sequential source—to help people achieve the level of enjoyment in life that they themselves and their dog both deserve and desire.

Our Home

The Oregon Tails Dog Ranch is based in Scappoose, Oregon—just over 20 miles north of Portland. Hundreds of acres make up our idea of the perfect setting for our Oregon Tails Pack members and educational opportunities such our Student of the Dog workshops and Student of the Pack mentorship. With views of Mt. St. Helen’s, old growth cottonwood forest, open fields, bustling wildlife and private beach / river access, we feel privileged to offer dogs and humans an environment that every Being deserves to enjoy.