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The Way of Life Method

How to Heal Your Relationship with Your Dog and
Raise a Sound, Strong, and Spirited Companion
(At Any Age)

By Souha Ezzedeen PhD

This award-winning, best-selling guide takes a revolutionary approach to rearing dogs and addressing behavior issues. Rather than rely on conventional obedience training, behavior modification protocols, control tools, or medication, The Way of Life Method goes to the root cause of every behavior problem: the dog’s way of life.

Drawing from the instinctual lessons of mother dogs and wolf packs, the Way of Life Method teaches us how to design a way of life that heals our relationships with our dogs and raise sound companions, no matter their age, breed, background, or behavior. This guide deepens our bonds in ways we never imagined possible.

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In The Way of Life Method, you will:

  • Learn about a 3-stage program towards a new relationship with your dog.
  • Discover how mother dogs and wolf families in the wild raise their young.
  • Uncover what your goals are as your dog's leader and role model.
  • Harness your mindset by answering each chapter's reflection questions.
  • Understand how to raise dogs for character and attitude, not train them for skills.
  • Find out how to practice essential exercises that build confidence in your dog.
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2025

INTERNATIONAL IMPACT BOOK AWARDS WINNER
Pets & Animals Category

The IIBA is a global movement dedicated to celebrating excellence in storytelling and honoring the authors whose words spark transformation!

2024-2025

BOOKLIFE PRIZE
NONFICTION CONTEST
QUARTER FINALIST
Self-Help Category

“A refreshing approach to dog behavior problems. It feels unconventional at first but quickly makes sense in Ezzedeen’s capable hands.”

2024

MAGAZINE’S
MODERN DOG CONNIE’S BOOK CLUB PICK

Featured in Modern Dog magazine’s Spring/Summer 2024 issue. The Way of Life Method was picked as a Connie’s Book Club favorite!

WE CAN COACH YOU IN APPLYING THE METHOD TO YOUR SITUATION.
WORK WITH US, UNLEASH A NEW LIFE, AND REVEAL A NEW BOND

Group Training & Coaching

We offer group training classes that cycle through a series of signature Way of Life exercises that will challenge you and your dog in a fun environment. Whatever your dog’s behavior issues, they will benefit from the group exposure and head trainer Souha Ezzedeen’s expert guidance.

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Private Intensive Training with the Mastery Program

Get private training through our Way of Life Method Mastery Program, a 6-month transformative and empowering private coaching experience! This is for dog owners who want more direct interaction and personal attention than group training, with 24/7 messaging whenever needed.

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Virtual Training with the Way of Life Method Academy

Join the Way of Life Method Academy, a vibrant online community where you will get continuous learning and support, live coaching, and intensive trainings! Way of Life members are welcoming, dedicated, empathetic, eager to grow in the Method, and love to share their experiences.

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STAY IN TOUCH WITH WAY OF LIFE® DOG TRAINING

Subscribe here to the Way of Life® monthly newsletter, packed with tips, inspiration, and recommendations.

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WAY OF LIFE® METHOD READ-ALONG RESOURCES

1.

Stage 1
Foundations

– Slide Decks
– Summaries
– Journal
– Evaluation Checklist

CA$ 15
3-Stage Bundle: CA$ 30

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2.

Stage 2
Exposure

– Slide Decks
– Summaries
– Journal
– Evaluation Checklist

CA$ 15
3-Stage Bundle: CA$ 30

add to cart

3.

Stage 3
Integration

– Slide Decks
– Summaries
– Journal
– Evaluation Checklist

CA$ 15
3-Stage Bundle: CA$ 30

add to cart

WAY OF LIFE® METHOD FREE DIGITAL DOWNLOADS

The Way of Life® Method

Media Kit

FREE DOWNLOAD

Audiobook Supplemental PDF

– Graphics
– References
– Glossary

FREE DOWNLOAD

Souha Ezzedeen PhD Speaker Sheet

FREE DOWNLOAD

The Way of Life® Method Sell Sheet

– For Retailers

FREE DOWNLOAD

The Way of Life® Method Sell Sheet

– For Libraries

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—Tina S.
This is one of the most important books on my shelf! I have been through quite a journey with my Border Collie-Aussie, being that I'm a first-time dog handler. Without this book, I'm not sure where we'd be today. The Way of Life Method demonstrates the importance of understanding our dogs and recognizing their unique needs that go beyond the human-pet relationship we're so used to. This amazing written work includes beautiful stories about wolves, clients, the author's personal stories with her dogs, alongside helpful exercises and reflection opportunities. You can read the book in order or jump to different chapters as you see fit. However you decide to tackle this phenomenal book, you will find yourself better able to wrap your head around the complicated but beautiful world of dogs. I'm so thankful this book and these teachings came into my life. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in building a meaningful and significant bond with their furry companion.
—Krystyna L.
Before discovering this approach, I tried various training methods, worked with several trainers, read countless books, watched videos, and enrolled in online courses. While some of those methods offered short-term results, they often felt superficial — focusing on managing symptoms rather than fostering true well-being and confidence in my dogs. It always felt like I was stuck in an endless loop of training, addressing each issue separately as it came up.

With The Way of Life Method, my dogs and I have finally been able to decompress and step away from the constant pressure of "fixing" things. We now do less, but everything we do has deeper meaning and addresses the root causes of behavior. I'm deeply grateful to have found this book, Souha, and this philosophy. In the end, I’m not concerned with a method being 100% scientifically validated if it doesn’t bring real, lasting change. This one does — and that's what matters most.
Kendra H.
This book, and Souha's Method saved my shut-down rescue dog’s life. Absolutely nothing else would have helped her heal from horrible past traumas the way this carefully staged method has. It has also helped my other dog who has a bite history and trauma as well. Both dogs are SO happy, content, and powerful, and our connections get stronger constantly. It shows in every way! Cannot recommend Souha, her method, and book enough.
—Annie B.
I tried so many professional online training programs; this book was more effective than all of them! It definitely departs from how the conventional dog world views behavior issues. It felt weird at first that there’s so much of an emphasis on how we think and how we interpret behavior, but when I actually put the principles to work… things changed! At first, some people in my life criticized me for using this approach because of its emphasis on decompression via crating, managing space and boundaries, socializing, and it not being an overnight quick fix. Fast forward a year later, these people are now coming to me for advice because they’re still playing “whack-a-mole” with behavior issues with their dogs, while my once “reactive” dog is now cool as a cucumber and can be trusted on and off leash.

My life with my dog has become argument-free, not because I force him to do stuff -- yell, give commands, etc. -- we’re just in sync. I understand him, I understand his strengths and limitations, I understand the things I do that contribute to his stress and undesirable behaviors, and I know how to help him change/grow. This book teaches you to do that and how to tap into an authentic natural bond with your dog, in a way that’s intuitive to dogs as a species. You become the kind, compassionate leader your dog needs, and your dog blossoms into a spirited, loyal companion that you can trust with more freedom than most dogs ever experience in their lifetime.
—Brenda M.
After 8 dogs, and working with multiple strays and fosters, and using a huge variety of training methods taught by excellent and kind trainers that met with varying degrees of success, I can attest that The Way of Life Method is the only book I have ever read that makes psychological sense for all concerned, when it comes to rearing dogs. It involves no electric collars, pronged collars or other harmful equipment, and works simply and effectively to create working relationships with difficult dogs, including powerful, large dogs. Its focus on building a solid relationship with a dog based on a dog's true nature, and yours, is remarkable in that it allows each relationship to be unique and yet have under-guiding principles that are sure to form a rock-solid partnership between human and canine. In addition, the support material of online resources that go with this method are excellent, and are available on a website, and on various social media working groups. They help the reader further understand concepts and are readily available for those days with your pet when NOTHING seems to be working. If you want solutions that work and are ready to take the next step in building good canine partners, this is the book for you.
—Theresa R.
After years of living together and little spats here and there, the relationship between our dogs became dangerous and the energy in the home very stressful. We were recommended to Souha to assist with our dogs’ reactivity (barking at windows, doors and guests), dog on dog aggression, bite redirection and general way of life. This was just before The Way of Life Method was released. Since its release, we have purchased both the softcover and on audible and we are so thankful we did. By following the stage one process as outlined in the book, our home is calm and quiet, our dogs are safe and gaining new confidence, self-assuredness, and self-regulation. The use of the crates and the decompression has helped not only our dogs but us as well. We had no idea how tiring our old way of life was and how much down time/decompression we all actually needed. This method has the dogs' best interest at heart, is non aversive (no punishment) and if you follow the process as it is laid out the results are measurable very quickly.

The Way of Life Method is about more than obedience, more than training...it is about re-establishing a deep and healthy bond with your dog...acknowledging their "dogness", truly seeing them and giving your dog true confidence in themselves and you before starting any level of "obedience" work. If you are struggling with your dog’s behaviour, or there is conflict in the home that directly relates to the dog, please get this book and start the journey to a happier, healthier, more well-adjusted way of life for everyone.
—K. Grieve, RVT
This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to have a greater understanding of, and deeper relationship with, their dog. As humans, we often attempt to mold our dogs’ behaviors based on our own lifestyles, preconceived ideas, and personal preferences. This can create frustration for both the human and dog, and lead to undesired behavioral issues. Souha Ezzedeen encourages us to approach our relationships with our dogs through a new lens, one that foments a deeper connection that is less “owner” and “pet”, and more “companion” and “family member”. By allowing dogs to engage in natural behaviors, understanding the motivations that produce those behaviors, and working to develop and structure the behaviors in a positive way, we can provide our companion canines the ability to become well-adjusted and content.


This method is a thoughtful and measured approach on how to become the guiding force in your dog’s life without resorting to force to achieve it. It is not a method for those seeking a “quick fix” or “how to get my dog to stop doing (fill in the blank behavior)” training guide. The Way of Life Method requires patience, dedication, and perseverance in the face of inevitable setbacks and frustrations. There are arguably somewhat controversial approaches to long-held beliefs surrounding early-stage socialization flooding and regimented solitude; however, the ultimate rewards are invaluable. For those interested in raising their dogs to become less of a subordinate, subjugated pet and more of a respected, trusted, engaged family member, I encourage you to follow this method in order to achieve mutual understanding with your own canine companion.

Modern Dog Magazine's Book Club Pick!

We are honored to be featured in Modern Dog
magazine’s latest Spring/Summer 2024 issue.
The Way of Life Method was picked as a
Connie’s Book Club favorite!
Check us out on page 84!

ENDORSEMENTS

It’s refreshing to see a book about dog behaviour that does not focus on training but reveals a deeper understanding of their psychological condition and needs. The Way of Life Method shows the importance of understanding a behaviour from the dog’s perspective in order to correct it. Dr. Ezzedeen’s straightforward approach is designed to build a foundation of trust and confidence for our dogs to enable them to live their best lives. All dog lovers should read this book.
Dr. Ian Buffett DVM (Toronto, ON)
Veterinarian
Souha has a sincere appreciation and understanding that dogs know, so very well, how to be a dog and in order for us to enjoy them at their best we need to listen to what they are communicating to us and our training be guided by this source. She provides many common examples of problems that people run into with their dogs, then sets out a detailed plan for the owner to discover what the dog is trying to relay to their family and what needs to be addressed in order for both the dog and owner to move forward in the most positive and beneficial manner. The owner has a responsibility not to change the dog from being a dog but to appreciate the animal and design the best strategy for an empathetic relationship to blossom between the family and their dog.
Susan Buttivant
Award Winning Breeder, Author, Dog Trainer, & Canine Sport Instructor
Down to earth and easy to read. For every person who has ever had, and currently has a dog in their life, and will always have a canine in their life, this book is a must read. The author guides us through a beautifully thought out process of acceptance and forgiveness, involving our relationships with the canines in our lives. We can redeem our past training and relationship errors and bonds, it’s not too late. This book is the perfect tool of guidance the dog world needs, complete with a reflection area after each chapter. The author strives and succeeds to be fair, in judgment of breeds, rescue dogs, and dogs that are struggling with mental health behavioral issues. A must have for every person and their dogs, this is a read that will change our world!
Deb Stanton
Psychic Medium, Medical Intuitive, and Animal Communicator
In this book, The Way of Life Method, author, dog trainer, and coach Souha Ezzedeen shares with us her wide and rich experiences in dog training. Not only does she offer better techniques to train our dogs to become better pets but also helps us understand the behaviour behind proper training. The author helps us build a much healthier relationship with our dogs, stressing the importance of rearing and raising our dogs rather than teaching and training skills. The Way of Life Method expands on the importance of proper socialization and understanding drive development across stages. The premise of the entire book is based on the importance of establishing our bond with our pets, bonding being the goal and the focus of any form of training. A “must read” for any pet owner looking to understand the relationship between them and their pet and the tools to raise a happy and well-adjusted dog.
Dominique Rousselle
Co-Founder of Dogs Without Collars Rescue and former Vice President of the Toronto Humane Society
A thought-provoking resource for anyone who owns a dog, and one which would be particularly enriching for anyone who is contemplating a new canine companion. Relationship based and scientifically backed, the material flows seamlessly into the practical application of the underlying theories, making it eminently readable! If I were still breeding dogs, it would definitely be a book that I would recommend to potential purchasers.
Sue Neave
Award Winning Breeder & Show Handler (Retired)
Souha has a deep understanding and knowledge of our canine friends. In this book and in her seminars, she asks us to hold up a mirror to take a good look at ourselves and our own ways of being first. She asks questions to make us think about ourselves so we can relate how our dog sees us and the world around them. Souha shares her own experiences in a fluent and direct way that allows us as the student to visualize, identify with, understand, and take steps toward a more balanced relationship with our dogs. She then provides us with great, meaningful tools to help us take that relationship to a whole other level. This is a “must read” book for anyone considering adopting a dog into their family.
Shari Seymour
Canine & Equine Therapist, Author, Artist, & Wellness Educator
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About the author

Souha Ezzedeen, PhD, is a university professor, dog coach, and the founder of Way of Life® Dog Training in Ontario, Canada. An academic with expertise in management and organizational behavior, she has a curious mind, loves research, and is well-versed in behavioral theories that undergird mainstream dog training. Souha draws on two decades of diverse experiences with dogs to share her knowledge about the human canine bond with people struggling to achieve a more harmonious life with their dogs.

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