The Hemene Approach: A Return to Nature's Wisdom
Â
At the heart of everything we do lies The Hemene Approach—a completely unique way of understanding and supporting dogs, inspired by the wolves who taught us what no textbook ever could.
The word "Hemene" is a Nez Perce word for wolf, but more than that, it carries a deeper meaning: "we are one, we are the same." This phrase captures exactly what we’ve come to know through decades of living alongside wolves and working with dogs—that we are profoundly connected. What affects them affects us. What we heal in them, we heal in ourselves.
What Makes the Hemene Approach Different?
Unlike anything else you’ll find in the dog world, this is not a training method. It is a developmental approach—built on the natural stages of growth and relationship that wolves move through as they become confident, resilient adults. These stages form what we call The Circles of Development, a pathway to raise, heal, and truly know your dog.
 But it doesn't stop there. Our work is also shaped by our discovery of the 9 Social Identities—innate roles or "characters" that both wolves and dogs are born with, each designed to serve the family in different ways. This unique knowledge—unlike personality typing or vague labels—explains why dogs behave as they do, how they manage stress, and how they relate to both their world and us. And here’s the real secret: we humans carry these same social identities, and our dogs respond to them in us.
The Language Beneath the Language
The Hemene Approach teaches the real language of dogs and wolves—a communication beyond just reading ears and tails. It’s nervous system to nervous system, soul to soul. It’s the felt connection where trust is born and true cooperation grows.
People talk about "connection" and "calm"—but often what they mean is obedience and control.
We don’t teach dogs to "act calm."
We teach how to give them real, felt safety—so calm becomes what they feel.
And we don’t focus on "obedience"—because we’ve learned from wolves that when development, identity, and relationship are secure, cooperation is natural.
Built on Nature. Confirmed by Science.
What wolves have shown us over the years is now confirmed by neuroscience: dogs (and humans) are wired for connection. They need social, emotional, and developmental security to thrive. Wolves have never forgotten how to do this—and through them, we are remembering.
Why This Matters—for You and Your Dog
Whether you're:
- Raising a puppy,
- Trying to heal a dog with trauma, reactivity, or anxiety,
- Or simply wanting a deeper, more meaningful relationship with your dog,
The Hemene Approach brings a path back to wholeness—together.
Rahul
"The first thing you will notice when you take this course is how much sense it makes from a canine's perspective. It makes me sad to see how their language has been misconstrued or manipulated by us humans for so long. But I am so thrilled and fortunate to find Kim and Shaun who with extreme hard work, validated research and passion towards these animals have brought forth the most authentic and valuable canine language course ever created. Can't wait to learn more from you both"
Julie
This course has been life changing and I feel privileged to have been a part of it and has inspired me further to want to learn more. The way that the course is presented and delivered is superb. I admire Kim's natural ability to connect with people with her honesty, humour and her passion and dedication to her work is paramount. I am thankful to have been part of a group of amazing people. Thank you Kim and Shaun and to the group for being part of my life's journey.
Â
Danielle
When I took on another dog through work with some behavioural issues I was seeking out help from lots of different sources but nothing seemed to resonate with me until I came across Kim and Shaun’s teachings. I was dubious at first because of the common misnomers that come with linking wolves with dog behaviours. That is very much not the truth with Kim and Shaun’s ways. All their teachings are about understanding our canine companions and forming deeper connections by listening to the wisdom and knowledge the wolves provide us with. I have learnt so much about my dogs and even myself through this course. The information is mind blowing and life changing, such an amazing course which leaves you wanting more!
