When you watch a perfectly trained dog on screen, performing complex cues with flawless timing, it’s easy to get lost in the magic. But behind every great canine actor is an even greater trainer. For fans of the hit series Hudson & Rex, that mastermind is the Sherri Davis Dog Trainer experience, a unique blend of intuition, expertise, and a profound connection with animals that has made her a legend in the industry. She is the artist and strategist responsible for bringing the character of Rex to life, showcasing a level of training that goes far beyond the average “sit” and “stay.”
But Sherri Davis is more than just a Hollywood handler. She’s a dedicated professional with over two decades of experience, the owner of a comprehensive canine facility, and a passionate advocate for dogs everywhere. Her story is one of turning a natural gift into a world-class career, proving that the deepest bonds between humans and dogs can create extraordinary results, both on and off the screen.
Who is Sherri Davis? From Natural Talent to Industry Leader
Long before she was a go-to trainer for major film and television productions, Sherri Davis had what many describe as an innate gift—an uncanny ability to understand and communicate with animals. This wasn’t a skill learned from a book; it was a fundamental part of who she is. This lifelong passion was channeled into a professional career spanning more than 25 years, establishing her as one of Canada’s most respected animal trainers.
To share her expertise with a wider audience, Sherri founded BRB K9 Services in Ancaster, Ontario. It’s more than just a training school; it’s a full-service hub for dog lovers, offering:
- Professional Dog Training Classes
- Boarding and Daycare Facilities
- Grooming Services
- Specialized Training, including Search and Rescue
Her work extends across numerous acclaimed series and films, such as Murdoch Mysteries, American Gods, and The Handmaid’s Tale, but it’s her role as the lead trainer for Hudson & Rex that has truly put her in the spotlight.
The Star of the Show: Crafting the Character of Rex
The heart of Hudson & Rex is the incredible performance of its canine lead, a role originally played by Sherri’s own German Shepherd, Diesel vom Burgimwald. Diesel captivated audiences with his intelligence and charisma until his passing, leaving a legacy that seemed impossible to replicate.
However, Sherri’s skill was proven once again when she seamlessly transitioned the role to Diesel’s real-life nephew, Dillon. This transition was a testament to her abilities, as she trained Dillon to step into those big paw prints and continue the character of Rex without missing a beat. Training a dog for television is a monumental task that involves:
- Complex Cue Chains: Teaching the dog to perform a series of actions based on subtle verbal or hand signals.
- Environmental Desensitization: Ensuring the dog remains calm and focused amidst the chaos of a film set with its bright lights, loud noises, and dozens of crew members.
- Stunt Work: Safely coordinating actions like jumps, running, and interacting with props and other actors.
Sherri’s success in this high-pressure environment solidifies her status as a premier Sherri Davis dog trainer, capable of achieving results that few others can.
The Sherri Davis Training Philosophy: More Than Just Sit and Stay
So, what’s the secret behind her incredible success? It’s not about force or dominance; it’s about connection. The Sherri Davis dog trainer philosophy is built on a foundation of mutual respect and deep, intuitive communication. She has an almost supernatural ability to read an animal’s body language and emotional state, allowing her to tailor her approach to the individual dog’s needs.
This relationship-based method focuses on building a dog’s confidence and strengthening the human-animal bond. Instead of just commanding a dog to perform a task, Sherri fosters a partnership where the dog is a willing and enthusiastic participant.
As noted by Dr. Sarah Miller, a leading animal behaviorist, “Sherri Davis’s work is a masterclass in the power of positive, relationship-based training. The results she achieves on screen are not tricks; they are a dialogue between a handler and her dog. It proves that when you build a foundation of trust and communication, a dog’s potential is virtually limitless.”
This approach doesn’t just work for Hollywood’s canine stars; it’s the same philosophy she brings to the public through BRB K9 Services, helping everyday owners and their pets build happier, healthier relationships.
Beyond the Silver Screen: A Heart for Every Dog
Sherri Davis’s commitment to animals extends far beyond her professional obligations. She is also the driving force behind “Death Row Dogs,” an initiative focused on rehabilitating and saving dogs that others have deemed unreachable. This passion project speaks volumes about her character and her belief that every dog deserves a chance.
Her advocacy also includes supporting organizations like Rainbow Riders, which provides therapeutic horseback riding for people with disabilities. It’s clear that her work is not just a job but a calling—a lifelong dedication to harnessing the healing and transformative power of the animal world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Sherri Davis the trainer for the dog in Hudson & Rex?
Yes, Sherri Davis is the lead dog trainer and an executive producer for the Citytv series Hudson & Rex. She trained both the original dog actor, Diesel, and his successor, Dillon, who currently plays Rex.
Does Sherri Davis offer dog training for the public?
Absolutely. Sherri Davis owns and operates BRB K9 Services in Ancaster, Ontario, which provides a wide range of services for the public, including obedience training classes, private lessons, boarding, daycare, and grooming.
What is Sherri Davis’s dog training style?
Her training style is deeply rooted in communication and building a strong human-animal bond. It’s a positive, relationship-based approach that focuses on understanding an individual dog’s personality and needs to foster confidence and willing cooperation.
What other movies and shows has Sherri Davis worked on?
Her extensive resume includes major productions like Murdoch Mysteries, American Gods, Coroner, Flashpoint, and the critically acclaimed film Room, among many others.
How can I learn more about the Sherri Davis dog trainer services?
For those interested in her public services, the best place to start is the official website for BRB K9 Services. There you can find information on classes, scheduling, and contact details for her facility.
A Legacy of Trust and Talent
From the quiet fields of Ancaster to the bustling sets of international television, Sherri Davis has built a career on a simple but powerful principle: communication is the key to any successful relationship, especially with a dog. Her work on Hudson & Rex is a weekly showcase of her incredible talent, but her true impact is felt by the countless owners and dogs she has helped build unbreakable bonds.
Whether she’s coaching a canine star through a complex scene or guiding a new puppy owner through basic obedience, the Sherri Davis dog trainer approach is a reminder that with patience, respect, and a little bit of intuition, anything is possible. She is not just a trainer; she is a true “dog person,” and her work makes the world a better place for our four-legged friends.
