Behavior Modification
Structure, Boundaries & Training for Challenging Behaviors
Behavior problems aren’t always solved by teaching a dog a few new commands.
Reactivity, fear, anxiety, aggression, resource guarding, and other difficult behaviors often require a more comprehensive approach. I look at the whole dog, including their environment, routine, training history, triggers, and relationship with their handler, to determine what is driving the behavior and what needs to change.
My approach is balanced, structured, and practical. Depending on the dog and the situation, behavior modification may include obedience training, clear boundaries, management, exposure to triggers, confidence building, and appropriate consequences for unwanted behavior.
The goal is not simply to stop a behavior in the moment. The goal is to create a dog that is more stable, responsive, and manageable in the real world.
Behavior Problems I Can Help With
I work with a wide range of challenging behaviors, including:
• Dog aggression and aggression toward people
• Reactivity toward dogs, people, or other triggers
• Lunging and barking on leash
• Dogs that pull excessively on leash
• Growling, snapping, or biting
• Fearful or nervous dogs
• Anxiety and difficulty being alone
• Resource guarding food, toys, or other items
• Poor impulse control and overexcitement
• Jumping on people and inappropriate greetings
• Dogs that struggle around other dogs
• Difficulty settling or listening around distractions
• Handling, grooming, or veterinary related issues
• Other difficult or concerning behaviors
If you’re not sure exactly how to describe what your dog is doing, that’s okay. You don’t need to know the technical term for your dog’s behavior. Tell me what’s happening, and I’ll help determine what we’re dealing with and how to address it.
Training Options
Board & Train
Board & Train allows me to work with your dog consistently throughout their stay. This provides the structure, repetition, and accountability that many behavior cases require.
Training isn’t limited to a specific lesson or time of day. Your dog’s behavior, obedience, boundaries, and ability to function in different environments can all be addressed throughout the program.
You’ll also receive guidance on maintaining the training once your dog comes home. The work doesn’t end when the Board & Train does.
Learn More About Board & Train
Private Lessons
Private lessons give me the opportunity to work directly with you and your dog in the situations where you’re having problems.
I’ll show you how to establish clear expectations, manage your dog’s triggers, reinforce appropriate behavior, and follow through when your dog makes the wrong choice.
Private training also puts more responsibility in the owner’s hands, which is important when the goal is lasting change. A dog may behave perfectly for a trainer, but if the same structure and expectations aren’t continued at home, the behavior can quickly return.
Learn More About Private Lessons
Additional Training Options
Some dogs benefit from additional structured training between private lessons. Day Training and Adventure Hikes can be added to a Private Training program when appropriate.
Day Training
Day Training provides additional repetition and structured work between private lessons. It can be particularly useful for reinforcing obedience, improving reliability, and giving your dog more opportunities to practice appropriate behavior.
For significant behavior problems, I don’t typically recommend Day Training as a standalone service. Owner involvement is an important part of behavior modification, which is why I use Day Training as a supplement to a private training program when appropriate.
Adventure Hikes
Adventure Hikes can also be incorporated into a private training program when appropriate.
Working through different environments, practicing obedience around distractions, building confidence, and learning how to navigate the world with better manners can all contribute to a more reliable, well rounded dog.
These services are available as supplements to Private Behavior Lessons, not as standalone behavior modification programs.
Learn More About Adventure Hikes
A Straightforward Approach to Behavior
There isn’t one training method that works for every dog.
I use a balanced approach and adjust the training plan based on the individual dog, the behavior we’re addressing, and what will be most effective and fair.
That means clear communication, structure, boundaries, reinforcement for good choices, and appropriate consequences when necessary.
The goal is simple:
A dog that understands what is expected, can handle the world around them, and can be trusted to make better choices.
Not Sure Where to Start?
You don’t need to diagnose your dog’s behavior or know which service you need before contacting me.
Tell me what’s going on with your dog, and I’ll help determine whether Private Behavior Lessons, Board & Train, or a combination of services is the right fit.
