Beyond Behavior Dog Training

Games are not fun without the rules. Think about the games we play as humans. Take soccer for example - there are rules around who can pick up the ball and when. The same goes for the games we play with our dogs. If the dog grabs the toy at the wrong time, the human could get hurt. If the human takes the toy away with no cue, the dog may decide to avoid playing with their human for fear of losing their toy. Learning how to create clear and consistent communication around games with our dogs not only keeps you safe, it strengthens your bond with your best friend. Learn how to do this and more when you work with me!

Games are fun! Think about the sports humans enjoy. They strengthen bonds and improve communication. Games without clear rules are not fun. When a rule is broken, the game stops. The same goes for the games we play with our dogs. Having clear, consistent cues around when the dog can grab the toy, where they can grab it and when they need to let go makes a game of tug more fun and safer for the human and the dog. Learn these skills and more when you work with me!

This was a huge milestone for my client and her dog.
When I first started working with them, he was an anxious adolescent boy who was showing some aggressive behaviors towards his people. He had a ton of energy but refused to walk more than a block from his house before tucking his tail and frantically pulling to get back home.

First things first, we addressed his physical health. He had chronic tummy upset and ear infections that made him cranky. Next, we worked on building a strong connection with his mama through skill building and structured play.
Then we addressed his anxiety. After a month on medication, his outlook on the world completely changed. He’s still his goofy. rambunctious self, but with a much more optimistic frame of mind.

Getting his physical and mental wellbeing into a good place allowed us to support him around his triggers: unfamiliar dogs, people, and novelty. # # # # He learned how to check in with his people for support when he struggled.

Yesterday, we took him to the local park for the very first time in his life. After 5 minutes of acclimation, he started experiencing this new place with his nose instead of his eyes. He was able to stay in his thinking brain, respond to queues, and remain focused on his people. He was able to observe his triggers and check back in without exploding.

My favorite part? He was able to play. Play is something that animals cannot access when they feel unsafe. Look at the pure joy on his face!! I was so proud of this team I had to fight back happy tears. 🥹

Do you want your dog to come when called? Immediately, reliably, with enthusiasm and even around wildlife, other dogs and people? I can help!

Some loose leash walking work with the cutest shepherd pup at the shelter. Here I’m marking in the position I like and throwing a treat behind. When she catches up, the loop begins again. No leash pops, no aversive tools.