For dogs with annoying, fearful, or aggressive behaviors

Behavior Problems

 

Understanding Behavior and Big Feelings

Dogs with annoying, fearful, or aggressive behaviors aren’t “bad dogs.” They’re simply overwhelmed by the world around them. An over-the-top reaction to other dogs, people, new objects, or everyday situations are behaviors often rooted in anxiety or fear.

Even friendly dogs can have annoying behaviors. Got a dog who loves everyone they meet — a bit too much? I can help you if your dog jumps on people, needs leash manners, doesn’t come when called, and more.

Your dog isn’t trying to give you a hard time—they’re having a hard time or just don’t know what to do in a certain situation, and I’m here to help.

 
pit bull on a walk with his owner

TOPICS OF TRAINING

What You’ll Learn

  • Managing Reactivity and Aggression
: Learn how to keep your dog calm and prevent behaviors (barking, lunging, growling, etc) from escalating.

  • Building Confidence
: We'll work on desensitizing your dog to things that cause fear or anxiety, helping them feel more confident and less reactive to triggers.

  • Positive Behavior Shaping
: Through positive reinforcement, we’ll shift your dog’s focus from fearful reactions to being confident around, and even enjoying, situations that currently worry them.

  • Troubleshooting Frustrating Behaviors: Teaching your dog alternatives to jumping on people, harassing the cat, pulling on leash, and more.

several happy dogs playing together at a dog park

THE RIGHT APPROACH CHANGES EVERYTHING

Why Modifying Behavior Problems Matters

Behavioral issues like reactivity or aggression often stem from deep-seated fear. We approach these challenges with patience and understanding, to change how your dog feels about these situations.

Proper training can help prevent these behaviors from escalating or becoming more ingrained, and it ensures a more peaceful, harmonious life for both you and your dog.

Dogs who have been jumping on visitors forever, chasing the cat, counter-surfing, and so on, need us to teach them new behaviors to replace the old ones.

 

If your dog’s behaviors are causing frustration, stress or concern, the Behavior Problems program can help. Together, we’ll work to help your dog feel more secure, reduce fear-based behaviors, and create a calmer, more enjoyable home for everyone.

 
 

TRAINING THAT BUILDS TRUST

My Approach

I believe in training methods that build trust, not fear. My approach is force-free and rewards-based, which means your dog will learn through positive reinforcement, making training a fun and engaging experience for both of you.

With my one-on-one coaching, you’ll get personalized guidance tailored to your puppy’s unique personality and your family’s needs. I’ll help you every step of the way, from mastering basic manners to solving common puppy challenges.

Together, we’ll create a customized training plan that breaks everything down into manageable steps, so your dog feels confident and successful at every stage. We’ll create a loving, structured environment where your dog can thrive.

 
 

YOU MAY BE WONDERING...

Frequently Asked Questions 

  • This program is designed for dogs exhibiting fear-based behaviors, such as aggression, reactivity, or anxiety.

    We work on changing how your dog feels about things that trigger their fear or frustration. This involves a tailored training plan to help your dog feel safe around things that upset them, thus changing their emotional response. In behavior science, this is called counter-conditioning.

    This program is available in-person and online.

  • The process begins with an Initial In-Person or Online Consultation ($150), where I’ll evaluate your dog’s specific challenges and needs. This initial session allows me to recommend a tailored training plan, including the number of sessions required to begin addressing your dog’s behavior effectively.

    Follow up in-person or online training sessions are $115/each.

  • Behavior problems such as fear, reactivity, and aggression can be complex and be due to more than one cause.

    In the Initial Consultation we will go over your intake form in detail together, and I’ll ask further questions about your dog’s behavior.

    We’ll discuss any pressing safety issues and ways to manage your home environment to bring you immediate relief.

    After the Initial Consultation I’ll send relevant resources and a training proposal customized to your, and your dog’s, needs.

    Please note: Significant behavior issues typically are not resolved in a single session. Follow-up sessions are $115 each, and the exact number will depend on your dog’s progress.

  • The Behavior Problems Program addresses fear-based behaviors, such as reactivity, aggression, anxiety, and fear of specific triggers (other dogs, people, noises, etc.).

    We can also work together to reduce unwanted behaviors such as jumping on people or pulling on leash, and teaching your dog what to do in those situations instead.

    If your dog is showing these types of behaviors, this program is ideal.

  • Yes! I often work with clients on one or more specific training issues that cause them embarrassment or frustration such as the dog chasing the cat, pulling on leash, not coming when called, excessively barking, counter-surfing, and so on. We will discuss your specific training needs in the free online consultation.

  • Yes! While behavior modification takes time and patience, dogs are capable of making positive changes with the right guidance.

    This program focuses on changing how your dog feels about triggers in their environment, which can lead to a significant shift in their behavior over time. Every dog is different, so we take it step-by-step and adjust the plan as needed.

  • Every dog is different, and the timeline for behavior modification depends on the severity of the behavior and your dog’s progress.

    Some dogs show improvement within a few sessions, while others may need more time. Consistency, patience, and following the plan are key to success.

  • The goal of behavior modification is to help your dog feel more comfortable and less stressed over time.

    We use positive reinforcement techniques, which focus on rewarding desired behaviors and desensitizing your dog to their triggers in a gradual, controlled way. This approach ensures that the training process is not overwhelming or frightening for your dog.

  • We'll work through your custom training plan together and I'm available between sessions if you're stuck on homework or have questions about the training plan, safety issues, or behavior management.

 

A BETTER LIFE BEGINS NOW

Ready To Start?

Don’t let frustration or fear hold you back—get expert guidance to transform your dog’s behavior and bring harmony back to your home.