Private Training

I provide in-home private training for companion dog owners interested in building a relationship with their dogs. You will learn to reinforce desired behaviors and how to prevent or eliminate unwanted behaviors. Common training goals include teaching dogs to sit, down, stay, walk politely on a leash, greet guests without jumping, drop objects on cue, ignore food or objects on the ground, and come when called. My goal is for every dog to understand and happily follow clear cues from their owners, knowing that they will be rewarded for doing so.

A major focus of training is on desensitization to the environment, including dogs, people, and new sights or sounds. Desensitization helps your dog learn to work and be attentive even in exciting or new places, and is also very helpful in creating a dog who enjoys working and is able to focus in a variety of places. When dogs are not concerned about their environment, they are more relaxed and able to be on their best behavior. Dogs that pull on leash, jump, and bark are often stressed, so changing how your dog feels about certain situations often helps address behavior problems.

In addition to teaching basic good manners, I can help you prepare your dog for the AKC Canine Good Citizen test and Therapy Dog certification. 

Contact me via email for more information and pricing.

 Behavior Modification Plans

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If your dog or cat has seen a veterinary behaviorist and been prescribed a treatment plan for a behavior disorder, you may have been advised to work with a trainer to implement the plan. I have experience in helping dogs and cats with anxiety, noise phobia, affective aggression, and separation related problems. Following the treatment plan prescribed by your veterinarian, goals may include desensitization and counterconditioning (to body handling, people, dogs, or other stimuli), muzzle training, cooperative care, household setup and management.

Breeder & Breed Search

Adding a new family member is an important event, and finding a reputable breeder will give you the best chance of having a long relationship with a healthy and temperamentally sound dog. Selecting a breeder can be daunting, as there are many options, both when choosing the breed or type of dog and when connecting with an individual breeder or adoption group. We can guide you on how to decide what type of dog is the best fit for your goals and lifestyle. Once you've narrowed down what you are looking for,  we can recommend and evaluate breeders to help you find a puppy or adult dog that is most compatible with your household.
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​Pre-Puppy Consultation

Once you have made the decision to get a new dog, we'll help make sure you're prepared for a new addition. From puppy-proofing your home to arranging a daily routine, it's best to have a plan before your dog arrives. We provide recommendations on making your home safe for a puppy, how to handle the puppy's transition to his or her new environment, and setting a schedule for your first days with your new family member. Crate training, house training, safe interactions with children, and introductions to other household animals are some of the most common topics covered. This consultation is tailored to your individual situation to address any questions that might arise when your puppy joins the home.