Private Training for Fearful and Anxious Dogs
Are you wanting to help your dog overcome their fears?
You got your dog hoping to enjoy a carefree life together. Hiking, wineries, visiting family and friends you name it!
Your dog started showing signs that they were not comfortable in these situations. They run away from strange people and dogs, or they don't want to get in the car. Going to the vet or groomer is stressful for both of you.
Whatever your dog is afraid of, I can help.
Through private training and online courses, I want to make you and your dog both feel happy and relaxed in all situations.
I’ll make the training process as simple as possible to ensure success at the end of our journey. My goal is to help everyone feel safe and happy. Whether your dog is afraid in or out of your home, I’m here to help you unleash your dog’s full pawtential.
Fears I Can Help With
Sounds
Objects or Locations
People or Other Dogs
Touch/Grooming
Generalized Anxiety
And Much More!
Step 1
Initial Consultation & Assessment
This is where I get to know you and your dog(s). We’ll go over your struggles, goals for training and start with the first steps of your training and management plans.
Step 2
Regular Training
We’ll meet every 1-2 weeks to work on your dog’s fears and your management skills to ensure everyone in feeling comfortable.
The number of sessions you and your dog need will vary case-by-case. I start all clients with 4 training sessions. Additional training may be required after your initial training package.
Step 3
Fear-free fun!
You’ve put in the work and helped your dog through some challenging times. You understand each other better and know how to prevent them from becoming fearful in the future. Everyone is happier, safer and living the best life possible!
Note
Some cases need shorter but more frequent training. I will modify your training package if I feel this will work best for you and your dog.
Training Includes:
Private instruction in your home or online via Zoom
In each training session, I will walk you through the training exercises your dog needs. I’ll demonstrate live with your dog (if they allow) in your home, or demonstrate with one of my dogs during virtual training.
Detailed homework after every training session
Your dog is an individual, which means their training plan will vary from another dog’s. After every training session, I’ll email your customized homework instructions, including training exercises, any management that needs put in place, any gear or enrichment I recommend and veterinary referrals if necessary.
Unlimited support between training sessions
I’m here to support you during the entire training process. This includes unlimited Q&A via email or text during business days. I encourage clients to send me videos to review and will provide feedback and next training steps if your dog is ready.
Lindsay, Kyle, Bowie & Charlie
“We’ve seen a huge difference in our two dogs that struggle with fear and anxiety since we started working with Erin. She is very receptive to how they’re feeling and makes sure that each session feels comfortable and safe for them. I wish we would’ve found her sooner!”
Roy & Eggsy
“Everyone is always asking how we trained Eggsy so well. I say we didn't, Erin did! He used to be afraid of dogs and people. We now walk him completely off leash in the neighborhood, on trails and at the brewery.”
Training Methods
All training is force-free and rewards-based. Food will be the primary tool we use to train your dog.
I will never force your dog into a fear-inducing situation. Instead, we will teach your dog they don’t have to be afraid using an incremental training plan that slowly exposes them to their fears. This allows them to learn while keeping them at an exposure level they can handle until their ready to move on to the next step.
If you are using any training collars or correction techniques with your dog, you will be required to cease using them as part of our training protocol. These methods actually increase aggression in dogs, therefore are a liability risk and will prevent your dog from successful rehabilitation. Click here to read the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s humane training position statement.
If you need help finding gear for walks I am happy to email you some harness recommendations.
Are you ready for a fear-free life with your dog?
Want to learn more about fear and aggression in dogs?
Click below to listen to my discussion with Emily Priestly from Wild at Heart about dog aggression.
This episode is a great place to start for any guardian or trainer looking to understand their dog and what drives these unwanted behaviors.
