Behavior Problems

Behavior counseling goes beyond general dog training and seeks to do more than simply control unwanted behavior. The behavior consultant makes an assessment of the motivations behind the problem behaviors, designs a behavior modification program, and then coaches the family on how to effectively implement the program.  Training is always an integral part of any behavior modification program.  Michelle Douglas is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA).

We begin all potential behavior cases by having you complete our Behavior History Form. This asks not only about the unwanted behavior, but about daily routines, habits, and reactions to everyday life. If you are looking for help with behavior problems, please complete our Behavior History Form with as much detail as possible and submit it to us. Once we have a chance to review the history, we will be able to have a more informed discussion about the best next steps for you and your dog.

CURRENT PRICES
(as of January 1, 2023)

Initial Behavior Consultation is done via Zoom in almost all cases. Follow-up sessions may be via Zoom or in person.

• $250 for a Behavior Consultation via Zoom (Includes history assessment, up to 2-hour virtual consultation, an outline of our discussion with links, and email follow-up)

• $450 for a Behavior Consultation in person (in special circumstances, includes history and initial assessment consultation)

• $200 for an individual detailed written behavior plan (add-on)

• $600 for a Behavior Consultation PLUS three 1-hour follow-up sessions (pre-paid, virtual consult)

• $825 for a Behavior Consultation PLUS five 1-hour follow-up sessions (pre-paid, virtual consult)

• $1250 for a Behavior Consultation PLUS ten 1-hour follow-up sessions (pre-paid, virtual consult)

• $75 one-time fee for additional dogs if they are part of the session/plan

• $50 for every 15 minutes of travel time beyond 1-hour round-trip (half-hour one way)

• $75 for every 30 minutes over 1 hour per lesson (over 2 hours initial consultation)

• $75 for a 30-minute follow-up Zoom session

*Prices subject to change
**Package prices are valid when paid in full at the initial consultation

AGGRESSION
There are many causes of canine aggression, such as hereditary traits, fearfulness, illness, diet, pain, lack of socialization, aggressive training techniques and unintentional conditioning, traumatic experiences, impulse control (formerly referred to as "dominance"), etc. Each separate cause of aggression may require a different modification technique. Many dog trainers focus only on unwanted behavior but fail to address the emotional response behind the behavior, which can inhibit long-term success. Michelle Douglas is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and an aggression specialist.  Please submit The Behavior History Form above to see if we can help.

Refining Reactivity Group Class:  This class is for dogs who act inappropriately in public.  They may react to people, dogs, or distractions in general.  There can be many different reasons why a dog acts inappropriately, including genetics, lack of positive early socialization, frustration, unintentional reinforcement of inappropriate behavior, poor communication skills, etc.  Whatever the cause, it can be said that the dog simply has not learned what IS appropriate.  The goal of the Refining Reactivity Class is to help you better read your dog to prevent inappropriate behavior and to teach and encourage your dog to do other, more suitable behaviors in social settings.    Only 4-5 dogs at a time are accepted to the Refining Reactivity class, locations will vary and may be outdoors.  We are always accepting applications for the waiting list.  This 6-week course is $400 for existing clients.  New clients will need to have a Behavior Consultation and at least one private session first to assess their appropriateness for class.  The Behavior History Form must be completed as a first step.