Behavior Modification
Resource guarding, leash reactivity, separation anxiety, fear-based behavior — addressed with patience and a plan you can keep using at home.
For the harder stuff.
Overview
Behavior work is different from obedience. We're not teaching a new cue — we're changing how your dog feels about something. That takes a real plan, real time, and the willingness to do the work in the environment where the behavior happens.
We use desensitization, counter-conditioning, and management. We do not use punishment-based methods for fear or aggression — they tend to suppress the behavior temporarily and make it worse long-term.
Who it's for
Owners whose dog has a specific behavior that's making life hard.
- Leash reactivity toward dogs, people, or vehicles
- Resource guarding (food, toys, space, people)
- Separation-related distress and home-alone anxiety
- Fear-based behavior, including new-environment shutdown
- ×Owners looking for a fast 'fix' — behavior work is measured in weeks and months
- ×Cases requiring a veterinary behaviorist (we'll refer when that's appropriate)
What's included
- Initial assessment session
- Written behavior plan tailored to your home
- Hands-on coaching for the humans, too
- Coordination with your vet or a veterinary behaviorist if medication is part of the plan
How it works
- 1. Assessment
A 60–90 minute first session where we meet your dog, talk through goals, and build a training plan that fits your household.
- 2. Foundation work
We start with the reinforcement skills the rest of the plan depends on — name response, marker words, focus, and reward delivery.
- 3. Targeted skills
We layer in the cues and behaviors you actually need — recall, leash manners, place, polite greetings, or specific behavior work.
- 4. Real-world proofing
We practice in the yard, on the sidewalk, in the neighborhood, and around distractions so cues hold up outside the living room.
- 5. Handoff session
A working session with you — not just the dog — so the cues, timing, and rewards transfer cleanly. You leave with written notes.
Why it works
- Behavior is environmental — fixing it in a kennel teaches your dog nothing.
- We refer to a veterinary behaviorist when that's the right call.
- The plan is yours to keep, not a service you have to keep buying.
Safety & standards
- Muzzle conditioning offered for bite-history cases
- Sessions structured to stay below threshold for the dog
- Coordination with your vet for any pharmacological support
Pricing
Initial assessment is a flat fee; ongoing sessions are billed hourly. Package pricing available for multi-session plans.
See full rate sheetFrequently asked
Will my dog be 'cured'?
We don't promise cures. We promise a measurable, sustained change in behavior with a plan you can keep using. Most owners see meaningful progress within 4–8 weeks.
Do you work with bite-history dogs?
Sometimes — it depends on the bite history, the trigger, and your home situation. We'll be honest at the consultation about whether we're the right fit or whether you need a veterinary behaviorist.
Do you require a meet-and-greet?
Yes — every new client gets a free, no-pressure consultation. It's the only way for us (and your dog) to know it's the right fit.
Are you insured and bonded?
Yes. We carry pet-care liability insurance and are happy to share details at your consultation.
What if my dog needs medication?
Oral meds, eye drops, ear drops, and most injectables are included at no extra charge. Just bring the meds with clear instructions.
Do you take intact dogs?
Intact females are welcome outside heat cycles. Intact males are evaluated on a case-by-case basis at the consultation.
More training options
Dog Training Services
Positive-reinforcement training integrated into your dog's stay — or as a standalone service. We focus on real-world skills your dog can use the day they get home.
Puppy Training
House training, crate comfort, polite greetings, and a confident, well-socialized puppy who isn't afraid of everything new.
Obedience Training
Sit, down, stay, recall, polite leash walking, and place — taught with food rewards and proofed in real distractions.
Available across Metro Denver
Ready to book a stay?
Most new clients start with a free consultation. We meet your dog, show you the home, and answer every question.