Reactive Behavior

This page is for those who are experiencing aggression, arousal, and fear behaviors that have lead to aggression with their dog. Perhaps your dog not only jumps when people come to the door, but also nips at feet or hands? Maybe your dog acts aggressively when they see another dog? Did you adopted a dog that has went through neglect or abuse and are struggling to get have them comfortbale when you approach or interact?

The words "that dog is aggressive" or "my dog goes crazy at the door" is simply a way we try to explain behavior, but it does not describe the behavior in a clear picture of what needs to be changed. For example, most behaviors that are labeled as aggression are actually rooted in fear or some type of anxiety. Once we understand this, it helps us change the way we interact with our dogs, and switch to a more effective way of interacting and training.

There are no "bad dogs". You likely have a great dog but he or she simply has a behavior that you don't like. Most of my clients say their dog is great 90% of the time, it is that 10% that they hire me for.  All behavior serves a function! A majority of the problem is related the situation or the environment.  The good news is that we can modify this in many cases! It is a matter of identifying the function of the behavior, changing the environment so that behavior does not work anymore, and encouraging other behaviors that are more acceptable.  We are ultimately changing the underlying emotional state using humane methods that your dog understands. There is no "cure" for aggression (nor should you believe anyone who claims there is). We focus on  reducing the severity of the reaction and train/reinforce other behaviors that you like better.  

For an example of what this looks like, click here for one reactive dog case that includes videos of how this behavior change is achieved.

The methods used for training are consistent with American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior(AVSAB). Please check out that website for position statements that we also follow about avoiding the use of Dominance and Punishment.  More on my philosophy and methods can be found here.

yogi 

 

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Here is how it works:

Successfully changing reactive behavior requires time, experience, repetition, and a strong skill set. I find progress is much quicker and requires fewer sessions if we meet 2-3 times during the first month. Depending on the behavior, I may coach you through the process or I may start the training with your dog. Teaching you the new skills to manage your dog who has not learned them yet, is like placing a novice horse rider on a yearling horse. I use video tape extensively as a learning tool for you, and also to document our training progress as a team over time.                      

INITIAL CONSULTATION (90 minutes) INCLUDES:

  • More information is gathered from the history form that was filled out prior to visit
  • Perform ASPCA® MYM SAFER™ aggression assessment, if needed
  • Determine body language so you can determine when they are feeling anxious or about to aggress
  • Complete a Functional Assessment (FA) which gets to the root of the behavior and generates solutions.
  • Determine ways to manage your dog to prevent further aggression until training and/or conditioning can occur
  • Identify "next steps" in order to move forward with training (i.e. buy head halter or going to your veterinarian) 
  • Handouts provided during the consultation so you can start behavior change immediately
  • Any additional notes or information needed will be sent by email or phone within 24 hours.
  • Communicate the behavior plan to your veterinarian, with your permission.
  • Euthanasia or re-homing is sometimes advised. Support is given to help you through that process.

FURTHER TRAINING INCLUDES: 

  • The initial consultation described above, plus follow-up training sessions. Sessions typically are 60 minutes every 1-2 weeks depending on the behavior problem and how much you can work in it between visits. We meet until the behavior change meets your goals.
  • Active training and/or conditioning based on plan that was established during consultation
  • Visits may include one of my assistants and/or a calm "helper" dog
  • Determine severity of behavior and use video taping to measure progress
  • Flexible. Behavior changes and so will your goals. We will adjust the plan as needed
  • Have patience! We are creating new pathways in the brain. This is similar to stopping smoking or losing weight. There are no quick fixes if you want long-term change.
  • Includes unlimited email and phone follow‑up at no charge! Follow-up will likely be intensive.
  • Requires close communication with your veterinarian (they are interested in the well being of your dog but also in case drug therapy is needed).
  • Empower you to modify the behavior so you will not need my service anymore.

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             **Fees for your Reactive Dog, click here and choose in-home consultations**

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If this sounds like what you are looking for, then I look forward to talking with you and becoming an advocate for your dog! If you want to schedule an appointment, you may call (888)798-9473 or email Heather ("Contact Heather" button on bar to left). We require that the following history form is filled out before the first visit. It will take you 45-60 minutes to complete.

Due to the time intensive nature of seeing behavior cases, I limit the number of new cases every month.  Before filling out the history form, please contact me to see if I can take your case. If not, I will give you an excellent referral. It is more important to me that you get the care your dog deserves and less important to me that I do it.