We begin with realistic expectations and goals

Each dog is an individual, and their behavior is rooted in a unique combination of genetics, early life experience (particularly in the critical socialization period before 16 weeks of age) and learning through both individual and repeated events. I encourage dog owners to take into account their dog’s unique history and current behavior when thinking about expectations of their dog’s potential behavior.

I like to emphasize safety and the reduction of stress as goals when working with fear. Think “I want my dog to feel safe and be able to relax” more than “I want my dog to enjoy the company of other dogs” or “I want my dog to be able to go everywhere with me”. Once you establish a management approach for safety and set up household layout and routines for stress reduction, training goals can expand to teaching new behaviors, building your dog’s confidence, and teaching your dog coping skills.