Rescue & Shelter Dogs

Rescue dogs hold a special place in our heart.  Throughout the years we have been professional trainers, we have seen wonderful, caring people adopt dogs who desperately need security, reliability, and love.

We are honored to help out these amazing animals and their people as they both navigate a new world of understanding and bonding to each other.

We adjust our training programs to meet the special needs of rescue dogs.  We find many rescue dogs have a fear of training at first.  This is because they were often punished in the past for not learning fast enough or getting a behavior wrong.  So, one of our goals is to work with our clients to help their rescue dog understand he/she will always be rewarded for trying and for accomplishing a behavior.  If the rescue dog doesn’t understand and gets something wrong, nothing will happen.  Instead, we’ll say to ourselves, “trainer’s fault!” and try an easier version to keep up their confidence as well as build a love of learning.

It’s not uncommon for a rescue dog to be reactive to certain triggers – such as other dogs, people – or certain situations such as someone approaching or running.  We can guarantee you that there is always a reason for the reaction.  And, this reason is usually fear.  For many dogs, fear means to avoid and even run away.  But when dogs become trapped – either physically or emotionally – they might truly believe there is no choice but to try and scare away the cause of their fear.

As part of our Reactive Dog Program, we support and build confidence in the fearful dog through methods such as positive counter conditioning.  Our Calm & Confident program for reactive dogs is built on the expertise of trainers such as Turid Rugaas and Dr. Amber Batson.  We also apply training from Karen Pryor Academy, the Fear Free Professionals, and the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviorists.

Our program partners with the rescue dog’s family in order to help the dog build confidence and learn that life can be a load of fun!  If this is your situation, we look forward to meeting you and your rescue dog.

Where to Start?

Basic Manners (we’ll tailor to your rescue dog’s needs)

Reactive Dog Program

Dog Activities

Outdoor Skills