Behaviour Modification

Dog behavior problems are stressful
– for you and for your dog.

You have expectations when you bring a dog into your home, but reality is different. You feel trapped in a world of worry and fear, restricted in what you can do with your unpredictable, anxious, or fearful dog.

We can help you understand the reason behind your dog’s behavior by looking at your dog’s learning (L) history, environment (E), genetics (G) and how they are as an individual (S-Self). No two dogs are the same and their program shouldn’t be either. We always consider a dog’s L.E.G.S. when developing their customized program of practical and fun training, along with simple management strategies to help provide relief and a way forward to living your dream life with your canine companion.

What we can help with

Reactivity / Aggression

The days of visitors and stress-free walks may seem unreachable. Will your dog bite? Or has he already? Do you actively avoid walking your dog when or where there could be a potential trigger? Unwanted dog behaviour has changed your life and you are always on edge. With years of experience and specialized training, we can provide the support you need.

This package includes an initial 60-90 minute virtual consultation and four 1 hour follow-up sessions. Sessions will be conducted at your home, virtually, or in-person depending on the problem.

All sessions must be completed within 90 days of purchase, after which unused sessions will be forfeited.

Separation Anxiety

If you are living with a dog struggling with separation anxiety (SA) – a dog unable to be left alone – you are suffering too. Whether you’ve stopped doing things you enjoy, or are returning home to destruction and chaos, separation anxiety takes its toll.

Get your life back! Free yourself and your dog from separation anxiety with our innovative Home Alone program offered by a certified SA Behaviour Consultant. This program will help your dog learn to enjoy being alone so you can enjoy your freedom – from stress-free errands to worry-free trips to work, to guilt-free evenings out with friends.

We custom tailor your SA training plan to fit your dog’s needs and your busy schedule, and unique to our program, as a licenced WEBB Energywork practitioner, we include weekly Energywork sessions for your dog.

This program includes an initial 60-minute consultation, weekly training plans and four 30 minute weekly follow-up sessions. All sessions are conducted virtually via Zoom.

If you’re ready for relief for both you and your dog, register and schedule your initial consult today.

Fear of Strangers

Feeling frustrated, disappointed, and maybe even angry due to your dog’s fear of people? As a certified Treat-Retreat program trainer, we can help.

Having a dog that fears people is challenging as your expected experiences with your canine companion aren’t what you had expected. With our specialized 4-step systematic approach only available from certified Treat-Retreat trainers, we can help shy, fearful dogs develop the skills to feel more socially confident with people. The process changes the dog’s emotional experience when approaching strangers and builds the dog’s confidence for dealing with groups of people, which in turn will support your dog-owner dream.

This program includes an initial 60-minute consultation and four 1-hour weekly in-person sessions.

Are you experiencing other behavioural difficulties with your dog?

What our clients are saying

Absolutely amazing! We learned so much and Moose is now a different dog! He understands boundaries, and has manners! Would definitely recommend.

Shelley is very thorough and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend Pooch Partners for anyone looking for personal training for their dog or group classes.

We are so thankful for the knowledge and experience she was able to teach and share with us. You can tell she connects so well with dogs. I would highly recommend this training.

Shelly was amazing! She taught us basic games, boundaries and all the tools we need to be successful on walks! I highly recommend Pooch Partners.

Got questions? We have answers

What is games-based concept training?

Games based concept training involves playing games with your dog that teaches them different concepts. For example, to teach a recall we would play games that build up our dogs ability to disengage from what they are doing (disengagement), turn towards us (orientation), and then come in close proximity (proximity) to us. As we play the games, our dog learns these concepts and patterned behaviours and we are then able to put it all together with a recall cue. Playing the games increases the “feel good” hormones which leads to increased motivation and engagement to play the games.

What if I miss a scheduled group session?

If you miss a group session, there is no make-up session. You will have access to the video recording of the missed session that you can review to ensure you are ready for the next session.

What happens at a typical group session?

A typical session involves 5-10 minutes to review the prior session and get updates on each student’s progress, 10-15 minutes to introduce/demo new content, 20-25 minutes of practical exercises, and 5-10 minutes for questions/review homework.

What happens at a typical private session?

A typical private session is similar to the group session, except that it is customizable. This means that there is opportunity to address any issues that may arise beyond the typical group session content, and if preferred by the guardian, to spend time working on a specific skill or issue.

What’s the best package for me?

If you are unsure of what package is best suited for you, we would be happy to do a short consult to help you decide. You can request a consult using the Contact us form.

What guarantee do you offer?

We do not offer any guarantee as the success of the training is highly dependent on your commitment, participation, and daily practice. From my experience, a dog’s progress, or lack thereof, is usually an indication of the amount of effort and consistency put into the training by the guardian.

What if my partner/spouse doesn’t use the same training method?

Inconsistency in training will definitely impact your dog’s success. It is critical to have all people in the household on the same page to give your dog the best learning experience.

What dog training qualifications do you have?

We are proud to have a unique and extensive list of qualifications that you can review on the About Us page.

What do I need to bring to a training session?

You will be advised what to bring to each session, but typically for the first session you will need:

- your dog on a flat collar/martingale/Y-harness and leash.
- a long line
- your dog’s bed or a blanket/large towel
- your dog’s daily food allowance (typically a mix of regular food with whatever treats you may use)
- poop bags
- water – dependent on the time of year

What happens when I register for a training package?

When you register for a training package and complete the online payment process, you will see a “Schedule” link. This is not used for scheduling but rather to collect dog specific information from you. Click on the “Schedule” link, select any day and time and complete the form. If you have booked a private training package, once the form is received you will be contacted to arrange a start day/time. You will be asked to Like and Follow the Pooch Partners Facebook page and will also be provided with a link to request access to a private Facebook group.

Still have a question? Contact us here!