Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! I specialize in behavior modification and training for dogs exhibiting aggression or fear. I have extensive experience with dogs from serious cruelty or neglect cases and many dogs I work with are from less than ideal situations. I also specialize in working with small dogs and dogs who are bred for a specific purpose but are struggling living in our world - think Australian cattle dogs, terriers, pit bulls or any herding, working or bully type dog. While I have worked with just about every type of dog, situation and family, I work primarily with dogs who need more than basic training. With ALL dogs and people, my training philosophy is based on treating animals and humans with kindness, promoting supportive communication and building lasting relationships.

The first step in treating behavior concerns is to discuss your dog’s history, current observations, your dog’s preferences and your training goals. It’s essential for me to gather detailed information about any previous reactions, aggression, bites, injuries or any other behavior that we want to change or modify. Having this discussion in advance will help keep everyone safe before we meet in person, and will prevent any additional rehearsal of the unwanted behaviors that we are looking to change. We will also discuss the best plan for introducing your dog to me - first impressions are very important and it’s helpful if your dog learns that I am safe and not a threat. Video or phone sessions are also a great format for dogs exhibiting extreme anxiety or for guardians who live outside of my travel service area. I’m always happy to discuss in-person vs online sessions and coming up with a plan that works best for you and your dog.

Consultations are the best place to start to learn more about me, determine why your dog is doing what they are doing and to get a professional opinion on what you are currently doing with your dog. Consultations are also best if you are not ready for the time or financial commitment of a multi-session training package. Training packages are best for families who are ready to dive into a comprehensive behavior modification plan and are looking to make major changes in their dog’s behavior. Packages are also needed for dogs with a bite history or who are exhibiting moderate to extreme fear (fleeing, hiding, not walking, struggling to eat, etc.) Behavior change takes time and practice - just like learning a new skill or routine (think daily exercise, eating better or simply putting our phones down!) Please email me at blueskybehavior@gmail.com if you are not sure of the best place to start.

Unfortunately the dog training industry is not regulated so ANYONE can set up a social media page or website and call themselves a “professional dog trainer”. Dog guardians need to really look at a trainer or behavior consultant’s experience and specific certifications and credentials they hold. I highly recommend choosing a trainer or consultant with the CDBC, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant certification or the CPDT, Certified Professional Dog Trainer certification. Both of these certifying organizations are independent and require a rigorous testing procedure, demonstrating a high standard of professional knowledge and experience. These certifications also indicate a commitment to using science-based practices, humane training methods and equipment. I also love that these certifying organizations require trainers and consultants to maintain annual continuing education, so as we learn more, these trainers and their training practices will reflect the latest research and knowledge. We are always learning more and it’s essential that trainers and consultants, just like teachers in schools, don’t get stuck in methods that are outdated or inhumane.

What will you do if my dog gets it “right”? What will you do if my dog gets it “wrong”? Will you stil work with me and my dog if I don’t want to use the training equipment you recommend?

Effective training does not need to be forceful, painful or scary. I have trained wild animals that would certainly bite or refuse to do xyz behavior if I ever tried to force them or use a “training” collar with them. And training a domesticated animal is MUCH easier than training a fox or an armadillo - trust me! Shock, pain and intimidation is not enjoyable for anyone and it’s simply not necessary in order to train our dogs - or any animal!

Yes! An effective behavior change plan will consider all the animals and people in your family. If you are experiencing conflict between two or more dogs in your family, it will likely take more time since we may need to work with each animal individually. We’ll discuss all the specifics of your family (both two-and four-leggd!) during the first session or Consultation.