Certified Trainer · 2× Gold, Victoria Community Votes · Insurance-Eligible Behaviour Training
Does any of this sound like your walks?
Reactivity isn't a bad dog. It's a dog who's overwhelmed and doesn't know what else to do.
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What reactivity actually is.
Most reactive dogs aren't aggressive. They're frustrated, worried or over-excited, and the leash takes away their options.
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A reactive dog over-responds to certain triggers, such as other dogs, people, bikes or noise. The barking and lunging can look aggressive, but it is most often driven by fear, frustration or overexcitement, and the dog doesn't yet know a better way to cope.
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Reactivity can come from genetics, missed socialization, a frightening experience, or simply a high-drive dog who never learned what to do with all that energy. Often it's a mix.
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The good news is that it's very workable. With clear structure, the right distance and an owner who knows how to read the early signs, most dogs become noticeably calmer and more confident.
Beneath every behaviour is a feeling, and beneath each feeling is a need. Meet the need, and you deal with the cause, not just the symptom.
How We Work with Reactive Dogs
Every dog moves at their own pace, but the path follows the same order.
You're never thrown into a situation your dog isn't ready for.
1
Consultation
We meet your dog, watch the behaviour and build a plan around your goals.
2
Foundations
Engagement, focus and calm skills in quiet spaces, so your dog has something to do instead of react.
3
Controlled distance
Practice around our neutral, experienced dogs at a distance your dog can handle.​
4
Real-world walks
Trails, parks and busier streets around Greater Victoria, with a trainer beside you.​
5
Keep it going
Socialization classes and group walks to keep skills sharp once private work is done.
Dogs We Work With
All breeds including: Cane Corsos, Rottweilers, Akitas, German, Belgian and Dutch Shepherds, XL bully types, Australian Shepherds, Spaniels, Retrievers, Border Collies, terriers, Chihuahuas, international rescues and mixed breeds with unknown histories.
Behavioural Programs
Calm & Confident is our behavioural track for reactive, anxious and overexcited dogs. Choose private for the fastest start, or group for practice around other dogs.
Calm & Confident Group
$550 + gst
Behavioural training and socialization to address leash frustration, barking or lunging, in a small group setting.
- 6 Group Sessions
- Same curriculum as the private program
- More affordable rate
A specialized group behaviour program with tools and techniques targeted to your dog's reactive tendencies.
Your Pet Insurance
May Help Cover This.
Behavioural training for reactivity or anxiety can be eligible for reimbursement through many pet insurance plans when your vet approves it. We're certified to support behaviour cases and provide the documentation insurers ask for.
1
Check your policy covers behavioural training..
2
Get your vet's approval.
3
Train with us. We provide records and documentation.
4
Submit the claim to your insurer.
Common Questions Owners Ask Us
Is my dog reactive or aggressive? Most reactive dogs aren't aggressive. Reactivity is an over-the-top response to something that frustrates, excites or worries them. Aggression involves intent to harm. We assess this at your consultation and tell you honestly what we see.
How long does it take to see a change? Most owners notice a difference in their own confidence and their dog's focus within the first few sessions. Lasting change depends on your dog's history and how consistently you practise between sessions.
Do I need a consultation first? Yes. Reactive dogs need a proper assessment so we can choose the right program, the right pace and keep everyone safe.
What tools and methods do you use? Methods are chosen for each dog after assessment, based on their behaviour, temperament and your goals. We explain everything before we use it, and your dog's wellbeing comes first.
Do you work with dogs that have bitten? We work with reactive, fearful and aggressive dogs. An assessment is the first step so the right plan and safety measures can be put in place.
Do you guarantee results? No ethical trainer can. Behaviour depends on genetics, environment and follow-through. What we do guarantee is a professional, structured plan and honest guidance.