Behavior modification In Oswego
Customized one-on-one training for dogs and owners struggling with reactivity, aggression, and anxiety.
The Marvelous K9 Behavior Modification program is tailor-made for dogs who bark, lunge, snap, and bite. Whether these behaviors are directed towards humans, other dogs, or even bikes and vehicles, we’re here to help. And yes, that includes dogs with bite histories!
We don’t want to cover up your dog’s behavior with strict obedience and heavy management. Instead, we start from the root — if your dog is in pain or discomfort, not feeling biologically fulfilled in their daily life, or lacking clarity about their position in the home and world around them, they’re more likely to exhibit concerning and dangerous behaviors. Behavior Modification isn’t just about tackling the behavior we see in front of us, but examining the entire story behind that behavior.
Because more extreme behaviors vary so much from dog to dog, the Behavior Modification program is customized upon a thorough discussion with you, evaluation of the life and environment your dog is living in, and the things that trigger them. After this, we’ll come up with a plan designed specifically for you and your dog to be successful.
Most Behavior Modification solutions are not quick fixes — in order to live the life you desire with your dog, there will be a level of commitment and investment on your end to help your dog to truly thrive and exist happily. Whatever you put in, you will get back!
About the Program
Heath evaluation — feeling good is the baseline the determines how all beings navigate life. If your dog is experiencing pain or discomfort do to unhealthy weight, unkempt grooming, improper diet, or an underlying issue, we want to address it before moving onto more formal training.
Biological fulfillment — all dogs have a set of exercises, activities, and social needs that satisfy their personal physical and mental requirements. For example, a dog who bites and tugs on the leash during walks will probably when presented with a tug toy. Your dog needs purpose, and when they don’t experience it, this can often lead to frustration and nuisance behaviors in the home.
Clarity — What are the rules and expectations of the house? And does your dog understand them? As pack animals, a clear understanding of daily life is crucial for dogs on a biological level. The pack member who doesn’t fit in is often removed. In modern life, this feeling of confusion leads to a lot of stress for our pets. Through our evaluation and training, we make sure that there are clear rules and boundaries in the home and that all family members, including your dog, have a clear understanding of them.
Loose leash walking — When it comes to leash reactivity, most owners assume their dog has an issue with the trigger — the other dog, the person, the stroller, the car. However, very often the problem is the leash itself, and the way the dog perceives and understands it. It’s very common for the leash to be seen as a restriction rather than a gateway to good things. We’re here to make sure your dog fully understands leash communication to ensure walks are an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Trigger assessment — When all of the above things are squared away, it’s actually very common for a majority of the original problem to subside or go away entirely. However, some behaviors run deep and require a more direct approach. We will take a close look at the things that are causing stress for your dog and help them develop the skills to approach these things with neutrality.
Real World Proofing — The true mark of a successful Behavior Modification program is being able to take them out to experience life with you. Once you and your dog are working well together at home, we’ll take the training outside to ensure you can confidently navigate the world comfortably and confidently.
What your Sessions include
Your dog barks or lunges on walks at other dogs and/or people
Your dog resource guards things like food, toys, or stolen items like shoes, wrappers, or clothes
Your dog gets anxious or shuts down when it comes to meeting new people, being alone (separation anxiety), car rides, going to the vet, etc
Your dog fence fights with other dogs
Your dog has snapped at, nipped, or bitten a person
Your dog has bitten or gotten in fights with other dogs
The only behavior cases we will not take on are dogs who have gone after or bitten children. That said, we have a list of other trainers we trust and will happily refer you to if this is your situation
Behavior Modification is not something to be embarrassed or ashamed about needing. If you and your dog are struggling with any of the following behaviors, we’re here to help!
Who is This Program For?
How Much Does Behavior Modification Cost?
The price for Behavior Modification is set after an in-depth evaluation of you, your lifestyle, your dog, and your goals. No two behavior cases are the same, especially when it comes to the dogs this program is designed for, and so we want to customize each program to the specific needs of the individual dog. That said, in In this package you will get
One-hour sessions in your home, ongoing until you feel confident in handling and living with your dog
Any training tools we may use, including but not limited to slip leashes, place cots, long lines, and training collars
Lifelong phone and text support from your trainer
Client-exclusive boarding at your trainer’s home after program completion
Certain factors can change the final cost of your program, including but not limited to the number of dogs in the house, distance, additional lessons that might be needed to help you be successful, and additional tools or equipment not already included in the original price. A final quote will be provided in writing prior to the start of service!
