Training without Force, Pain, or Fear

Some of the issues I can work on with you and your dog:

  • Basic skills (sit, stay, down, wait, drop, leave it)

  • Puppy socialization

  • Recall (coming when called)

  • Leash reactivity (barking and lunging while on leash)

  • Leash manners (pulling)

  • Crate training

  • Potty Training

  • Chewing, destructive behaviors

  • Jumping/rude greetings

  • Excessive barking

  • Inter-dog behavior (manners at the park)

  • Resource guarding

  • Separation anxiety

  • Reactivity to runners, bicycles, skateboards, scooters

  • Handling and grooming issues

what is “Force-Free Dog Training”

Force-free dog training means I use only positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement typically means treats, but can also include praise and play as rewards. 

I DO NOT employ the use of fear or intimidation, pain or physical punishment, or aversive equipment such as pinch collars, shock collars, or choke chains.  No judgment if you are currently using these tools - but working together, our goal will be to teach you how to replace corrections and painful tools with reward-based training.

For fearful or anxious dogs (and many reactive dogs), we will be employing trauma-sensitive training strategies.

This is how it works: 

  • Message me here, and I will send you an online questionnaire to learn more about your situation and goals.

  • Schedule a 60-90-minute in-home consultation so I can meet and assess your dog, discuss your goals, and get started on the basics.

  • I follow up with an email detailing our course of action/plan and some “homework.” You can also email or text with questions after our consult.

COST: INITIAL CONSULTS are $180 for a 75-minute session (Initial consults for recently adopted dogs from Family Dog Rescue in Sonoma or Grateful Dog in SF are discounted at $150).

Training Coach 

1. Initial Consult / First Training Session  $180 (90 min)

Our first session is a working session where we will assess your dog's behavior and environment, clarify training goals, create a customized plan, and begin hands-on training so you leave with actionable steps. Includes a detailed training plan, homework, and resources.

2. Coaching Package  4 sessions for $630 (75 min each)

Discounted bundle for ongoing support. We meet weekly/bi-weekly (or as needed) at your home, a local park, or on a walk. You’ll learn the mechanics of training, the science of behavior change, and how to confidently continue on your own. Ongoing text/email support included. 

3. Single Coaching Session  $165 (75 min): Same as above, but booked individually.

Day Training

Day Training: $165 (75 min)
I work 1:1 with your dog while you’re busy. After three sessions, we’ll schedule a Coaching Session to transfer skills to you.

Remote (Virtual) Training

  • Meet via Zoom to work together on specific skills and behaviors with your dog.

  • I  explain and coach you through training different skills and addressing common behavior problems.

  • I teach you how dogs learn so you can train your dog without my help in the future.

  • Email or text support between sessions

COST: $125 for each 60-minute session

Payment Options: I accept cash (preferred), Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, or check.

Cash Discount: 4-session package: $600. Single Session: $150.

How Long to See Results?

Every dog learns at a different pace. With practice and consistency, you should see improvement within 2–4 weeks. Some teams need just a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support. More complex issues (fear, anxiety, aggression) often take longer.
For fear and reactivity cases: The Coaching Package is recommended. Working through fear and reactivity takes time and consistent support. Most clients see meaningful progress over several weeks of structured training sessions.