Fresh Start Canine Behavior
Waltham, MA
(1)
Waltham, MA
(1)
Fresh Start Canine Behavior only uses positive reinforcement methods. Further than that, they are a proponent of force free and fear free methods. Whether it is socializing a puppy properly or working with a reactive dog, they are here to help.
1 customer review
Sarah
I got a 7 week old heeler during the pandemic. I had never had a dog before and realized I needed guidance quickly. I am so thankful that Sophie was able to help me through virtual lessons. She really helped me understand what puppy behaviors were normal and what could be done to help our puppy learn in the meantime. Even though it was through zoom, she was able to give great advice on how to socialize our puppy. Thanks Sophie! More...
What do you love most about your job?
Obviously, I love the dogs but even more than that I love seeing my clients understand their own dogs better. They are able to communicate with their dogs better and enjoy them more.
Can you provide your services online or remotely? If so, please add details.
Yes, any of the services I offer for in person can be offered virtually. The majority of training I do is teaching you to train your dog, so virtual is just as helpful. To help us, I will have you take some videos ahead of time that we can review together.
Puppy Training
Attention all new puppy owners! Our program is specifically designed for puppies aged 8 to 12 weeks, offering a comprehensive approach to their development.
By using positive reinforcement methods, housetraining doesn't need to be a nightmare, biting can be managed, and your puppy can develop confidence in novel settings.
Our puppy program places a strong emphasis on socialization, recognizing that this critical period is the best time to expose puppies to a wide variety of people, animals, and experiences. Our program is designed to help puppies develop the confidence and social skills they need to become well-adjusted and happy adult dogs.
Through fun and engaging activities, such as playtime, obstacle courses, and interactive games, puppies are exposed to different sights, sounds, and sensations that help them develop confidence and social skills. We also provide opportunities for puppy owners to learn about puppy behavior, training techniques, and how to maintain a happy and healthy home environment.
Separation Anxiety Training
Are you feeling trapped in your own home? Do you feel like nobody understands what you're going through? Separation anxiety in dogs is rough! Here are some typical behaviors you might see when you leave the house:
stressed body language (pacing, panting, trembling), excessive vocalization, destruction of property, self-harm (often trying to escape). I created a personalized 8-week program to help with your dog's separation anxiety from the knowledge I have gained through obtaining an M.S. in Behavior Analysis as well as through Julie Naismith's SAPro certification course. This program is customized to your needs and does not involve treats or crates (unless your dog prefers the crate).
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All sessions are conducted virtually to minimize disruption to your dog's natural environment and to make sessions as realistic as possible.
Reactive Rover
Having a dog with some behavioral issues can be difficult, embarrassing, and at its worst, dangerous! I'm here to help without judgment and give you a fresh start with your dog. Rather than a one method fits all approach, we will conduct an initial consult in order to create a customized plan including enrichment recommendations, wellness recommendations, management strategies, and teaching new behaviors with techniques such as desensitization, counter-conditioning, pairing, de-escalating techniques, etc. Throughout the program, we provide ongoing support and guidance to dog owners to ensure that they have the knowledge and tools they need to maintain the new behaviors their dog has learned. We also help owners create a positive and enriching home environment that supports their dog's continued success. Our approach is based on building trust, confidence, and a positive relationship between the dog and their human.
New Dog Consult
This hour-long consultation can be a valuable resource for those who are getting ready to bring a new puppy or dog home. Here is a summary of what this consultation might involve: Preparing the home: The consultant can provide advice on how to puppy-proof the home; Choosing the right supplies: The consultant can provide guidance on the best supplies to purchase for the new dog; House training: The consultant can provide advice on the best ways to house train your new dog, including tips on establishing a routine, teaching the dog where to go to the bathroom, and preventing accidents; Introductions: The consultant can provide basic advice and tips on how to introduce the dog to new experiences and environments or people and other pets. This session can be virtual or at your home
