Behavior Modification
Behavior modification clients are those with dogs that exhibit behaviors including, but not limited to, fearful behaviors, aggressive behaviors, leash reactivity, and body handling issues. These clients are looking to change an undesirable behavior. Jenna will develop a plan that incorporates management, training, and enrichment and will collaborate with you to customize a plan that is attainable and sustainable for you.
All new behavior modification clients start with a virtual initial consultation via Zoom. During this we’ll discuss:
- Your dog’s behavior history, your goals, and your needs
- The behavior modification process and what it involves
- Training concepts, mechanics, and canine body language so you’re ready to start training at our first session
- First steps you can begin immediately
From the information gathered during our consultation, I’ll develop a customized training plan.
After your initial consultation you can get started with our in-person training sessions. These take place at your home and include working on the training exercises that are a part of your training plan. You’ll get a chance to see them demonstrated, practice yourself, and ask any questions you may have. Each client is provided with a Google Doc where notes, handouts, and resources are provided after each session.
Our goal with our behavior modification clients is to not only give them the tools to help their dogs with their behavior struggles, but to help them better understand their dogs and the function of their behaviors so that they can approach training through an empathetic and compassionate lens.
Initial Zoom Consultation: (1 - 1.5 hours) – $125
In-Person Training Sessions – (1 Hour): $185
Behavior Modification FAQs
Why is the initial consultation virtual?
We previously conducted our initial consultations in person, but switched to virtual for a number of reasons. There is an exchange of information that needs to take place before we begin the training process; information from me, the expert on dog behavior, to you, and information from you, the expert on life with your individual dog, to me. By doing this virtually, dog parents are free to relax in their home environment without worrying how their dog interacts with me or how their dog behaves and can focus on the information being shared with them. There are initial steps we ask all clients to do prior to our first in-person session that are covered in this initial consultation as well.
Do I have to do an initial consultation?
Yes, all new behavior modification clients are required to do an initial consultation. There are no exceptions.
Do you have a training facility I can come to?
No, we offer private one-on-one in-home training. We come to you and work in your home where you and your dog are most comfortable and build up to working in other environments that are applicable to your case.
Do you offer guarantees?
Behavior is not static and there are many variables that impact behavior including but not limited to, environmental stimuli, medical issues, learning history, human behavior, genetics, etc. Because of this, it is unethical to guarantee behavior outcome or change. What we can guarantee is a positive and safe learning environment for you and your dog and the use of methods that do not utilize fear, pain, or force.
Will training “fix” my dog?
As dogs are living sentient beings and not machines, they cannot be “fixed” and behavior can not be “cured.” All behavior has a function to the being performing them. Our job is to understand why the behavior is functional for the dog and teach them new more appropriate replacement behaviors or eliminate the need for the function of an undesirable behavior. Behavior Modification is a process that takes time when done humanely and ethically.
Behavior Modification Testimonials
Kate & Jerry
When we met Jenna, we felt completely out of our depth with a dog that came to us with a lot of trauma - even going for a walk was an exhausting and overwhelming experience. A year and a half later, completely thanks to her, he is a whole new dog and walks are his favorite part of the day!
Her help with teaching us how to understand his body language and how to work with him not only gave us the tools to change his life, it also strengthened our bond with him. And every step along the way, she was our cheerleader too! She reassured us when we had challenging moments and we feel so confident in our skills as we continue to support him. Whenever you leave a session with Jenna, you not only learn new skills yourself, but you learn the reasons behind everything you're doing which makes us feel like better, smarter dog owners.
Alexa, Oscar & Olive
We are forever thankful for Jenna and Think Smart! Jenna’s positive behavioral approach allows for so much progress for both pups and their families. Jenna is non-judgmental and solution-focused which makes training a ton of fun to introduce into your routine. We have seen progress we never thought was possible and have been connected to endless resources that have been vital to our pups success. Thank you, Jenna!
Mary & Olive
Jenna is amazing. AMAZING. Saying that I whole-heartedly endorse her is an understatement. If you are struggling with behavior issues with your dog, look no further. It has taken some time, but we are really seeing great improvements with my dog's fear aggression. The goal is to have my dog feel more empowered and confident, and she is well on her way…In addition to being very knowledgeable, kind, patient and all-around lovely, she clearly wants to do whatever it takes to make my dog feel comfortable