Many of our clients are understandably stressed when it comes to their dog’s behavioral issues and are very candid about considering re-homing or euthanasia, not knowing there are solutions. Some have lost hope, and contact Barb Kennedy as a last resort. Having successfully worked with hundreds of dogs, Barb only practices humane techniques based on dog psychology, common sense and over 24 years dog training experience.
Aggressive dogs are Barb's specialty and passion because so many are surrendered and euthanised every year. In addition to helping these cases, including those with a biting history, Barb also offers solutions for dogs that have fear, anxiety, phobias, obsessions, bad habits, or antisocial behaviors such as:
- Separation Anxiety
- Leash Pulling
- Fear of/aggression towards leash
- Growling/dominance at family members
- Destructive chewing/digging
- Reactive, growling at other dogs
- Fence fighting
- Nuisance/excessive barking
- Inappropriate greeting
- Invading space
- Excited/nervous urination
- Claiming furniture or areas
- Bolting through doors
- Frustration
- Tail chasing/repetitive behaviors
- Eating from table/countertop ("Counter Surfing")
Barb's philosophy is that everyone can learn the techniques to improve their dog's behavior. She sees the energy (or state of mind) and body language we share with our dogs as the most powerful tools we have for preventing, redirecting or reshaping unwanted behaviors.
She states, "If we're stressed, frustrated, loud, or impatient with our dogs, they don't usually listen very well because dogs naturally follow a calm and confident pack leader. Anything else represents weakness or instability to any animal, which in some dogs brings out the instinct to dominate – a very common trait in pack animals. This is why in a group of dogs you'll often see a hyper, fearful, barking, etc. dog be disciplined by others.”
Not only will you learn how to quickly, calmly, and effectively address the behavior, but also how to prevent problems from escalating. Barb will teach you how to tune in to your dog's state of mind and understand their nonverbal cues, regardless of the behavior; and also how to provide consistent leadership and guidance, often without talking or touching, even in the heat of the moment. Clients learn how to "think like a dog" and clearly teach him the desired behaviors in a way he naturally understands.
When appropriate, Barb also shares canine and human calming techniques anyone can learn, including EFT. If clients find it challenging to feel relaxed and confident with their dogs (especially around other dogs), and would like to learn a simple self-help, stress-busting technique, Barb is now AAMET EFT Practitioner Level 2 Certified and is proud to include this valuable service free with the consultation fee. EFT is a gentle, yet effective method practiced by millions worldwide, including many professionals, to reduce the unpleasant thoughts, emotions or physical feelings (tight stomach, neck, jaw etc.) associated with stress -- often within minutes.
Barb will demonstrate how to address the problem behaviors unique to your dog, and teach you how to repeat the process to reinforce and ingrain the new responses. Clients do see results after the first session, however her philosophy is not to "fix" dogs. Long-term success will ultimately depend on the client's ability to fulfill their dog's unique needs for exercise, leadership, structure and connection; but the reward is the relationship you've both dreamed of!
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