Dog Training & Behavior Support
Raising
Happy Dogs
Training should be fun and engaging, not just about food. When dogs feel safe, they learn better and listen willingly.
Michael S.
5
He transformed his once-nervous rescue cat into a playful and affectionate feline. His patience and love truly reshaped her world.
Sarah L.
3
She adopted a senior dog who had been overlooked for years, providing him with comfort and companionship in his twilight years.
James T.
7
He took in a stray puppy, nurturing it back to health and training it to be a loyal and well-behaved family member.
Linda R.
3
After rescuing a parakeet with a broken wing, she dedicated her time to rehabilitate him, resulting in a chirpy and vibrant addition to her home.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start training my dog?
As soon as they come home. Whether you've welcomed a puppy, adopted a rescue, or are living with an older dog, every day is an opportunity to build good habits. I think of training as teaching dogs the routines, words, and expectations that help them feel comfortable in our world. The sooner you establish structure and consistency, the sooner your dog learns to relax and thrive. My book, Puppies for Dummies, can serve as a helpful guide.
How do I know which service is right for me?
Start by filling out the new client form. Tell me a little about your dog, your goals, and the challenges you're facing. From there, we'll recommend the option that makes the most sense for your situation, whether that's a private session, virtual coaching, an imprint program, or a group class.
How much does training cost?
Training fees vary depending on the type of service and your location. Visit the pricing page to learn more. You'll also receive an estimated rate after completing the new client form. Virtual sessions are available worldwide, and you're always welcome to travel to my office in Katonah, New York, for a reduced in-person rate.
How long does training take?
That depends on what we’re teaching and where your dog is starting from.
I think of training as teaching good habits. Dogs learn by association, so the more you engage them through daily routines, games, and clear word cues, the more they begin to look to you for direction. Puppies mature over the course of their first year, and the earlier you begin shaping everyday routines, the sooner those habits become part of family life. With older dogs, especially those who have developed patterns like reactivity, hyper-arousal, or anxiety, the roadmap is more individual. Each dog and household has its own rhythm, and rehabilitation unfolds at its own pace. After an initial 90-minute session, packages can be tailored and a training plan established so your dog or puppy can learn new words, routines, and expectations that bring clarity and calm, rather than adding to their confusion.
Can you help with behavior issues like reactivity, anxiety, or aggression?
Absolutely. Most challenging behaviors stem from confusion, fear, frustration, or overstimulation. My approach focuses on understanding what's driving the behavior, then creating practical routines and strategies that help your dog feel more secure and respond more calmly. Drawing on more than four decades of experience, I'll help you understand what your dog is communicating and how to guide them toward better habits. My book Dog Anxiety for Dummies can be used as a supportive guide.
What is positive reinforcement?
Positive reinforcement is simply the art of noticing and rewarding the behaviors you want to see more often. Dogs are constantly making associations. If sitting calmly gets them dinner, they'll sit more often. If coming when called leads to praise, a treat, or a game, they'll be more likely to come the next time.
Most people think positive reinforcement is all about treats, but dogs find lots of things rewarding: attention, play, toys, walks, and hearing your happy voice. I like it because it shifts your focus. Instead of waiting for your dog to make a mistake, you start noticing when they're getting it right. Those little moments add up quickly. When we reward good choices, they become habits, and those habits become part of everyday life.
How to work with me
The best way to get started is by filling out a new client form. Someone from my office will follow up promptly to walk you through your options and help you schedule a session.
Sarah is based in Katonah, NY, and offers in-home visits (travel fees vary by location), virtual training worldwide, and group classes in Greenwich, CT.
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