Do you dread taking your dog for walks or out in public? Maybe they bark their heads off when they see another dog, or the minute you walk out the door they are doing back flips on the leash and dragging you along behind them. Perhaps you are worried about what would happen if they encountered a distraction and you’re at your wits end. We’re here for you!
We’ve developed our programs based on what we’ve learned works best and is most effective over the years. When you work with us, you have over 30 years of combined experience behind you. We have a whole team ready to help you solve problems and get you some much-needed relief. After all, we’re in the business of creating happier dogs and happier humans.
Classes for Reactivity, Barking and Over-Stimulation
With these training programs, you’ll get practical solutions that get real results, in addition to peace-of-mind, sanity, and a big sigh of relief. We use science- and reward-based methods to solve behavior problems, and we’ve got the credentials and experience to back it up.
Please note that we do not use force or aversion methods, and – while very effective with diligent practice and homework completion – our work together will not be a quick or overnight fix. Please carefully read through our website before committing to a program with us.
Chaotic Canine for Adults: Embracing Big Feelings in Dogs | In-Person Orientation + Six Weeks of Class
We are offering this course for $395 through January, 2025.
WHO
Reactive, barky, over-aroused dogs over six months old. Read the entire description below if this sounds like your dog, but taking a class is worrisome to you. We get it!
Reactive and barky dogs under nine (9) months old should join our Zesty Teens Class. Dogs under 23 weeks should join our Puppy Classes.
WHEN
Thursday evenings. Click here to see the schedule.
WHERE
Happy Dog Institute Headquarters
7924 Sweet Iron Ct SE, Suite 109, Olympia WA 98501
WHAT
This compassionate class equips pet owners with effective techniques to handle intense emotions like anxiety, excitement, and fear in their dogs, promoting a balanced emotional state and a harmonious household. Discover strategies to navigate unique challenges and foster a calmer atmosphere.
This class is a precursor to our Focus & Control for Teens or Foundation Skills for Adults class, specifically geared for these excitable dogs, and distracted dogs. We will focus on skills to help these dogs be successful by channeling this energy for good with impulse games, building focus, and confidence. This class is designed to promote confidence, teamwork and problem solving skills to help you and you be more successful out and about with your pup, and have a stronger bond to move forward.
**Does taking your reactive dog to a group class with other dogs sound terrifying or overwhelming to you? Not to worry, you’re not alone! That’s why we’ve designed this program as a small, semi-private class with four dogs and two instructors. What’s more, your dogs will have a lot of foundation work and will work at their own pace so when it’s time to see another dog, they’ll be ready. We use cars, barriers, visual blocks and distance to ensure they are successful and not explosive. We want everybody to feel comfortable and successful in this class!**
OTHER DETAILS
This first class will be HUMANS ONLY, so please leave your dog at home. You will bring your dogs to the remaining six classes. These classes will include implementing some simple skills and rotating the dogs into the building so they have a short time to acclimate to the space without others present.
This 7-week class has a fixed start and end date. In this class, we will build upon the skills learned the prior week. There may be occasional skip week(s) due to holidays, or special events – outlined in the schedule.
Dogs with severe generalized anxiety, fear of humans and/or a bite history are not appropriate for this this program. If your dog fits the bill, check out our Fear, Aggression & Anxiety package. This is also not a good fit for dogs who have issues with livestock or those who need help working through separation anxiety issues.
Stranger Danger Class Program | Initial Private VIRTUAL Consultation + Group Class Orientation (VIRTUAL) + Six Weeks of In-Person Group Classes**
$550
- Dogs that are nervous around human strangers – this may look like hesitancy to approach, cowering/hiding, or rushing towards/barking when meeting new people. Ideally these dogs are interested in interacting with strangers but don’t have the skills to do so.
- Dogs who are fearful or reactive towards humans (strangers)
- Dogs who need help building confidence around new people
- Guardians who are committed to positive reinforcement training and who do not/have not used aversives (punishment, shock collars, pronged collars, etc.)
- Guardians who can commit to doing required coursework and managing dog-human interactions, and who understand that slow and steady wins the race!
- Guardians who are able to commit to at least one to two hours of initial virtual sessions (an individual assessment/consult and an hour-long virtual group orientation)
Who this class is NOT a good fit for (we will offer a private training package):
- Dogs who have separation anxiety and cannot be left alone in the car
- Dogs who have a severe or significant bite history (contact us if you are unsure about this)
WHEN
Group classes are on Sundays. Initial consults will be scheduled during regular private training availability hours. Once you purchase a package, you’ll get an email with a booking link for your private session. **If we determine that your dog would be a better fit for private training after the initial consultation, the remainder of your class payment will be applied towards a private training package**
After the initial consultation, we will put you on the list for the next group Stranger Danger class.
WHERE
Virtual Sessions are held via Google Meet
In-Person sessions are at Happy Dog Institute Headquarters
7924 Sweet Iron Ct SE, Suite 109, Olympia WA 98501
WHAT
Have you ever wondered why your sweet companion canine is so wonderful with your family and people they know but is absolutely different when strangers come around? This class is for you. Learn the reasons your dog may be worried or hesitant around strangers (hint – it’s probably not your fault!) Learn how to best set them up for success in any environment and keep everyone safe. Learn how to change their underlying emotions about strangers. And finally – teach them the skills they need to interact with or ignore strangers.
What is covered in virtual individual session (mandatory if they have not had private consultation/private training with HDI previously):
Review of intake paperwork
Individual dog history
Anxiety med/health/muzzle/bite history review
Any pre-class desensitization work that will need to be done
What is covered in group virtual orientation (mandatory to continue class):
Welcome and group intros
Housekeeping
How class works
Goal setting
The LEGS of behavior
Threshold review
Treat-Retreat concept and skill introduction