Dog trainer in Boston
https://www.fingersandpaws.com
Service areas:
Andover, Arlington, Bedford, Belmont, Beverly, Billerica, Boxford, Burlington, Cambridge, Charlestown, Chelsea, Danvers, East Boston, Everett, Hamilton, Lexington, Lincoln, Lynn, Lynnfield, Malden, Manchester, Marblehead, Medford, Melrose, Middleton, Nahant, North Andover, North Reading, Peabody, Reading, Salem, Saugus, Somerville, Stoneham, Swampscott, Tewksbury, Topsfield, Waltham, Wakefield, Watertown, Wenham, Wilmington, Winchester, Woburn, Salem NH
CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, licensed educator for Family Paws Parent Education
Remote and in-home support for families with dogs that have or are bringing children in the home, and for people with puppies or newly adopted dogs, using fun games and science-based training to build positive relationships based on mutual trust and respect. Clients become more effective and positive listeners and communicators with their dogs through my guidance. Human topics/skills often include how to set up and teach separation with inclusion, how to read and respond to canine body language, how to install and use cues and reinforcers. Dog skills often include socialization, emotional regulation (and the skills used to achieve that!), and "must have manners" that will help the dog be successful in that family.
I commonly assist people with dogs demonstrating overexcitement, overstimulation, fear, anxiety, reactivity, or inability to settle, usually in relation to children, a new baby, or visitors to the house. I also teach people how to support and teach newly adopted puppies, adolescents, and adult dogs as they transition into their new home.
Clients typically start by completing a detailed intake form and sending me preliminary videos and photos. The initial consultation is about 2 hours long and includes assessment of the dog's behavior and the environment in which it occurs, plus management suggestions, education through discussion and materials provided, and demonstration and practice of preliminary exercises. Within a few days I then send a summary that includes a detailed plan for management and training, and I follow up regarding progress and questions. Clients can then choose to DIY or move into an All Access plan of their choice. All access plans provide a given number of Live Time hours (in person and/or remote, as agreed with client), plus full access to me for the same number of months: emails, texts, phone calls, and picture/video reviews/feedback. From point of first contact and through the life of the dog, however, I emphasize that I am always available for questions about anything already discussed, and that I will let them know if a discussion indicates that further paid time is needed in order to address an issue properly.
I was fascinated by the science of the method I was learning and amazed at the results - not so much that my dog "became a good dog" but that we all learned how to communicate with each other, he came to trust us implicitly, and our relationship with him was considerably deepened. I wanted to share that experience with other people and families who struggle with building that connection with their dog, especially if the dog was fearful, as our first dog was.
Those "lightbulb" moments when both the dog and human really make that connection - it's beautiful
Objectively observe your dog every day, and learn how to accurately interpret what you see. Once you can do that, you will learn most of what you need to know from your dog.
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It's a cringe-worthy moment every dog owner dreads: your furry friend chowing down on something truly disgusting. If your dog has a penchant for poop, you're dealing with coprophagia. It's more common than you think, and thankfully, often manageable. This article explores the reasons behind dirty dog syndrome, from instinct to learned behavior. We'll also give you practical tips to help break this unpleasant habit.
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Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
Everyone knows dogs need exercise, but how much is enough? Walks are great, but creating a truly balanced fitness plan means understanding your dog's specific needs. This post helps you develop a daily exercise calculator for your dog, considering breed, age, and lifestyle. We'll cover fun activities, understanding exercise intensity, and recognizing when your pup has had enough. Let's create a plan that keeps your dog happy and healthy!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
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