Contact Us
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Check out our most popular FAQ’s
Email:
info@leapsandhoundsbehavior.com
Business location:
South St. Paul, Minnesota
Proudly Serving these locations:
Minneapolis-St Paul Area,
Washington and Dakota Counties,
Western Wisconsin
DO YOU OFFER GUARANTEES?
We don’t guarantee that an animal’s behavior can be “cured” or “fixed”. Animals are always learning through various principles, whether we intend it or not. Behavior is fluid, dynamic and ever-changing- due to various internal and external conditions. It is naturally adaptive and necessary for the survival of an animal and its future generations. It would be unethical to offer any guarantees to “fix” an animal’s behavior.
FAQs
WHAT TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT MIGHT I NEED?
We recommend an appropriately fitted body harness, a flat buckle or durable collar. A standard 6 foot leash is best for walks. Retractable leashes are generally not recommended, due to risk for injury or breakage. We also do not recommend the use of choke/prong/electronic shock collars due to the likelihood for fall-out from increased use of aversives. For walks we recommend the use of a durable treat bag, high value food and a variety of rewards to help your dog learn.
WHAT’S YOUR APPROACH IN WORKING WITH FAMILIES AND DOGS?
We offer guidance to first understand the WHYs of a dog’s behavior - their L.E.G.S. (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self)- and how that all may intersect with the needs of the family. This will look different for each family. Once we start to understand these aspects we can then support the family and their dog through Family Dog Mediation. We also follow the LIMA approach (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive), which includes a humane hierarchy of strategies and procedures for behavior intervention.
DO I NEED A VIRTUAL OR IN-HOME CONSULT?
We can fully support families either way! Virtual consults can be beneficial for dogs who may be displaying aggression, reactivity, or stress/anxiety/fear signs with visitors coming into the home, to reduce stress for the dog. However, many clients prefer in-home instruction and support. In that case, a travel fee may apply for in-home consults. See our scheduling page for more details.
WOULD A BEHAVIOR CONSULT OR GROUP CLASS WORK BETTER FOR MY DOG?
It depends on the dog's behavior and needs, and the family's needs as well. For dogs displaying aggression or a significant behavior concern, a group class is not an appropriate setting for them to learn effectively and for us to be able to offer consultation. A behavior consult is needed in these cases. For puppies we offer support through our C.A.R.E. Puppy Program. Group classes can be an option to teach a dog skills and explore enrichment games as a fun bonding activity. Feel free to contact us if you’re not sure which is the right fit for your family and dog.
HOW MANY SESSIONS CAN I EXPECT TO SCHEDULE?
This depends on the specific service. Behavior consulting is specific to the family and dog. If follow-up sessions may be needed, the number would depend on progress and various factors. We discuss this in more detail at the end of the behavior consult. Group classes typically meet for one hour each week and last between 3-6 weeks.