Behavior Consulting

How we support the dog & family

We seek to first understand the WHYs of a dog’s behavior, their unique L.E.G.S.® (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self) or needs. We then consider how that all intersects with the needs of the family, to provide humane and reward-based strategies through Family Dog Mediation®. We view our work as a team approach which involves the behavior consultant, the family, their dog, and collaboration with the veterinary team and other dog pros. Each party plays a unique role in supporting the well-being of the dog in front of us!
Consultant and dog looking happy, harmonious relationship

Behavior Consult

Is your dog displaying aggressive behavior? Increased signs of anxiety, fear, and/or stress? Other behaviors you need support with? We offer an in-home or virtual behavior consult.

What’s included:

• Assessment, discussion of your dog's history and relevant case factors; provide summary to your primary veterinarian

• Prevention, enrichment and behavior plan*, instruction and feedback; also includes handouts, text and video support

Cost: $265 per two hour consult

A travel fee may apply for in-home consults and follow-up sessions; see scheduling page for more details. If your dog is experiencing separation anxiety please contact us prior to scheduling.

*Follow-up sessions may be recommended for support with implementation of a prevention and behavior plan

Dog training tricks

Follow-up Sessions

What’s included:

  • Review of behavior progress and updates

  • Changes to and further implementation of plan, including text support in between follow-up sessions

  • Collaboration with veterinary team

Cost: $185 per 1-hour session / in-home or virtual

Dog looking at sunset

Additional Packages

One Hour Follow-up Session Packages & Pricing:

  • $420/3 follow-up sessions

  • $665/5 follow-up sessions

  • $880/7 follow-up sessions

  • $1,180/10 follow-up sessions

We also offer Specialized Programs for Organizations

Non-profit animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and animal related businesses are near and dear to our heart. We offer consultation services for shelter/rescue dogs, training and education for staff and leadership teams, animal behavior workshops, and various customized services to address the specific needs of the organization.
Feel free to connect with us to discuss what services your organization may need.

Kind Words

“We at Ruff Start Rescue believe in positive behavioral training techniques, and we are committed to partnering with trainers that share this same philosophy. Upon meeting Brian, we were very impressed by his knowledge and kind demeanor. We really feel he has the animals’ best interest at heart. His training methods and client-centered approach allow the handler and dog to create a strong positive bond that we feel is so critical - especially for dogs that have had difficult pasts. We will continue to reach out to Brian for assistance with our rescue dogs, and hope to maintain our relationship with him for many years to come.“

— Julie Lessard, Ruff Start Rescue