Reactive and Aggressive Dog Training -Madison, WI
We offer a variety of helpful training programs here in Madison, Wisconsin! Our training facility is just a short drive from UW Madison. Whether you are a new puppy parent looking for guidance, looking to work more on general training and obedience, are interested in service dog training, group classes for socialization, or are seeking private sessions for behavioral issues for your four-legged friend, our knowledgeable and professional instructors are here to help. Whether you’ve got a big German shepherd, a small puppy, or any size or breed in between, we’d love to meet you and your pup!
Our training expertise stems from an in-depth knowledge of canine behavior. Our approach is based in patience and positive reinforcement coupled with proven training methods. We seek to develop a lasting bond between a dog and their owner to make life enjoyable for you both. We are confident you’ll feel that working with our team was one of your best decisions.
Experienced Dog Trainers
At Sit Means Sit, we have a team of experienced dog trainers that bring along a myriad of expertise that they put to use each day in working with dogs and their owners. Our training facility offers a supportive environment that allows each dog to thrive. Your dog’s well being is our top priority.
We have the ability to offer group classes, private classes, and boarding programs to help address the individual needs of each pup. Our training methods seek to equip dogs and their owners with the tools they need to be successful in any environment. By also working with owners, we can give them the knowledge they need to continue with home training to reinforce what we have taught at the facility.
If you have concerns about your dog’s behavior, you are not alone. You’ve come to the right group of wonderful trainers for the job. Our programs can assist with concerns such as:
- Excessive barking
- Behavior issues
- Reactivity in public settings, towards people, or other animals
- Jumping
- Aggression
- Destructive behavior
- Separation anxiety
- Fear reactivity
- Leash skills
Positive reinforcement is at the core of our training methodologies. Make no mistake, dog training takes dedication not only from our team but from the owners as well. Rest assured, we’re here to help and provide you and your dog guidance and support every step of the way.
Example Dog Training Program for Aggressive Dogs
Aggression in dogs can stem from a variety of sources. Having a deep rooted understanding in canine psychology and training helps us to work with your dog effectively. Like humans, each dog is an individual and has a unique set of needs. Our programs are tailored accordingly to ensure each dog is enrolled in a program that will work best for them.
There are times when day sessions aren’t enough to address the behavior modification needs of a dog, and in this case, our Aggressive Dog Boot Camp may prove beneficial. In this program, your dog will work one-on-one with our professional trainers to work on obedience, reactivity, behavior modification, socialization skills, and more. Below you will find a brief summary of the phases of our training program for Boot Camp:
Phase 1 – The Beginning
The first day can certainly be the hardest. We realize that trusting your beloved pet with another person is a BIG deal. Owners can rest easily knowing that their furry friend is in the best of hands with our staff. Your dog will work on establishing trust and comfort in a new place with their trainer. We understand that your dog may struggle with stress and anxiety during this phase, and we will work with your four-legged friend to reduce their fear and boost their trust in us. This is an essential building block for the training phases to come.
Using gentle touch, a loose leash, and a confined space, our trainers will take their time in establishing trust and a bond with your dog. We understand that your dog may feel challenged in this environment, but using patience and expertise, our trainers will be able to help your dog become comfortable and ease into this new situation. This also provides our trainers with an excellent opportunity to further observe your dog’s behavior so they can develop an in-depth understanding of their needs.
Phase 2 – Basic Obedience
Depending on your dog’s level of reactivity and their behavior, we may still use a muzzle with them during this phase. We do not rush dogs through these phases. This day may consist of further behavior modification training or your dog may being working on basic obedience training to help them learn some of their commands. This gives them something to focus on and master, thus, building their confidence and trust in their trainer.
Phase 3 – Off-Leash Training
During Phase 3, your dog will work on off leash training and recall. By now, they will have a solid foundation in obedience and a sense of trust in their trainer. Here, our expectations remain the same. Your dog will work to control their reactivity using previously established behavior modification training. They will work on solidifying recall skills with limited distractions.
Phase 4 – Introducing Other Dogs & Group Classes
In this phase, we will ramp up the distractions where your dog will be in the same room as other dogs and humans, and will be asked to remain calm and in control. Remember that each phase builds on the previous phases in our program. Our helpful trainers will be there every step of the way!
Phase 5 – Graduation & Home Training
Phase 5 works to challenge your dog’s reactivity in a group setting. This will mimic a public environment that they may encounter in their daily lives when out and about with their family. Our instructors will continue to work with your dog on obedience and recall while they maintain their focus. In this phase, you, the owner, will also be added to the mix. Your dog’s trainer will work with you to learn how to help your dog successfully navigate new situations, and will teach you how to reinforce what was taught here in their home training sessions.
Whether you are a new puppy parent or an experienced dog owner, we are confident that we have a variety of programs and classes to meet the needs of you and your dog. Our professional trainers want to work with your dog so that they can enjoy all the wonderful things that life has to offer. Whether out at a dog park with the family, on a quiet walk at night before bedtime, or at a holiday gathering where they will encounter other people and animals, we want to ensure you have a reliable canine companion joining you every step of the way. Imagine all the wonderful places you and your pet can go! Contact our Madison, Wisconsin, location today to learn more.