Not sure if your dog has separation anxiety? Or maybe you have more questions about the training or or my services?
I offer a FREE 15 minute consultation!
FAQs About Dog Training Services
Do you only work with dogs that have separation anxiety?
Although I specialize in separation anxiety, I have a vast amount of experience in training other things as well.
Through my services I offer training dogs for basic manners and a variety of different behavioral issues. Contact me
to find out how I can help you and your dog!
What training methods do you use?
I use force-free, positive reinforcement techniques that help build confidence and trust.
Do you offer in-person or virtual training?
I offer both. My in-person services are at the client's home and I travel withing 20 miles of Ixonia, WI.
My separation anxiety services are offered remotely and I can work with clients any where within the United States.
How long does training take?
Every dog is different! Some behaviors improve quickly, while others (like separation anxiety) take time and consistency.
Do I need to be present during training, or can you work with my dog alone?
You’ll definitely want to be part of the training! My job isn’t just to teach your dog—it’s to teach you how to work with your dog. Since you’re the one living with them day in and day out, it’s important that you know exactly how to practice the skills and respond in different situations. Think of me as your coach: I’ll demonstrate, guide, and troubleshoot, but the real progress happens when you and your dog practice together at home. This way, the training sticks long-term and becomes part of your everyday life, not just something your dog does when I’m around.
FAQs about Dog Separation Anxiety
How do I know if my dog has separation anxiety?
If your dog only shows problem behaviors when left alone—or they get worse when alone—it’s likely separation anxiety.
Signs include barking, whining, howling, pacing, destruction, panting, drooling, accidents in the house, or even vomiting.
Some dogs are fine as long as they have any person around, while others panic if they’re separated from their favorite person, even if other people are present.
Read my blog post Signs Your Dog is Anxious for more extensive information.
How can I train my dog to be okay when left alone?
Separation anxiety specialists use a proven method called desensitization, the same approach used to treat human phobias.
This means your dog is slowly exposed to short absences that don’t cause anxiety. Over time, the absences get longer, but always at a pace your dog can handle without stress.
Other stress factors that make anxiety worse will also be identified and addressed.
Blog post Treating Separation Anxiety in Dogs
How long does it take to fix separation anxiety?
It depends on the dog and the situation. Some of the main factors are:
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How long the dog has had separation anxiety
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How often the dog has been left alone to panic
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Whether the dog is anxious in other situations too
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Your goals (a few hours alone vs. a full workday)
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How consistent and frequent the training is
What if I need to leave my dog home alone?
I know it’s a lot to ask that a dog NEVER be left alone during this process. The problem is that if the dog experiences anxiety during long absences it will greatly diminish the progress of training. (Blog post Leaving Your Dog Home Alone.) If sometimes your dog feels safe with your absence because you're only leaving such a short amount of time it doesn't trigger anxiety, but other times your absence is so long your dog goes into panic mode, it creates difficulty in reframing the experience for the dog. The lack of predictability will make it difficult for the dog to feel safe when alone.
Consider ways that you might be able to manage through doggy daycare, a dog sitter, a neighbor or relative who may be willing to watch your dog. I can help you brainstorm other ways to make it work.
If you truly do not have other alternatives I will be happy to work with you by modifying the training plan, and help in every way I can.
Should I get another dog to help with my dog’s separation anxiety?
Usually not. Most dogs are anxious because their person leaves, not because they’re alone without other dogs. Even in multi-dog homes, many dogs still struggle when left.
Only get a second dog if you truly want one and are ready to work on your current dog’s separation issues while helping the new dog adjust.
Why are sessions remote instead of in person?
Because your dog’s anxiety exhibits when alone, it’s better that I’m not physically there so that I can see what’s going on during your absences.
Research shows that remote consultations for dog separation anxiety are just as effective in resolving it as in-person consultations.
Through Zoom meetings I can coach you through your training and observe your dog when you leave. This way we are setting up the training exercise in as real as way as possible.
What technology is needed?
For our consultation meetings you will need a computer with good internet access and the Zoom app. The Zoom app is free and will not require you to purchase a subscription.
For your own training you should have a camera you can use to observe your dog on your phone when you leave. This could be as simple as your laptop or camera pointed at your door and connected to your phone by Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, etc. Or you could invest in a camera such as Ring or Wyze and use it as a dedicated separation anxiety training camera.
Blog post Cameras Help with Dog Separation Anxiety
Can you guarantee my dog will get over separation anxiety?
Unfortunately there are no guarantees as every dog is different. However, there is a high degree of success with using desensitization for treating separation anxiety.
Where are you located?
I am located in Wisconsin between Milwaukee and Madison, near Watertown. Because my services in treating canine separation anxiety are provided remotely through Zoom consultations, I can take clients from anywhere in the United States.
How much do your services cost?
I have a variety of packages that offer different pricing depending on the level of support you feel you need. Specific details on fees and services can be found on my Pricing and Packages page.
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