FAQs

Beast Behaviour follows the guidelines set forth by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviour, found here. This means we use positive reinforcement, science-based training methods to teach new behaviours as well as modify existing behaviour. Positive reinforcement is the technique of adding something the dog likes (food, toys, pets, whatever your dog loves!) to increase a behaviour. We also use a “bridge” or “marker signal” with your dog to capture the exact moment in time when they do something right. We will typically use a clicker or a verbal marker in our sessions. Positive reinforcement is considered the most up-to-date with current research in how animals learn, as well as the most ethical form of animal training.

Yes! Beast Behaviour proudly offers group classes at Impressive Canines classroom in Kitchener, ON.

The amount of sessions required will depend on several different factors, including the training problem at hand, the dog’s mental/physical health, previous training, and owner’s willingness to do their homework, of course! :) Before enrolling in a program, we will meet to discuss your training goals in detail. From there, I will make an educated suggestion as to how many sessions I feel it will take to reach the results you want, but this is only a guess and is subject to change depending on the factors mentioned above. It is important to recognize that truly effective training/behaviour modification takes time and dedication. Every dog/human partnership will progress at different rates, and that’s ok!

Absolutely not! All dogs and their owners can benefit from enrolling in a training program. Maybe you want to teach cool tricks or polish your recall skills for off leash fun. Training can be an enriching and confidence-boosting experience for both you and your dog, it does not need to be just for “fixing” problem behaviours. Learning the basics will set you up for success for years to come!

The first three months of a puppy’s life are considered critical for their socialization. Their experiences during this time have the power to affect their personality and wellbeing for the rest of their lives. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviour’s recommends enrolling in puppy classes before they are fully vaccinated, their full position statement can be found here. Behavioural issues are the number one cause of death of dogs under the age of three—not infectious diseases! Puppies should have their first round of vaccinations at least one week before beginning a program, and should be kept up-to-date throughout the course. Due to the nature of our private program, puppies are at a very low risk of infectious disease.

In order to uphold the Karen Pryor Academy Standards of Practice and Professional Code of Ethics, I do not guarantee results. Every dog/human partnership is different, and the results of training and behaviour modification depend on many facets, one of the most important being how an owner conducts their training relationship with their dog beyond formal training sessions. I can guarantee that you will receive the most up-to-date, science-based information and instruction in ethical, positive reinforcement based training, non-judgmental support, and guidance.

While aversive tools such as prong collars, electric collars, and choke chains are not part of my training programs, Beast Behaviour is committed to an accessible and judgement-free environment. It is my goal to center the welfare of both dogs AND their humans in my programs. I am more than happy to help you make a plan to transition to kinder gear/methods while maintaining effectiveness and safety for both you and your dog.

Full payment must be made no less than 24 hours before your session to secure your spot. If a client needs to cancel or reschedule a session, they must provide a minimum of 24 hours notice. Otherwise, the session and payment are forfeited.

Payment is required no less than 24 hours before your scheduled session. If payment is not received, Beast Behaviour reserves the right to offer your session time to another client. Payment can be made through e-transfer.

Clients are not required to wear masks indoors or outdoors during training sessions. However, if you or someone in your household are experiencing symptoms of Covid-19, please contact me as soon as possible to reschedule your session. Special consideration can be made regarding the cancellation policy for those experiencing sudden symptoms.