At Paws & Frolic Academy, our force-free training philosophy is rooted in kindness, science, and respect for every dog. We use positive reinforcement to build trust, strengthen the human-canine bond, and encourage desirable behaviors without fear or intimidation. By focusing on what your dog can do and celebrating progress, we create a supportive environment where your dog feels safe to learn and thrive.

I offer two main services: A separation anxiety training package where I will guide you every step of the way. I also host a membership community, which allows you to have a more DIY approach.

Mild signs of separation anxiety in dogs include pacing, whining, or following you around the house more than usual. As anxiety increases, dogs may begin drooling excessively, having accidents indoors, or engaging in destructive behaviors, like chewing furniture or scratching at doors. In more severe cases, dogs might vocalize loudly, bark or howl when left alone, or try to escape from their environment, putting themselves at risk of injury. Each dog experiences anxiety differently, so it's important to recognize these signs early on and address them with appropriate training.

Allowing your dog to "cry it out" when you leave can actually make separation anxiety worse. Dogs with separation anxiety experience intense fear and stress when left alone, and letting them cry without addressing the underlying emotions can increase their distress. This approach can teach your dog that being alone is a frightening experience, which can escalate the anxiety over time. Instead, using positive reinforcement-based training helps your dog feel more secure, gradually building their confidence and comfort with being alone in a safe, supportive way.

Our virtual training sessions are designed to be convenient, personalized, and effective. During the session, we’ll connect via video call to discuss your dog’s specific needs, challenges, and goals. You’ll receive step-by-step guidance and a tailored training plan to work on at home, with ongoing support available to ensure you and your dog succeed. It's like having a trainer in your living room—no matter where you are!

Most dogs are a great fit for our programs, as long as their needs match the services we offer. We specialize in separation anxiety training and reactivity-focused group classes, so if your dog struggles with being left alone or has big feelings on leash or at home, we can help.

We’re not the right fit for cases involving human-directed aggression or aggression between dogs living together, but we’ll happily point you toward a qualified professional if that’s what you’re dealing with.

If you’re unsure whether your dog is a good fit, the best next step is to book a consultation—we’ll talk through your dog’s unique situation and recommend the right path forward.

I am currently a Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behavior Consultant (CSAP-BC), Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), and Certified Family Dog Mediator (FDM)

The time it takes to see results from separation anxiety training or other behavior modification protocols can vary, but you should think months, not weeks. This depends on several factors. These include the severity of your dog's anxiety at the start of the program, how consistent you are with the training exercises, and how often your dog is exposed to situations that push them over their threshold of anxiety. Some dogs may start to show improvement within a few weeks, while others may take a bit longer. Consistency and patience are key to success, and we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.

Separation anxiety can be completely resolved with the right training and support. While many dogs go on to lead happy, confident lives without anxiety when left alone, there is always the possibility of regressions in the future—especially during times of change or stress. The good news is that if regression occurs, retraining usually progresses much faster than the initial training, as your dog will already have some coping skills in place. With patience and consistency, most dogs can overcome their separation anxiety and live more relaxed lives.

If you need to leave your dog alone during the training process, we’ll work together to create a plan of action during your initial consultation. The best solution varies for each dog and family, so we’ll assess your dog's specific needs and anxiety triggers to come up with the most effective strategy. This may involve using safe alternatives like a pet sitter, setting up a calming environment, or having a conversation with your vet about anti-anxiety medication. Whatever the plan, we’ll ensure it aligns with your goals and helps minimize your dog’s anxiety while you’re away.

Separation anxiety and boredom may look similar, but they are distinct issues. Separation anxiety occurs when a dog experiences intense fear or distress when left alone, often leading to behaviors like excessive barking, destruction, or attempts to escape. These behaviors are rooted in emotional distress and a deep attachment to their owner.

Boredom, on the other hand, happens when a dog lacks sufficient mental or physical stimulation. Bored dogs may engage in destructive behaviors or exhibit restlessness, but these actions are usually not driven by fear. While boredom can lead to behavior issues, it typically doesn’t involve the same level of anxiety or distress that separation anxiety does. The key difference is that separation anxiety is a response to being left alone, while boredom is more about the dog needing more engagement or exercise.

The short answer is yes, I can probably help, even if you’ve already tried other trainers or methods without success. While I can’t offer any guarantees, I’ve worked with many dogs who have previously struggled with other approaches, and the vast majority show significant improvement using my force-free methods. Each dog is unique, and I’ll work closely with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your dog’s specific needs. With patience, consistency, and the right techniques, many dogs are able to overcome separation anxiety and thrive.