Training Philosophy
Does your puppy avoid being picked up by you or other family members? Has your puppy ever snapped at you, the veterinarian, or the groomer? Puppy squirminess is normal but if a puppy engages in aggressive biting in response to any sort of restraint, your puppy might be touch-sensitive. Touch sensitivity is when a puppy is overly sensitive to touch by showing signs of abnormal fear or aggression when handled in certain contexts. This can make veterinary or grooming appointments incredibly difficult later in life. Our science-based Austin puppy training programs can help eliminate all aggressive behavior in puppies that are sensitive to touch! We recommend addressing your puppy’s touch sensitivity as soon as possible so that it does not progress into severe aggressive behavior as your puppy matures.
When low-level aggressive behavior like puppy nipping or growling is reinforced, they will likely persist. If the aggressive behavior is punished and seemingly goes away, pet parents run the risk of the behavior returning seemingly random yet severe as the puppy’s fear remains. Led by Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, Dr. Echterling-Savage, we only utilize the latest research in dog behavior in our touch-sensitivity programs. After collecting copious amounts of data over the past 20+ years, we have designed a data-driven treatment that can completely transform the behavior of any puppy that is sensitive to touch. We will guide you through various training exercises with your puppy, mock grooming veterinary exercises, and collar exercises to equip you and your puppy with all the tools you need to be successful. Your puppy will also learn relevant obedience commands that you’ll be able to use in everyday situations in which they used to be sensitive to touch. You should already be able to see a difference in your puppy’s behavior within the first week of training!
Training Programs
In our Touch Sensitivity Puppy Behavior Modification Package, we offer one-on-one virtual sessions with Dr. Echterling-Savage, our Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB). Dr. Echterling-Savage is one of only a few Board Certified Behavior Analysts specializing in Applied Animal Behavior, with only around 50 CAABs in the country. With decades of expertise, including published research on canine behavior, Dr. Echterling-Savage is a leading expert in her field, making her consultations an invaluable opportunity for those seeking long lasting change.
Dr. Echterling-Savage will connect with you virtually to evaluate your puppy’s behavior, developing a training program that addresses your specific needs. After your initial meeting, Dr. Echterling-Savage will continue to offer guidance and troubleshoot touch sensitivity behavior scenarios, ensuring continued progress in your puppy’s training. The Touch Sensitivity Puppy Behavior Modification Package is available for $750 which includes two hours of virtual sessions and ongoing support.
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