Training Philosophy
What Are Cat Chasing and Aggressive Behaviors in Dogs, and How Can They Be Addressed?
Cat Chasing and Aggression Behaviors refers to when dogs show behaviors that include pursuing, lunging, barking, and swatting at cats that enter their line of sight in the home or out in public. Perhaps your dog chases your cat when they come into the kitchen or pins them down whenever they have the opportunity? While some dogs may be excited and playful when chasing cats, this behavior can also be aggressive and lead to fights.
Our personalized training programs use science-based training methods that combine function-based training with counterconditioning. Function-based training identifies why a dog chases or reacts aggressively and teaches appropriate behaviors. Counterconditioning works by pairing the cat with something positive, such as treats or praise. These training methods are very effective in addressing cat chasing and aggression behaviors and will lead to a more harmonious household for everyone.
The Benefits of Cat Chasing and Aggression Dog Training
Beyond the Dog is led by Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist Dr. Kristyn Echterling-Savage and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Sean Savage. With over 50 years of combined training experience, we use science-based methods to effectively address cat-chasing and aggressive behaviors.
With consistent training, your dog will be calmer and able to live peacefully alongside multiple pets. Our training program achieves this by fostering positive associations with cats through obedience commands and socialization skills. All of our training sessions are conducted privately through one-on-one sessions. This personalized approach allows us to treat your dog’s unique needs and ensure long-term success in socializing with cats.
Training Programs
This program offers virtual consultations with Dr. Echterling-Savage will provide direction in managing your dog’s touch sensitivity behaviors. The program also includes a personalized training plan, ongoing support, and expert guidance to ensure lasting success.
As one of the few certified Behavior Analysts specializing in Applied Animal Behavior and among only 50 CAABs nationwide, Dr. Echterling-Savage brings exceptional expertise to each session. Her vast experience includes a doctorate in the field, published research on canine behavior modification, and 25 years of hands-on practice. As a leading expert in her field, Dr. Echterling-Savage provides an exceptional opportunity for those looking to make substantial progress with their dog’s cat chasing and aggression behaviors.
Dr. Echterling-Savage will connect with you virtually to evaluate your dog’s behavior, designing a training program that addresses your dog’s specific needs. After your initial meeting, Dr. Echterling-Savage will continue to offer guidance and troubleshoot any cat chasing and aggressive behaviors, ensuring ongoing progress in your dog’s training. This program runs for four weeks for mild cases and six weeks for moderate or severe cases.
Your personalized program will target cat chasing and aggression problem behaviors that includes:
This program includes:
Depending on the distance from Tampa Bay, travel may be complimentary or require a small additional cost.
Our personalized training programs are developed by our co-founder and Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, Dr. Echterling-Savage, who has over 20 years of experience treating aggression and cat-chasing behaviors.
We use scientifically proven training methods to treat problem behaviors, including function-based training, which identifies the underlying causes and addresses them directly. We also use counterconditioning that works through pairing exercises that help your dog associate the presence of a cat with something positive, like treats, praise, or toys, instead of reacting with fear, chasing, or aggression.
Your dog will experience hands-on training directly from two renowned experts while staying in their Tampa Bay home.
Dr. Kristyn Echterling-Savage is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology, specializing in animal behavior. She has over 20 years of hands-on experience teaching dogs high-level obedience, manners, and addressing problem behaviors. Dr. Echterling-Savage also trains and mentors Beyond the Dog’s trainers.
Sean Savage is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA). He brings over two decades of experience training obedience, manners, and addressing a wide range of behavioral challenges.
Together, they ensure every retreat delivers personalized, science-based training designed to achieve exceptional results in both home and public settings. While staying with Kristyn and Sean, your dog will live as part of the family, enjoying a balanced schedule of exercise, play, and downtime.
This wellness retreat begins when you submit your “Indirect Assessment of Canine Behavior” and also meet with Dr. Echterling-Savage for a virtual consultation to discuss your training goals and your dog’s behavioral history. This allows Dr. Echterling-Savage to develop a personalized program that addresses the unique challenges of your dog’s cat-chasing and aggression behaviors.
Dr. Echterling-Savage or Sean Savage will then transport your dog from your home to their home in Tampa Bay, where they will live as part of the family. Training will take place at their home and throughout Tampa Bay, depending on the training goals being addressed. Your dog will learn high-level obedience skills, good manners, and behavior modification training to not chase or be aggressive towards cats.
During the four weeks of boarding, you will receive regular updates and phone and video calls so that you are aware of their training progress. After your puppy’s training program has been completed, Dr. Echterling-Savage or Sean Savage will return your dog home, where they and another trainer will conduct 4.5 hours of return and follow-up sessions to teach you how to maintain your dog’s new skills and to ensure long-term success with training.