Contact Us
FAQs
DO YOU OFFER GUARANTEES?
We don’t provide guarantees. Behavior cannot be “cured” or “fixed”. Animals are always learning - 24/7/365 - through various principles, whether we intend it, or not. Behavior is ever-changing, due to various internal and external conditions, and is naturally adaptive and necessary for the survival of an animal and it’s future generations. It would be unethical to guarantee to “fix” an animal’s behavior.
WHAT TOOLS/EQUIPMENT MIGHT I NEED?
We recommend an appropriately fitted body harness, a flat buckle or durable collar, a 6-12 foot leash, and using your dog’s favorite rewards. We do not recommend aversives (i.e. choke, prong, or elec. collars, physical corrections, etc) as they tend to mask welfare needs and involve fall-out. Other safety equipment may be recommended at our behavior consult - check out some of our favorite gear!
WHAT’S YOUR APPROACH IN WORKING WITH FAMILIES & DOGS?
We offer guidance to help families first understand their dog’s behavior and unique needs, or L.E.G.S. (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self). We then consider how the dog’s and family’s needs intersect through the approach of Family Dog Mediation and Total Welfare. We prioritize meeting welfare needs through humane, reward-based methods, and adhere to professional ethics in accordance with all certifications and FDM licensing, learn more.
DO I NEED A VIRTUAL OR IN-HOME CONSULT?
We can fully support families either way! Virtual consults can be beneficial for dogs who may be displaying aggression, reactivity, or stress/anxiety/fear signs with visitors coming into the home, to reduce stress for the dog. However, many clients prefer in-home instruction and support. In that case, a travel fee may apply for in-home consults. See our behavior consult page for more details.
WHAT DOES A CONSULT ENTAIL?
This is for dogs displaying aggression, “reactivity”, fear/anxiety signs, maladaptive behaviors, etc. When “behavior problems” arise, it’s not a lack of obedience or training. Rather, there are unmet welfare needs underlying the behaviors which we need to understand and provide for. A behavior consult helps identify welfare needs through a behavior/L.E.G.S. assessment; review and discussion of your dog's history, family’s needs/resources; collaboration with the veterinary team. We then provide a plan to support your dog’s needs. For puppies we offer support through our C.A.R.E. Puppy Program.
HOW MANY SESSIONS CAN I EXPECT TO SCHEDULE?
This depends on the service being provided. Behavior consulting is specific to the family and dog. If follow-up sessions may be needed, the number would depend on behaviors, progress and responsiveness, your family’s needs and goals. We discuss this in detail at the behavior consult.
Email:
info@leapsandhoundsbehavior.com
Business location:
South St. Paul, Minnesota
Proudly Serving these locations:
Minneapolis-St Paul Area, Washington and Dakota Counties, Western Wisconsin
Still have questions? We’d love to chat. Fill in the form below and we’ll respond in the next 24-72 hours.