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Calm & Confident: Support for Fearful, Anxious, and Reactive Dogs
Build calm, resilience, and the behaviors that lead
to a well-rounded canine companion.
Calm & Confident: Support for Fearful, Anxious, and Reactive Dogs
Build calm, resilience, and the behaviors that lead to a well-rounded canine companion.
Calm & Confident:
Helping Dogs Overcome Fear, Anxiety, and Reactivity
Fear, anxiety, and reactivity can be overwhelming for both you and your dog. Our Calm & Confident program helps dogs who struggle with these challenges, providing personalized strategies to guide them towards a calmer, more balanced state. We focus on building confidence, reducing stress, and creating a positive environment for your dog to thrive.
Why Choose Behavior Modification Over Traditional Obedience?
For dogs facing fear, anxiety, or reactivity, behavior modification using reward-based methods is crucial. When dogs are overwhelmed by intense emotions, they aren't able to process commands logically. Instead, they rely on instinctive, survival-driven reactions.
Using reward-based techniques helps to transform these emotional responses by creating positive associations, which in turn allows your dog to feel safer and more confident. In contrast, relying on obedience-based or corrective methods can increase anxiety and stress, often intensifying fear or reactive behaviors.
Key Skills for Overcoming Fear, Anxiety, and Reactivity
ID Triggers &
Learn Strategies
Identify your dog’s triggers and equip them with safe coping strategies to respond calmly, reducing reactivity in different environments.
Gradual Exposure and Desensitization
Help your dog slowly get used to challenging situations through controlled exposure and positive reinforcement.
Building Trust
and Security
Establish a trusting bond with your dog, providing the safety they need to face fears with confidence.
Relaxation and Settling Techniques
Teach relaxation exercises and help your dog settle, even in stressful situations.
Let us help you and your dog confidently and calmly face new challenges.
Flexible Training to Suit Your Lifestyle
Choose the Training Format That Best Fits Your Needs
We offer exclusive private training (in-person or online), as well as resources through our Academy Online, including courses, masterclasses, and webinars. Each option is designed to support you in helping your dog overcome fear, anxiety, and reactivity.
In-person coaching
Hands-on, personalized coaching tailored to your dog's needs. Learn in real-world situations with direct support from an expert.
Online Coaching
Flexible virtual sessions that allow you to train your dog effectively from home. Get expert advice and guidance without leaving your house.
Academy Online
Join our 12-week Calm & Confident Program through Academy Online. Accessible anywhere, this course helps you nurture a well-mannered, confident dog.
TESTIMONIALS
Success Stories from Happy Dog Parents
"This not just a lifesaver, it is a life enhancer"
When we met Teresa, Barnabas had been with us for over a year since we adopted him. Though he had made great strides in that time. We were still not able to have an enjoyable walk. He was extremely anxious out in the world, and would have emotional break downs. Our life is so much more complete, now that we can both walk in our neighborhood park or any location our activities take us. We now are able to walk and enjoy our surroundings." — Marilyn A.
"My dog looks to me instead of reacting"
"Teresa was amazing from our initial phone consultation to the training sessions and follow up emails. Our dog always had some form of leash reactivity, but it seemed to have amplified as he matured. Both my dog and I are less anxious when encountering other dogs, rollerbladers, and skateboarders. My dog now looks to me when he can anticipate a stressful encounter vs barking at his trigger. It has been a really rewarding experience and helped me and my dog form a better bond.' — Annie R.
MEET THE FOUNDER & CEO
Hey, I'm Teresa Loya
With over 25 years of experience in dog training and behavior modification, I’ve helped tens of thousands of dog owners build better relationships with their pets. My passion lies in guiding you and your dog to success, using reward-based training techniques that promote calmness, confidence, and good behavior that lasts!
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
Master's Degree in Animal Behavior
25+ years of professional experience, all
breeds, all ages
REady to Experience a well-mannered dog?
Start Today!
The longer you wait to address behavioral issues, the harder they become to correct. Early training isn't just about teaching commands—it's about preventing bad habits from taking root and giving your dog the best chance to thrive.
STILL NOT SURE?
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What types of behaviors does the Calm & Confident program address?
The Calm & Confident program is designed for dogs struggling with fear, anxiety, and reactivity. This includes behaviors like barking, lunging, growling, snapping, or general unease in response to specific triggers such as strangers, other dogs, new environments, or loud noises.
Question 2: Can my dog benefit from this program if they are older?
Absolutely! Dogs of any age can benefit from the Calm & Confident program. It’s never too late to work on reducing anxiety and building your dog's confidence. Our methods are tailored to your dog's unique needs, regardless of age or past experiences.
Question 3: How long will it take to see improvements in my dog's behavior?
The timeline for improvement depends on several factors, including the severity of your dog's anxiety or reactivity, their history, and how consistently training techniques are applied. Many dog parents start to see changes within a few weeks, but lasting results require ongoing practice and patience.
Question 4: How is this different from obedience training?
Unlike obedience training, which focuses on teaching commands like sit or stay, the Calm & Confident program addresses your dog’s underlying emotions, such as fear or anxiety. By using behavior modification and reward-based techniques, we help your dog feel safe, remain under their threshold, and build resilience instead of simply following commands.
Question 5: Do I need prior training experience to join this program?
No prior training experience is needed! Our program is designed to guide you step-by-step in supporting your dog's needs. We provide you with all the tools, resources, and personalized coaching to help your dog overcome their challenges and grow into a calm and confident companion.
Question 6: What training methods are used in the Calm & Confident program, and do you use corrections?
The Calm & Confident program focuses on behavior modification through positive, reward-based methods. We do not use physical corrections or punitive techniques, as these can increase fear and anxiety, making the problem worse. Behavior modification involves understanding your dog's triggers, teaching them new ways to respond, and using positive reinforcement to encourage calm and confident behavior. Our goal is to build trust and help your dog feel safe, which ultimately leads to more lasting behavioral change.
where confidence and connection grow
Programs