Addressing Leash Reactivity for more pleasant walks with your dog.
I became a dog trainer thanks to a leash reactive little guy named Gideon.
“My dog is not reactive in the typical sense. She just really wants to meet every dog she sees, and barks to say so. It’s harmless, but I still did not want her to do that, so we started taking Kristen’s classes more than two years ago. What I appreciate most about Kristen is her individual attention. She identified why my dog is barking and showed us the technique that works for my dog. Frankly, dog training is not really about training the dog - it’s about training the owner. I’ve learned so much from Kristen over these two years. My dog behaves beautifully now, but we keep coming back to class because Kristen finds new ways to challenge us and help us keep improving (my dog still has her moments occasionally!). It has been worth every session.”
He challenged me, taught me, and ultimately inspired my journey into training and dog sports.
Now, helping dogs and their humans navigate leash reactivity is one of my greatest passions. I love making walks more peaceful, enjoyable, and stress-free for everyone involved.
Consultation - Every new private lesson client starts with an Initial Consultation. During this appointment, we will go over a full history; establish a training plan including appropriate training, management, and enrichment activities; and assign homework. The consultation includes a written training plan and any relevant handouts. See the Private Lessons page for fees.
Private Follow Up Lessons - these are held in a pre-determined location with the trainer and client only (plus your dog). We will put what you were given to work on in your initial into practice. You will get real time feedback, review your progress, and assign new homework. $95
Semi Private Mini Sessions - similar to a private lesson, except these are comprised of 2-3 clients with their dogs for training around other dogs in more real life situations. Clients should have completed private lessons or Reactivity Rewired Class. $45 / session (discounted packages of sessions available, as well as discounts for returning clients).
Reactivity Rewired Group Class - A group class where you will learn behavior modification/training skills along with management practices, enrichment activities, and other strategies to work with your reactive dog. Fee varies depending on the length of the class session. Registration requires an assessment to make sure it is a good fit for your dog.
Visit the Contact Page and fill out a contact form to get in touch and get started!
Reactivity Package
This package of services provides a structured path from foundation skills to real-world practice in a safe, supportive environment.
The package includes:
Initial Consultation to assess your dog's behavior, identify triggers, and create a personalized training plan. This is held virtually so that we can ensure our first in person session is focused on training rather than information gathering, and so that you have some practical skills to implement immediately and during the first in person.
Two Private Follow-Up Sessions in-person with the trainer's calm, neutral dog to build skills in a controlled setting.
Two Reactive Mini Sessions that provide carefully managed opportunities to practice around other dogs with guidance from a trainer.
This step-by-step approach helps you build confidence, improve communication with your dog, and develop practical skills that carry over into everyday walks and outings. Packages are $395 ($450 value for each service purchased separately).
Individual Reactive Services
“The Reactive Mini Sessions with Kristen at Dogology WNY were a total game-changer! I really appreciated the focused format; it allowed us to work on specific triggers in a controlled setting without the intensity of a traditional, longer-format class. Since starting, I’ve seen a noticeable shift in my dog’s ability to remain calm and engaged around others, and I feel significantly more confident in my own handling techniques. It’s been an incredibly practical experience, and I’m so glad I reached out to Kristen for her expertise. ”