Private dog training for adolescent dogs (6 months to 3 years) in Toronto and online
Just when you thought the hard work was over, between 5 and 8 months of age your puppy begins to transition into adolescence and new challenges present themselves.
Whether you raised your dog from puppyhood or recently adopted a teen without the benefit of a great start…
YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE.
I’ll help you navigate this stage with confidence and connection.
Adolescence is more than just a phase. It’s a full-on brain renovation.
During the stage, your dog’s brain is literally getting rewired – much like a human teenager’s. Think of it like a house under renovation: dust everywhere, plastic sheets for windows, wires hanging out of the walls… It’s no wonder things don’t always run smoothly.
This natural developmental stage can lead to:
But it doesn’t have to go that way.
For over 20 years, I’ve helped thousands of loving parents navigate this bumpy season – so their dogs can grow into the calm, connected companions they were meant to be.
I believe people are not just dog owners but committed guardians who see their dog as family. And this challenging phase, when embraced rather than endured, can become the foundation for a remarkable partnership that will enrich both your lives for years to come.
During the adolescent phase of development, the canine brain is literally being remodelled in a process that is similar to how human teens develop. Picture a house under renovation – there is dust and grit everywhere, there are plastic sheets making do as windows and loose wires hanging out of the walls. The Teenage brain looks a little like this so it’s no surprise that things aren’t working the way you might hope.
You may even find discover gaps in your puppy training, even when all seemed solid. Not every teenager struggles with these, but if a few hit home, you’re not alone – and if you haven’t seen any challenging behaviour yet, it’s a good time for some preventative training.
During this stage, dogs can also develop new fears as they enter a sensitive period and often struggle with impulse control and even social skills. This often leads to frustrated and discouraged pet parents, and even rehoming.
Over the last 20 years I’ve helped thousands of pet parents get back on track and help their youngsters grow into the best dogs they can be!
Terrific Teen clients have peace of mind in knowing they have expert guidance and a step by step plan.
During the adolescent phase of development, the canine brain is literally being remodelled in a process that is similar to how human teens develop. Unused neuronal connections are being pruned and new connections are just waiting to be formed. Picture a house under renovation – there is dust and grit everywhere, there are plastic sheets making do as windows and loose wires hanging out of the walls. It’s no surprise that things aren’t working the way you might hope. This often leads to frustrated and discouraged pet parents, and even rehoming.
Over the last 20 years I’ve helped thousands of pet parents get back on track and fall in love with their dogs all over again!
Terrific Teen clients have peace of mind in knowing they are getting the benefit of the very latest knowledge and best practices regarding canine adolescence in addition to over 20 years of experience. They are assured unparalleled support alongside a clear guide to what to work on each week. It’s why we are the #1 recommended dog training program by VCA Canada Toronto-based hospitals and many local veterinarians.
We just finished puppy training and have no major pain points – is this program right for us?
ABSOLUTELY! Because the adolescent brain is literally restructuring itself this is the perfect time to be providing ongoing training so that you can stay one step ahead of the game. That way you’ll be ensuring that the right behaviours are developing from the start, rather than trying to fix a problem once it’s already cropped up.
We already have some problems – Is it too late to get back on track?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! I’ll give you a concrete step-by-step plan to turn frustration and discouragement (and sometimes resentment and guilt) into confidence and pride in your accomplishments together. Get ready to be the envy of the neighbourhood.
No matter your starting point – new puppy graduate, first-time dog parent or someone just feeling overwhelmed or discouraged, Terrific Teen programs meet you where you are and give you the tools to ensure your teen dog grows into the best dog they can be.
ABSOLUTELY! The adolescent brain is undergoing major changes making this the ideal time to keep training going. By staying one step ahead or setting your dog up for lasting success, preventing unwanted behaviours instead of trying to fix them later.
ABSOLUTELY NOT! I’ll give you a clear, step-by-step plan to move from frustration and guilt to confidence and pride. You’ll feel back in control and connected to your dog again – maybe even becoming the envy of the neighbourhood!
100%! Programs are designed to meet dogs where they are. No matter you’re starting point, we’ll build momentum together and create solid foundations you can count on.
Fantastic! We’ll take your training to the next level – building, reliable behaviour around real life distractions, and helping your dog. Learn to make better choices with less management from you. Think of it as advanced life skills for your maturing pup..
Together we’ll design a training program to suit your lifestyle. You’ll get flexible, manageable strategies that work in real life not just her during training sessions.
Building trust and connection is the foundation on which good behaviour is built. During adolescence, your dog is learning who and what to trust in the world and that includes you training at this stage isn’t just about obedience. It’s about strengthening your relationship when your dog feels safe, understood and connected. They’re more likely to learn and make good choices even when life gets distracting.
We just finished puppy training and have no major pain points – is this program right for us?
ABSOLUTELY! Because the adolescent brain is literally restructuring itself this is the perfect time to be providing ongoing training so that you can stay one step ahead of the game. That way you’ll be ensuring that the right behaviours are developing from the start, rather than trying to fix a problem once it’s already cropped up.
TRAIN SMARTER NOT HARDER. YOUNG DOGS GROW INTO PROBLEMS MORE OFTEN THAN THEY GROW OUT OF THEM.
We already have some problems – Is it too late to get back on track?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! I’ll give you a concrete step-by-step plan to turn frustration and discouragement (and sometimes resentment and guilt) into confidence and pride in your accomplishments together. Get ready to be the envy of the neighbourhood.
A personalized 8-week training program designed to help you and your adolescent dog thrive right in your home and everyday environment.
Better than Bootcamp! A flexible in-home training where I do the heavy lifting with your dog so you can fast-track progress without sacrificing long-term success.
A short and focused private training package designed to fine-tune key skills and get you back on track – fast.
TOGETHER WE CAN TAKE YOUR TEEN FROM SASSY TO CLASSY
We just finished puppy training and have no major pain points – is this program right for us?
ABSOLUTELY! Because the adolescent brain is literally restructuring itself this is the perfect time to be providing ongoing training so that you can stay one step ahead of the game. That way you’ll be ensuring that the right behaviours are developing from the start, rather than trying to fix a problem once it’s already cropped up.
TRAIN SMARTER NOT HARDER.
YOUNG DOGS GROW INTO PROBLEMS MORE OFTEN THAN THEY GROW OUT OF THEM.
We already have some problems – Is it too late to get back on track?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! I’ll give you a concrete step-by-step plan to turn frustration and discouragement (and sometimes resentment and guilt) into confidence and pride in your accomplishments together. Get ready to be the envy of the neighbourhood.
I’LL HELP YOU UNLOCK YOUR DOG’S POTENTIAL AND LIVE YOUR BEST LIVES TOGETHER.
Doesn’t my dog need to practice around other dogs ?
You and your dog will be able to hone new skills quickly in a safe and distraction-free environment to better prepare you for what the world throws your way. And you’ll have as much support as you choose with different levels of enrolment.
THE PRIVATE PROGRAM
An 8-week program, tailored to meet the needs of you and your dog. We work in your home and on your walking routes and local parks to give you guidance right where it’s needed. Customized step by step weekly homework assignments plans and an easy to follow training schedule help set everyone up for success! These are supported by lesson notes and video tutorials as well as a coach in your pocket throughout – I’m always available to answer questions, get updates or help you celebrate wins between lessons.
DONE-FOR-YOU PROGRAM
Better than Bootcamp! If you want a little help with the heavy lifting, I’ll work with your dog myself multiple times a week in their own environment. This won’t take the place of you learning how to work with your dog, but it can give a big turbo boost to your training program.
My dog:
If that’s the life you’re ready for…I’d love to help you get there. Let’s chat about what’s possible for you and your dog.
So if the following bragging rights are of interest:
