Workshops
Mini-Classes, Major Impacts
At The Better Companion, our workshops are short, focused sessions designed to dive into a specific skill or behavior, such as leash walking, recall, reactivity or grooming desensitization. These workshops are often 4 - 5 weeks, or two part hands on training sessions for those who cannot commit to multi week courses.
Feisty Fido (Dog-Reactive Dogs)
Feisty Fido is a specialized dog training class designed for dogs who bark, lunge, or growl at other dogs while on leash. This reactive behavior is often rooted in fear, frustration, or over-arousal. While it can be stressful for both the dog and the human, it can be improved with the right tools and techniques.
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This class provides a safe, controlled environment where you and your dog can learn to manage reactivity using force-free, science-based training methods. Through carefully structured exercises, distance work, and positive reinforcement, dogs learn to make calmer, more appropriate choices around triggers.
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Owners will learn:
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How to read and respond to their dog’s body language
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Skills for managing leash reactivity in real time
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How to build focus, calm behavior, and confidence
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Practical techniques like counter conditioning, desensitization, and pattern games
Feisty Fido is not about forcing dogs to “get over it.” It’s about changing their emotional responses, teaching alternative behaviors, and helping dogs feel safer and more successful in the presence of triggers.
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This class is ideal for dogs who are leash-reactive to other dogs, but not appropriate for dogs with a history of red-zone aggression (e.g., biting dogs or humans). A pre-class consultation may be required.
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Feisty Fido is a five-week course, with a maximum of four dogs per class.
Nervous Nellies (Shy and Sensitive Dogs)
Nervous Nellies is a gentle, supportive dog training class specifically designed for shy, fearful, insecure, or socially sensitive dogs who struggle with new people, environments, or experiences. This class focuses on helping dogs build confidence, resilience, and a sense of safety at their own pace.
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Using force-free, positive reinforcement methods, we guide dogs through carefully curated activities that promote curiosity and comfort without pressure. Exercises focus on body language awareness, consent-based handling, enrichment, and calm social exposure - never forcing interaction or flooding (forcing a fear-inducing stimulus such as a sound, object, or situation the dog cannot escape from until the dog stops exhibiting a fear response).
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In this class, dogs and their humans will learn to:
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Recognize early signs of stress and comfort
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Build trust through clear, kind communication
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Use counterconditioning to reduce fear triggers
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Practice confidence-building games and handling skills
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Support the dog’s emotional needs in real-world situations
Nervous Nellies is not about fixing a dog - it’s about helping them feel safe enough to grow and learn. By fostering trust, choice, and connection, we create the foundation for a more confident and resilient canine companion.
Ideal for dogs who are timid, avoidant, fearful of strangers, or overwhelmed by new environments. Not intended for dogs showing aggressive behavior; a behavior consult may be required before enrolling.
Nervous Nellies is a five-week course, with a maximum of six dogs per class.
Reliable Recall
Reliable Recall is a focused training class designed to teach your dog to come running to you the first time you call - even around distractions like other dogs, people, wildlife, and exciting smells.
A strong recall is not just convenient, it’s one of the most important safety cues your dog can learn.
This class uses force-free, positive reinforcement techniques to build a recall that your dog finds fun, rewarding, and reliable. Through engaging games, progressive challenges, and real-life scenarios, we strengthen your dog’s motivation to come back because they want to, not because they have to.
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In this class, you and your dog will learn:
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How to build a rock-solid foundation for recall
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What motivates your dog to return quickly
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Common recall mistakes and how to avoid them
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How to ensure reliability in your dog’s recall around distractions
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Emergency recall techniques for real-world safety
Whether your dog is just starting to learn recall or needs a stronger recall refresher, Reliable Recall helps you build a responsive, enthusiastic return and no more chasing, shouting, or frustration. Just a happy, willing dog who comes running when it counts most.
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Reliable Recall is only for people- and dog-friendly dogs! This is a four-week course, with a maximum of six dogs.
Loose Leash Walking
Loose Leash Walking is a practical, skills-based training class designed to teach your dog how to walk politely on leash without pulling, dragging, or lunging. Walks should be enjoyable for both ends of the leash, and this class helps make that a reality.
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Using positive reinforcement and science-based techniques, we help dogs learn to stay connected with their handler, make good choices, and walk calmly at a comfortable pace. No prong collars, no harsh corrections - just clear communication, trust-building, and teamwork.
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In this class, you’ll learn how to:
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Teach and reinforce polite leash walking skills
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Keep your dog engaged and focused during walks
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Handle distractions (other dogs, people, smells, etc.)
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Prevent and reduce pulling behavior
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Build leash manners through fun games and exercises
Whether your dog is a young pup, a rescue just learning the ropes, or an adult who’s made pulling a habit, this class gives you the tools and strategies to turn your daily walks into calm, cooperative adventures.
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Loose Leash Walking is a four-week course, with a maximum of six dogs.
Muzzle Conditioning
Muzzle Conditioning is a supportive training class designed to help dogs learn to comfortably and confidently wear a muzzle, using only positive reinforcement and consent-based training methods. Whether for vet visits, grooming, or safety during behavior modification, a muzzle can be a valuable tool when introduced the right way.
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This class focuses on removing the stigma around muzzles and replacing fear or discomfort with trust, calmness, and even enthusiasm. By making the muzzle a source of good things, dogs learn to willingly participate in the process, turning a potentially stressful experience into one they can handle with ease.
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In this class, you and your dog will learn:
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How to choose the right type and fit of muzzle
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Step-by-step positive reinforcement techniques to build comfort
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Games and handling skills that make muzzling fun and stress-free
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How to introduce duration, movement, and handling with the muzzle on
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Real-world applications: vet visits, grooming, emergencies, public access
Muzzle Conditioning isn’t about preparing for the worst - it’s about setting your dog up for success. Whether your dog is sensitive, fearful, or just needs extra support, this class helps create a positive association with an important safety tool, all while strengthening the human-animal bond.
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Ideal for dogs of all ages, especially those who may need to wear a muzzle for medical, grooming, or behavior reasons.
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This is a two-part mini-course, with a maximum of six dogs.
Cooperative Care:
Empowering Your Dog in Their Wellness
Cooperative Care is a specialized training class designed to help dogs learn to actively and willingly participate in their own care, such as vet visits, grooming, and everyday handling, using force-free, choice-based techniques. By prioritizing the dog’s comfort and consent, this class transforms routine care from something stressful into something collaborative.
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This class focuses on building trust, reducing fear, and teaching dogs how to say “yes” (or “not yet”) through clearly communicated behaviors. Using positive reinforcement, we create a safe space for dogs to develop confidence with touch, tools, and procedures.
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In this class, dogs and their humans will learn:
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How to teach start buttons (consent cues) for handling
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How to introduce care tools like clippers, brushes, nail trimmers, and more
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How to read and respond to subtle body language and stress signals
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Techniques for desensitization and counter-conditioning
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How to make care routines cooperative instead of forced
Cooperative Care isn’t about getting the job done fast - it’s about creating a relationship where the dog feels safe, heard, and respected.
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Whether your goal is easier nail trims, smoother vet visits, or a more trusting bond with your dog, this class gives you the tools to make care a shared experience, and not a struggle.
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Cooperative Care is a four-week course, with a maximum of six dogs.