Separation and reactivity

Separation distress and reactivity are both about fear, and fear is not fixed by correction. It is fixed by keeping the dog below the point where it panics and slowly, measurably moving that point. It takes weeks to months. It works. And it is far easier with someone checking the plan every fortnight.

Separation programmes start with an assessment at home and a recording: we ask you to film the dog alone for a few minutes, so we know whether the problem starts at the door, after ten minutes, or when you pick up your keys. The plan builds absences in seconds and minutes, never longer than the dog can cope with, with a camera so you can see, and with a plan for the hours in between (a dog walker, a sitter, day care) because the dog must not be left beyond its limit while the training happens. Most dogs can be left for a working morning within two to four months.

Reactivity programmes start the same way and then move to walks: we find the distance at which your dog can see another dog (or a person, a bike, whatever the trigger is) and stay calm, and we work there, rewarding calm looking, then slowly closing the distance over weeks. Owners learn to read the early signs, to choose routes and times, and to get out of a situation before it boils over. We use quiet corners of Heath Park at quiet times and, later, a calm stooge dog of ours, Bracken.

Both programmes have four follow-ups over about three months, at home or on walks, and messaging support throughout, usually with short videos back and forth. The written plan is updated after each follow-up. Where medication might help, we say so and work with your vet.

We are honest about what is realistic. Most separation cases improve enormously; a few dogs always need someone with them. Most reactive dogs become manageable and many become calm; few become dogs who love every other dog. We will tell you what we see at the assessment.

What is included

• A ninety-minute assessment at home, with a video of the dog alone or on a walk
• A written plan, updated after every follow-up
• Four follow-ups over about three months, at home or on walks
• Messaging support throughout, videos back and forth
• A calm stooge dog for reactivity work when the dog is ready
• Joint working with your vet where medication may help

What it costs

£320 for the programme: a ninety-minute assessment, a written plan, four follow-ups and three months of messaging support. No membership and nothing added. The timetable has every class with its spaces and every price side by side; the problem finder says which course or visit fits.