Our practical, positive training approach works in the real world. We welcome dogs of all breeds, ages, and behavior challenges—whether you’re navigating puppyhood or tackling fear, anxiety, reactivity or aggression issues. We’re not here to judge, we’re here to help.
We partner with you to find creative, individualized solutions that work for your life and your dog’s unique needs—whether you need quick troubleshooting advice or a more in-depth program.
Compassionate, skilled trainers and behavior consultants. Custom solutions. Lifetime support. Lasting results.
Join the Instinct family and discover what’s possible for you and your dog.
“I have never met a more devoted team… they restored my faith in humankind.”
Work one-on-one with a trainer or behavior consultant to reach your goals.
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We use a powerful combination of positive board & train camp and private coaching sessions to create lasting behavior change.
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We work with your dog during the day at home, then provide private coaching sessions with you to bring you up to speed.
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You love your dog as family…but how well do you really know them? Join co-hosts Brian Burton and Sarah Fraser as they interview dog behavior experts on topics about our canine family members. Named Dog Writer’s Association best behavior podcast of 2020.
Nature-Driven Nurture is Instinct’s revolutionary approach to dog parenting. It helps dog owners achieve lasting behavior change where traditional dog training programs fall short. Rooted in behavioral health science, Nature-Driven Nurture™ helps you optimize and customize your care & training to work with your dog’s unique personality, instincts, and innate drives.
Our (Totally Imaginary) Top 5 Scary Movies for Dogs. Link in bio to article with details and real world advice for these very real scary situations. #doghalloween #halloween #dogbehavior #funnydogs #instinctdogtraining #horror #horrormovies
Is it REALLY that bad to repeat cues when training your dog?
Like most things in dog training (and in life), the real answer is…it depends. Check out our quick guide to learn whether your repetitive cuing with your dog is likely to be helpful, harmful, or neutral.
#dogtraining #dogbehavior #dogtrainingtips #positivedogtraining
If you know a friend, family member, or co-worker with a fearful or aggressive dog, avoid these 3 common mistakes to ensure you’re helping them and their dog feel safe and supported.
#aggressivedog #aggressivedogs #fearfuldog #fearfuldogs #dogbehavior #reactivedogs #reactivedog
If you have a new dog that is displaying aggressive behaviors, sometimes less is more. Taking a step back, finding the right qualified behavior professional for your goals, and focusing on the key things that are sustainable AND effective to help you and your dog move forward. Watch the full Dogs Unknown Podcast episode now. Link in bio #dogaggression #dogsunknown #instinctdogtraining
Free Rescue Dog Roadmap Seminar tonight AND every 4th Wednesday of the month! Link in bio to register. If you’re a new (or not so new) rescue dog parent and would like some guidance on how to best understand our rescue dog, and how to best nurture them moving forward to build a strong relationship and life together, register for our free seminar. #rescuedog #instinctdogtraining
On this week’s episode of Dogs Unknown (podcast link in bio), we discuss whether telling a dog No has a place in a positive training framework. One of the topics covered was why setting boundaries, as opposed to rules, is an important distinction that can make giving our dogs direction more fair, and less frustrating for both you and your dog. #dogtraining #dogbehavior #dogsunknown #instinctdogtraining
Sleep deprivation for new #puppy parents is a very real thing. Using the puppy studio apartment is a great way to have more restful nights, while also ensuring you aren’t setting yourself up for house training complications. Setting up a pen with the crate in the pen (crate door open) with the wee wee pad on the other side of the pen has been a game changer for puppy owners struggling with losing sleep during the puppy phase. #puppytraining #puppytips #instinctdogtraining #dogsunknown
Small adjustments in your handling can add up to big differences in your dog’s ability to pass by their triggers without reacting.
The tips included in this short video are examples of simple ways you can create more distance (or at least, the *feeling* of more distance) for your reactive dog, while also positioning yourself as a safe, protective presence for them.
Want help working through your dog’s leash reactivity? Check out or free Leash Reactive Dog course in our Online School (link in bio) or reach out to your nearest Instinct to schedule a free Discovery Call.
#leashreactivity #leashreactivedog #dogs #dogtraining
One tell-tale sign that your city dog is overwhelmed on walks: they don’t use their nose to sniff and explore the world around them.
Watch your dog the next time they’re out on a walk. If they’re “all eyes”, they may be feeling fearful, anxious, or otherwise uncomfortable.
Sometimes, helping your dog feel more comfortable is as simple as adjusting your walking route slightly to somewhere that’s a little less busy and stimulating. Other times, it’s best to work with a dog behavior consultant who can help with building your dog’s confidence in navigating urban life.
Check out this week’s episode of Dogs Unknown, “Over Threshold: Urban Dog Handling” (available anywhere you listen to podcasts) for tons of great tips and advice on protecting your city dog’s welfare.
#citydogs #dogbehavior #fearfuldogs
City life can be stressful for dogs (and people, too!). One of the simplest ways to make city walks more fun and predictable - and a lot less stressful - for your dog is to take some of their favorite treats along with you.
Reward your dog with tiny pieces of food whenever they look up at you, and offer some warm praise to let them know you’re connected and paying attention to them, and that you’re happy they’re checking in with you.
If you and your dog live in an urban environment (or if you ever spend time in one together), don’t miss this week’s episode of Dogs Unknown, “Over Threshold: Urban Dog Handling” for tons of great tips and advice on protecting your city dog’s welfare. (Link in bio)
#dogbehavior #dogtraining #citydogs
Help us learn more about your dog and your behavior goals, and we’ll help you implement a custom program that lets you and your dog live happier lives together, filled with fun, freedom and friendship.
You can also call your local Instinct location to speak to a trainer.
