Anxiety/Fear, Reactivity, & Aggression

We help transform stress into success!

We specialize in in-home private training in the Portland Metro Area, and virtual/remote training when appropriate, at the same rates.

IMPORTANT: If your dog is reactive toward, or fearful of, new people — or has a bite history of any degree — your initial 90-minute consultation will be held virtually over Zoom. This is a non-negotiable company policy, put in place to enhance the quality of care we provide for dogs with stranger-directed reactivity, fear, or aggression

Does your dog exhibit fearful, reactive, or aggressive behaviors? Perhaps you could describe your pup as "a little too spicy"?

Maybe you've done a ton of research, or already worked with a trainer, and still can't seem to bring your peppery pupper's spice level down. Their zest for life routinely makes your eyes water, and it breaks your heart to see their world getting smaller.

Your peppery pupper may not become a "cool cucumber," but we can certainly help transform them from a habanero pupper to something way less spicy — and we'll preserve their personality without cutting out all the flavor!

"If you're looking for a trainer who supplies individual attention and who will celebrate the wins on your journey with your pup, then you've found the right place!" — Team Millie


Aggressive, fearful, and reactive behaviors can reduce everyone’s quality of life.

Reactivity explained in 6 minutes

We understand the struggles that come with loving a reactive dog, and we're here to guide you through them: turning challenging moments into opportunities for growth and bonding. Our training packages are thoughtfully designed to address the unique needs of your dog, empowering you with the confidence and skills, to encourage positive behaviors — with expert trainers, a compassionate approach, and a commitment to positive reinforcement.


The 4 Stages of our Behavior Program

1. De-stress

Prevention and welfare

We'll begin by developing a plan to de-stress your dog's world, using simple and proven management strategies that give you and your dog instant relief. We'll help you understand how to meet your dog's core needs through species-specific enrichment games designed to lower their heart rate and decrease stress hormones. It'll seem simple, but it's actually scientific! This step helps your dog decompress so their brain is more receptive to "cortical remapping" — aka, learning new things.

2. Rewire and Inspire

Rewire negative associations

One of the top reasons dogs behave fearfully or aggressively is that they've formed a negative association with a particular stimulus or event — a direct connection that triggers frustration, anger, fear, or protection instincts. This stage helps them form new associations by pairing their trigger with something they love. This is called counterconditioning and desensitization.

3. Remodel

Remodel old habits

Reactive or fearful dogs tend to have a well-practiced freeze, flight, or fight response when triggered — habits that have proven effective for them in getting out of situations they don't like. We'll show them that alternative, calming behaviors are also effective in resolving their conflict, and foster a toolbox of new skills that act as healthier habits they can lean on.

4. Restore and Enjoy

Restore your relationship

Imagine this: you've put the work in, and you're no longer scared or embarrassed of your dog's behavior. You now speak the same language, and your stress has shifted to success. Your dog is even getting compliments on the streets from strangers, and your relationship has been restored. Training is a journey, not a destination — but when you love the journey, it doesn't matter where you end up, as long as you're together.


Real People, Real Transformations


Compare Our Fear/Reactivity Training Packages

Click to view the details of each package:

Please note:

The size of the package doesn't determine the rate of progress your dog will make. Training a dog is a lifelong journey, and as they pass through developmental stages, their behavior — and their capacity to learn — will shift too. Choosing a larger package simply means a longer duration of guidance from your trainer, which translates into more knowledge, mastery, and success implementing the training long after your package is complete.

Dog training is a technical, mechanical skill requiring a deep understanding of dog body language, learning theory, marker mechanics, and canine ethology. Our trainers will help you understand how all of this impacts behavior, in a way that creates lasting change and a great relationship with your dog.

*Depending on the specific behavioral concerns your dog is experiencing, your case may require the support of a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine – Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA), which is reflected in the pricing ranges below. Learn more about credentials in dog training.

**For dogs with reactivity toward new people, fear issues, or any bite history, the initial consultation will be conducted virtually via Zoom for safety.

“I can honestly say that although he has been our most challenging dog, I have a better relationship with him than any other dog I have owned. The amount of time Noble Woof spends with each client is well worth the fee.” — Satisfied client

Why Private Training For Reactivity is so effective

Katch gives Takaia some treats on the trail at Thousand Acres
  • Aggressive, fearful, and reactive behaviors are complex and require highly specialized attention

  • We tailor each program to fit your specific training goals

  • You and your dog move at your own pace

  • We build in distractions and challenges strategically, for maximum success

  • There's more scheduling flexibility

  • We can support you better when we see and work with you in the environment where your dog spends the most time

"My relationship with my pup is now a thousand times better than I ever imagined it would be, and our dog is thriving." — Team Mina


 

The importance of a check-up at the vet

Most behavior problems are fueled by undiagnosed health problems. If your dog is sick, in pain, or suffering from clinical anxiety, they won’t be in the best state for learning. The first step is to get a check-up at the vet. The training we do won’t take hold if we don’t treat underlying health issues first. Some severe behavior issues will require a referral to a veterinary behaviorist.


Get Matched With a Trainer

To ensure we are the best possible fit, please take a moment to tell us a little bit about you and your dog.

Please note: Your address must be within a 20 minute drive of our facility address to be eligible for in-home private training. If you are outside that address we can provide lessons over zoom.

After reviewing your form, we'll contact you with an introduction to your trainer and links to purchase your desired package. We regularly book up to 2–3 months in advance, so we recommend submitting your form and booking sessions as soon as you're ready to get started.