Healthy Mind Canine - Separation Anxiety Training

07/02/2025

Fact or crap? 👀

06/02/2025

Imagine if everyone who suffered from depression, loneliness, etc. during the COVID lockdown were told that their expression of those feelings and needs was a "behavior problem" that needed "fixing." Imagine if we tried to reward or punish them out of it, rather than provide opportunities for safe social connection?

I hope that sounds ridiculous.

Unfortunately, this is how the industry has taught us to handle our dogs' emotional behaviors. Instead of social/emotional support to help the overexcited, aggressive, anxious, or stressed dog, we're told to focus on consequences to increase or decrease the behavior, as if the change in outward expression will magically fix the inner turmoil.

The industry has been telling us that relationships are transactional: "If you do this, I'll do that." But this isn't how social species, like humans and dogs, naturally relate, connect, or communicate. It's not how we heal and become healthier, happier, and behaviorally sound individuals.

It's ok to be your dog's friend, to respond with care when they are happy, sad, or angry. It's also ok to have boundaries, and to communicate them in a healthy and respectful way.

Our dogs need connection, and they need someone to listen to what they actually need from us, not what we think they need. When they feel heard and emotionally safe, behavior problems naturally disappear, because they weren't problems in the first place: they were communication.

22/01/2025

So many behavior problems in our dogs are simply …

11/01/2025

08/01/2025

If you're frustrated and struggling with your dogs behavior, you may be missing the mark with your training. It's not your fault! You are just a victim of the unregulated dog training industry and the wild west that is the internet telling you that your dog just needs formal "training".

If you're missing the mark, we can help you get back on the path to harmony with your dog! Send us a message or email for more information about our consulting options 💜

06/01/2025

👀Check out some of our recent testimonials!

If we could rate our clients, we'd give them 5 stars too! 🏅

💜Send us a message if you're looking for individualized training that prioritizes you and your dog's relationship & wellbeing!

30/12/2024

Good boy Jasper is wishing everyone a happy holiday and a new year full of smooth training!
Thank you all for your support over the last year and for being patient waiting for replies during the holidays!

18/12/2024

Want to make sure your dog is getting everything they need out of life? Check out our new wellbeing consultation offering!

Send us a message to get started 😊

17/12/2024

16/12/2024

The Family Dog Mediation Education Center has recently released The Dogs Truth for FREE to the public! This is a fantastic educational video that helps you understand your dog on a deeper level by looking at the entirety of what makes them who they are! (Learning history, Environment, Genetics, & Self individuality). By understanding where our dogs are coming from, we can have more empathy for their experiences and more realistic expectations for their behavior.

THIS is one of the best things you can do in your dog guardianship journey!

FULL PRO COURSE!https://kimbropheylegscourses.thinkific.com/courses/legs-applied-ethology-family-dog-mediation-professional-courseYOUR DOG is not broken, and...

05/12/2024

Did you know crating a dog with separation anxiety can often make the problem worse?

While crates can be a good tool for many dogs, they aren’t typically ideal for those struggling with separation anxiety. For some dogs, being confined in a crate can heighten their sense of panic, leading to attempts to escape that can even result in injury. Imagine feeling trapped while also being terrified that you are alone—this can be how a dog with separation anxiety experiences a crate.

Instead, many dogs with SA do better in a safe area or a cozy spot where they feel secure but not confined. Creating a peaceful, quiet environment with familiar scents and sounds often provides comfort and helps them feel at ease during alone time.

The key is to understand your dog’s individual needs. We’ll help you determine the best approach to creating a safe, comfortable space for your dog that can improve alone-time training. Every dog’s journey with separation anxiety is unique, and we’re here to guide you in finding the right fit.

28/10/2024

🚨 Now taking non-separation anxiety cases on a limited basis! In person vs virtual dependent on location and what your dog needs help with. Schedule your discovery call to learn about pricing and see if I may be a good fit for you and your dog!

Updated website with this information will be coming soon! 👀

02/10/2024

11/09/2024

Hero’s ☺️

When the World Trade Center collapsed on 9/11, nearly 10,000 rescue workers joined in the efforts. Over 300 of those heroes were dogs.

09/09/2024

Welcome Jasper! 💜

06/09/2024

Huge congrats to Sue and her family for graduating door desensitization!!!

Sometimes it takes us a little extra time to get our foot in the door in the beginning of training. 💜 Miss Sue is one of those special sweet pups! Her family has done such a great job being patient with her and trusting the process!

Go Sue!!!!!

26/08/2024

I was recently asked to write a short article for Dogs On The Run about what I wish every pet parent knew as an SA specialist.
🚨Spoiler alert: Your dog isn't trying to be naughty or spiteful!

https://www.dogsontherun.com/articles/what-separation-anxiety-specialists-wish-pet-parents-knew

What Separation Anxiety Specialists wish parents knew

19/08/2024

We've won the platinum spot in the pet training category for the best of Maple Grove! Thank you all so much for your trust and support! 🏅💜