Learning Tails

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Learning Tails Force-free, evidence-based dog training and behavior consulting by Ally Mentlik, CTC, FFCP Hi!

I’m Ally Mentlik and I run Learning Tails Training and Behavior based in Chester, NJ. I’m a lifelong animal lover, rescue volunteer, and an honors graduate of The Academy for Dog Trainers. I’m dedicated to humane, force-free, reward-based methods and value continuing education, kindness, and empathy for both ends of the leash. As a certified dog trainer and Fear Free Certified Professional, my reward-based methods can improve your life with your dog!

As the temperatures drop, many dogs get a second wind - more playful, more barky - no more of that summer heat lounging!...
15/10/2025

As the temperatures drop, many dogs get a second wind - more playful, more barky - no more of that summer heat lounging!

This seasonal energy boost can be a good thing, but it also means we may see more leash pulling, reactivity, or restlessness. Now’s a great time to revisit your training foundation, add in new enrichment activities, or change up your walks to help channel that energy in a healthy way!

Big congrats to Rogan on graduating! 🎓💫This smart, energetic guy made so much progress — from rocking his new walking ge...
14/10/2025

Big congrats to Rogan on graduating! 🎓💫

This smart, energetic guy made so much progress — from rocking his new walking gear to building a super solid recall and learning how to channel that busy poodle brain through enrichment, exercise, and thoughtful behavior choices. So proud of this sweet boy and his mom!

We hit our favorite trails over the weekend! Nothing makes my girls happier than time in the woods 🙂🥾🍃
17/09/2025

We hit our favorite trails over the weekend! Nothing makes my girls happier than time in the woods 🙂🥾🍃

Counterconditioning is all about changing how your dog feels - not just how they behave.Let’s say your dog is scared of ...
16/09/2025

Counterconditioning is all about changing how your dog feels - not just how they behave.

Let’s say your dog is scared of strangers. Every time someone appears, you feed them something SO delicious. Eventually, your dog starts to think, “Hey, people = snacks!”

That shift in emotion (from fear to positive association) is what helps behaviors change long-term.

We often pair counterconditioning with desensitization, using both science and empathy to help dogs feel safe and supported. If your dog seems nervous or reactive, I understand how difficult that can be, and I’d love to help you get started. 🐾

Right in front of Emma is a screen door that’s finally able to give us some breeze! We’re ready for a cozy fall over her...
11/09/2025

Right in front of Emma is a screen door that’s finally able to give us some breeze! We’re ready for a cozy fall over here 😊🍂

Everyone say hi to Gus! 🖤This sweet 9-month-old lab puppy is such a lovable goofball — full of wiggles and trying so har...
10/09/2025

Everyone say hi to Gus! 🖤

This sweet 9-month-old lab puppy is such a lovable goofball — full of wiggles and trying so hard to learn it all. We’re working on puppy skills and socialization, leash walking, recall, polite greetings, enrichment, play opportunities, and so much more. I can already tell he’s going to make amazing progress! 🐾

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Truly no one better at *finding the light* than your cat! ☀️🖤🐈‍⬛😎
09/09/2025

Truly no one better at *finding the light* than your cat! ☀️🖤🐈‍⬛😎

If sensitization means things are getting worse, desensitization is how we help things get better.Desensitization is the...
02/09/2025

If sensitization means things are getting worse, desensitization is how we help things get better.

Desensitization is the careful, slow exposure to a trigger at a low enough intensity that your dog doesn’t react. With time, patience, and support, they can learn that the thing isn’t scary anymore.

It’s how we help dogs feel better about things like the vet, nail trims, strangers, car rides, or even the leash. It’s all about going at their pace!

If you’re not sure how to start or you think your dog might need help, I'm here to chat! ❤

Congratulations to Windsor! 👏🏼 Three awesome sessions and this boy has worked so hard - he knows all of his foundation b...
29/08/2025

Congratulations to Windsor! 👏🏼 Three awesome sessions and this boy has worked so hard - he knows all of his foundation behaviors, has a new, super-charged recall cue, and his mom has learned and implemented so much in regard to play behaviors, enrichment, and more! He’s been such a pleasure to work with and I know he’ll continue to do great things! 🤩

Taking full advantage of the cooler weather this week! 🍃
28/08/2025

Taking full advantage of the cooler weather this week! 🍃

This kind of feedback means the world to me 🥹💕If you’re looking for support with your new puppy (or just want to enjoy l...
27/08/2025

This kind of feedback means the world to me 🥹💕

If you’re looking for support with your new puppy (or just want to enjoy life with your dog a little more!), I’d love to help.

That late summer, late afternoon, open window breeze ☀️☺️
26/08/2025

That late summer, late afternoon, open window breeze ☀️☺️

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Opening Hours

Monday 12:00 - 20:00
Tuesday 12:00 - 20:00
Wednesday 12:00 - 17:00
Thursday 12:00 - 20:00
Friday 12:00 - 15:00

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