Canine State of Mind
Ranked #9 in Chicago and #25 in Illinois
Service area: Sasha offers in-person VIP experiences in the Chicago area and worldwide. The Peaceful Dog Boarding Retreat and On-Site Education are located at Sasha’s farm in Jo Daviess County, northwest Illinois, approximately two and a half to three hours from Chicago. Transportation is provided from pick-up points near Lincoln Park, O’Hare Airport, and Stockton, Illinois. Virtual coaching is available globally.
Service Overview
Types of Dog Training
- Behavior Modification
Specialty Focus Areas
- Leash Pulling
- Reactivity / Aggression
- Jumping on People
- Barking Excessively
- Separation Anxiety
- Biting / Nipping
- Potty Training
- Fearfulness
Training Formats Offered
- Private Lessons
- Private Facility
- Board and Train
- Video Calls
Program Formats
- One-Time Consultation
- Sessions Package
- Intensive Program
Age of Dogs Trained
- Puppy (<1 year)
- Adolescent (1-2 years)
- Adult (2-8 years)
Dog Training Methodology
Methods:
- ✓ Other
Canine State of Mind offers three main programs:
The Embodied Alpha Masterclass is a self-led, 8-step online program designed to help owners shift their mindset, master their energy, and transform their dog’s well-being and behavior. It includes educational videos, guided meditations, journal prompts, and an interactive workbook.
The Elite Behavior Reinvention Program is a private, fully-transformative program for dog parents. It offers three formats: In-Home VIP Experience (private, in-person coaching with Sasha, custom-tailored, includes access to Embodied Alpha Masterclass and messenger support), On-Site Education (intensive healing experience for the dog at Sasha’s farm, followed by three 90-minute Zoom sessions, nutritional analysis, messenger support, and Masterclass access), and Virtual Education (three 90-minute Zoom sessions, messenger support, and Masterclass access).
The Peaceful Dog Boarding Retreat is a holistic, cage-less/crate-free dog boarding experience on Sasha’s farm, offering ample exercise, daily hikes, socialization, and a natural environment with 24/7 on-site staff. It includes nutritional analysis and medication/supplement distribution. This is purely a boarding service, not an educational program, but can be upgraded to the Elite Behavior Reinvention Program.
Pricing & Policies
Pricing Summary
The Embodied Alpha Masterclass costs $299 for one payment or two monthly payments of $150. Peaceful Dog Boarding Retreat starts at $105/night, which includes medication/supplement distribution. Round trip transportation for boarding is $215. Additional fees apply for bathing ($50/cleaning), nail trims ($20/session), and a holiday surcharge ($110/night). Food is not included in boarding costs. Pricing for the In-Home VIP Experience is arranged privately with Sasha.
Policies
For dog boarding, a 5-night minimum stay is required. Cancellations for dog stays are accepted via email until pick-up. For coaching sessions, Sasha has a nonrefundable 24-hour cancellation policy outlined in the service waiver. Rabies and Distemper/Parvovirus vaccinations are required for boarding, though titer tests are advocated over annual vaccinations.
Testimonials
“I love Sasha’s holistic approach of dealing with the underlying reason for behavior challenges, instead of just correcting the symptom!”
– Callan, Mr. Feeny’s mom
“Sasha has been an absolute game-changer for us and our furry family member. Our dog was a picky eater, turning mealtime into a daily struggle. Since working with Sasha, he now eagerly devours his meals, thanks to her expert guidance on nutrition. Sasha’s availability and willingness to answer our questions have been invaluable, enriching our understanding of our dog’s behavior and strengthening our bond.”
– Mitali, Ollie’s Mom
“I can’t even begin to articulate the deep relief that filled my soul the day that I found Sasha Armstrong. Sasha’s method epitomizes, “work smarter. Not harder.” Hire Sasha. Do the work. Commit to the process, and prepare to be overwhelmed by how brilliantly effective Sasha’s methodology is. It all started with that first conversation— make the call!”
– Crissy, Elwood and Ms. Francie’s Mom
About the Trainer
Canine State of Mind is led by Sasha Armstrong, a canine behaviorist, dog shaman, and radical healer. She aims to guide humans to understand and live harmoniously with themselves and their dogs, challenging traditional dog training methods that she views as manipulative, controlling, and harmful. Sasha’s philosophy centers on the belief that a dog’s behavior is a direct reflection of the human’s emotional landscape and energy.
The business offers various programs designed to help humans embody an “Alpha Leader” presence, fostering a relationship built on mutual respect and trust. Services include elite canine coaching, a self-paced masterclass, and a peaceful dog boarding retreat. Sasha emphasizes understanding canine history and psychology, shifting human mindset, and communicating with dogs through natural cues and energetics.
A unique advantage is the focus on the human’s inner transformation as the key to changing the dog’s behavior, moving away from “quick-fix” obedience practices. The Peaceful Dog Boarding Retreat offers a holistic, cage-less/crate-free farm stay experience in a natural environment, with 24/7 on-site staff and nutritional analysis. Sasha also provides private, in-person VIP experiences globally, with travel expenses covered by the client.
Accomplishments
Sasha Armstrong is a canine behaviorist, dog shaman, and radical healer with over 25 years of experience transforming the lives of thousands of humans and their dogs. She is described as a “paradigm-shifter” and “industry disruptor.” Sasha has been featured in Reader’s Digest, USA Today, and as an expert on top podcasts and television shows. She is also the author of the book “Peaceful Dog Mastery.”
How to Get Started!
Prospective clients can book a free clarity call to determine which program is best for them. For the Elite Behavior Reinvention Program, clients can enroll directly or talk details with Sasha. For the Peaceful Dog Boarding Retreat, clients can make a reservation request online. Masterclass students can book additional a la carte virtual coaching sessions for one-on-one support.

Contact Information
Languages
- English
Misc Features
- wheelchair accessible parking
Other Services Offered
- Pet boarding service