Clear Mind Canine

Clear Mind Canine offers practical, motivation-based training solutions tailored to each dog and owner. Their services include private one-on-one lessons, behavior training for dogs with ‘big feelings’ like reactivity or resource guarding, and remote/online training via Zoom lessons and online courses.

nnThey also provide comprehensive coaching programs with Heather, offering monthly 1:1 lessons (in-person or online), weekly check-ins, video reviews, and bi-monthly group training challenges. Specialized programs include the Reactive Pup Program for on-leash anxiety and frustration, the Cooperative Care Program for handling and vet/grooming care, the Crag Dog Course for climbing companions, and Puppy Primer for foundations.

nnTraining emphasizes building a partnership through cooperation and understanding, using marker words, rewards, and focusing on the dog’s emotional state. Lessons typically start every 1-2 weeks, progressing to monthly check-ups, with clients learning new skills to practice weekly. The goal is to empower owners with the skills and knowledge to confidently help their dogs navigate the human world.

Pricing Summary

Clear Mind Canine offers various training packages including monthly coaching programs, multi-lesson packages, and specialized courses. Monthly coaching ranges from $39 for online content and group challenges (Core) to $340 for the ‘Reactivity Focus’ program, which includes two 1:1 sessions. Standalone packages include a 3-lesson in-person package for $450, a 5-lesson in-person package for $700, and a hybrid remote/in-person package for $520. Individual online/remote lessons are $125, and a behavior evaluation is $180. Specialized online courses like the Cooperative Care Program start at $75 for the online course only, with options up to $475 for combined online and in-person lessons. The Reactive Dog Program is priced at $850 for in-person or hybrid training, and $450 for online training. The Crag Dog Course is a one-time fee of $125. Additional 1:1 sessions can be added for $145 (in-person) or $100 (remote).

Policies

For coaching programs, clients can cancel or change levels anytime without commitment. All 1:1 sessions are self-scheduled and do not roll over to the next month. Membership levels can be adjusted if the trainer’s schedule changes due to travel. For the Reactive Pup Program, clients are advised to schedule their first lesson before purchasing in-person or hybrid training.

Clear Mind Canine offers practical, effective, and motivation-based dog training solutions, aiming to help dogs reach their full potential and build a strong partnership with their owners. Their approach focuses on cooperation and understanding, always tailoring training to fit the individual dog and owner.

nnHeather Ross, the certified trainer, emphasizes teaching dogs to make good choices independently, utilizing motivational methods, clear cues, and prioritizing the dog’s emotional state. She incorporates neuroscientific concepts to enhance training effectiveness for both behavior issues and obedience.

nnClear Mind Canine provides private one-on-one lessons, behavior training for complex issues like reactivity, resource guarding, and aggression, and remote/online training options. They also offer comprehensive coaching programs with Heather, which include monthly private sessions, weekly check-ins, video reviews, and group training challenges.

nnSpecialized programs include the Reactive Pup Program for on-leash anxiety, the Cooperative Care Program for comfortable handling and vet/grooming care, and the Crag Dog Course for climbing companions. The business is also developing “Fido and Fern,” a future doggie paradise in the Santa Cruz mountains with trails, fields, and training spaces for dogs and their owners.

Accomplishments

Heather Ross is a Certified Canine Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA). She holds a BS in Environmental Science and Policy with a minor in Wildlife and Society and GIS from the University of Maryland, and is a graduate of Trish King’s Academy of Dog Behavior. She has over a decade of professional experience and 20 years in fostering/rescue, regularly attending seminars and study programs for continued education.

nnHer personal dogs have achieved significant accomplishments in canine sports:
Tango: 2018 and 2019 Dutch Shepherd Schutzhund National Champion, 2019 Vice World Dutch Shepherd Schutzhund Champion, 10th place at DVG Championships, 2022 World Dutch Shepherd Schutzhund Championships competitor, FH1 Advanced Tracking (3 years), French Ring Brevet (perfect 100pt score), French Ring 1 title, Nosework Odor Recognition Tests (6mo), Rally Novice Obedience (9mo), Preferred Novice Obedience (10mo), NACSW Nosework 1 (12mo), NACSW Nosework 3 Elite.
Rex: Earned IPO3 title three times, won Top Scoring Dutch Shepherd at the 2016 Working Dutch Shepherd Schutzhund Nationals, FH1 and FH2 Advanced Tracking titles, AKC Rally Advanced, United Masters Jumper Dock Diving.
Surly: AKC Novice Obedience, AKC Rally Advanced, AKC Herding Tested.

How to Get Started!

To get started, clients are encouraged to fill out a contact form on the website or text 831 222 0211. The first step involves setting up an initial session where the trainer will get to know the client and their dog, learn about their lifestyle, and build a customized training program. For the Reactive Pup Program, it is recommended to schedule the first lesson before purchasing the program.