Live Engaged

Engaged Dogs begins with a required $45 initial consultation to assess the dog’s history, challenges, and goals. Clients then choose from private sessions (in-person or virtual), Engaged Walks (training walks with personalized reports), Engaged Pack Walks (group walks on Wed–Fri mornings), or group classes (2–4 dogs). Training is ongoing and tailored weekly, with report cards and video resources provided after each session to support home practice. Virtual options are available for all private services.

Pricing Summary

Initial consultation: $45. Private sessions: $75 for 30 minutes, $135 for 60 minutes. Engaged Walks: $77 for 45 minutes. Engaged Pack Walks: $65 for 60 minutes. Group classes range from $87–$870/month depending on group size (2–4 dogs), session length (30–60 min), and frequency (1–4x/week). Photography sessions: $120. Additional dog in photo session: +$25. Travel fee up to $20 for locations beyond 1.5 miles from SW DC.

Policies

Bookings require 24-hour advance notice; cancellations within 24 hours are charged the full session fee. Pickups/drop-offs must be quick with minimal conversation to maintain schedule. Report cards and summaries have a 24–72 hour turnaround. Training is a collaborative effort—owners must practice skills at home to maintain progress. Travel fee applies for locations beyond 1.5 miles from 465 M St SW.

Engaged Dogs is a dog training service founded by Sara-Jane Gage, a dog behavior specialist and trainer with a background in clinical psychology, education, and therapy. The business offers science-based, positive reinforcement training focused on helping dogs and their owners build happy, healthy relationships. Services include private training sessions, Engaged Walks (training and enrichment walks), Engaged Pack Walks (group walks with other dogs), dog photography, and virtual training options. Training emphasizes confidence-building, impulse control, leash manners, emotional regulation, and real-world manners. All services are tailored to the individual dog and owner, with no judgment and a focus on the whole dog’s well-being. Sara is autistic, queer, and an introvert, and her approach reflects deep empathy and understanding of both canine and human behavior.

Engaged Dogs also provides report cards with videos and photos after each walk or session to help owners continue training at home. The business supports clients through ongoing communication via text or email and offers resources to reinforce learned skills. Photography sessions and custom photobooks are available as add-ons for pet owners who want to capture their dog’s personality.

Engaged Dogs operates primarily in Southwest DC and parts of Southeast DC, with virtual sessions available nationwide. All new clients must complete an initial consultation before booking further services.

Accomplishments

Sara-Jane Gage is a dog behavior specialist and trainer with prior education and experience as a clinical psychologist, elementary school teacher, therapist specializing in trauma and co-occurring disorders, yogi, and educator. She is the creator of Engaged Dogs and co-creator of Engaged Fitness, integrating human and canine psychology into training.

How to Get Started!

All new clients must book and complete a $45 initial consultation, which includes a basic assessment and written training plan. Consultations can be done virtually or in-person. After the consultation, clients can book private sessions, Engaged Walks, group classes, or other services.