North Pittsburgh Animal Behavior

Programs include 7-week Basic Manners classes for foundational obedience, Anxiety & Aggression classes for reactivity and fear-based behaviors, Advanced Training for reliability and distraction-proofing, and Specialty Classes for targeted skills. Classes are limited to 4–8 dogs for personalized attention. Private consultations are available for home-based issues or dogs unsuitable for group settings. Training is structured around positive reinforcement, with ongoing support and follow-up. All programs emphasize real-life application and family involvement.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are available on the Start Training page, with classes and private sessions offered at varying rates. No explicit pricing is listed publicly, but testimonials mention affordability. Group classes have limited enrollment, and private sessions are available for those needing flexibility or addressing severe behavioral issues.

Policies

Trainer approval is required before enrolling in Anxiety & Aggression classes to ensure suitability. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated, but clients are encouraged to contact Beth directly with questions. There are no guarantees of behavior change, as outcomes depend on owner commitment and individual dog factors.

North Pittsburgh Animal Behavior (NPAB) is a dog training business owned and operated by Beth McGonigal, a certified professional dog trainer with over 17 years of experience since 2006. NPAB offers force-free, science-based, positive reinforcement training for dogs of all ages, breeds, and behavioral needs, including basic manners, anxiety, aggression, and advanced skills. Services include group classes, private in-home lessons, and behavior consultations for both dogs and cats. They also operate a training and rewards shop offering dog supplies like kibble, bully sticks, and harnesses. Beth emphasizes family-friendly techniques, encouraging children to participate in training to strengthen the human-animal bond. Her approach is judgment-free, focused on building confidence and trust, and tailored to individual dogs’ needs, with small class sizes and personalized attention.

NPAB specializes in behavior modification for issues like separation anxiety, reactivity, fearfulness, and biting, and requires trainer approval before enrolling in anxiety/aggression classes to ensure suitability. They provide ongoing support, including follow-up calls and YouTube educational content, and prioritize long-term success over quick fixes. Their training is designed for real-life application, helping dogs thrive in everyday environments.

Accomplishments

Beth McGonigal is a certified CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, and ABCDT with over 17 years of experience training dogs since 2006. She has trained in homes for over a decade and receives referrals from veterinarians and pet experts across the Pittsburgh region. She is known for her compassionate, science-based methods and has successfully helped dogs with severe behavioral issues that other trainers could not resolve.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must first request trainer approval for Anxiety & Aggression classes. All clients are directed to the Start Training page to explore class options, schedule consultations, or book private sessions. Initial contact is encouraged via phone or email to discuss individual needs and determine the best program fit.