Paws for Thought Dog Training Jersey City

Training begins with a free consultation to assess the dog’s behavior and the owner’s goals. Programs are customized and delivered in private in-home sessions or via video call, with options for ongoing weekly sessions or intensive behavior modification plans. Puppy classes are offered at select veterinary facilities. Trainers provide detailed session notes and homework to reinforce learning between sessions. All programs focus on behavior change through positive reinforcement and owner education.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed; clients are encouraged to book a free consultation to receive customized pricing based on training goals, session frequency, and program length.

Paws for Thought Dog Training offers in-home, science-backed, positive-reinforcement dog training services tailored to the unique needs of each dog and their human family. Founded by Maddie Messina, the business specializes in behavior modification for puppies, adolescents, and adult dogs with challenges like separation anxiety, leash reactivity, fearfulness, and resource guarding. They prioritize a dog-first approach, considering genetics, temperament, and environment to create personalized training plans that avoid force, fear, or corrections. Trainers are certified professionals with advanced education in animal behavior and are trained in LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles. They also offer puppy classes at select veterinary facilities in New Jersey and provide virtual training options. Their team includes trainers with specialized credentials in separation anxiety, fear-free handling, and cooperative care, ensuring comprehensive support for complex behavioral issues.

The business emphasizes educating owners to understand their dog’s behavior, body language, and emotional needs, helping families build lasting trust and communication. Trainers provide detailed session notes and ongoing support to ensure long-term success. They are featured in reputable media outlets and actively engage in continuing education through conferences and research programs to stay at the forefront of canine science.

Services are available in Manhattan (below 96th Street), Jersey City, Hoboken, Union City, and the east side of Manhattan, with virtual options for broader accessibility.

Accomplishments

Founder Maddie Messina holds a Master of Arts in Animal Behavior and Conservation, is an Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (ACAAB), and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). She is also a Certified Separation Anxiety Behavior Consultant (CSAP-BC) and Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP). Trainer Erin Whelan and Anna Ostroff hold CPDT-KA, CSAP-BC, and other certifications. All trainers engage in ongoing continuing education through IAABC, FDSA, and other professional conferences. Maddie has been featured in The Farmer’s Dog, Reader’s Digest, Spruce Pets, and other national publications.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a free 15–20 minute consultation call to discuss the dog’s needs, goals, and lifestyle. After the consultation, a customized training plan is created and sessions are scheduled in-home, at a veterinary facility, or virtually.