Tug Dogs #2

Tug Dogs employs a combined “brain and body” approach to training, focusing on canine psychology and physiology to make lasting behavioral changes. They address the root emotional issues (thoughts and feelings) that cause undesirable behaviors, rather than just suppressing symptoms. For example, they help fearful dogs learn that strangers are safe, over-excited dogs practice “calm brain” access to desired things, and anxious dogs rehearse coping skills to create new neural pathways.

Their programs emphasize educating the dog owner alongside the dog, teaching them to understand their dog’s communication and to provide consistent leadership. Training is broken into small, manageable steps, and they stress the importance of rewarding calm behavior and choosing appropriate learning environments. They offer a hybrid learning approach, starting with virtual sessions to build foundational skills and then transitioning to in-person training for real-world practice, especially for cases requiring work around strangers or in community settings. The Separation Anxiety Ultra Program offers daily coaching for the first week and ongoing support for 185 days.

Pricing Summary

Tug Dogs offers a free Behavior Consultation, which is valued at $199. No other specific pricing details or packages are provided.

Tug Dogs is a professional dog training academy dedicated to helping dog owners and their dogs live better together. Their expert team of certified trainers has over 70 years of combined experience, ranging from working with service and therapy dogs to training for TV & film, teaching new trainers, providing canine behavior testimony for court, and rehabilitating shelter dogs.

They specialize in resolving problem behaviors and building cooperation using scientifically backed training protocols that yield long-term results and enhance a dog’s quality of life. Their unique approach focuses on understanding and changing a dog’s thoughts and feelings (their “brain”) rather than just micromanaging their body with commands. They believe that addressing the root emotional issues, such as fear, anxiety, or over-excitement, is essential for lasting behavioral change.

Tug Dogs emphasizes educating dog owners alongside their dogs, acting as “dog and doggy parent coaches.” They teach owners how to “speak dog” by understanding canine body language and behavior, fostering a two-way communication partnership. They advocate for patience in training, breaking goals into small steps, picking the right moments for learning (when the dog is receptive), and consistently rewarding desired calm behaviors. They also highlight the importance of leadership, not as being rough, but as relieving dogs from the burden of making all their own decisions, especially for those struggling with fear or stress.

They offer a hybrid learning approach, starting virtually to build skills and then meeting in person for real-world practice. This virtual option allows for more frequent, shorter sessions, reduces the “teacher effect” where dogs only behave with the trainer present, and provides convenience for busy owners. It also enables early puppy training from home and access to qualified trainers regardless of geographical location. Tug Dogs aims to transform dogs into happy, healthy, and well-behaved companions by focusing on their emotional well-being and building a strong, cooperative relationship with their humans.

Accomplishments

Tug Dogs trainers are certified, professional dog trainers with over 70 years of combined experience. They have worked with numerous canine rescue groups, animal shelters, and thousands of dog owners. Erin Kramer is the owner of Tug Dogs and has 15 years of experience working with dogs who have fear, anxiety, and aggression issues.

How to Get Started!

To begin training with Tug Dogs, clients should schedule a free Behavior Consultation. After the consultation, they will choose the right training program for their dog. The process involves developing positive brain and body habits for the dog, with the ultimate goal of helping owners and their dogs live their best lives together. Inquiries can be made via a contact form.