For dogs who may be fearful, reactive, or aggressive toward new people, the initial consultation will be held virtually or at my Detroit yard.

If you’re outside of my service area, we can utilize several options throughout your training program. We can meet virtually on Zoom, have you come to Detroit for in-person sessions, or you can cover a travel fee for me to come to you.

The travel fee is $2 per minute of drive time beyond the first 20 minutes, excluding any unexpected delays due to accidents or road conditions.

In our two hour consultation, we will begin by gathering the information needed to give you an honest assessment your dog’s behavior. We will then give you the in-depth explanations you need to understand what is driving the dog’s behavior. This often includes information on subtle dog communication and the functions of the behavior. Next we will collaborate on a plan of how to manage your dog’s behavior to give you the relief you need, while keeping everyone safe and helping your dog feel more relaxed and content. You will gain a clear picture of what’s going on, an outline of our behavior modification plan, and often some skills training to get started with. After the consultation you will also receive emailed notes.

The consultation may take place virtually or in person, depending on your dog’s needs.

Cost: $264

Cost with rescue discount: $220

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Pay for one session at a time, or get another session after completing a package.

Cost: $132/session

Cost with rescue discount: $105/session

If this is not something you can afford, please take a look at our Sliding Scale and Work Trade options.

In this introductory program, we can begin to address any behavioral issues. We will teach skills based on your needs and whatever will be most useful to you.

Cost: $500 ($125/session)

Cost with rescue discount: $400 ($100/session)

In this program, we work to eliminate household conflicts and problem behaviors, and teach you and your dog the skills you need in order to make life more harmonious. In this program we can address many reactivity and aggression issues, as well as any other behavior issues you may have. It’s a good program for dogs without severe behavior issues.

Cost: $720 ($120/session)

Cost with rescue discount: $576 ($96/session)

This is our most frequently chosen program. It is recommended for solving more serious issues that will require more time to work though. This may be barking and lunging on leash, aggression over food or other resources, fearful behavior, and aggressive behavior to people and dogs. It is also recommended for people with two or more dogs.

Cost: $1,150 ($115/session)

Cost with rescue discount: $920 ($92/session)

This program is designed for more severe behavior cases. This includes anxiety, fear, phobia, aggression, and reactivity towards people and dogs. This program is highly recommended for dogs who have bitten people or other dogs. We can address more complicated cases which have many compounding factors. It is also recommended for people who have multiple dogs with issues. It can be a good choice to buy a large training package because it offers the lowest cost per session.

Cost: $1,760 ($110/session)

Cost with rescue discount: $1,408 ($88/session)

I offer boarding for those who have worked with myself or another force-free trainer. Find more information here

Expeditiously reach your training goals of building a solid foundation of life skills and behavior modification by staying in our professional trainer's home. Wonderful for those overwhelmed with issues such as reactivity or aggression. It is a really smart alternative to regular boarding during vacation times. The program is custom-tailored to meet your needs. It’s better than boot camp! Founded upon the latest science in animal learning theory and ethics, My Sidekick Training provides one of the only force-free Board and Train programs available in the Detroit area - others use shock, prong, and choke collars. You will need to complete a Consultation prior to a Board and Train Program. It is recommended to pair this program with a private training program. Availability is limited. Board and Train is not the best option for all dogs. Dogs need to be comfortable staying in a crate or 10 x 10 kennel room to qualify for Board and Train. We cannot take dogs with separation anxiety or confinement anxiety. Dogs need to be at least somewhat comfortable with our trainer prior to their stay. Contact-free/Hands-free boarding may be an option for urgent situations with aggressive dogs. See more about our boarding accommodations here.

-Training sessions three to four times per day

-Opportunity for you to participate in dog’s training during program

-Daily video clips of training sessions

-Includes transfer training session at end of program

Estimated cost for puppy: $6,300 per month / $1,575 per week

Estimated cost for adult dog: $5,600 per month / $1,400 per week

Estimated cost for puppy with 20% rescue discount: $5,040 per month / $1,260 per week

Estimated cost for adult dog with 20% rescue discount: $4,480 per month / $1,120 per week

Exact cost is based on daily training time, which changes based on the individual’s needs. Dogs often need several days to decompress in the new environment before beginning training, which would be charged at the regular boarding rate.

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