Professional, positive dog training on Vancouver Island

One of our dogs has been anxious and reactive around other dogs. Even though he is a sweet little guy, walking him was something none of us could look forward to anymore. I was fortunate to meet Danika in another setting, and she mentioned she specializes in working with reactive dogs. We arranged some sessions and found that not only is she a super skilful and compassionate trainer, she's an all around fun and generous human being. In the first session, we learned tools and principles that began to help immediately. By the second session, our dog was comfortable being in fairly close proximity to hers. After a few more sessions we were able to enjoy our walks again, even actively seeking out dogs as conditioning opportunities. We're so happy and impressed!!

Babydog was fantastic! I had no idea what to expect when I walked in with my 8 week old pup. Aviva, Dave and Ruth were great at explaining canine behaviour and helping me understand why something was going on! I became so interested in dog training and behaviour, I became a volunteer. I recommend Babydog to any new dog owner. Also don’t forget their weekly pack walk for dogs of any age!

Two months ago I adopted an 8 week old puppy, Ormandy, from Yellowknife with no idea what I was doing. I had never had a pet before and was overwhelmed and nervous. I started going to BabyDog Socialization classes immediately and have felt so supported and well educated by Ruth and Aviva. We have attended socialization classes regularly and I have seen a huge change in Ormandy's behaviour and an even bigger change in my understanding and behaviour. Me and Ormandy are starting a basic obedience class with BabyDog this weekend and I can't wait to see how much more we learn!! I recommend BabyDog to everyone I meet that has a pup, they've helped us both so much.

Engaging. I found BabyDog Aviva and Ruth to be very Engaging. Their approach in classes to both puppy and puppy owner was very attractive and pleasing in a way that holds your attention. Their stories, smiles and positive reinforcement worked for me and worked even better with my puppy. I loved how BabyDog shared their knowledge of canine behaviour, demonstrated patience in the learning process, and especially how they shared their love and joy in helping every BabyDog client become a wonderful puppy parent. Aviva and Ruth worked with my family and my puppy Cookie for over a year, and we have a dog that we are proud to take anywhere.

Babydog group have been fantastic. We joined the socialization group, and a few dog walks. Both were very helpful for both me and Ruby.

Baby Dog…I must say, having had dogs all of my life, showing, training, and competing, taking my new young “man” to baby socialization classes was brilliant! Baby Dog taught me a lot as well. I love that they teach and use positive reinforcement philosophy for training. As we encountered some growing pain challenges, particularly with “focusing”, I took advantage of a few private lessons that were spot on! Aviva knew which tool to pull out of her tool box to assist with our particular challenges. Thank you Aviva and Co for all that you do and offer! I have a dog who loves to work, is engaged and focused, and who interacts respectfully with other canines! I highly recommend Baby Dog…for your young pup, as well as your “mature” pup.

I had the opportunity to see Emma in action at her socialization class for shy/tiny dogs last Saturday. I brought along a timid foster dog and couldn’t believe how calmly and skilfully she managed a class of 10 dogs and their owners. She was quickly able to organize the pups into appropriate small groups and guide us through introduction exercises. I learned so much as a participant, and while observing the other groups too. Emma set each dog up for success by ensuring everyone had a safe space to move through the instructions at their own pace. I’m thrilled with the progress my dog made in just one hour! We’ll definitely attend the class as often as possible, and I’d recommend Emma to anyone looking for a dog trainer.

Baby Dog puppy socialization classes are such a blast. Watching your pup learn how to interact and have fun with dogs of all sizes in a controlled environment is great. As a new dog owner this is exactly what we needed.