BFDA uses science based, ethical methods to work with you and your dog. This is commonly referred to as “positive reinforcement” or “reward based”. There are many ways to apply these methods. They are proven to change behavior while supporting a trusting relationship with your dog(s).

We specialize in working with dogs experiencing fear, anxiety, and aggression. We also work extensively with puppies and adolescent dogs. We help clients learn how to understand and meet their dog's needs (the foundation). We teach clients how to manage behaviors and change or build new behaviors for the benefit of both the dog and human and the bond between them. We refer out separation anxiety, cases involving a severe bite to a child in the home and inter household dog aggression. Please see our resources page here for more information.

We do not offer “board and train” at this time. We believe that it is important for the pet parent to learn how to work with their dog so that new behaviors can be maintained at home. We demonstrate with your dog and model good training for you. The bond between our clients and their dogs strengthens when they work together with our coaching. A strong and positive bond is critical for behavior change and ensures the dog is living their best life.

We do in-person work in Iowa City, Coralville, the surrounding areas (almost all of Johnson County), West Branch, and Tipton.

Tuesday through Saturday between 8:30 AM – 5 PM. Saturdays fill up quickly.

Generally, we meet with clients once every week or two; it depends on your goals and especially your dog’s progress. Sessions are one hour long.

For most clients, we come to you and meet in your home. We may choose other locations based on your goals. For example if we are helping you with a dog that is reactive towards dogs or people, once we establish new behaviors, we may meet at a park to generalize the progress to new environments.

We use Zoom for virtual work. A professional behavior expert doesn’t need to see or be in the same room with your dog to help you learn. In fact, many dogs do better when there is NOT a new person in their space, for example dogs that are reactive around strangers and/or are fearful/aggressive. In many cases we may start out working virtually in order to establish some good foundations. Then we switch to meeting in person once you know how to help your dog feel safe in our presence. Zoom sessions require that you have a device like a phone, pad, laptop, or computer and you’ll want to have a space in your home where you can do some work with your dog while we are in live sessions. You prepare for these sessions just like in-person ones (potty the dog before we start, have treats ready, and have something to make notes for yourself).