Private Adolescent Training

From about 6 to 18 months of age

Adolescence is a commonly misunderstood stage of development. Training that once felt solid may suddenly fall apart. Focus disappears. Impulses rule. Your teen may seem to forget everything they’ve learned.

If you’re feeling frustrated, discouraged, or think it’s your fault, please understand: This isn’t defiance or “blowing you off.” It’s normal. The teenage brain is still developing, along with the body.

Adolescent issues are not resolved with just more exercise, to “get their energy out.”

Young, immature dogs benefit greatly from learning to self-regulate, as well as getting consistency and clarity from us. We also look at breed and species needs that may be unmet. A whole-dog approach helps them learn to slow down, become grounded, more thoughtful, less impulsive. To make better behavior choices.

Private adolescent training provides calm, steady support as your growing pup navigates hormonal changes, shifting motivations, and increased independence — without relying on corrections, discomfort, or intimidation (like some TV trainers).

Together, we strengthen their ability to calm down and connect and cooperate with you, so they can make better choices in real-life settings.

  • What We'll Work On

    These essential skills may be brand-new to your teen, or they may have slipped since puppy training.

    • Focus and engagement, including on leash

    • Strengthening recall

    • Keeping 4 on the floor (aka not jumping)

    • Impulse control and frustration tolerance

    • Leash manners

    • Settling at home and in stimulating environments

    • Preventing emerging reactivity (barking, lunging)

  • How It Works

    • Weekly 1-hour sessions, at your home

    • Customized training plan, according to your goals, lifestyle, and puppy’s progress

    • Out in the real world, after at-home practice

    • Ongoing support between lessons to help you succeed

  • The Details

    5 sessions for $750

    My teens program includes training treats and pouch, sample chews, enrichment items, a relaxation mat, calming aids (if needed), and a no-pull harness with specialty leash (if needed).

What Clients Say

  • “Life is easier, less chaotic. Favorite aspect: how excited my dogs were for training and how much calmer they were after.”
    — St Michaels resident

  • “Lisa was truly amazing and really transformed our high-energy puppy into a truly good girl! She provides fabulous training for both canines and humans.”
    —Holly J.

  • “Lucy and Ginger were not paying attention to anything we said and were a bit crazy. . . . We love our girls but now we like them too.”
    —Mary C.

Ready to build a calmer, easier life together?

Get in touch

Not quite ready to commit? Download my free teens guide for navigating the Terrible Teens for positive, practical tips you can begin using right away.