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One-on-One Coaching for Reactive Dogs (The Dog Lab)

Dogs don’t change with quick fixes or group classes. They need personalized, expert guidance.

In The Dog Lab, my one-on-one virtual coaching program, we tackle leash reactivity, separation anxiety, resource guarding, and aggression using compassionate, science-backed methods. You’ll get custom plans, regular video sessions, and ongoing support.

As a CPDT-KA, Certified Separation Anxiety Behavior Consultant and pit bull specialist with 25+ years of experience, I help dogs and owners go from stressed and overwhelmed to calmer and more confident.

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Gamne of Bones online dog training course for reactive dogs and anxious dogs - level up our dog's training with mini games

Game of Bones

A four-week program of fun interactive mini-games designed to build your dog’s confidence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Perfect for anxious or reactive dogs who want extra mental stimulation without full behavior coaching.

No available programs
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Meet Sara Scott – Your Reactive Dog Behavior Specialist

CDPT-KA | Certified Separation Anxiety Behavior Consultant | Author | 25+ Years Experience

 

Since 2000, I’ve specialized in helping dogs with leash reactivity, separation anxiety, resource guarding, and aggression.

My approach is creative, compassionate, and always evidence-based. I’ve worked with thousands of dogs and their humans, combining deep behavioral knowledge with practical, real-life solutions that work in everyday homes. I’m also a pit bull specialist and advocate.

Whether you’re in the Bay Area or across the country, I’m here to help you and your dog feel more confident and connected.

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Real Results from Reactive Dogs & Their Humans
 

 

Here’s what dog owners in the Bay Area and beyond are saying after working with me:

"Sara is highly professional and knowledgable. Her ability to observe the dog and human behavior and interaction are extraordinary!"

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Angela, Alameda, CA

"Sara's program fits with our lifestyle as we can practice whenever and look back at our progress. I couldn’t imagine doing it any other way now."

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Christopher, Seattle, WA

"Working with Sara on separation anxiety was a game-changer for me and my rescue dog Max. Her guidance and quick feedback made all the difference."

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Melinda, Walnut Creek, CA

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Dog Behavior Explained – Free Expert Advice

Practical, science-based articles to help you better understand and support your reactive or anxious dog.

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Why Sit and Look Misses the Mark in Reactive Dog Training

Sit and look is everywhere. But if it's your only tool for reactive dog training, here's what you're missing — and what to do instead.

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Should I Crate Train My Dog with Separation Anxiety?

Everyone says crate your dog. But for most dogs with separation anxiety, the crate makes things worse. Here’s what to do instead.

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The Tupperware Cabinet Protocol: A Puppy Separation Anxiety Guide.

Puppy separation anxiety at 2am is brutal. Here’s what’s normal, what’s not, and the fix that actually works.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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Based on 70+ reviews

Oakland & Bay Area Dog Behavior Training for Reactive, Anxious & Aggressive Dogs

Serving Oakland • San Francisco Bay Area • Nationwide

 

Struggling with leash reactivity, separation anxiety, resource guarding or aggression on walks? Sara Scott, CPDT-KA Certified Separation Anxiety Behavior Consultant with 25+ years of experience, delivers expert one-on-one coaching. Pit bull specialist using compassionate, science-backed methods.

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Coaching

Expert guidance through one-on-one dog training and behavior coaching 

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Game of Bones

Level up your dog’s training with interactive mini-games

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Free Learning

Read 'Dog Behavior Explained,' my blog on dog behavior

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Get Practical Tips for Reactive & Anxious Dogs Straight to Your Inbox

Stories from My Dogs, Training Tips & What Actually Works

Join me for real stories from life with my own dogs, practical lessons from 25+ years of experience, and actionable advice on leash reactivity, separation anxiety, resource guarding, and more. No fluff — just helpful insights you can use at home.

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