Your dog's mental health matters too.

Welfare-based Learning

lasts a lifetime!

Expert virtual coaching you (and your dog) can feel great about.
Working with us is so much more than dog training. We have revolutionized the industry by focusing on the human end of the leash, empowering you to be the center of your dog's rehabilitation. After all, it's the humans that the most training!

We are 100% virtual because of the benefits we have seen for our clients! These include:

- A Stress-free Learning Environment
- Flexible Scheduling
- Lower Cost
- Increased Accessibility
- Higher Success Rate

Book your Behavior Assessment today and never look back!
What is Welfare-Based Learning?

All behavior has a reason for occurring. We coach you in how to understand the "why" behind your dog's behavior so that the "how" is easier and more effective than the traditional ways of training.

Our methods are constructed around the Five Domains of Welfare: Nutrition, Physical Environment, Health, Behavioral Interactions and Mental State to ensure your dog is holistically well.

Welfare-based means we will never recommend punishment or harmful methods that can compromise your dog's mental or physical health.


Reset your relationship.
We show you how.

Group Coaching

Group services are great for learning along side like minded individuals who can offer additional support.

Resolving Reactivity

Help your fearful or fired-up dog learn that the world isn't such an overstimulating place. (Suitable for dogs over 6 months of age)
All services are held online via Zoom
View This Course

Group Coaching

Group services are great for learning along side like minded individuals who can offer additional support.

Loose Leashes

Tired of being dragged around by your dog? This course is for you!
All services are held online via Zoom
View This Course

Group Coaching

Group services are great for learning along side like minded individuals who can offer additional support.

Calm the Fluff Down

Teach your dog how to have some chill. (Suitable for dogs 12 months and up)
All services are held online via Zoom
View This Course

Private Coaching

Private services are perfect for in-depth one to one help for guardians that require more personalised focused help.

Behavior Assessment

All new clients must start with our in-depth Initial Behavior Assessment. In this session we will take a deep-dive into your dog's history, routines and their mental and physical wellness to date.
All services are held online via Zoom
View this Package

Private Coaching

Private services are perfect for in-depth one to one help for guardians that require more personalised focused help.

Empower Package

You must first have a Initial Assessment before purchasing this package. In your Assessment you will be guided on which package is most suitable for you and your individual needs.
All services are held online via Zoom
View this package

Private Coaching

Private services are perfect for in-depth one to one help for guardians that require more personalised focused help.

Thrive Package

You must first have a Initial Assessment before purchasing this package. In your Assessment you will be guided on which package is most suitable for you and your individual needs.
All services are held online via Zoom
View this Package

not Sure which Option is right?

If you're unsure which behavior therapy path is right for your dog you can book a FREE "What Service is Right For Me?"Call with Renee. During these calls you can discuss the concerns you are having and get direct advice on which R+Dogs service is perfect for you.
Book Your Free Call!

Virtual Coaching is the Perfect Way to Get the Guidance You Need

How does virtual training work?
Virtual dog behavior is a new and innovative approach to helping dogs that leverages the power of technology and the internet. Instead of meeting with a dog pro in person, guardians can now participate in training sessions online around their schedule.

Each Coaching Session we will set 2-3 tasks for you complete in your own time. Using our exclusive "Text the Expert" service you will be able to communicate directly with your dog pro, asking questions and get daily feedback to help you reach your goals. Everything will be explained and laid out for you within you Initial Assessment so that you feel confident and excited to get started!
But I’m not good with technology!
Working with us is much easier than you think! We work via Zoom which is used all over the world to connect people to experts, students, family and friends. The program takes only a couple minutes to download and you can use it on a phone, tablet or computer. From here you will just need to click the link that we will send to you in your confirmation email and - that is it, you're learning online with one of our experts live in front of you. It really is that convenient!
Wait, don't you need to see my dog's behavior?
No. We don't want to see your dog's undesirable behavior at all. We will request videos of you working with your dog on the tasks we assign, but we will never ask you to put your dog in a situation where they are likely to become stressed, reactive, or have a history of discomfort. There are many benefits to virtual coaching, including you not having to worry about your dog's behavior or stress level during the session. Your dog can even sleep through the session if they want!

The goal from the moment we start working together is to minimize the rehearsal of your dog's unwanted behavior. The Initial Assessment will provide us with all the information we need to understand your concerns and start formulating a plan of action.
Why does private coaching start with an Assessment?
The Assessment is a critical step that allows us to focus on your concerns and determine the best course of treatment for your dog. Prior to the Assessment, you will be asked to complete a questionnaire that will provide us with a good estimate of your dog and the issues you have. During the Assessment, we will ask additional questions and carefully listen to your responses to fill in any gaps that may exist. At the end of the Assessment we will provide you with a behavior prognosis and tailored options to reach your goals. Many clients express they feel reassured and ready to get started at the end of the Assessment which is exactly how you should feel!
What is your training philosophy?
Our training philosophy is steeped in behavioral science so it is not "ours", but has been used by experts in the field for years. Scientific evidence supports learning through positive reinforcement so this is what we follow - for you and your dog! We also know that behavior goes deeper than just how an animal acts. Behavior can be influenced by many different factors and it is our job as the experts to look at the "big picture" rather than just teaching you how to modify your dog's actions. The key to any successful relationship is compromise. Our expertise is in combining your needs and those of your dog to make your lives easier - and more enjoyable!

To be clear, our coaching does not include the use of force, fear or intimidation as that has no place in the learning process for sentient animals. Understanding your dog (as a dog and an individual) is the first step towards a better relationship and that is what we are all about!
What are the training tools you will recommend to me?
The good news is that you most likely already have the tools we recommend. We will ask you (and assist you) in determining what motivates your dog so that you can use it as currency. Dogs, like humans, act in their own self-interest, so we want to know what your dog likes and use that to our advantage. Food is the most common form of reward, but toys, play, touch, encouragement, and the environment can also be used. If you want to use a clicker, just let your expert know (otherwise verbal markers will be taught).

We recommend a well-fitting harness and different length leashes for your dog's equipment. We have suggestions for keeping track of your progress to make your virtual experience as easy and successful as possible, but this can be done using a modern mobile phone. All of this will be thoroughly covered in your Assessment.
Will you work with me if I have used different methods?
Absolutely! In fact, a sizable portion of our clients come from a background of using corrections/punishment. We recognize all too well what information is available to the public and how quick fixes can look and feel like the answer when you are desperate to help your dog! Working with us is a judgement-free experience all of our clients. We know you want the best for your dog otherwise you wouldn't be seeking us out! What we do ask is that you are open and honest with us while we are working together as it is important for us to know your dog's complete history. Our positive, compassionate approach is not just for the dogs! 

Meet

Renee Rhoades, MSc

Founder and Owner of R+Dogs

Accessing accurate information shouldn't be hard, but as is often the case with behavior, advice given to the general public in a general way lacks nuance. Because of this, I think it's important to give people different ways to access humane learning materials.

‍Our group coaching options can help you see that you're not alone by putting you in touch with a group of dog guardians who understand what you're going through and can offer you additional support as you learn together.

For those who want to go deeper with their dogs, we provide tailored, individual support through private coaching, no matter where you are in the world.

We also offer low or no cost options such as webinars, social media, and our podcast: DogLogical.

R+Dogs was my dream, but it took me a few years to realize it. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to help improve the world for animals; I just didn't know what that actually looked like. In my early teens, I started in dog and cat rescue before moving to veterinary medicine and finally finding my way into canine training and behavior. My passion for animal welfare, ethics, and evidence-based practices merged with my adoration for dogs, and then everything clicked together. This is my calling. And so R+Dogs was born, and it is blossoming into everything I have always wanted it to be - and more!

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Why us?

Because the dog industry is unregulated, it falls on the individual to choose education, if at all, and at what level. At R+Dogs we are committed to not only degree-level education but also the dedication and passion to never stop learning. You can rest assured that we really are top experts in our industry.

Alongside our drive for continued education, here are four other principles to which we are loyal to:
  • A convenient and effective remote training model
  • Using modern methods rooted in ethics and welfare
  • An inclusive, non-judgmental approach
  • Empowering humans to think critically about dog behavior and guardianship
Let's Get to Work!

Certifications, Education & Professional Associations

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