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  1. Dog Behavior Help in Indianapolis (Real Behavior Change, Not Quick Fixes Now)

Dog Behavior Help in Indianapolis (Real Behavior Change, Not Quick Fixes Now)

Dog Behavior Help in Indianapolis (Real Behavior Change, Not Quick Fixes Now)

Jay Wilson
July 21, 2025

Big N' Small Paws 317 helps Indianapolis dog owners with reactivity, fear, anxiety, resource guarding, and aggression using evidence-based behavior modification (desensitization, counterconditioning, muzzle conditioning, management). We collaborate with veterinary behaviorists if medication is needed and build written, measurable behavior plans with weekly progress checks. (Serving Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, and Fishers too.)

Trainer vs. Behaviorist—What’s the Difference?

A veterinary behaviorist (DVM, residency-trained) can diagnose, prescribe medication, and oversee complex medical-behavior cases. A behavior-focused trainer/consultant designs and implements training plans (desensitization, counterconditioning, management) and tracks progress. We're behavior-forward trainers; when medication may accelerate progress or improve welfare, we'll refer or collaborate with a veterinary behavior team.

Our Behavior-Modification Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Assessment: history, triggers, threshold distance, environment.
2. Safety & Management: leashes, gates, muzzles, decompression walks.

3. Desensitization + Counterconditioning: change the emotion first, behavior follows.

4. Skill Building: leash handling, pattern games, settle on a mat, recall under threshold.

5. Generalization: controlled setups, then real-world around our property and nearby environments—no chaotic field trips.

6. Measure & Adjust: weekly metrics (trigger distance, recovery time, frequency).

7. When Needed—Vet Collaboration: We'll coordinate with a veterinary behaviorist if your dog may benefit from meds or medical workups

Issues We Help With

Reactivity to dogs/people • Fear & anxiety • Resource guarding • Handling sensitivity • Door reactivity • Leash frustration • Over-arousal in public • Multi-dog household tension

Results You Can Expect (Mini Case Studies)

  • Rocko, 165-lb Cane Corso: came in barrier-reactive; now walks loose leash with neutral passes and calmer greetings after structured counterconditioning and arousal management.
  • Sokka, Lab/Pit Mix: dog-reactive on Day 1; after intro protocols and pattern work, can calmly observe and disengage during setups.

  • Winston, Confidence-Low Pup: went from unsure to "rockstar" basics—engagement, settle, and focus under distraction.

Pricing & Program Options

  • Behavior Consult and Plan (Facility): Assessment, Custom Plan, and First Lessons.
  • Focused Private Sessions (Facility): progression on the plan, weekly metrics.

  • Board-and-Train with Behavior Focus: controlled reps in a structured environment; includes owner transfer sessions post-stay. Ask about second-dog discounts and payment options.

Service Area — Indianapolis, Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, Fishers

We're based in Indianapolis and regularly help families from Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, and Fishers. If you're nearby, we can likely help.

FAQs

Do I need a "veterinary behaviorist"?
Some dogs do. If we suspect meds or a medical component could help, we'll coordinate a referral while we continue training. Indiana Veterinary

Behavior What tools do you use?

Humane, evidence-based methods with an emphasis on management, desensitization, and counterconditioning.

How long until I see change?

You'll usually see stress-reduction behaviors quickly (better recoveries, more focus) while deeper emotional change builds over weeks with consistent practice.


Ready to Get Help?

Book your assessment: 317-603-2292 • bignsmallpaws317llc@gmail.com
• "Book Now" button.

Certified dog trainer

Services in Indianapolis/Surrounding Areas

Dog Training

Dog Boarding

Doggy Daycare
Dog Grooming
Group Classes


Contacts

4841 Industrial Pkwy, Indianapolis. 46226

Bnsp317.appointments@gmail.com

(317) 603-2292

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