Helping Humans and Dogs Thrive
At Good Dog Happy Dog, we use humane, science-based methods to build harmony between you and your dog. Our ethical, compassionate approach strengthens communication and connection so both ends of the leash can thrive together.
Kind. Playful. Effective.
Training That Helps You Both Thrive.
Who is Good Dog Happy Dog?
Lindsay Dellas, CPDT-KA, CTBC
She/ Her
Lindsay has a special passion for, and extensive experience in helping dogs, puppies & their people. Lindsay is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, Fear Free Certified Professional from Fear Free Pets, and a proud member of the Pet Professional Guild & IAABC. Additionally, Lindsay holds a Certificate in Training and Behavior Consultation (CTBC) after graduating from the Dog Training Internship Academy – an intensive program diving deep on dog training, behavior & body language. Lindsay is passionate about the use of fear free and force free techniques, never using painful and outdated methods.
Lindsay regularly helps new puppy owners raise confident, well-adjusted city dogs with excellent social skills in addition to helping more reactive & fearful dogs. When Lindsay isn’t helping dog owners, she is busy furthering her knowledge & expertise in dog training by attending seminars, workshops, industry conventions & classes – as a true professional, Lindsay knows learning never stops!
Lindsay’s Qualifications & Credentials:
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) CCPDT
- Certificate in Training & Behavior Consultation from Dog Training Internship Academy (CTBC)
- Fear Free Certified Professional – Fear Free Pets
- Behavior Team of the Bay Area – Team Member
- Pet Professional Guild Member PPG
- IAABC Member
- PetPro Member
- Certificate of Completion – Living & Learning with Animals by Professor Susan G Friedman, Ph. D. BehaviorWorks
- Graduate – Karen Pryor Academy Puppy Start Right
- Graduate – Aggression in Dogs Master Course
- Shock Free Coalition advocate
- Pet First Aid/CPR Certified
- Dog*Biz Certified
- Volunteered at SFSPCA
- Full list of Certifications & Continuing Education
The training process
I work with you to figure out the best method of learning for everyone involved. This includes the human end of the leash. During the training process, we start with an initial consultation. I provide you with follow up resources and want to make sure they are valuable to you and easy to understand. I understand people learn differently and some prefer written information, or visual aids, others might like to watch me in person or others might want to try out it themselves. I want to work with you to figure out the best way for you.
As for your dog, we also want them to learn the best way we know how. And what we know is that violence does not work. Adding punishment and aversive equipment does not help. We want your dog to learn and have a custom plan for them to be a confident, happy dog that has a secure attachment to you.
What to expect
The first step is to book your initial consultation, or reach out via email, filling out our contact form, or sending a text. I will be in touch with you to confirm your location and your needs. The initial consultation is booked using an online scheduler, and is conducted online over Zoom. After the initial consultation, I provide a summary of our meeting with further resources. I will provide an assessment and recommendation of further training. If deemed appropriate, further coaching sessions will also be booked using an online scheduler.
Please know I am happy to help you with the process or provide you with alternative ways of booking if this method doesn’t work for you. I know learning new skills can be overwhelming, and I truly want both ends of the leash to feel confident.
This is a safe space
FAQs
What makes Good Dog Happy Dog different?
When we work together, we go way beyond just simple training. While skill building for your dog can be a part of the process, often it’s just one small aspect. I take a comprehensive approach and look at all the factors effecting your dogs behavior, and learn what areas we can help and improve so you all can thrive. This is through my signature Meet Your Dogs Needs behavioral program.
I’m feeling stuck and not sure if it’s a training issue, can you help?
Yes! Either it might feel like a plateau or something just isn’t working the way you thought it would. It very well could be something that is not training related! That’s why we take a comprehensive approach and look at all factors effecting your dogs behavior and likely will uncover the root of the issues.
My dog has bitten a person, will you work with us?
Yes! I work with dogs that have bite histories. This includes dogs that have bitten people or other dogs, bites that range from air snaps to puncturing of skin that’s required medical attention.
I’m busy and my schedule changes a lot, will this still work?
You get to pick dates and times that work for your schedule. Continued coaching sessions are one hour in length, and you can send in videos and email questions anytime between sessions. The cadence of sessions is up to you, I will offer suggestions if you’re not sure.
How long does this take?
Great question – it depends! We are dealing with a sentient being that has thier own unique behavior and learning history that effects how quickly we can make progress. We are also asking you to make behavior change. When we work together, we will come up with a plan that makes it the most effective and effiecient as possible for you all.
Where does this take place?
All initial consultations take place over Zoom. On going coaching sessions can take place online or within my service area *there are some restrictions to in person sessions, regardless of your location
Do you use e-collars, shock or prongs?
No. I do not use averive equipment that is meant to cause pain. If you are currently using these pieces of equipment and want to try something new or need help transitioning off, I’d be thrilled to work with you.
I’m really overwhelmed and worried about my dog’s behavior, can I feel safe and honest discussing this with you?
Yes! I understand how emotionally draining this can be, how hard it can feel and the amount of overwhelm that happens. You are safe to talk to me and be honest about your dogs behaviors, feel safe and trusted to discuss all your feelings around it without any judgement.
Will you work with my dog walker/vet/sitter?
Yes! I love working in collaboration with your dogs team. If you are struggling to find more dog pros that can help you and your dog, I can help you build that team.
I’ll work alongside your vet, vet behaviorist, dog walker, dog sitter, groomer, you name it!
Do you have age or breed restrictions?
No! I work with all different breeds of dogs, and dogs of all ages. I’ve worked with puppies as young as 8 weeks old, and seniors over 18 years old! Similarly, I’ve worked with the smallest barely 3lb pups to the massive 180 lb+ woofers.
How much does it cost?
The initial consultation is $250. Follow up owner coaching sessions are offered individually at $165 a session or as part of a bundle that works out to $150 a session (current bundles include 3 or 6 sessions)
I already have a training plan from my vet, can you help me with that?
Yes! I work in collaboration with many vets and vet behaviorists. They often will give you a training plan, but it can still feel daunting to do it on your own. I’d be happy to help you work through these skills and continue the collaborative work with your vet team.
Can I call you with more questions?
If you have any other questions, please email woof@gooddoghappy.dog, fill out the form on this site, or text 415-483-2265. Phone goes straight to voicemail and your questions will be answered via text or email.
Ready for the Dog of Your Dreams?