At Barks and Rec, we help dogs and their humans move beyond surface-level obedience to build real connection, trust, and calm. While we’re always happy to help with leash manners, separation anxiety, or resource guarding, we believe those problems rarely exist in isolation. More often, they’re symptoms of a deeper issue: a breakdown in the relationship between dog and handler. That’s where we come in.

Our training approach focuses on the why behind behavior, not just the what. We work with everyday owners who want their dogs to be more than just compliant — they want a dog they can understand, trust, and live with peacefully. We prioritize emotional regulation, clear communication, and mutual respect, using training as a tool to build stability and confidence on both ends of the leash.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we help people understand their unique dog’s mindset, triggers, and needs. Whether we're working through anxiety, reactivity, or just teaching calm presence in everyday life, our curriculum is designed to foster long-term change, not quick fixes.

At the heart of it all is a belief: when dogs feel safe and understood, and humans feel equipped and confident, everything else starts to fall into place.

Common Training Areas

  • New Dog Adoption

    Newly adopted dogs, regardless of whether they are puppies or adults, are in a vulnerable state during their transition to a new environment. It is crucial for us to avoid rushing the training process. The primary objective should be to nurture the bond between the dog and us as handlers, gradually encouraging desired behaviors while establishing a strong foundation in the dog's new home.

  • Leash Training

    With experience caring for hundreds of animals, we enhance dogs' walking experiences to make them enjoyable and fulfilling. We apply our expertise to encourage desirable behaviors during walks. For recurring clients with weekly schedules, we help reinforce the behaviors needed for proper leash handling. Our goal is to support dogs and their owners in achieving the best experience.

  • Seperation Anxiety

    Pet owners can use several ways to lessen dogs' separation anxiety when leaving home. We apply these techniques during drop-in visits for clients and can provide personal help for both the owner and pet.