Business Details
30 Years
experience
Expert Dog Training & Behavior Solutions in Monroe, CT
Established in 1996, Refined Canine specializes in dog training and behavior consulting rooted in the LIMA Principle (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive). Our approach prioritizes building trust and strengthening the human-animal bond through science-based, universal learning principles. We offer family-focused training programs that cater to puppies and dogs of all ages, addressing foundational manners, socialization, and complex behavior modification. Our team includes certified professionals with extensive experience in cooperative care, aggression resolution, and early puppy development.We emphasize proactive education, providing resources like virtual workshops, in-person classes, and private consultations to help families achieve long-term success. Our commitment to continuous learning and ethical training practices has earned recognition in local media and partnerships with leading animal welfare organizations.
Services
Group Training
Puppy Socialization
Private Lessons
Behavior Consulting
Virtual Workshops
Aggression Modification
Canine Good Citizen Prep
Family Paws Programs
Nosework Classes
Trick Training
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- Certified trainers with over 25 years of combined experience in dog behavior.
- Proven LIMA Principle-based methods for ethical, effective training.
- Family-focused programs involving children in puppy socialization.
- Specialized behavior consulting for aggression and reactivity issues.
- Flexible options: virtual workshops, in-person classes, and private sessions.
Associations and certifications
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
- Fear Free Professional Trainer
- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
- Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
- AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
Services
Group Training Classes
Structured group sessions for puppies and dogs focusing on foundational manners, socialization, and behavior modification. Classes use LIMA Principle-based techniques to teach skills like leash walking, recall, and impulse control. Ideal for families seeking affordable, interactive learning in Monroe, CT.
Private Behavior Consulting
One-on-one virtual or in-home consultations addressing specific behavior issues like aggression, reactivity, or anxiety. Certified consultants create personalized modification plans using science-based methods. Includes follow-up support to ensure long-term success for complex cases.
Puppy Socialization Programs
Specialized classes for puppies under 5 months focusing on early socialization, bite inhibition, and foundational training. Based on Dr. Ian Dunbar's Sirius Puppy Curriculum, this program prevents future behavior problems through structured off-leash interaction and family involvement.
Virtual Training Workshops
Live and pre-recorded virtual sessions covering topics like puppy preparation, dog-baby readiness, and basic manners. Includes access to instructional videos and printable resources for flexible, self-paced learning from anywhere.
Family Paws Programs
Workshops and private coaching for families expecting a baby or managing toddlers. Teaches practical strategies for safe dog-baby integration, stress recognition, and creating 'success stations' to ease transitions in household dynamics.
People
Michelle Douglas
Founder & Lead Trainer
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with 25+ years of experience. Author, podcast guest, and former APDT president specializing in aggression resolution and family-focused training programs.
Lis Polard
Training Instructor
CPDT-KA certified mentor trainer with expertise in cooperative veterinary care and Fear Free methods. Offers private lessons through Creature Comfort, LLC, focusing on positive reinforcement techniques.
Jessica Tsutsis
Lead Trainer
CPDT-KA certified instructor specializing in puppy development and basic manners. Creator of Snuffle Mats and Tug Toys, offering hands-on training solutions for local Connecticut families.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We use LIMA Principle-based methods, focusing on positive reinforcement and science-based techniques to build trust and modify behavior ethically.
Do you offer virtual training options?
Yes, we provide virtual workshops, group classes, and private consultations via Zoom for flexible learning from home.
Can you help with aggressive dog behavior?
Our certified behavior consultants specialize in aggression cases, creating tailored modification plans to address underlying causes safely.
Are puppy classes available for new owners?
Yes! Our Puppy Social Skills Class teaches early socialization, bite inhibition, and foundational manners for puppies up to 5 months old.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Southern Connecticut, including Monroe, Stamford, and New Haven County, with virtual options available nationwide.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Jess L.
Apr 26, 2018
Report
My husband and I have had three one-on-one sessions with Michelle and our rescue dog. We've learned a ton and appreciate her non-judgmental way of handling our questions and concerns. She's constantly thinking of ideas and strategies for us and our sensitive pup. Michelle has also been helpful with our follow-up questions over email. Hardest part is finding a time slot that works, but we've found that weekday mornings have been best. We hope to attend one of her out-and-about group classes in the future, which gives our dog another environment to learn and experience.
