WHAT I HELP WITH
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Leash reactivity - dogs, people, bikes, sounds, and more
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Separation Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety, & Fear-based Behaviors.
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Over-excitement and Over-stimulation.
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Barrier Frustration and Fence Fighting.
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Aggression assessment and management.
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Impulse Control and Threshold Work.
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Puppy Training - Anxiety & Reactivity Prevention.
Meet Your Trainer
Shannen Standiford, UW-AAB
My name is Shannen, owner of Pups on the Coast. My approach combines patience, positivity, and science-based techniques, ensuring every dog (and guardian) feels supported and understood.
I have over a decade of work in the animal field under my belt with a background in veterinary technology and grooming, and entered the behavior modification and training field over 8 years ago.
I specialize in anxiety and reactivity with special interests in canine cognitive development. I received a certificate in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington, I am a CGC Evaluator, and a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
My mission is to help you foster a deeper relationship with your dog, and to teach you training methods that guide you forward on your journey towards a happier, more well-rounded life with your best friend.
Certificate in Applied Animal Behavior, University of Washington
American Kennel Club - Canine Good Citizen Evaluatior
IAABC - Supporting Member
Understanding and Addressing Reactivity
Your dog isn't being bad, they're overwhelmed.
Lunging, barking, snapping, pulling - these aren't signs of aggression. They're signs of a dog who is scared, anxious, or just way too excited and doesn't know what to do with it. And when you're the one on the other end of that leash, it's really hard to tell the difference.
This is where I come in. My approach starts with understanding the root cause, not just managing the symptoms.
When training through reactivity, I'll educate you on the how and the why, equip you with gentler tools, and teach you how to communicate through the leash with calm, quiet confidence.
The goal isn't just a better walk, it's a dog who actually feels safe enough to stop reacting in the first place.
We're not just changing their behavior. We're changing how they experience the world.
Success Stories - Real Results
Jamie & Leo,
Carlsbad, CA
“Leo came to me as an 8-month rescue scared of anything and everything. Shannen helped so much on helping him warm up to his environment, getting him to enjoy training and trust me as his owner, and give him the confidence he needed to succeed. In a few short months he transitioned from a scared, overstimulated dog into the dog of my dreams."
Christine & Tron
Encinitas, CA
“Shannen worked closely with my husband and I for 6 sessions, and then we moved to Day Training. We were so happy with the results, and she helped us (slowly) progress our dog Tron to become a beach dog with the type of recall I worked so long for. Will recommend to anyone who listens! Thank you!!"
Daniel & Dottie
Del Mar, Ca
“Shannen helped my family with our leash and door reactive Husky. She was incredibly responsive with questions throughout the process and gave us simple step-by-step instructions on what to work on and how to implement. Really happy with the progress Dottie made in a short amount of time."
Q & A
My dog has been like this for years. Is it too late?
Almost never. Behavior can change at any age with the right approach, the brain is more adaptable than most people think.
Do you use any punishment or corrections?
Never. My approach is 100% force-free and grounded in positive reinforcement and applied behavior science.
Where do sessions happen?
In-home sessions happen directly in your home where real life happens with opportunities to venture to public settings. Virtual sessions also available.
How is this different from regular dog training?
Most trainers focus on commands and compliance. I focus on emotional state — why the behavior is happening — which is a very different (and more effective) thing for anxious dogs.
WHAT WORKING TOGETHER LOOKS LIKE
Step 1 — Free Discovery Call
We start with a 30-minute conversation about your dog. You'll tell me what's been happening, when it started, and what you've already tried.
I'll ask questions, share my initial thoughts, and we'll figure out together whether we're a good fit.
Step 2 — Behavior Assessment & Custom Plan
Before we start training, I need to understand your dog. Your first session is a deep-dive assessment — I'll observe your dog in their real environment, identify triggers, evaluate threshold levels, and build a behavior modification plan specific to your dog's history and emotional state. No generic protocols.
Step 3 — Coaching & Ongoing Support
We work through your plan together, session by session. I'll coach you in real time, adjust the plan as your dog progresses, and stay available between sessions for questions. You're never left wondering what to do next.
