Apply now to secure your spot for October!

A neurodivergent approach to building a happy, harmonious life with your Big Feelings dog

You want your dog to feel confident and calm in this chaotic world - but that’s easier said than done, especially as a neurodivergent dog guardian.

Living with a dog who experiences fear, anxiety, reactivity, or other “Big Feelings” can be incredibly challenging.

Your dog’s reactions can often become a source of anxiety, embarrassment, or overstimulation.

Trying to DIY your training plan is leaving you feeling overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated.

Sometimes you feel isolated, unsupported, and exhausted by the chaos of your dog’s behavior.

If any of that sounds like you, you’re ready for a dog training program that acknowledges and embraces your neurodivergence, not one that ignores it.

We teach neurodivergent dog guardians - like you - how to build your dog’s confidence and help them cope with big feelings.

And hey, we started exactly where you are. We were at a loss for how to help our dogs with their big emotions. We were anxious and crying about our dogs. No matter how much we loved them, we were constantly overstimulated by their behavior and overwhelmed with the amount of dog training information out there.

Now, it’s time to give you the neurodivergent-friendly dog training strategies it took us years to figure out.

We’ve put together the most complete resource for dog guardians like you—no more piecing together strategies from multiple sources.

  • Everything you need is here, laid out in a way that works with your neurodivergent brain - not against it.

  • With our step-by-step guidance, you’ll find the clarity and confidence you’ve been missing, all in one comprehensive program.

  • This isn’t just another online class — you’ll get a clear, supportive path that empowers both you and your dog to thrive.

Introducing

Embracing Big Feelings

A 6-month online course for neurodivergent dog guardians with dogs who experience big emotions like fear, anxiety, reactivity, or hyperactivity.

You get lifetime access to all course materials (we see you, ADHD-ers), monthly self-paced video modules, group support sessions, and guided homework workbooks that will walk you step-by-step through the program.

You’ll learn…

  • to adapt strategies to fit your unique life and your Big Feelings dog, creating a personalized training routine unlike anyone else's in class

  • to build a partnership with your dog based on mutual understanding and empathy

  • to embrace the journey of training as a neurodivergent guardian, finding joy and accomplishment in each small success along the way

Want a sneek peek at the course topics?

  • Managing Your Dog’s Reactions

    We provide you with essential strategies for handling your dog’s reactions during moments of fear, anxiety, or stress.

  • Medical and Behavioral Considerations

    Understanding the medical and behavioral aspects that affect your dog is crucial. We cover signs of medical issues, such as pain or allergies, and how to discuss these with your vet.

  • Understanding and Interpreting Body Language

    Being able to read your dog’s body language is key to preventing and managing stress. You'll learn how to identify early signs of stress and take proactive steps to manage your dog’s emotional state.

  • Incorporating Training into Your Daily Routines

    You'll discover how to incorporate mentally stimulating activities into your dog’s daily routine using strategies like habit stacking.

  • Tracking and Evaluating Progress

    You'll learn how to adapt tracking methods to suit your needs, whether you're ADHD or have other preferences, ensuring you stay organized and on top of your dog's development.

  • Understanding Triggers and Managing Behavior

    We will teach you how to identify and manage your dog’s triggers, understand the impact of trigger distance and intensity, and how to recover from trigger stacking.

  • Creating Predictability with Pattern Games

    You’ll be introduced to various training techniques, including pattern games, that emphasize the importance of associative learning, predictability, and agency.

  • Self-Care and Advocacy

    We acknowledge the importance of self-care and personal advocacy. You'll explore how to respect your own feelings and neurodivergence while working with your dog.

  • Applying Training to the Real World

    As you progress, we will guide you through the journey of taking your training from your living room to the real world, taking it all one step at a time.

As a student you’ll get…

Video lessons with everything you need to know to help your dog feel safe and confident in a world full of their triggers

Guided workbooks to walk you through applying training games, strategies, and concepts to your life with your dog

1:1 troubleshooting and coaching during weekly group Zoom Q&A sessions for personalized help and guidance

A community of other neurodivergent dog guardians for support and encouragement

Plus, some extra Little Treats for you…

Phone and email scripts & templates

Advocating for your Big Feelings dog is tough - especially when you feel awkward or anxious in social situations. Our templates help you communicate with your pet’s team - including veterinarians and groomers - as well as friends and family.

Visual reminder printables for your home

Many neurodivergent folks struggle with working memory. Visual reminders around the house can help us remember what training games we’re working on, what we need to tell guests about our dogs, and more.

Live an affirming and accessible life with your Big Feelings dog

Pay in Full to Save

$1200

$1600 - Price in 2025

6 Monthly Payments

$225/mo

$285/mo - Price in 2025

Meet Your Teachers

Hi, we’re Logan and Emily!

We’re certified positive reinforcement-based dog trainers, neurodivergent humans, and guardians to our own Big Feelings dogs.

We know what it’s like to wade through endless advice, trying to piece together a solution that actually works for you and your dog. That’s why we’ve created something different—something that doesn’t just cater to your dog’s needs but also respects and supports your unique brain and body.

We believe that dog training is more than knowing the theory & the training games. As neurodivergent people, we need training strategies that work with our unique and individual brains.

Our training methods are committed to being force-free and fear-free, guided by the principles of Dr. Susan Friedman's Humane Hierarchy.

We integrate the latest scientific research to ensure that every technique prioritizes your dog's comfort and well-being.

By considering each dog's individual needs and sensitivities, we provide a training experience that fosters trust, promotes effective learning, and supports a strong bond between you and your dog.

We only use training tools that feel good!

Tools used in our course…

  • Treats & Treat Pouches

  • Clickers and Markers

  • Harnesses

  • Leashes and Long Lines

  • Enrichment Toys

  • Baby Gates, X-Pens, and sometimes Crates

  • Well-Fitting Basket Muzzles

Tools never used in our course…

  • Shock Collars

  • E-Collars

  • Prong Collars

  • Choke Chains

  • Slip Leads

  • Pet Corrector Spray

  • Penny Cans

  • Anything your dog finds aversive

We care deeply about ensuring that the training experience is positive and rewarding for both you and your dog, creating an environment where learning and growth feel good for everyone involved.

Imagine a dog training course where…

  • You’re not just learning a few isolated tips and tricks - we guide you through the entire journey of understanding and working with your dog’s big feelings from start to finish.

  • You gain the skills to confidently manage daily triggers and feel empowered to handle any situation with your dog confidently.

  • You develop strategies to navigate stressful events like vet visits, guests in the home, encounters with off-leash dogs on walks, and sudden reactions.

  • You seamlessly integrate training & enrichment into your daily routine in a way that respects both your needs and your dog’s needs.

  • And finally - you feel affirmed, knowing there's nothing wrong with you or your dog.

How it works

  • Apply for the next intake and become part of a supportive community of neurodivergent dog guardians. Once you’re in, you’ll receive immediate access to our welcome materials to help you get started.

  • Our course is designed with flexibility in mind. Each month, new self-paced video modules are released, allowing you to progress at a speed that suits your brain and lifestyle. Watch, pause, and rewatch as needed—there’s no rush. All video modules have captions, transcripts, and downloadable slides, so you can learn in the way that works best for you.

  • You’ll receive a comprehensive workbook that accompanies each module, walking you step-by-step through the practical application of what you’ve learned. This isn’t just theory—our workbook helps you connect the dots and put your knowledge into action, making it easier to see real progress with your dog.

  • Every week, you can join our live group support sessions, where you’ll receive personalized guidance, ask questions, and connect with others who are on the same journey. If you prefer one-on-one feedback, submit your training videos for detailed, tailored advice.

  • You’ll become part of a supportive community of like-minded dog guardians who understand what it’s like to have a dog with big feelings. Share your wins, challenges, and experiences in a judgment-free space, and find encouragement from others who are on the same journey.

  • As you progress through the course, you’ll notice gradual but significant changes in both your dog’s behavior and your confidence as a guardian. By the end, you’ll have the tools, knowledge, and support system to continue nurturing a harmonious life with your dog, well beyond the course’s completion.

Turn overwhelm into empowerment

Imagine going from this…

  • You have goals and training plans for your dog, but you struggle to put them into action.

  • You’ve been training for weeks (even months or years) and trying new strategies but have yet to see meaningful progress.

  • Your dog’s many, many needs can often become overwhelming and exhausting leading to burnout or low spoon days.

  • Life with your dog feels disorganized, with chaotic walks and no consistent routine, making stressful days even harder.

To this…

  • You’re kinder to yourself about your training and your dog’s behavior, understanding you’re both doing your best.

  • You are finally making progress, seeing results, celebrating wins, and having fun training your dog.

  • You gain a community that gets you, offering support and a safe space to share both struggles and successes.

  • You’ve developed a flexible yet sustainable routine with your dog, making daily activities more predictable and enjoyable, even on stressful days.

What the course gives you

  • A neurodivergent-friendly approach making the process less overwhelming and more empowering.

  • Flexibility to learn at your own pace, so you can adjust based on your energy levels, sensory needs, or emotional capacity.

  • A supportive community where you can connect with other neurodivergent dog guardians who understand the challenges of living with a big feelings dog.

  • Tools for long-term emotional growth, not just immediate behavior fixes, helping you build a sustainable, harmonious relationship with your dog that lasts beyond the course.

  • Comprehensive resources that address both emotional and behavioral aspects of your dog’s needs.

  • Cost-effective, ongoing learning with lifetime access to the course materials and support you get a more sustainable investment.

that 1:1 private training doesn’t…

Student Wins!

“Finney came with me to the street fair yesterday and was a wee bit nervous about so many people, but happily responding to cues and politely greeted lots of pups.”

Meg + Finley

“Despite all our neighbor dogs being VERY barky lungey, we’ve made good progress getting Rufio to offer check ins with us and instead of barking at them, he hears the barking and then comes to us.

Kenzie + Rufio

“In the past two weeks or so, Charlie has gotten so much more confident on our walks. We've been doing solo neighborhood walks, and she's taking tons of treats and offering lots of engagement with me.

Rachel + Charlie

“Scrappy has led us on further walks last night and this morning! Growing in his confidence in the new neighborhood yay.

Karly + Scrappy

“Her recall is improving, she's swimming into deeper water by choice, she is engaging in enrichment toys that I've left for her when she needs to cope, and today she took treats IN PUBLIC.”

Erika + Ripley

You can have that harmonious life with your Big Feelings dog that you’ve been dreaming of!

Ready to get started?

Fill out the form below and we’ll send you the info you need to secure your spot for October!

*Note that spots are limited each intake to 8 dog guardians.

Embracing Big Feelings is for you if…

  • You feel like other dog training resources are created for neurotypical brains and don't address your own needs. 

  • The thought of utilizing a gentle, force-free, and fear-free based training approach with your dog feels good.

  • You want to know the who, what, when, where, and most importantly WHY behind your dog’s behavior.

  • The sound of your dog barking makes you feel reactive and overstimulated at times.

  • You often feel “lazy” or unsuccessful with your training because your brain doesn’t remember habits how other people’s brains do.

  • There are certain sensory icks that keep you from doing training, enrichment, and activities with your dog.

  • You’ve started self-guided training courses before but abandoned them, always forgetting to finish.

  • Private training sessions aren’t your jam whether it’s because of having to mask, prioritizing spoons for socializing, dealing with social anxiety, or even just because they don’t feel accessible to you!

And it’s probably not right for you if…

  • You're looking for quick fixes or overnight transformations without understanding the “why” behind behavior.

  • You're not ready to embrace a compassionate, force-free training philosophy that prioritizes your dog's well-being and emotional needs.

  • You're not open to learning about and accommodating your neurodivergent needs in your training approach.

  • You’re not ready to commit to a process that includes both highs and lows, and requires patience and persistence.

  • You’re not ready or willing to make adjustments to both yours and your dog’s life to help change their behavior.

“Log & Em hold such a special place for people-pup teams that struggle to feel like they fit in conventional training programs.”

Not only do the trainers make you feel validated, the Confident Mutts community is full of validation and kindness too! Even with my extreme procrastination of progressing through the material, I can tell how much the communication between my pup and I has improved after just one Q&A session. I can't wait to see my pup continue to grow in confidence throughout the program!

— Erika with Ripley

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When we say “Big Feelings” dog, we’re thinking of any dog who seems to struggle with the unpredictability and chaos of the world. Maybe they react on walks, hide under tables when humans visit, or bark at noises.

    And regardless of your dog’s feelings, if YOU are struggling to cope with the chaos of having a dog, Embracing Big Feelings is for you. We’ll teach you what you need to know to make your life with your dog less chaotic and more joyful.

  • We use exclusively positive-reinforcement-based, “force free” methodology. We never recommend using e-collars, prong collars, slip chains, or other tools that can potentially cause harm or discomfort to your dog. We want training to be fun and joyful for both you and your dogs!

  • No worries at all! The course will run monthly intakes, so if you can’t join for this month’s round, we’ll see you next month! We do recommend getting on our email list, so that you can be reminded when registration opens.

  • None! If you’ve already got some experience, that’s great, but our curriculum is set up so that no one feels behind.

  • We know that learning environments have not historically been the most welcoming or accessible, and we are committed to making our class accessible to all. All videos are multimedia and will have transcripts, captions, and can be watched at your own pace. If you don’t find that a particular training game or strategy works for your brain or body, we will always help you adapt it so that it’s functional for you.

  • We do our best to have at least 1 sliding scale spot each cohort depending on funding. Want to get on the sliding scale waitlist? You can do that here.

    If you aren't sure if you need sliding scale and want to learn more you do that here!

Make training your Big Feelings dog as enjoyable as it should be

$1200

Or $225/month for 6 months

P.S. In 2025, the price will increase to $1600

Copyright Confident Mutts 2024.