Liz Throckmorton

Liz Throckmorton, KPA CTP (Well Beings Animal Behavior)

Liz Throckmorton, KPA CTP, is the founder of Well Beings Animal Behavior and a graduate with distinction from the Karen Pryor Academy as a certified training partner.

Liz specializes in force-free, positive reinforcement training for both dogs and cats, with a focus on strengthening the human-animal bond. Liz works extensively with adolescent dogs, both with families and as a volunteer trainer at the Capital Area Humane Society, where she also volunteers in the veterinary clinic. She also has a special passion for advocating for small dogs, whose unique needs and challenges are often overlooked.

Her background includes resolving complex feline behavior issues and even training rescued roosters. With a Master of Science and a commitment to evidence-based, compassionate methods, Liz helps families navigate behavior challenges with empathy and expertise.

Liz Throckmorton

Select an item below for more information:

The Awkward Phase: Living With Your Adolescent Dog

Level: Intermediate

Adolescence is a critical developmental stage for dogs, occurring approximately between 6 months and 3 years of age. During this time, brain regions responsible for executive functioning, impulse control, and emotional regulation are still maturing (like we see in human teenagers). Research shows that adolescent dogs may appear less consistent in responding to cues they previously mastered, become more sensitive to stress, and show increased reactivity or distractibility.

This class is designed to support dogs and their guardians through this normal but sometimes challenging phase. Common adolescent behaviors include jumping up, pulling on leash, rushing through doors, and bursts of rambunctious energy. While these behaviors are developmentally typical, we'll provide you with evidence-based strategies to manage them using positive reinforcement and relationship-building techniques so your dog becomes calmer and more focused.

Through practicing skills such as handler focus, pattern games, targeting, polite greetings, loose-leash walking, reactivity work, waiting at a boundary, "leave it," and mat work, your dog will develop better focus, self-control, and resilience. These tools not only address everyday challenges but also support your dog's healthy brain development, helping them grow into a confident, well-adjusted adult companion.

Sundays 12:00pm-1:00pm. Six weeks: 7/26-8/30

ATTENTION:

All students must fill out a training survey.

Please provide proof of vaccinations ON or BEFORE the first night of class. Can now be uploaded at sign up, but not required. Vaccinations can be emailed to training@coolcitydogs.com

*Class size limited to 5 students

Due to high demand, AnnaBelle's does not offer refunds on classes after the class has started.

Price: $229.00

Little Dogs, Big Skills

Designed specifically for small-breed dogs 20 pounds and under, this fun, positive-reinforcement class tackles common small-breed challenges to build confidence, practical life skills, and a stronger partnership between you and your dog. Topics include behavior education specific to small breeds, confidence-building obstacle work, targeting, leash walking, cooperative care for handling and successful vet visits, strategies for managing and improving reactivity issues, and mat work/relaxation skills.

To help every dog feel safe and successful, each team will have its own individual enclosure/workspace with visual barriers during class. Participants will also receive a folder to organize educational materials provided throughout the course.