.jpg)
My passion is teaching people how to work with their dogs rather than against them — through positive reinforcement and fear-free techniques that build trust and a strong bond between dog and guardian. I believe that when owners understand their dog's behavior and have the right skill set, everything changes — for the dog and for the relationship.
THE STORY
I started working with dogs right out of college — and never looked back. What started as a job became a passion, and the more I learned, the more I wanted to understand the science behind why behavior change actually works.
That led me to Simmons University, where I earned my M.S. in Behavior Analysis, and eventually to starting Fresh Start Canine Behavior — a practice built around the belief that every dog deserves a trainer who actually understands them.
Today I work with dogs and families across Greater Boston and virtually across the US, specializing in behavior consulting and separation anxiety — always force-free, always science-based, always without judgment.
HOW I WORK
These aren't marketing lines. They're the things that actually shape how every session runs, every plan is written, and every client is treated.
No judgment — ever.
Clients come to me embarrassed, exhausted, and sometimes convinced they've failed their dog. They haven't. Behavior is a science, not a moral failing. My job is to understand what's happening and build a path forward — not to make anyone feel worse about where they are.
The science is not optional.
Positive reinforcement training is not just a preference — it's what the research says works. Positive reinforcement produces more reliable and longer lasting behavior change than aversive methods. I don't use punishment, corrections, or dominance theory. Not ust because it feels nicer, but because the evidence is clear.
Every dog is an individual.
There is no one-size-fits-all training plan. A dog's behavior is shaped by their history, their genetics, their environment, and a dozen other variables that a generic program will miss entirely. Every client gets a plan built specifically for their dog — because that's the only kind that actually works.
Progress looks different for every dog.
Not every dog will become a perfect off-leash companion. Not every anxious dog will one day love strangers. The goal is not a mythical ideal — it's a real, sustainable life that works for the dog and the family. That looks different for everyone, and I am always honest about that from day one.
Credentials & training
Credentials in dog training are not standardized — anyone can call themselves a trainer with zero formal education. Here's what Sophie's actually mean, and why they matter.
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis — Simmons University, 2021
A graduate-level degree in the science of how behavior works, what maintains it, and how to change it. The academic foundation that informs every training plan Sophie writes.
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant — IAABC
One of the most rigorous credentials in the field. Requires 500+ hours of documented case experience and 3+ years working with complex behavioral cases. Awarded through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
Certified Separation Anxiety Professional Behavior Consultant — Julie Naismith
A specialist credential for separation anxiety treatment. Requires completing an in-depth course, passing a written exam, developing plans for multiple SA case scenarios, and presenting a real client case to Julie Naismith directly.
Fear Free Certified Professional
Certification in preventing and alleviating fear, anxiety, and stress in animals — with a focus on improving emotional wellbeing during veterinary care and everyday handling.
Association of Professional Dog Trainers — Member
Professional membership in the leading international association for dog training professionals, committed to continuing education and humane training practices.
AKC Canine Good Citizen — Evaluator
Certified evaluator for the AKC's Canine Good Citizen program — the gold standard for dog's behavior in public and responsible ownership.
MEET MEESHA
Meesha is an 8-year-old GSD/Chow/Pit mix who I adopted at a year and a half — when I was very much a green trainer. Meesha is anxious. She has always been anxious. And she has been one of the most important teachers I've ever had.
Living and working with an anxious dog gives me something that no credential can — a personal, felt understanding of what it is like to love a dog who struggles. The patience it takes. The small victories that mean everything. The acceptance that comes when you stop trying to make your dog into something they're not.
Meesha has her Novice and Intermediate Trick Dog titles and is currently working toward her first scentwork title. She loves the woods, tolerates the beach, and has strong opinions about strangers.
Meesha's Titles
Novice Trick Dog — Do More With Your Dog
Intermediate Trick Dog — Do More With Your Dog
Working towards her first scentwork title
Book a free 15-minute call to talk through your dog's situation. No pressure, no judgment — just an honest conversation about what your dog needs and how Fresh Start can help.
Schedule your Intro CallView All servicesFresh Start Canine Behavior
sophie@freshstartcaninebehavior.com · Greater Boston · Bonded & Insured