Our Services
Canine Behaviour Consulting
Led by Lisa Large, CDBC — trauma-informed, holistic, science-based support for complex behaviour cases.
Understanding the Why Behind the Behaviour
Our Behaviour Consulting service is designed for dogs experiencing emotional, behavioural, or environmental challenges that go beyond basic training needs. Led by certified Canine Behaviour Consultant Lisa Large (CDBC, CPDT-KA, SDC), we take a holistic, trauma-informed approach — looking at the whole dog to understand the root causes behind their behaviour.
Every new client begins with a thorough assessment to understand your dog's history, environment, emotional state, and behavioural patterns. This allows us to create a customized program tailored to your dog's unique needs.
Whether you're dealing with reactivity, fear, aggression, anxiety, or other complex behaviours, we focus on more than just managing symptoms — we help your dog overcome the challenges that are impacting their behaviour through science-based, ethical training methods.
What We Help With
- —Reactivity & leash aggression
- —Anxiety, fear, and trauma
- —Complex aggression cases
- —Puppy development & socialization
- —Rescue transition support
- —Family matching & pre-adoption guidance
"Each session works at your dog's pace, ensuring progress is safe, sustainable, and positive for everyone involved."
Lisa Large, CDBC
Services & Rates
Service 01
Behaviour Consult & Assessment
2 hours — Initial intake
- ✓Full history & environment intake
- ✓Temperament & emotional assessment
- ✓Customized behaviour modification plan
- ✓Guardian coaching & homework resources
- ✓Follow-up support via email/phone
Service 02
Behaviour Training Session
1 hour — Follow-up sessions
- ✓Progress review since last session
- ✓Evaluation & plan adjustment
- ✓Next treatment step implementation
- ✓Written session summary & follow-up
Service 03
Puppy & Rescue Assessment
Pre-adoption & family matching
- ✓Lifestyle & expectation consultation
- ✓Breed & temperament guidance
- ✓Review of potential puppy/rescue candidates
- ✓Written recommendations & follow-up
All new clients begin with a free phone assessment. In-home sessions available throughout Ontario.
Book Free Phone Assessment Book This ServiceFrequently Asked Questions
What is a canine behaviour consultant?
A canine behaviour consultant is a credentialed professional trained to assess and address complex dog behaviour problems — including aggression, fear, anxiety, reactivity, and resource guarding. Unlike general dog trainers, behaviour consultants are qualified to work with serious and potentially dangerous behaviour cases. Lisa Large holds the CDBC (Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant) designation from the IAABC — one of the highest behaviour credentials available.
What is the difference between a dog trainer and a canine behaviour consultant?
Dog trainers focus primarily on teaching dogs new skills and commands. Canine behaviour consultants assess the underlying emotional and motivational causes of problem behaviour — particularly in complex or serious cases involving aggression, fear, anxiety, bite history, or trauma. A behaviour consultant like Lisa Large (CDBC) works on why the behaviour is happening, not just how to suppress it.
Does Lisa Large work with aggressive dogs?
Yes. Lisa Large (CDBC, CPDT-KA, SDC) specializes in dog aggression, bite risk assessment, and complex behaviour cases. She conducts thorough behavioural assessments to understand the root cause of aggressive behaviour and develops individualized, evidence-based behaviour plans. She serves families across Ontario, including Midland, Barrie, Orillia, Collingwood, and surrounding areas.
What areas does Thrive Canine Services serve?
Thrive Canine Services provides in-home behaviour consultations throughout Simcoe County, including Midland, Barrie, Wasaga Beach, Elmvale, Orillia, Collingwood, and Penetanguishene. We also offer virtual consultations across Ontario and Canada for families who cannot access in-person services.
What happens during a canine behaviour consultation?
A behaviour consultation with Lisa Large begins with a comprehensive intake assessment — reviewing your dog's history, environment, health, and the specific challenges you're experiencing. Lisa observes your dog in their home environment, identifies the emotional and motivational factors driving the behaviour, and develops a tailored behaviour plan with clear, practical steps for your family.
Do you use punishment or aversive methods?
No. Thrive Canine Services uses exclusively science-based, trauma-informed, force-free methods. We never use punishment, aversive tools, or fear-based approaches. Our philosophy is grounded in canine welfare, consent, and sustainable behaviour change.
Can you help with resource guarding in dogs?
Yes. Resource guarding — when a dog becomes protective over food, toys, spaces, or people — is a common behaviour Lisa Large works with regularly. Through careful assessment and evidence-based behaviour modification, most resource guarding cases can be managed safely and effectively.
How do I book a canine behaviour consultation in Ontario?
Start with a free 20-minute phone consultation with Lisa Large. There is no obligation — just a calm conversation about what you are experiencing and whether Thrive Canine Services is the right fit for your family. Book online at thrivecanineservices.ca or call 647-274-2887.
Client Experiences
What Clients Say About Working With Lisa
"I was skeptical about their service as I have been met with such resilience lately when it came to my dog aggressive dog and getting help. Lisa was wonderful. She was compassionate, understanding, nonjudgemental and genuinely kind and helpful. I will 100% recommend their services to anyone in need of behavioural assistance for their dog."
Hilary M.
Canine Behaviour Consulting · Google Review
"Lisa is outstanding at understanding canine behaviour. She has been a huge help with navigating some issues I'm having with my reactive boxer boy. Training is ongoing but I've noticed huge changes with his behaviours thus far. Lisa has been very knowledgeable, understanding, supportive and encouraging throughout our process and she is committed to the end result of having a confident, well adjusted and happy boy. I highly recommend Lisa and her team!"
Kelley C.
Canine Behaviour Consulting · Google Review
"We had our dog assessed today for a behavioural issue. We were thrilled to learn that we could harness this issue and teach our pup better strategies. Absolutely happy with a plan being presented to learn the how-to's of training our pup to be a better citizen! Best educational investment ever. Lisa is the game-changer."
Audi S.
Canine Behaviour Consulting · Google Review
"Working with Lisa has been one of the most positive and enlightening experiences we've had as dog guardians. Lisa doesn't just fix problems — she helps you build a relationship based on mutual trust, understanding, and clear communication. She guided us in seeing the world through our dog's eyes, and helped him feel safer, more confident, and more connected. What sets Lisa apart is her commitment to positive, science-based methods and the LIMA approach — every step grounded in kindness, respect, and the dog's emotional well-being. We can't recommend her highly enough."
Heather F.
Canine Behaviour Consulting · Google Review
"Delighted to see more animals and their people have the opportunity to train with Lisa Large through her work with Thrive Canine Services. Lisa brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, and is extremely approachable, articulate and professional. Her passion for canine behaviour is infectious, and I have had good experience and feedback when referring patients to her. Thank you to Lisa and team for offering their services to our area!"
Dr. Mann, DVM
Veterinary Referral · Google Review