Empowering Shy and Fearful Dogs

Cautious Canines

Is your dog easily scared or startled? Does he shy away from new people, other dogs, or unfamiliar situations? Whether your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, fireworks, the car, the vet, or simply feels unsure around people and other animals, I can help your dog feel more relaxed, confident, and at ease both at home and out in the world.

Why Early Intervention Matters
Fear and shyness are common issues for many dogs and can stem from a variety of causes—such as socialisation history, past trauma, genetics, or medical concerns. Unfortunately, dogs rarely "outgrow" fear-based behaviours, and the longer these fears go unaddressed, the more ingrained they become. Early intervention is crucial: addressing fear early makes the process easier and can prevent more serious behavioural issues, including aggression, as your dog matures.

A Tailored Approach
For dogs struggling with fear and shyness, it’s important to approach the situation with patience and a structured training plan. Traditional obedience training or overwhelming your dog with exposure too quickly can actually make things worse. With the Cautious Canines program based in the Adelaide Hills, we'll work together to create a gradual, supportive approach that builds your dog's confidence and helps him face his fears at his own pace.

  • “We needed help with some anxious behaviour with 4 year old female spoodle Belle to adjust to being rehomed, and to live her best life. Lena Logan from Paws & Reward was recommended by Belle’s vet. When Lena first came she did an extensive review of Belle’s history, behaviours, and discussed with us our goals. She provided a very thorough written review and ongoing plan from the first session and started to educate us, and Belle in the skills we all needed. Lena provided guided sessions of the training and printed examples of all the training and calming techniques for us to refer to when we needed. Lena is calm, patient and clearly very experienced. After 3 sessions with Lena, and us reinforcing the things we have learnt, Belle has responded to all the training and her anxiety has reduced. We highly recommend Lena and her Cautious Canines Program.”

    -Therese and Belle

Pick Your Training Path

  • Support Program

    This comprehensive program is designed for dogs in Adelaide who need a little extra support navigating the world—and for owners who are looking for practical strategies and compassionate coaching to help their dog thrive.

    What’s Included:

    🧠 Pre-Consult Learning Pack (Valued at $75)
    Kickstart your journey with a 40-minute educational video and an accompanying e-workbook. You’ll gain immediate insights into your dog’s behaviour and learn how to navigate tricky situations—even before our first session.

    🐾 2-Hour In-Home Cautious Canines Consultation
    We begin with a deep dive into your goals and your dog’s unique personality. Together, we’ll create a personalised training plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs. You'll also receive a “Nervous Dog” bandana to help signal to others that your dog needs space—supporting safer, more respectful interactions when out and about.

    📆 2 x 60-Minute Follow-Up Sessions
    Scheduled every 1–2 weeks, these in-person sessions help keep things moving in the right direction. Each session includes:

    ~ A review of your progress

    ~ Problem-solving for any challenges you’re facing

    ~ Introduction of new skills to support your dog’s continued development

    💬 Ongoing Support Between Sessions
    You’re not on your own between visits. I’m here for follow-up questions, encouragement, and guidance throughout the program.

    📚 Custom Training Materials & Management Tools
    You'll receive handouts, resources, and tools that make your training easier and more effective—helping your dog thrive at home and out in the world.

    Total Program Cost: $620

    Let’s help your dog feel safe, seen, and supported.
    Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident life—for both of you.

  • Fast Track Program

    Prefer to skip the training process and jump-start the results? I’ve got you covered. I’ll work directly with your dog three days a week to fast-track their progress, with one of those sessions dedicated to guiding you through what we’ve achieved and how to keep it going.

    What’s Included:

    🧠 Pre-Consult Learning Pack (Valued at $75)
    Kickstart your journey with a 40-minute educational video and an accompanying e-workbook. You’ll gain immediate insights into your dog’s behaviour and learn how to navigate tricky situations—even before our first session.

    🐶 2-Hour In-Home Cautious Canines Consultation
    We begin with a deep dive into your goals and your dog’s unique personality. Together, we’ll create a personalised training plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs. You'll also receive a “Nervous Dog” bandana to help signal to others that your dog needs space—supporting safer, more respectful interactions when out and about.

    🚀 2 Weeks of Intensive Training
    For two weeks, I’ll work directly with your dog three times per week (9 sessions total) to accelerate progress and build calm, confident responses to triggers.

    🤝 Weekly Transfer Sessions
    One of those two weekly sessions will be a half or full transfer session with you present. I’ll guide you through what your dog has learned and show you how to apply and maintain those skills in real life.

    💬 Ongoing Support Between Sessions
    You’re not on your own between visits. I’m here for follow-up questions, encouragement, and guidance throughout the program.

    📚 Custom Training Materials & Management Tools
    You'll receive handouts, resources, and tools that make your training easier and more effective—helping your dog thrive at home and out in the world.

    Total Program Cost: $1240

    Ready to make progress—fast?
    Let’s get your dog on the path to success—book now and start seeing changes sooner!