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Class walking dogs in field

· Northern Michigan · May through September 2026 · Monday and Wednesday Classes

Online Learning
In-person Coaching
One Connected Experience

Behavior Insights + Life Skills Group Class · Johannesburg, MI

Limited to 6 dog-and-person teams per class · Enrollment closes when full · Two classes per week through summer 2026 · Season 2026 enrollment is open

Your dog is already talking to you.

This immersive program shows you how to see what they've been saying. Start with on-demand videos that build your foundation at home, then step into four weeks of in-person group classes where you and your dog are guided step by step. This is where you start if you want a structured, lasting approach to your dog’s behavior.

FULL PROGRAM INVESTMENT

$

250

Full foundational program · One enrollment ·

11 online modules + 4 in-person group classes

ANY AGE

ANY BREED

 Full video curriculum – 11 modules

  • Start today, yours for one year

✔ 4 in-person group classes

  • Live, hands-on coaching

Companion journal for the online course

✔ Small class size to improve focus and learning

Online access starts immediately

Choose your in-person start date

May through September 2026

Monday or Wednesday · 7:00 PM EST

Led by Valeria Cascaddan
Certified & Licensed Behavior Consultant

with 30+ years of professional practice

Already enrolled in the Behavior Insights online course?

 

You're halfway there. Reach out and we'll apply your $99 toward the full program.

White poodle walking a learning ladder and given treats

Understanding.

When asked to describe this class in one word, that was the answer.

“One of the best things was when we were walking the dogs and you had her leash. You looked back at me and said she was a really good dog. That gave me so much confidence.”

Team Nancy + Lily

LIFE SKILLS STUDENT

★★★★★ GOOGLE REVIEW

“There’s few that I would ever entrust with guiding me and my dog. Valeria is at the very top of that list though!”

Frenchton dog standing with its handler next to klimb and targets
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Learn at home.
Take the next step in class.

Know what to do and why.

PART ONE · VIDEO ON-DEMAND

Behavior Insights
Video Curriculum

Start the day you enroll. This self-paced video course includes 11 modules created and taught by Valeria Cascaddan. It builds the foundation for everything that follows.

You’ll learn how dogs learn, how your responses influence what happens next, and how to notice the early shifts that change outcomes. The lessons are structured and practical, designed to give you a clear framework before you ever step into class.

By the time you arrive for your first class, you’ll understand the structure behind what we’re doing and why it works. This foundation shapes how you approach behavior moving forward.

Immediate access upon enrollment · Self-paced · Printable journal included

PART TWO · IN-PERSON

Life Skills

Group Classes

In class, you’ll work through structured exercises designed to build steadiness, attention, and predictable movement in a shared space. You’ll learn how to guide your dog on leash, how to create patterns they can rely on, and how to support regulation around other dogs and people.

 

With coaching in a small group, adjustments happen as behavior unfolds. You’re not guessing. You’re building skill.

Each week builds deliberately. By the end, walks feel more organized. Responses are more predictable. You leave with practical structure you can continue using.

 

The framework you build here becomes the baseline you return to long after the program ends, with all of the dogs in your life from here on out.

Last year, every enrolled team completed the program.

 

Max 6 teams · Monday or Wednesday at 7:00 PM EST · May through September · Licensed and certified coach

LIFE SKILLS PARTICIPANT

“I really didn’t know what to expect. I guess I expected just basic commands. The reality was just what we needed.”

Valeria Cascaddan wearing a yellow hoodie kneeling  with red cattle dog

Questions before enrolling?

Is this class right for my dog?

This class is designed for dogs who are comfortable around other dogs and people in a group setting. Pulling, excitement, barking and distraction are completely fine. 

If your dog struggles with fear, reactivity, or aggression toward people or other dogs, a group class may not be the right first step. Dogs who feel overwhelmed have a hard time learning in this environment.​ If you’re unsure, reach out.

What if my dog struggles in a group class setting?
If your dog becomes overwhelmed, we’ll address it directly. I’ll assess what’s happening and make recommendations that support your dog’s ability to learn safely. Your dog’s well-being comes first.

Is there an age limit?

Dogs of any age can participate as long as they’re comfortable in a group setting. The skills we build apply to young dogs, adult dogs, and seniors. Learning doesn’t expire.

What if my dog doesn’t progress as quickly as others?

Dogs learn at different rates. The goal isn’t to match another team. It’s to build clarity and consistency between you and your dog. I coach each team where they are so progress feels steady, not pressured.

Will I see a difference?

Yes. Most teams notice more predictable responses, smoother movement on leash, and clearer communication. But the deeper shift is structural. You’re not just working on individual behaviors. You’re building a framework that carries into new environments, new challenges, and even future dogs.

What equipment do I need?

In most cases, a 6 foot leash and a standard collar are sufficient. I’ll provide additional guidance in class if adjustments are needed. If you’re unsure about what to bring, reach out before your first class.

When do in-person classes happen?

In-person classes run May through September on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:00 PM EST. After enrolling, you choose when to begin your four-week series. You attend the same day and time each week.

"We brought a scared, anxious rescue pup to class and left with a more confident, secure dog. Highly recommend."

★★★★★ GOOGLE REVIEW

grey Schnauzer lying down on purple mat
Your dog has been trying to tell you something.

You and your dog. Clear structure. Live coaching. Small group.

Online access begins immediately · Start today, go at your own pace

In-person classes May through September · Monday and Wednesday at 7:00 PM EST · Six teams per class · Johannesburg, Michigan

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