Have questions?
Free Video Consultation
A free 30-minute video consultation over Microsoft Teams. We talk through your goals and help you choose a next step.
Free
Training with purpose
Service dog training in Nova Scotia and British Columbia.
Building confident dogs, empowering independent lives.
Ethical, evidence-informed training for service dogs and companion pets — with practical support for the people who love, guide, and rely on them.
Halifax Regional MunicipalityGreater Victoria & West Shore
The Pawsitively promise
Progress that feels good for both ends of the leash.
Ways we can help
The right support for the dog in front of you.
From a first puppy class to a fully supported service dog journey, every plan starts with listening.
Owner-trainer service dog programs
Service dog programs and owner-trainer support in both regions.
See programsPotential Service Dog Assessment
An early, honest suitability review for your dog — $150 plus tax.
Learn morePet training
Pet training, socialization, and obedience in both regions.
Build good habitsDog walking in BC
Safe, attentive walks across Greater Victoria and the West Shore.
Walk with careA tailored plan
Not sure where to start? We’ll help you find the most useful next step.
Start a conversationChoosing your first step
Where should I start?
Four ways in, depending on what you need right now. Pick the one that sounds most like you.
Need help with training?
Initial In-Person Consultation & Training Session
An initial in-person consultation and training session. We meet you and your dog and start on what you most need help with.
Initial consultation fee: $99.99 plus applicable tax (GST in British Columbia, HST in Nova Scotia).
Considering your dog for service work?
Potential Service Dog Assessment
The Potential Service Dog Assessment, for dogs ages six months and older.
Assessment fee: $150 plus applicable tax (GST in British Columbia, HST in Nova Scotia).
Choosing a puppy prospect?
Puppy Testing & Selection Support
Puppy Testing & Selection Support, using Volhard Puppy Aptitude Testing.
Puppy testing fee: $150 plus applicable tax (GST in British Columbia, HST in Nova Scotia).
Not sure which fits? Email the trainer for your region: British Columbia — Jenn, jenn@pawsitivelyservicedogs.ca · Nova Scotia — Melanie, melanie@pawsitivelyservicedogs.ca
Why Pawsitively
Training that respects the whole picture.
Your dog is not a project to fix. They’re a partner with a history, a nervous system, and a very particular way of learning. We build plans that make sense for both of you.
Ethical & evidence-informed
Clear, compassionate methods grounded in current learning science.
Tailored to you
Individual goals, pace, environment, and access needs shape the plan.
Safety first
Tractive GPS collars and long lines are part of every dog walk.
Two coasts, one standard of care
Service dog training in Nova Scotia and British Columbia.
We serve families and handlers throughout Halifax Regional Municipality in Nova Scotia and Greater Victoria / West Shore in British Columbia.
Meet the team behind the workNova Scotia
Halifax Regional Municipality
Service dog programs, assessments, pet training, puppy socialization, obedience, and consultations.
Explore Nova Scotia trainingBritish Columbia
Greater Victoria & West Shore
Service dog programs, pet training, consultations, and safety-first dog walking.
Explore BC training
The difference you can feel
Training changes more than a behaviour.
Good training gives handlers a clearer understanding of what their dog is communicating, and what to do next. That means a little more confidence, a little more freedom, and a way forward that feels doable.
A partnership-first approach
Why choose Pawsitively?
Why Choose Pawsitively Service Dogs?
Choosing a service dog training program is a significant decision. Our goal is to provide clear, ethical and individualized training that supports both the handler and the dog throughout the process.
01
Experienced Trainers
Our trainers bring more than 19 years of combined dog-training experience, with Melanie providing over 11 years of experience in Nova Scotia and Jenn providing 8 years of experience in British Columbia.
02
Evidence-Based Training
We use humane, evidence-based training methods focused on reinforcement, clear communication, emotional wellbeing and long-term reliability.
03
Individualized Service Dog Training
Service dog training is not one-size-fits-all. Training plans are adapted to the individual dog and handler, including disability-mitigating tasks based on the handler's needs.
04
Structured Training & Support
Our Owner-Trainer Program includes 104 hours of individual training and guidance, typically completed over approximately 12 months. Weekly appointments last 1.5–2 hours, depending on the dog's age and needs. Training may extend beyond 12 months to complete the full 104 hours. The payment schedule is separate from the training timeline.
05
Professional Standards
Pawsitively Service Dogs is committed to ongoing education, professional development and responsible service dog training practices.
Ready to find out whether our program may be the right fit for you and your dog?
Recognized by
Accredited & affiliated
Member, Canadian Association of Service Dog Trainers (CASDT)
Member, Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT)
BBB RATING: A+Ready when you are
Let’s make the next step feel clear.
Book through Square or send us a note about your goals, your dog, and the kind of support you’re looking for.
Book a session
Choose the region closest to you.
Clients book through Square with the region closest to them.