Separation anxiety training in Barrie, Innisfil, Orillia, Simcoe County, Muskoka, Counties Dufferin, Grey, Bruce, Haliburton, Wellington, North, and Huron North
✔ Grand Master Trainer
✔ Bark Busters Certified
Meet Brenda Ray
Since 2006, I’ve transformed over 1,000 dogs and families across Muskoka and surrounding counties. As a Grand Master Trainer and Behaviour Therapist, I’m proud to be one of Ontario’s most experienced and trusted certified professional dog trainers, and a go-to resource for dog trainers in Barrie and the surrounding region. My journey began far from the training field. I came from a background in computer science, but I made a deliberate choice to follow my true passion: helping families and their dogs build stronger, lasting relationships through canine training that truly works.
My love for training started as a teenager with my standard poodle Peppy, and after years of rewarding experiences, I became determined to help other families experience the same unconditional love and joy that dogs bring into our lives. I truly believe that pets enrich us in countless ways, and I’m committed to ensuring families stay happy long-term through proper dog care and training and communication. As a certified Behaviour Therapist and Trainer, I specialize in private dog training and in-home dog training that meets each family where they are. Whether you’re dealing with a reactive dog, working through dog training for resource guarding, or learning how to treat separation anxiety in dogs, I teach owners the skills they need so that behavioural improvements last, all while honouring the deep bond and companionship dogs provide.
From reactive dog training and dog training for reactive dogs to puppy training in Barrie, my approach is tailored to every dog and every household. If you’re unsure how to calm an anxious dog or need structured support for complex behaviour challenges, I provide compassionate, proven guidance that creates real and lasting results.
My mission is simple: help dog owners understand their canine companions so they can enjoy relaxed, happy dogs and share that same love with their families. When I’m not training, I volunteer at the OSPCA and local shelters, giving back to the community and helping dogs in need. Working closely with both dogs and families is a perfect fit for me. I want everyone to stay happy for the long term. Pets enrich our lives by loving us unconditionally and giving us another reason to get up in the morning, and they deserve the very best we can give them.
Did you know that each Bark Busters trainer & certified behaviour therapist is required to pass an aggressive dog safety program that keeps hundreds of trainers safe worldwide. All trainers are required to understand different types of dog aggression, fear and trauma, and know how to approach each situation calmly and safely. You are always in good hands with Bark Busters!
Ready to Transform Your Dog’s Life?
Take the First Step Toward a Well-Behaved Dog
Call 705-514-0116 or contact us using the form below.
Hundreds of Separation Anxiety Cases Resolved
Certified Behaviour Therapist
In-Home Training
Brenda Specializes In
Dog Aggression Issues
Stop dangerous aggression toward people and other dogs
Separation anxiety in dogs
End destructive behaviour and constant barking
Leash Training
Eliminate pulling and reactive behaviour
Puppy Training
Start right from day one to instil good habits
Excessive Barking
Peace restored for you and your neighbours
Food Aggression
Safe feeding for multi-pet households
Jumping on People
Calm, polite greetings for guests
General Dog Obedience Training
Complete behaviour transformation
We Understand How Heartbreaking
Separation Anxiety Can Be
You love your dog, but their separation anxiety is affecting your entire household:
- Your dog howls, barks, or cries non-stop the moment you leave – and your neighbours have started complaining
- You come home to destroyed furniture, scratched doors, or chewed-up belongings
- Your dog has injured themselves trying to escape crates, rooms, or windows
- You can’t even go to the bathroom without your dog panicking and following you
- You feel guilty leaving the house and have started rearranging your life around your dog’s anxiety
You’re not alone. Separation anxiety is treatable – and we can help.
Why Our Approach Works Where Others Fail:
- In-home training addresses anxiety where it actually happens
- No punishment, no physical force – we address the root cause
- Communication-based techniques that create lasting change
- You learn to read and redirect your dog’s triggers
- Visible improvement often in the first 2-2.5 hour session
- Lifetime Support Guarantee – you always have the help you need from Bark Busters.
Barrie Families Who Overcame Separation Anxiety With Brenda
– Sherry Young, Barrie
– Carrie C., Barrie
Separation Anxiety Training FAQs
How much does training cost?
We offer a one-time fee that includes your initial assessment, dog training sessions, and lifetime support. Pricing depends on your specific needs. Call 705-514-0116 for a free quote, or book a consultation to discuss your situation.
How quickly will I see results?
Most clients see noticeable improvement during the first session. As Mabel shared, “I’ve never seen Comet so calm and well behaved” after just one session. Long term habits take consistency, don’t forget! We schedule follow up appointments to suit your dog’s needs, and help you! Your lifetime guarantee means you always have the support you need.
Do you train all breeds and ages?
What causes separation anxiety in dogs?
Separation anxiety can develop from changes in routine, moving to a new home, being rehomed or adopted, a change in family dynamics, or simply a lack of confidence. Some breeds are more prone to it. Regardless of the cause, our communication-based approach helps your dog build the confidence and independence they need to feel safe when you leave.
Why in-home training instead of group classes?
What does "lifetime support" really mean?
Will medication fix my dog's separation anxiety?
Medication alone rarely resolves separation anxiety. While a veterinarian may recommend medication for severe cases, training is essential to address the underlying behaviour. Bark Busters teaches your dog new coping skills and builds their confidence, which creates lasting change rather than masking symptoms.
How long are training sessions?
The initial session is typically 2-2.5 hours. This gives us time to assess your dog, teach you effective techniques, and start seeing results immediately. Follow-up sessions are typically an hour.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Barrie, Muskoka, Simcoe County, Orillia, Collingwood, and surrounding areas.