Separation Anxiety Training in Kitchener-Waterloo

Expert In-Home Help for Dogs with Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety training in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and surrounding areas
Also Serving: Fergus, Elora, Elmira, St Jacobs, St Clements, New Hamburg, Baden, Stratford, Ayr

Tim Girouard Bark Busters dog trainer Kitchener Waterloo
✔ Behaviour Therapist
✔ Grand Master Trainer
✔ Bark Busters Certified

Meet Tim Girouard

Over more than 18 years, I’ve transformed almost 4,000 dogs and families across my service area. As a Behaviour Therapist and Trainer, I’m proud to be one of the most experienced and trusted dog trainers in my region. Coming from a background in building supplies sales, where I helped people transform their homes, I recognized that the same principles of guidance and support could help families transform their relationships with their dogs.

Over three decades, my wife and I have welcomed eleven rescue dogs into our lives, each one enriching our family in unique ways and deepening my understanding of the profound bond between humans and canines.

After years of working for a large corporation, I became determined to make a real difference by combining my absolute love of dogs with my passion for helping people succeed. I specialize in resolving troubled owner-dog relationships and teaching families the skills they need so behavioural improvements last. As a certified Behaviour Therapist and Trainer, I focus on helping dogs find their place within the family, creating the happiness and harmony that well-behaved companions bring to everyday life.

My mission is simple: help dog owners understand their canine companions so they can enjoy relaxed, happy dogs.

Pets enrich our lives by loving us unconditionally. They give us another reason to get up in the morning and are good for our health. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing a troubled owner-dog relationship resolved and both parties happy and excited about living the rest of their lives together. I’m here to provide the support and guidance they need, every step of the way.

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 519-993-2908 or contact us using the form below. 

Hundreds of Separation Anxiety Cases Resolved

Certified Behaviour Therapist

In-Home Training

Tim 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.

Kitchener-Waterloo Families Who Overcame Separation Anxiety With Tim

“Before Tim came to our house, I was ready to give up on the dog, as much as I hated to. He was too strong, too loud, and just had us going crazy. If it wasn’t for the help that we got from Bark Busters, Tim…we would have given up on an amazing dog. I can’t tell you how much of a difference it is now. We learned how to communicate better with Jack (our dog), and also learned that we had a lot to learn. I am so happy with the progress we are making, and it wouldn’t have happened if it were not for you. Thank you so much.”

– Debbie K., Kitchener

“I just wanted to tell all what an outstanding trainer Tim is. We had him out today, and we were amazed at how quickly he was able to make a difference in our dogs’ behaviour. His patience, expertise, and approach really helped us understand our dogs’ mindsets and how to interact with them more effectively. It’s clear that Tim represents Barkbusters exceptionally well, and we’re already seeing improvements thanks to his guidance.”

– Nick Chrzanowski, Kitchener

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. Contact us on the form above for an accurate quote.

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?

Yes! We’ve successfully trained puppies to senior dogs and all breeds. No dog is too old or too stubborn to learn.

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?

Dogs behave differently at home, where they’re most comfortable and where problems actually occur. In-home training addresses the exact behaviors causing you stress, in the exact setting where they happen.

What does "lifetime support" really mean?

You can call us anytime – weeks, months, or years later – for advice or follow-up sessions. There’s no time limit. We’re here for the life of your dog.

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 Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and surrounding areas.