Separation anxiety training in Montreal, Westmount, Côte Saint-Luc/Hampstead, Outremont, West Island,
East End, Griffintown, Ile Bizard, Pointe Claire, Dollard, Kirkland, & Verdun/Nun’s Island.
✔ Grand Master Trainer
✔ Bark Busters Certified
Meet Graham Smith
Since 2007, I’ve transformed over 8,000 dogs and families across Montreal and beyond. Recognized as one of Canada’s top professional dog trainers, I’m a four-time recipient of the prestigious Founder’s Award for customer satisfaction, technical expertise, and overall performance, and earned the first-ever International Leader of the Pack Award for excellence in customer service. With a 98% post-lesson satisfaction rating, I’m one of the most trusted and respected trainers in the country. Coming from a background of entrepreneurial success, having built and sold a thriving Montreal-based advertising agency, I bring world-class service standards and proven problem-solving skills to every training session.
After 22 years of building a successful business, I recognized my true passion lay with dogs and their families. Determined to help owners build better relationships with their dogs through effective communication and proven training techniques, I became committed to delivering fast, effective, and lasting results. As a multiple award-winning Behaviour Therapist and Trainer, I specialize in resolving even the most challenging behaviour issues, from puppy training and separation anxiety to aggression and reactivity, with compassion and expertise.
My mission is simple: help dog owners understand their canine companions so they can enjoy relaxed, happy dogs.
I’m available seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to midnight, and I tailor my training to each client’s unique needs. When I’m not transforming dogs’ lives, I enjoy spending time with my three Golden Retrievers: Indy, Enzo, and Coco.
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 514-592-1222 or contact us using the form below.
Hundreds of Separation Anxiety Cases Resolved
Certified Behaviour Therapist
In-Home Training
Graham 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.
Montreal Families Who Overcame Separation Anxiety With Graham
– Lama A., Montreal
– David M., Montreal
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?
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 Montreal, Westmount, NDG, Verdun, LaSalle, and surrounding areas.