Family Dog Mediation at Camp Bow Wow Sherwood

A Science-Based, Whole-Dog Approach to Understanding Behavior

At Camp Bow Wow Sherwood, our Family Dog Mediation (FDM)
program represents a thoughtful shift in how we understand dogs,
behavior, and the challenges of modern family life. This program is
rooted in cutting-edge behavioral science and is designed for families who are struggling with ongoing behavior concerns—or who simply want to understand their dog more deeply and compassionately.

Family Dog Mediation is not traditional dog training. It is a
scientifically grounded, welfare-centered approach that recognizes
dogs as complex biological beings shaped by genetics, environment, learning, and internal emotional states. Through understanding—not just instruction—we help families build sustainable, respectful relationships with their dogs.

One of our Camp Bow Wow Certified Trainers will work to design a program that meets your needs and your schedule. Contact Camp Bow Wow at (503) 852-5229 to schedule a session!

Dog Training Pricing

Dog Training Packages	Price
Family Dog Mediation - Single Hour	$75.00
Family Dog Mediation - 5 Session Package ($70 per session)	$350.00
Family Dog Mediation - 10 Session Package ($65 per session)	$650.00

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What Is Family Dog Mediation?

Family Dog Mediation is a program developed by Kim Brophey,
Applied Ethologist, FDM, CDBC, CPDT-KA, and a leading voice in
modern canine behavioral science. FDM utilizes the science of
applied ethology—the study of animal behavior in real-world
environments—and is guided by Kim Brophey ’s L.E.G.S. Model of
Integrated Canine Science.

This evolved approach creates individualized plans that support a
dog’s mental wellness, emotional health, and overall welfare, while
also addressing the needs and realities of the human family. Rather
than asking,“How do we stop this behavior?” Family Dog Mediation asks the far more important question: “Why is this behavior happening?”

You are not alone, many modern dogs are struggling

Discover the WHY

Our modern world—and the average family home—can be a strange and difficult place for dogs to navigate. Dogs are not disobedient, stubborn, or broken. More often, they are out of their element, confused by expectations that do not align with their biology or emotional needs.

Being a “pet” is far more complex than it appears. It requires dogs to live in environments vastly different from the ones they evolved to thrive in. Many of today ’s common “behavior problems” are not natural expressions of canine behavior—they are signals that something is wrong beneath the surface. As a culture, we have largely forgotten:

Who dogs are as a species
The long history we share with them
The foundational biological laws that guide the behavior of all living beings

When we misunderstand dogs, we create unrealistic expectations. When those expectations aren’t met, frustration follows—on both sides of the leash. Understanding, not more training, is often the missing key.

The Science Behind the Program: The L.E.G.S. Model

Kim Brophey ’s L.E.G.S. Model of Integrated Canine Science has been endorsed by leading canine scientists and celebrated by professionals worldwide. It has been called “the single most important development in the dog behavior industry ” and “the future of dog training.”

The L.E.G.S. model explains that every dog’s behavior is shaped by four dynamic elements:

Together, these elements form a complete picture of the dog as an individual. Behavior does not occur in isolation—it is the natural outcome of how these systems interact. Family Dog Mediation helps families clearly identify and understand each part of their dog’s L.E.G.S., allowing us to address behavior with clarity, compassion, and scientific integrity.

How Family Dog Mediation Differs from Traditional Dog Training

Traditional dog training often focuses on obedience, commands, and behavior
suppression—redirecting or managing visible symptoms without fully addressing their
cause. While training skills have value, they are not always enough on their own.
Family Dog Mediation takes a fundamentally different approach:

We look beyond the behavior to uncover why it exists
We consider the whole dog, not just the behavior we see
We account for the family system, lifestyle, and expectations
We prioritize welfare, emotional health, and long-term success

Your certified Family Dog Mediator works with your family to address your dog’s unique challenges through a holistic, whole-dog framework. By fully understanding and supporting your dog’s L.E.G.S., we can then build a meaningful bridge to training programs rooted in Canine Applied Behavior Analytics (CABA)—ensuring that training strategies actually make sense to your dog.

The Goal: A Healthier, Happier Dog and Family

When a dog’s needs are properly understood and met, behavior changes naturally.
The result is not just improved manners, but a dog who is:

More relaxed
Less stressed
Emotionally secure
Better able to cope with daily life

Family Dog Mediation is about restoring balance—helping dogs feel safe and understood, and helping families move from frustration to clarity and connection. At Camp Bow Wow Sherwood, we are deeply committed to science-based practices, ethical care, and total canine welfare. Family Dog Mediation reflects our belief that dogs do their best when we do better at understanding them.

If your family is struggling—or simply wants to deepen your relationship with your dog—Family Dog Mediation offers a thoughtful, compassionate, and evidence-driven path forward.

Who’s a good dog? Yours can be!
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Dog Training FAQs

Have questions? Camp Bow Wow Sherwood is here to help!

Training prices can vary by location, class type, and program length. Many Camps offer group puppy classes, private sessions, or training packages at different price points so you can choose what fits your needs and budget. Contact your Camp Bow Wow location for current rates and options, and we’ll help you find the right training path for you and your pup.
You can start training your puppy as soon as they come home, focusing first on simple cues like their name, “sit,” “come,” and gentle handling. Early training helps set good habits, builds trust, and makes learning fun. Once your pup meets age and vaccine requirements, they can often join puppy classes to practice manners and social skills in a safe setting. See if training is available at your local Camp Bow Wow.
Group classes can be fantastic for puppies when they’re well-structured and supervised. Your pup learns basic manners and cues while also practicing focus around other dogs, people, and distractions. It’s a fun, safe way to build skills, confidence, and socialization all at once. See if training is available at your local Camp Bow Wow.
Yes. Our training programs are built around positive reinforcement—rewarding the behaviors we want to see more of with treats, praise, toys, or play. This approach helps your pup learn faster, builds trust, and strengthens the bond between you and your four-legged family member. See if training is available at your local Camp Bow Wow.
Yes, training can be a big help for pups struggling with separation anxiety. Through structured routines, confidence-building exercises, and gradual alone-time training, we can teach your dog coping skills and help them feel safer when you’re not right by their side. Our trainers can also recommend enrichment and daycare options that support calmer, more relaxed behavior. See if training is available at your local Camp Bow Wow.