When a dog is struggling, the behavior we can see is only one part of the picture. Fear, anxiety, reactivity, difficulty being alone, and sudden changes in behavior are not simply problems to suppress. They are information.

My work begins by asking what may be contributing to your dog’s experience, and what will help them feel safer, more supported, and better able to cope in everyday life.

I provide evidence-informed behavioral support that respects both the dog in front of us and the life you share together. The goal is not a perfectly obedient dog. It is meaningful, sustainable change that supports your dog’s well-being and helps life feel more manageable for you, too.

Looking at the whole dog

I use the L.E.G.S.® model to understand behavior through four connected areas: Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self.

Learning

Every dog has a learning history. What has happened before, what has been reinforced, and what they have learned to expect can all shape behavior. This does not mean a dog is choosing to be difficult; it means their past experiences matter.

Environment

A dog’s surroundings can either add pressure or provide support. Daily routines, household activity, social expectations, sleep, enrichment, noise, access to choice, and the way people respond all influence how a dog feels and functions.

Genetics

Breed tendencies, inherited traits, temperament, and individual predispositions are part of the picture. Dogs are not blank slates, and honoring who a dog is helps us create plans that are realistic and humane.

Self

Physical health, development, sensory needs, emotional state, age, and individual personality all matter. When behavior changes suddenly, or when pain or illness may be contributing, veterinary care should come first.

These areas overlap. A dog’s behavior rarely has one simple cause, which is why quick fixes and one-size-fits-all advice so often fall short.

Support that is tailored, not generic

Behavior change is not about forcing a dog through fear or teaching them to “get over it.” It is about understanding the factors affecting them, reducing unnecessary stress, building useful skills, and creating conditions where progress is possible.

Depending on your dog’s needs, our work may include:

• Understanding behavior patterns, triggers, and early signs of distress
• Adjusting routines or environments to reduce pressure
• Building practical life skills at a pace your dog can manage
• Supporting emotional regulation, predictability, and a sense of safety
• Developing realistic strategies for your household
• Coordinating with your veterinarian when medical factors or medication may be relevant

I work collaboratively with guardians. You know your dog’s daily life better than anyone, and your observations are an essential part of the process.

About Alexandra Malone, Ph.D.

I am Alexandra Malone, Ph.D., founder of The Yin Yang Dog. For more than two decades, I have worked in the animal field and supported guardians whose dogs are struggling with behavioral concerns.

My approach is grounded in applied animal behavior, current evidence, and deep respect for the emotional lives of dogs. My doctoral work in Health Psychology, along with graduate study in human-animal interactions, informs the way I look at both behavior and the human side of living with a struggling dog.

I am a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), SA Pro™ Trainer, Fear Free Certified Professional, and Licensed Family Dog Mediator. I continue to learn from research, professional education, and the dogs and guardians I work with every day.

Most importantly, I believe support should be thoughtful, practical, and free from shame. You do not need to have all the answers before reaching out. We can begin by understanding what is happening and deciding what support makes sense for your dog.

Ready to begin?

If your dog is struggling with fear, anxiety, reactivity, separation-related distress, or a change in behavior, a consultation is the best place to start.