A brown and white dog with a serious expression standing on a paved trail in a wooded area during fall, surrounded by colorful autumn leaves.

Helping You and Your Dog Live Better Together

I help dogs and their people build practical everyday skills and navigate behavior challenges using thoughtful, humane training methods.

Whether walks feel stressful, your dog barks and lunges on leash, or you simply want everyday life together to feel calmer and more connected, we will create a plan that supports both of you.

Based in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, I work with families throughout Southeast Missouri and offer virtual coaching for clients anywhere.

Welfare-based dog training and behavior support grounded in science, compassion, and real-world practicality, with clear steps you can actually use.

I have used Shelly as both an in-person group class trainer, and as a training consultant for my lab/pit mix, Marnie. Shelly is very knowledgeable, professional, personable! It is apparent she has a true love for animals (dogs specifically), and is eager to help them and their humans learn and grow together! I am so thankful for the skills and advice Shelly has imparted over the years, and will continue to use her services for any and all of our training needs.

— Jessica & Marnie

I have had dogs my entire life and never thought I needed a professional trainer, then we rescued David- a husky/poodle mix. He was different than any pup I have ever had and I did not know how to “train him.” We took Shelly’s foundations for success class and learned how to understand and motivate him. This learning really helped us and David be happy and successful. We love him so much and glad we had this class to start our journey together! Do not hesitate to take these classes. It is really more about educating you how to set your pups up for success and happiness!

— Toni & David

We had private sessions and completed a day training package with our dog, Beau. Among other things, her training helped Beau learn that calm behaviors earn rewards - when we're in the kitchen, when it's time to go outside, on walks, etc. Shelly is down to earth, patient (with Beau but also with us!), and has a wealth of knowledge. Definitely recommend!

—Susan & Beau
A logo with the text 'Shelly Wood Dog Training and Behavior' in large, colorful letters, with a brown dog in a playful pose to the right.

Ways to Work Together

Not sure where to start?

Many families begin with a Behavior Support Consultation, where we assess your dog’s needs and create a training plan together.

Behavior Support
For lunging or barking on leash, guarding food, toys, or other objects, or other behavior concerns.

Foundations for Fun at Home
Private coaching for everyday skills like leash walking and coming when called.

Group Classes
Small classes with individualized attention for building skills in a supportive environment.

Day Training Program
Hands-on training where I work directly with your dog multiple times a week while supporting you in learning the skills.

Walk & Train
Structured training walks that build skills during real-world outings.

  • A woman in a green jacket and jeans plays with a brown and white dog in a grassy park during autumn, with trees in fall foliage in the background.

    Day Training Program

    Best for busy owners

    Day Training is focused program where I work directly with your dog multiple times each week, then meet with you for bi-weekly transfer sessions. Together we build everyday skills that help interactions feel easier, calmer, and more successful, and we create a clear plan so you can maintain progress after the program ends.

    Day Training
  • A woman walking her dog on a paved trail in a forest during autumn, with yellow and brown leaves on the ground and trees.

    Walk & Train

    Structured training walks that blend skill practice with enrichment. I support your dog in practicing comfortable, cooperative leash walking and attention during real-world experiences, then share simple updates so you know what we practiced and how to keep things consistent.

    Walk & Train
  • A woman smiling outdoors with two dogs in an autumn setting, colorful fall foliage in the background, wearing casual clothes.

    Group Classes

    Fun, practical classes that teach real-life skills while supporting your dog’s emotional well-being. With small class sizes, clear training steps, and individualized coaching, you and your dog learn together in a supportive environment that builds confidence, connection, and everyday teamwork.

    Group Classes
  • A woman kneeling on grass with autumn leaves and trees in the background, gently holding a dog's face while the dog looks at her.

    Behavior Support

    One-on-one sessions focused on your dog’s unique needs and your real-life goals. We work together to build practical skills, strengthen communication, and support your dog’s emotional well-being. Behavior Support is the best fit for families navigating challenges like lunging or barking on leash, guarding toys or objects or other behavior concerns

    Behavior Support