top of page

Fear & Anxiety Board & Train for Extremely Fearful Dogs

Specialized rehabilitation for dogs struggling with extreme fear, phobias, and anxiety-related behaviors.

Dogs struggling with severe fear and anxiety require a specialized approach that prioritizes calm, confidence-building exercises over traditional obedience training.

These dogs may experience

  • ✔️ Panic attacks in new situations.

  • ✔️ Extreme shyness or avoidance behavior.

  • ✔️ Fear-driven aggression or freezing under stress.

  • ✔️ Dependence on medication to function normally.

  • ✔️ Sensitivity to noise, handling, or certain environments.

Image by charlesdeluvio

We don’t just train—we rehabilitate. Your dog will leave our program calmer, more secure, and ready to face the world making both of your lives, 100X better.

What’s Included in the Program?

Gentle, Patient Rehabilitation | Structured Confidence Building | Customized Care

Comprehensive Training for a Well-Behaved, Confident Puppy

Confidence-Building & Emotional Regulation

Safe & Structured Socialization

Noise & Environmental Desensitization

Safe Space & Crate Comfort Training

Support for Dogs on Medication

  • ✅ Guided exposure to controlled environments.

  • ✅ Step-by-step confidence training in new situations.

  • ✅ Slow, carefully monitored introductions to humans and dogs.

  • ✅ Desensitization to handling, grooming, and everyday life activities.

  • ✅ Gradual exposure to triggering sounds (sirens, fireworks, thunderstorms, etc.).

  • ✅ Training exercises to build calmness under pressure.

  • ✅ Creating a structured “safe zone” for self-regulation.

  • ✅ Teaching the dog how to settle and decompress.

  • ✅ Coordination with veterinarians for dogs needing pharmacological support.

  • ✅ Customized training plans to integrate behavioral therapy with medical treatment.

We take a slow, controlled approach to help fearful dogs overcome their deepest anxieties. 

Who This Program Is For

Helping the Dogs That Need More Than Just Training

  • ✅ Dogs suffering from extreme fear, panic, or avoidance behaviors.

  • ✅ Rescue dogs with severe trauma history.

  • ✅ Dogs that rely on medication for anxiety management.

  • ✅ Owners who feel helpless and need professional intervention.

  • ✅ Dogs who shut down, freeze, or flee in stressful situations.

AdobeStock_95139423 (1)_edited.png

How It Works: The Training Process

A Slow, Patient Rehabilitation Process That Works. This program typically runs 4 weeks, 6 weeks, or multi board and train sessions for full rehabilitation. Call today to set up your free consultation.
📆 Phase 1: Stabilization & Emotional Safety
  1. ✅ Creating a low-stress, predictable environment for the dog to decompress.

  2. ✅ Establishing safe routines and a secure daily structure.

  3. ✅ Slow, controlled exposure to small, manageable challenges.

📆 Phase 2: Confidence Building & Desensitization
  1. ✅ Gradual introductions to new environments, sounds, and experiences.

  2. ✅ Desensitization training for known fears (handling, strangers, noises, etc.).

  3. ✅ Teaching the dog relaxation techniques and self-regulation behaviors.

📆 Phase 3: Preparing for Home Life & Owner Integration
  1. ✅ Transition training to prepare the dog for home reintegration.

  2. ✅ Owner coaching on how to maintain and continue progress.

  3. ✅ Final assessment and personalized at-home training plan.

Common Anxiety Training FAQs

1

❓ Will this training eliminate my dog’s anxiety completely?

While no training can erase all anxiety, our program helps your dog learn coping strategies for a calmer, more manageable life.

2

❓What if my dog panics or shuts down?

We use a gentle, low-pressure approach and never force dogs into situations they aren’t ready for.

3

❓ Does my dog need medication?

 If your dog is already on medication, we work alongside your vet to integrate training into their treatment plan.

Why Choose ZRO DFX K9 for Fear & Anxiety Rehabilitation?

Not Every Trainer Specializes in Fear & Anxiety—We Do.
  • ✅ Expert Trainers: Experienced in rehabilitating extreme fear-based behaviors.

  • ✅ Science-Based Approach: Uses classical conditioning, counter-conditioning, and desensitization techniques.

  • ✅ Low-Stress Training Environment: Our 15-acre facility provides safe, structured exposure therapy.

  • ✅ Ongoing Support: Guidance for continued progress at home.

  • ✅ Customized Plans: We tailor the program to fit your dog's unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Anxiety Graduate Stories - Smoky

aggressive_dog_training_denver_dog_behaviorist_dro_dfx.jpg
"In February, my dad passed away and I had to make a tough decision, take on his 3-year-old Mastiff mix (Smoky). The dog needed training and direction after three years of no structure, so I decided to send him to the training program. TJ was incredible the whole time, providing updates, videos, instructions, and moral support. Not only did TJ help Smoky with the difficult transition after losing his person he helped me just as much. TJ is unmatched and I cannot imagine a person you can trust more with your dog’s wellbeing and safety. Thank you TJ, for helping both Smoky and myself make it through this challenging time. Toby, Jen and Smoky."

Toby Kautzman

Meet Your Dog Trainer

Dog Behaviorist T.J Vytlacil

TJ Vytlacil, founder of ZRO DFX K9, has over 20 years of experience in dog behavior modification and training. He and his wife Jaclyn run Borg farms, an equestrian and k9 training and rehabilitation facility. Specializing in puppy development, aggression rehab, and off-leash training, TJ’s approach combines science-backed techniques with real-world results. Your training will be done personally by T.J, not a another trainer. 

Dog_behaviorist_colorado_springs_TJ_Vytlacil_k9_trainer.jpg

Setup A Free 30 Minute Consultation With TJ on the phone or In-Person

Borg Farms Ranch
14150 Herring Rd,Colorado Springs, CO 80908

(720) 924-9734

  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram

Thanks for submitting!

Black_Hex_Background_zrodfx_k9_dog_training.jpg
A reference to zrodfx k9 science based approach to dog training.
zrodfx k9 logo

Contact

training@zrodfx.com

(720) 924-9734

© 2025 zrodfx k9

20+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

LASTING
RESULTS

LIFETIME SUPPORT

bottom of page