
We’re so sorry you’re going through this
If your dog has been involved in an incident and you’re now under investigation by council, or you’ve received a Notice of Intention (NOI) or a Menacing / Dangerous Dog Declaration, we know this is a stressful and overwhelming time.
At Howling Success Dog Training & Behaviour, we’re here to support you with compassion, professionalism, and clear guidance. Our goal is to help you understand the process, equip you with the tools and training to move forward, and provide professional documentation that demonstrates your commitment to responsible dog guardianship.
Our Council Investigation, Menacing and Dangerous Dog Support Service
Each stage of this service is booked separately to reduce financial strain on you during an already stressful time. However, please note that in order to receive a Certificate of Appropriate Behavioural Training, clients must complete the entire program. Certificates cannot be purchased or issued without genuine training, compliance, and demonstrated progress.

This session provides reassurance, clarity, and direction before committing to further services.
- Explore the circumstances of the incident and what led to council involvement.
- Clarify where you are in the investigation process.
- Understand what to expect next and what steps you can take.
- Leave this session with a clear plan of action

This equips you with credible, professional documentation and a clear training plan to move forward with confidence.
- 30-minute on-site observation walk.
- 60-minute behaviour consultation.
- Recorded training video and a comprehensive written report.
- A formal Statement of Professional Opinion, written to a standard suitable for submission to council.
- Optional: Liaison with council to present your dog’s case and provide supporting evidence.

This program helps you meet council obligations, demonstrates ongoing commitment, and creates a pathway toward the best possible outcome for you and your dog.
- Minimum of one behavioural session every three months (additional sessions may be purchased at the standard follow up rate of $150 per session and booked as needed).
- Step-by-step guidance to meet training and compliance requirements.
- Issued Certificate of Appropriate Behavioural Training only upon successful completion of all required training and demonstrated progress.
- The final session includes another 30-minute assessment walk and a second Statement of Professional Opinion, showing measurable improvements.
- Optional: Liaison with council to present your dog’s progress and compliance.
Past Client Experiences
Going through a council investigation or declaration can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our clients have successfully navigated this process with our guidance and support. Here’s what Shaka’s Guardian had to say:
“We had a one-off incident with our 8yo GSP, Shaka, which led to being issued a menacing dog order. Jess conducted a thorough assessment, gave us very specific exercises, followed up on progress, and provided a detailed report for council. What was truly remarkable was how much she went above and beyond — even liaising directly with the rangers to support our case. Jess is passionate, patient, and knowledgeable. I doubt we would have succeeded in having the order revoked without her support.”
Important Notes & Disclaimers
Certificates of training and progress statements will only be issued once the full training program has been fully completed and the required outcomes demonstrated. While we provide professional behavioural assessments and statements of opinion to support your case, the final decision regarding menacing/dangerous declarations or control orders rests with council or court. We cannot guarantee any specific outcome. We are a canine behavioural consultancy, not a legal service. This service is not a substitute for legal advice.
Travel Within Greater Sydney
We understand that council investigations and declarations can happen anywhere across Sydney, and we’re committed to supporting you wherever you are.
> Travel within the Northern Beaches LGA is included in your service fee.
> For locations elsewhere in Greater Sydney, a travel fee applies. This fee is calculated at $50 per 30 minutes of driving (round trip), based on standard Google Maps travel times.
> Locations outside Greater Sydney (such as the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, or Wollongong) may be available by special arrangement and will be quoted individually.
Why we charge this way: This structure ensures fairness, as it reflects both the time spent travelling and the additional costs involved, while keeping your fees transparent and predictable.
You Are Not Alone
This process is intimidating and scary, but you don’t have to face it by yourself. We’ll be with you at every stage — from your contact from council, through assessment and training, and all the way to demonstrating your dog’s progress.
We are here for you – Start your Howling Success today.

