The opposite of Chaos isn’t control…

It’s connection.

Family-centered, science-based behavior support for you and your pet.

Southland Behavior & Training provides in-home dog training and behavior support for families in the Hopkinton, MA area. Whether you’re dealing with puppy-related overwhelm, helping your child and dog learn to live safely together, or navigating more serious challenges like anxiety or aggression, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

With years of education and hands-on experience in behavior modification across species, I bring compassionate, science-based guidance directly to your home. Using modern, humane, force-free methods, we’ll create a personalized plan that works for your dog and your family’s real life. My goal is simple: to help your whole household feel confident, safe, and happy, so you can truly enjoy life with your pet.

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  • "Anastacia is terrific. She not only trains, but teaches about dog behavior at the same time! Our dogs love her!!"

    —Katey, Brenin & Fenwick

  • "The improvement in my dog's confidence and reactivity from our initial virtual consultation to our most recent in-person outdoor session has been incredible to watch, and she wouldn't have made those gains without Anastacia's help."

    —Megan & Penny

  • "Anastacia is a complete professional and an expert in her field. As a vet, I thought I knew a fair amount about canine behavior, but she has taught me SO much and has worked wonders with the most difficult puppy/dog I've ever had in my entire life."

    —Katie & Pokey

  • "I have to laugh because your behavior plan and your recap summary look almost exactly like what I write for my kids with IEPs! My 4 legged son is on an IEP!"

    —Meghan & Myer

  • "Having Anastacia come in to your home is like having a really knowledgeable friend come in to help. She makes you feel so comfortable, and she is so confident in her ability to help you help your pup to be better."

    —Jen & Janie

  • "Anastacia is extremely knowledgeable, calm and very patient. She really cares about the animals she works with as well as their families."

    —Jan & Kalli

  • The experience and knowledge that Anastacia brings to the table is incredible, and her love for her work certainly leaves a lasting impression.

    —Tom & Penny

  • "Thank you so much for all your help with Tucker. The training has not only significantly improved his behavior around others but has also helped to ease my anxiety."

    —Joanne & Tucker

Behavior Change through understanding

At Southland Behavior & Training, I help families build calmer, safer homes by strengthening the relationship between people and their pets.

Using modern, humane, evidence-based training methods, we focus on:

  • Understanding why behavior is happening

  • Teaching skills instead of suppressing behavior

  • Supporting all family members—kids included

  • Creating practical plans that work in real life

This isn’t about dominance, judgement, or harsh rules. It’s about clarity, consistency, and connection. When you understand what is going on and why, you feel confident in your ability to handle things.

Learn more about my methods

Certifications and Memberships

When things feel overwhelming…

Your dog ignores you.

The kids are getting knocked over.

Walks are stressful.

Guests feel tense.

Whether you're settling in a new pet, handling big emotions, or navigating serious behavior challenges like anxiety or aggression, you don’t need strict control and harsher rules…

you need the right guidance.

Explore Services

  • Hi! I’m Anastacia Southland, the certified professional dog trainer and mom behind Southland Behavior and Training. I’ve spent most of my life learning how animals think and helping people better understand their pets. My background in animal behavior and years of hands-on work with dogs, kids, and their families showed me just how important it is to have practical, realistic support at home, not just in a training facility.

    With years of professional education and experience in behavior modification across species, I use the most current science of behavior change to guide my work. I maintain multiple professional memberships and certifications and keep up-to-date with professional conferences and continuing education classes every year. I’m passionate about bringing the latest behavior science and strategies to my clients. My goal is to help your family feel confident, supported, and connected, so your dog can be a great family companion and everyone can appreciate life together a little more.

  • I work with overwhelmed families who really love their dogs, but are feeling stretched thin. I support families who are:

    • Up at night feeling stressed about their dog’s behavior

    • Concerned about safety around their kids

    • Managing anxiety, reactivity, or aggression

    • Struggling with jumping, mouthing, or wild behavior

    • Trying to do the right thing but unsure what that is

    All breeds. All ages. Real life.

    If things feel chaotic right now, you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

  • Southland Behavior & Training is not a match if you…

    • Want shock, prong, or choke collar training

    • Are looking for someone to “fix” your dog without your family’s involvement

    • Believe in intimidation-based or fear-based methods

    • Want control above all else without considering your dog’s emotional state or the reasons behind the behavior

    • Are interested in “board and train” programs that remove the dog from the family dynamic

    • Want to train your dog as a service dog or emotional support dog (just not my thing)

    I believe lasting behavior change happens through education, skill-building, and strengthening the human-animal bond.

    Our work is collaborative and family-centered.

  • In-Home Training
    Hands-on support in the environment where real life happens.

    Online Consultations
    Accessible behavior guidance for busy families.

    Family-Friendly Courses
    Learn practical skills at your own pace. Downloadable videos can be rewatched anytime you want a refresher.

    From puppies to complex cases, and even behavioral help for cats — you’ll receive professional, compassionate support every step of the way.

Ready to calm the Chaos and build connection?

book a consultation