Contemporary Positive Reinforcement Training Methods

"We both worked with Joana to train our own dogs. We were impressed with her logical and positive approach to dog training and enjoyed her personable, calm demeanor. (And so did our dogs!) Joana was always accessible for our questions and concerns. We wholeheartedly recommend Joana to all our family, friends and clients."

- Dr. Marguerite Hoey and "Fosse" Hoey
- Dr. Rachel Plafker Esrig and "Maisy" Esrig
Arlington Dog & Cat Hospital, LLC, Kearny, NJ

"Training should focus on reinforcing desired behaviors, removing the reinforcer for inappropriate behaviors, and addressing the emotional state and environmental conditions driving the undesirable behavior." The AVSAB urges the use of positive reinforcement dog training techniques for behavioral modification in dogs.

Joana Watsky, owner of Sit and Stay, has enjoyed teaching thousands of owners how to establish lifelong positive relationships with their dogs for over sixteen years. Joana started her dog training career apprenticing the Director of Training at the national ASPCA in New York City. The focus was on learning Dog Behavior, Pet Dog Training as well as Therapy Dog Training. She also studied with a PhD Behaviorist to further her education on Dog Behavior, and continues to attend seminars given by the top Trainers and Behaviorists in the country. Learning about dogs and their relationship with their human families is an ongoing process. Joana has worked with several Veterinarians to help them train their dogs, and consults with and is recommended by many Veterinarians throughout Northern NJ. Joana has a BA from Hunter College in NYC.

Joana has had several dogs attend classes for future work with Northstar Dogs, a non profit organization that places service dogs with children whose challenges range from autism to serious medical conditions to grief over the loss of a parent.

Joana has been featured in the Newark Examiner, The Jersey Journal, The Bergen Record, NJ.com/TheParentPaper, Bulldog Puppies Magazine, Baristanet.com, and the Channel 12 news for her work with Therapy Dogs and her knowledge of Dog Training and Behavioral Counseling. Joana's expertise was also prominent in a segment on Channel 12 news to dissuade people from purchasing Dalmations after watching 101 Dalmations. Joana has helped several of the cast and crew members of Mamma Mia to work with their dogs.

Sit and Stay Dog Training and Behavioral Counseling offers Group Classes in Northern New Jersey and In-Home Training throughout Northern New Jersey and New York City.

American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator.
Certified Evaluator for Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs.