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The Best Service Dog Trainers in Charlotte, NC of 2026

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of top-rated dog trainers for Service dog training in Charlotte, NC. Based on feedback and votes from our Service dog training community, we've curated a list of top-rated trainers in the Charlotte area.

Cheryl Connolly
Karen Pryor CTP, Fear Free, ABC-DT.
Deaf dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training
South Charlotte, Union County
Force free, fear free positive reinforcement only trainer.

Sam Portillo
In home training, Service dog training, Puppy training
Sam Portillo is an incredibly passionate professional dog trainer with four years of experience in the field of animal training and behavior. She graduated with distinction from the Karen Pryor Academy and remains a Certified Training Partner with the KPA. Sam is also a CGC Evaluator for the American Kennel Club, recognizing exceptional canine citizens and assisting clients in preparing for the...

Rebecca Golian
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Rebecca grew up in Frederick County, Maryland and found her passion for working with animals at a young age. She competed as an equestrian athlete for over 15 years and ran a successful equestrian training and sales business in Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Rebecca started professionally training dogs in college. While attending the University of Maryland, Rebecca offered a variety o...

Meagan Karas
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Originally from Norfolk, VA, Meagan has over 20 years experience working with dogs. She has raised and trained dogs for service dog organizations, volunteered and worked at rescues and veterinary clinics, and has over 10 years managerial experience with dog daycare and boarding facilities.

Meagan also spent many years working at breeding facilities; raising and caring for a variety of...

Gabby Changanaqui
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Gabby was born and raised in the Charlotte area and her passion for working with animals has been cultivated through a variety of experiences in the animal industry. While in college she became a kennel attendant at a local doggy daycare, eventually growing into a bathing/grooming position and assisting in training.Gabby also has experience training service dogs; training her own personal dog a...

Rob Gunsel
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Rob grew up with a passion and love for animals. While attending UNC-Wilmington, Rob decided to change that passion into practice and enrolled in a two year service dog program that showed him the true healing power of dogs. During that time, Rob applied and was accepted into a three month internship and was able to assist in the training and placement of privately owned service dogs. He was th...

Hunter Smith
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Hunter was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her love for training dogs started when she was a young child when her family received an autism assistance service dog for her brother.

Hunter has been professionally training dogs for over two years and worked for several training counties across the country.

When not working, she enjoys reading, hiking, and spending t...

Gracie Clingenpeel
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Gracie has always had a deep connection with dogs. Born in Indiana, she moved to Charlotte at a young age, where her love for dogs continues to grow. From the moment she welcomed her German Shepherd, Selene, into her life, Gracie knew that working with dogs was her true calling. She brings with her a military background, having served in an esteemed capacity. As a graduate of South Carolina You...

McKenna Cranford
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
McKenna's love for dogs developed at a young age, and she has been actively involved in the dog world for most of her life. She started out volunteering with animal rescues in middle school and started fostering animals in high school. She has a particular interest in helping dogs reach their full potential and is dedicated to expanding her knowledge of dog behavior and training.McKenna self-tr...

Valerie Seeley
Board and train, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Growing up in Bessemer City, North Carolina Valerie grew up with multiple animals and always knew he was an animal lover from childhood. During high school she started fostering and rescuing cats. She also has years of experience working at dog daycare and boarding facilities. Valerie started at Love in the Lead in 2023 and is one of our dog care assistants!

Outside of work, Valerie e...

Sniffspot’s top-rated list of dog trainers for Service dog training in Charlotte, NC is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For Service dog training, we received 1 total votes, resulting in 10 dog trainers who focus on Service dog training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for Service dog training listed first.

Dog trainers for Service dog training on this list are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Cheryl Connolly, who has been voted the top dog trainer for Service dog training in Charlotte, NC. Cheryl Connolly’s favorite part of their job is: Seeing Ah ha moments when behaviors click.

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Cheryl Connolly, as well as the other dog trainers on this Service dog training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog. Cheryl Connolly encourages owners with this dog training tip: Listen to what your dog is trying to tell you.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See the Best Service Dog Trainers in Other Cities Near Charlotte

See the Best Dog Trainers by Type in Charlotte

Frequently Asked Questions About Service Dog Training in Charlotte

How were the top Service dog training dog trainers in Charlotte selected?

We evaluated over 1 votes from local dog owners to identify the best Service dog training trainers in Charlotte. This process resulted in highlighting 12 exceptional trainers known for their expertise in Service dog training.

What qualifications do the leading Service dog trainers in Charlotte hold?

Top Service dog training trainers in Charlotte are recognized for their expertise through certifications such as Fear Free, ABC-DT., Karen Pryor CTP. These credentials ensure they are equipped to address specific training needs in the region.

Who is the leading Charlotte dog trainer in Service dog training and why?

Cheryl Connolly is celebrated as the top Service dog training trainer in Charlotte due to their impressive 1 votes and their proficiency in Deaf dog training and Service dog training, distinguishing them as a top choice in the area.

What behavioral issues do Service dog trainers focus on in Charlotte?

In Charlotte, top Service dog training trainers like Cheryl Connolly concentrate on issues such as D, S, A. Other trainers might focus on areas like B, S, O.

What are the common training techniques used by Service dog training trainers in Charlotte?

Training methods vary among top Service dog training trainers in Charlotte. For instance, Cheryl Connolly uses a method centered on: Start with a consultation where we set a plan together based on your goals., Each approach is customized to suit local dogs.

How should I select the best Service dog trainer in Charlotte?

To find the ideal Service dog training trainer in Charlotte, consider their certifications, such as Fear Free, ABC-DT., Karen Pryor CTP, and their expertise in services like Puppy trainingand Board and train. Reviewing their past results with dogs in Charlotte can also guide your decision.

What’s the top advice for training dogs in Charlotte?

When it comes to Service dog training training, Cheryl Connolly advises: Listen to what your dog is trying to tell you which is crucial for enhancing your dog’s behavior in Charlotte.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Service Dog Trainers in Charlotte, NC of 2026

Cheryl Connolly

Sam Portillo

Rebecca Golian

Meagan Karas

Gabby Changanaqui

Rob Gunsel

Hunter Smith

Gracie Clingenpeel

McKenna Cranford

Valerie Seeley

See the Best Service Dog Trainers in Other Cities Near Charlotte

See the Best Dog Trainers by Type in Charlotte

Frequently Asked Questions About Service Dog Training in Charlotte

How were the top Service dog training dog trainers in Charlotte selected?

What qualifications do the leading Service dog trainers in Charlotte hold?

Who is the leading Charlotte dog trainer in Service dog training and why?

What behavioral issues do Service dog trainers focus on in Charlotte?

What are the common training techniques used by Service dog training trainers in Charlotte?

How should I select the best Service dog trainer in Charlotte?

What’s the top advice for training dogs in Charlotte?

David Adams

About Sniffspot

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