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David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

Michael Peer

Dog trainer in Virginia

#247 in United States, #6 in Virginia

United States

https://www.dogbedience.com

Service areas:

Reston, VA, Fairfax and Loudoun Counties

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Former Police K9 Officer turned Dog Trainer & Behaviorist, Michael Peer had found his "calling" when he created dOgbedience (short for Dog Obedience) in 2011. A year and half prior, he had rescued a 4 month old Rottweiler (Rogue) who was battling Addison's Disease; Rogue became his inspiration in helping other dogs and their families. In no time, he became Michael's dog training assistant and brought Rogue to client's homes with dog behavioral issues. Rogue spoke the language of dogs and interpreted their cues for Michael. Sadly, he passed away from Addison's disease at age only age 7. Despite Rogue's illness, he powered through in helping Michael thrive in training dogs.Ofc Michael Peer (Ret.), is a graduate of Police K-9 Dog Training School and was Certified for Narcotics Detection-by the USPCA in 1999. He and his K-9 Police partner, Lazer, received recognition and citations for their outstanding police work. Michael left the K9 Unit when his K9 partner retired but continued to work as a Patrol Officer until his retirement after 31 years. He graduated from Michigan State University with a B.A. Degree from the School of Social Work. Helping people and dogs are his passion in life. He is a member of APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers).

Certifications:

Graduate of Police K-9 Dog Training School and was Certified for Narcotics Detection-by the USPCA in 1999

Dog training services include

  • Aggressive dog training
  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training

More info about Michael Peer's dog training:

We can help you train your dog using Positive Reinforcement Methods. We train dogs without using harsh tools---NO E-COLLAR, NO SHOCK COLLAR, NO PRONG COLLAR & NO CHOKE COLLAR. 99% SUCCESS RATE-- We have a 99% Success Rate in improving/modifying unwanted behavior using Positive Dog Training Methods. IN-HOME TRAINING My In-Home Training includes loose leash walking where I will take you and your dog around your neighborhood and address your dog's leash pulling, grabbing of the leash and jumping on other people. We'll also go through various training exercises in your home focusing on your dog's specific behavior and obedience concerns; such as, mouthing, jumping, barking, potty issues, crate training and more! TRAINING PACKAGES Each training package has a different focus but all includes a combination of obedience training, behavior modification, socialization, and off leash training. All sessions are held outdoors around Reston, lasting 50 minutes and are held weekly. SPECIALIZING IN REACTIVITY We specialize at improving and countering dog reactivity towards other dogs, people, and things. Everyday we work with dogs who suffer from the same discomfort. Their fears make walks difficult for the both of you and it's not as uncommon as you think. We've worked with hundreds of dog families just like yours to make dog walks more manageable and fun. Don't give up! There is work to be done! Let dOgBEDIENCE personally coach you along the way.

Behavioral issue focus:

Improving reactivity is our specialty! Our method offers a positive approach to a negative situation; makes sense right? You'll learn how to set your dog up for success with safe handling techniques, proper positioning, timing, and threshold management. In doing so, you'll create opportunities to counter your dog's negative response and begin to replace it with a positive one. Through repetition--we'll begin to address underlying symptoms that traditional dog training (shock, prong, or chain collars) cannot address; and by the way, we do not use these aversive collars. We strive to serve you and your dog's reactivity conundrum with whatever unique support and information you require.

Dog training methods:

Training your dog starts at your home and this is why I'd recommend for you to try my 1.50 Hr In-Home Training where I come to your home and work with everyone in your family including children (if any). You'll learn how to positively reinforce behaviors you want your dog to perform. Rewards include verbal/physical praise, play, toys and treats. We'll teach you how to properly use hand signals and simple luring techniques to motivate your pup in understanding behavior you want to capture or create. You'll learn the importance of meeting your dog's needs each and every day to achieve a lasting, loving relationship.

Why I became a dog trainer:

To live my passion for helping people and dogs to create a forever bond of mutual trust.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer:

Problem solving

My #1 dog training tip:

Owners need to be more proactive and less reactive. Focus on showing your pup what it is you want her/him to do, rather than what it is you'd like them to stop.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

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