Welcome to the Washington DC Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Washington DC based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public. Over 45,000 votes were used in compiling this list. We have only included the top trainers with sufficient votes and the trainers are ordered in terms of the number of votes received. Trainers that tied are ranked in reverse alphabetical order based on first name. All dog trainers on this list are positive reinforcement only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used.
Dog training is one of the most important activities someone can do with their dog. Many come to dog training through a specific issue they want addressed, anything from barking to separation anxiety. Some have adopted dogs from animal shelters with an abusive experience and some just have happy puppies looking for everyday life skills. Trainers can help with all kinds of specific skills and issues, from leash manners to territorial aggression to anxiety around skateboards to common puppy challenges. However, what many discover is that working with a trainer is actually a way for a pet owner to deepen their relationship with their dog. The enhanced communication skills that result can increase quality of life, be a rewarding experience, be a social experience and lead to more harmonious relationships. Knowing that one’s dog is having a happier life can dramatically improve peace of mind. As the saying goes: happy dog, happy life. And it extends further than just the dog, to the pet owners. Owner empowerment can actually improve the relationship between owners. And finding the right trainer can make all the difference in the experience.
This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, which is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world. Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks are hosted by locals on private land with 100% private bookings to maximize safety for guests and their dogs. Sniffspot offers various types of dog parks, including fenced, water parks, indoor dog parks, dog beaches and more. Sniffspot has worked closely with dog trainers to create safe spaces for dogs and our top trainer lists are a natural extension of that relationship. You can browse Sniffspot's local dog parks here.
The Best Washington DC Dog Trainers in 2022
Pat Miller
Pat Miller, author of The Power of Positive Dog Training (2001), Positive Perspectives (2003), Positive Perspectives 2 (2008), Play With Your Dog (2008), Do Over Dogs (2010), How to Foster Dogs (2013) and Beware of the Dog (2016) has been training dogs for more than 30 years. She has trained a variety of breeds and mixed breeds (her own dogs) including Rough Collies, a Bloodhound, Australian Kelpies, Bull Terrier, Irish Setter, St. Bernard, Scottish Terrier, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Australian Shepherd, Pomeranians, and a Springer Spaniel, and competed successfully with many of them in the obedience and Rally rings.
She also trained her first Australian Kelpie to herd sheep and ducks (or more correctly, Keli taught Pat to herd). Keli was Miller's Canine Field Agent, riding with her on patrol during the years she was an Animal Services/Humane Officer in California. Miller worked for 20 years at the Marin Humane Society in Novato, California, during which time she collaborated with Trish King to create the country's first Color Coding system for shelter dogs and volunteers. This system was successful in reducing behavior problems in shelter dogs (with a corresponding reduction in euthanasia) by identifying difficult-to-handle dogs and matching them with more experienced and capable volunteer handlers. Miller was a humane officer/animal control officer and testified successfully in numerous animal cruelty and abuse cases. She also played a major role in the development and implementation of Marin County and State of California Dangerous Dog laws.
Miller moved to California's Central Coast in 1996 after completing her BS degree in Business Administration with honors in the major. There she launched Peaceable Paws, LLC in Monterey/Santa Cruz, and introduced the Color-Coding system at the Santa Cruz SPCA while serving on the Board of that organization. She joined the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) in 1996, was elected to the APDT Board and is past President of that organization. She is also a member of the Pet Professional Guild.
In the fall of 2001, Miller and her 14-year-old Terrier mix, Josie, were one of the first 23 dog/owner teams in the world to earn a title in the then-newest canine sport, at the first sanctioned Rally Trials ever held, during the APDT annual conference in Ellenville, New York. Miller was one of the first 136 trainers to be awarded the title of Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) that fall, through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), and has also received her CBCC-KA (Certified Behavior Consultant) through CCPDT, and served on that Board as well.
In the fall of 1999, Miller and her husband, Paul, relocated Peaceable Paws, LLC to Chattanooga, Tennessee. Where she helped create FOCAS Friends of Chattanooga Animal Services, a non-profit organization whose mission is to support the work of the Chattanooga Animal Services Division. Also in Chattanooga, she opened the Peaceable Paws Intern Academy, which draws trainers from around the world. In cooperation with several other training professionals, she helped create TAPPT, the Tennessee Association of Positive Pet Trainers and MAAPPPT, the Mid-Atlantic Association of Positive Professional Pet Trainers.
Miller also holds an Associate Degree in Administration of Justice, is a freelance writer and regular contributor to and Training Editor of The Whole Dog Journal. Her first book, "The Power of Positive Dog Training" was published in August of 2001 by Howell Publishing and has been on Amazon.com's best-selling dog training book list since January of 2002. Her most recent book, "Beware of the Dog (2016)" is a highly acclaimed work on canine aggression. In March of 2015 she was named by Dog Fancy Magazine as one of People Who Have Changed the Dog World and in October of 2018 received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.
Miller and her husband moved to Fairplay, Maryland in the Spring of 2004 where they live on an 80-acre farm with their three dogs, five cats, three horses and a pot-bellied pig. Pat and Paul operate their Peaceable Paws dog-friendly training center and Peaceable Pastures horse boarding facility there. Pat offers group dog training classes, private behavior consults, training camps, seminars and workshops worldwide, expert witness services for animal-related legal cases, and is Director of the Peaceable Paws Trainer Academies and Training Programs.
Certificates: CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
I work with any and all types of behavior challenges, including aggression.
Training methods:
We are a force-free facility, and all of our training methods involve reinforcement for desired behaviors while we manage the dog and the environment to prevent reinforcement for unwanted ones. Our group classes follow a set curriculum. The puppy class includes a significant amount of socialization as well as training. The adult dog class focuses more on good manners training, including Sit, Down, Wait, Leave It, Touch, Mat, Polite Greeting, Polite Leash Walking and more. Private training can be customized to the needs of the individual client.
Behavior consultations are, of course, a very customized process. Methods include counter conditioning and desensitization, the CAT procedure, stress identification and reduction, Pattern Games, relaxation protocols, and more.
Service area:
While we primarily serve Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC, our clients come to us s from far afield - New York, North Carolina, Kentucky, Ohio and beyond - especially for behavior consultations and academies. We have had academy students from as far away as Brazil, Japan and Australia!
Website: https://www.peaceablepaws.com
Arrow Weiser
Hi I'm Arrow, the owner and trainer at WeiserWays. I specialize in reactivity, and bridging the communication gap between dogs and their guardians. My training is based in understanding a dogs body language, signs of stress, and teaching humans the education that creates a strong foundation for communication and coexistence. I teach humans how to manage the environment to allow dogs space to process their emotions, and work through triggering situations with the end goal of healing. Reactivity training is meant to work from the inside out by first understanding the dogs emotions that drive their behavior, and then implementing exercises that alleviate stress and create a safe space for dogs to heal and grow.
Certifications: B.S. Psychology, MSc Animal Behavior
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://weiserwaystraining.com
Sarah Stoycos
Owner/Trainer of Laughing Dog Academy. I work with dogs and their people to create the best possible life together. I've been training dogs, using only force-free methods, for more than a decade. In addition to working with dogs, I previously had the opportunity to rescue seals and care for sanctuary monkeys and chimps. I am a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner.
Certifications: KPA-CTP
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
I frequently work with reactivity, fearfulness, anxiety, resource guarding, jumping and mouthiness, as well as aggression towards guests coming into the home. I also have experience working with blind dogs.
Training methods:
I use only force free training methods.
Service area:
I offer in-home training to people within a 30 minute radius of Rockville, MD. This includes Montgomery County and some parts of NW DC.
Website: https://laughingdogacademy.com
Brittany Fulton
Brittany Fulton has contributed to a rewarding human/animal bond through positive reinforcement training for more than ten years. She has a degree from the University of Oregon in psychology with an emphasis on animal behavior. She also has Certification in Training and Counseling from the Academy for Dog Trainers.
Brittany is the owner of Dances with Dogs, a dog training business serving the Washington, D.C. metro area. Brittany teaches a variety of classes at the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C. She specializes in helping clients with fear and reactivity issues.
Certifications: Certified in Training and Counseling
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactivity, fear, aggression, distraction, puppy socialization, leash walking, basics cues, impulse control
Training methods:
I am strictly a positive reinforcement trainer. I begin each client relationship with an initial consult where we discuss the relevant behavioral challenges. In the initial consult, we discuss management and necessary training. We form a plan, and arrange for follow-up either with day training or with private sessions.
Service area:
Washington DC metro area, primarily Montgomery County and NW DC. Remote consults also available.
Website: https://www.dancesdogs.com
Melissa Dilla
Positive Reinforcement Trainer
Certifications: KPA, CPDT, CBCC, SDC
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactivity, fear issues, guarding, aggression, distraction. Potty, crate, and nipping. Creating play drive. General behavior training. Tricks.
Training methods:
Positive reinforcement, force and fear free only. Collaborative care.
Service area:
Montgomery County and surrounding areas: Potomac, Rockville, Bethesda, North Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Kensington, Silver Spring, Leisure World, Colesville, Gaithersburg, Boyds, Germantown, Travilah, Redland, North Potomac, Glen Echo, Darnestown, ‚ Poolesville,‚ Laytonsville, Derwood, Olney, Cabin John, Seneca, NW DC, and parts of Northern VA. Also nationwide remote online training.
Website: https://www.metropolitandog.com
Joseph Ryan
Joe is the General Manager of Dog Training and Enrichment at Patrick's Pet Care. He specializes in behavior modification, and has a soft spot for passionate and active dogs. He is passionate about teaching people how to focus on the behaviors they do want to see from their dogs in order to change the behaviors they are not so thrilled about.
In addition, he also supervises our Daycare 101 and Enrichment 1:1 program which helps dogs overcome unwanted behaviors such as separation anxiety and then transition into our Montessori School program. He lives in Maryland with his two dogs. He's been with Patrick's Pet Care since early 2018.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, FFCP (Trainer), VSA-CDT
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://patrickspetcare.com
Marnie Montgomery
Joyful Dog works one-on-one and in group classes with people and their dogs, teaching fun ways to live together with force-free tools and techniques for creative communication. We provide training in basic manners, behavioral problem-solving, puppy socialization, and a variety of special interests.
Our positive approach includes Connection, Cooperation, and Control, a curriculum founded on Suzanne Clothier's Relationship Centered Training techniques, and Tellington TTouch methods of body work and movement, to help dogs achieve physical and behavioral balance.
We serve an online clientele, as well as in-person in Leesburg, Loudoun and western Fairfax counties in Virginia.
Certifications: CPDT-KA; PMCT4; TTouch Practitioner 1; Fear-Free Certified Professional; CCC Certified Instructor
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Joyful Dog works with reactive and fearful dogs to help them become more comfortable with their 'triggers' and concerns, using only positive 'marker-based' training methods, and Tellington TTouch gentle techniques.
We find the client dogs' comfort zone‚ the level of intensity of their 'triggers' at which they can still think, learn, and form new, positive, associations. Using reward-based patterns we teach the skills they need to succeed in challenging situations. Some of the applications include:
* Dogs who worry about other dogs, vehicles, etc.
* Dogs who worry about strangers.
* Dogs who find visitors to the home to be challenging.
Joyful Dog also works with dogs who guard food, objects, people, and spaces, etc., from other people and/or dogs.
Training methods:
For behavioral issues we look at contributing factors, as well as how the dog presents the problem behavior (what it 'looks like'), in order to develop a training plan. We combine management and training to maximize the potential for success.
All our training methods are force-free, and include:
* Counterconditioning and Desensitization
* Marker-based ('Clicker') training methods
* Tellington TTouch methods of bodywork and movement.
Service area:
We serve Loudoun County, Virginia; western Fairfax County, Virginia; some parts of western Montgomery County, Maryland; online (remote).
Website: https://www.joyfuldogllc.com
Sophia Turshen
I currently work for District Dogs leading an amazing group of dedicated dog trainers. We are positive rewards-based focusing in Canine good citizen, reactivity training, mild fear, separation anxiety, and aggression as well as all around manners training. I run group classes as well as private lessons, and look forward to working with you and your dog!
Certifications: AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
I work mostly on obedience and manners and Canine Good Citizen work, but I also am familiar with mild to moderate separation anxiety, fear, reactivity, and resource guarding.
Training methods:
I am a positive reinforcement trainer which means I don't use physical corrections that cause discomfort to the animal. I invite everyone to sign up for our group training classes if your dog is comfortable in a group setting!
For anyone working with me privately, I require a consultation session to get to know you and your pet. This would allow me to observe and learn about what your goals are, set the foundation for our methodology, make a customized training program and schedule future lessons. More information can be found on our website at Districtdogtraining.com.
Service area:
I am currently based in Washington, DC but my company covers DC, Northern VA, and Central and Southern MD.
Website: https://districtdogtraining.com
Desiree Lomer-Clarke
Recovering attorney turned force-free trainer. I've had a force-free dog walking business since 2008 and began my training education at that time as well. I believe we should be constantly learning and keeping up with the science of dog training. I love teaching classes as well as working privately with individuals.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Dog-dog reactivity, high arousal
Training methods:
Force-free, positive reinforcement and science based methods.
Service area:
Arlington County, VA and surrounding neighborhoods
Website: https://www.arlingtondognanny.com
Charlotte Hoberg
Charlotte is the owner of Sit 'n Stay Training and specializes in Reactivity and Sports Training, but has plenty experience in basic manners and puppy foundations as well. She attends training seminars as often as possible to continue to educate herself in the field of dog training. Along with training other people's dogs, Charlotte works hard to progress her own dog's training. Pax (pictured) is her mixed breed dog who competes in Rally, Obedience, and soon in Nosework. Her adult German Shepherd, Beowulf is in training for Schutzhund and recently earned his intro level title for the demanding sport. Ghibli, her youngest , is an adolescent German Shepherd who will be following in her brother's footsteps learning Schutzhund.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Protection/guard dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.sitnstaytraining.com
Liz Cummins
Liz Cummins began her training journey with her own puppy, Mouse, in 2011. The challenges, support, and incredible relationship she found with her dog as a result of training resulted in her beginning to assist and then teach in classes, and finally committing to training full time in 2019.
Life as a pit bull terrier mom has made Liz particularly passionate about managing and training reactivity, and celebrating the small victories that come with owning and loving a reactive dog. Liz also welcomed Figueroth (Fig), an adolescent German Shepherd, to her family in 2022. As Mouse is enjoying retirement at over 10 years old, Fig is Liz's demo dog and all around work buddy. Liz is certified by the CCPDT as a Professional Dog Trainer and continually seeks further education and experience in animal behavior.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.likemagicdogtraining.com
E Foley
Learn Agility with your DogI love beginners! If you've ever wanted to try agility, I offer a welcoming environment where you can learn, have fun with your dog, and discover their hidden talents.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Website: https://foleysdogtraining.com
Dennise Velazquez
How I started in the dog industry goes back about 20 yrs ago. I was a foster child growing up. I was separated from my whole family even siblings because I was the only one with a different father. I had a very traumatic placement in Puerto Rico. I was so abused in so many levels that I would do anything to be with the animals. I found a stray pitbull. I did not know she was about to give birth. I gave her shelter in the bottom of the foster parents home. I would share half of my food every time "best feeling ever''. She gave birth to 8 puppies. My biological mother kept one. Lasito was her name.
I was 9 when I was allow to visit my mom in her house. Best feeling ever, I started training Lasito. She became very obedient. In just a month she knew all her obedience by then I was 10. Everyone in the neighborhood wanted for me to train their dog and they would gift me candy/toy/clothing. I promise myself I would open a shelter and train all the homeless dogs so they can be accepted in the community and found a home way faster. I open my first shelter 2012. Still until this date 2022 open and successful.
I help my community. I believe every case is completely unique and needs to receive the same care, energy, focus and promise. I LOVE MY JOB and I would do it all over again.
Certifications: Animal Behaviour & Welfare/CPDT-KSA/Dog Training 101/Advance Dog Trainer
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Jackie Ward
Thoughtful dog training; leading the handler to meet the dog where he or she is and building on their natural traits, tendencies and desires to promote a bond between human and dog to accomplish simple and complex training goals. Using games to drive behavior learning is fun for everyone. Helping, Training, Loving Dogs.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://citalidogtraining.com
Gwen Podulka
Puppies, Adolescent dogs, Senior Dogs, Deaf Dogs, Behavior Modification NW DC, Georgetown, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Alexandria
Services include:
- Deaf dog training
- Service dog training
Dylan Selvage
I've been training for 3 years now and have helped hundreds of owners across the DMV understand and connect with their dog in meaningful ways! Whether your dog is reactive, fearful, or just needs basic obedience, I can help you accomplish your goals.
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.sniffersdoggieretreat.com
Carla Blackmon
Carla has an extensive background in animal behavior, training and animal care and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA). Carla has over 20 years of various animal related experience and education that she uses to formulate a customized training plan for your family and pets. Her background includes experience working for a variety of local and national veterinarians as a veterinary assistant/technician, a federal canine handler, a master's student apprentice dog guide instructor, and currently the owner of FurEver Family, LLC. She utilizes all of her skills to provide a pet friendly, holistic training plan incorporating health, environment, personality, and family needs. Carla will create a training plan that is fun and easy for all who are involved.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.improvingpets.com/
Sniffspot Washington DC Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Washington DC dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Washington DC as selected by broad voting from the Sniffspot community and the general public. These trainers are expert dog trainers, who received votes from their delighted customers, due to their excellent dedication to customer service, excellent results and general care they exhibit for their clients. Many have worked with thousands of dogs and are highly experienced trainers.
How can I get in touch with dog trainers?
Each of the trainer profiles contains a link to their website. You can click through to their website where you can find more contact information.
Are these Washington DC dog trainers certified professionals?
Dog training is not regulated at the federal or state level, so there is no standard dog training certification and professional trainers are not required to be certified. However, certifications are important to show that a professional dog trainer has a standard of expertise to help train your dog. Each trainer’s certifications are listed on their profile.
What are the top certifications for Dog Trainers in Washington DC?
Some of the top certifications in the dog training industry are CPDT- KA, IAABC, Karen Pryor Academy - KPA certification, Jean Donaldson's Academy - CTC certification and Fear Free Certification. You can review the dog trainer certifications for each specific dog trainer on their profile on this page.
What methods are used in the dog training sessions?
There are many methods for teaching dogs and a lot of disagreement about the correct training approach. All of the Washington DC trainers included on this list use positive reinforcement training only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. This includes not using any specifically aversive approach to training or training aid, such as a prong or electronic dog training collar (also called remote dog training collar or shock collars). As for specific training programs and specialties, such as day training / doggie daycare or obedience training, you can see more information in each trainer’s profile.
Are dog training lessons in a training facility or are virtual options available?
Some dog trainers operate exclusively from a training facility, some do house calls and some offer video calls or other virtual options. There are pros and cons to each option and the most efficient behavioral training option depends on specific circumstances, for instance, what hours work best for you. A training center or training ranch can be a good option if your training plan requires facilities, training equipment or dedicated space. We recommend reaching out to the specific trainer you are interested in or browsing their website for more information.
Are dog training lessons private or in a group setting?
Every different circumstance of dog and owners may require a different setting, whether it’s housebreaking issues, anxiety issues, lack of proper socialization, food aggression or just bad habits. Each trainer has different offerings as far as whether they can offer clients a private training session or a group class. Trainers provide information about their private class and group class offerings in their profiles and you can browse their website for more information as well. It may make sense for your specific circumstance to reach out to the trainer to ask if they recommend group or private dog training classes. Some trainers also have a team of specialists that can provide even higher levels of service, or provide specialized sessions, such as pack walks.
How much does dog training in Washington DC cost?
Washington DC dog trainers have a wide range of costs for different services and phases of training. For instance behavioral modification that involves boarding is often more expensive than day training, and private lessons are generally more expensive than group lessons. Prices can also vary depending on specific behavioral issues. Lastly, some trainers have more overhead than others, We recommend first picking a trainer that provides the services that you are looking for, then reaching out to them to get up to date pricing.
Is training a dog good for the dog?
Yes! Training has many benefits for dogs. Whether with basic training skills or complex training techniques, going through behavior training with your dog can improve the bond that you share with them. Also, training can do a lot to improve the level of confidence enabling of a dog (and it can also help with building customer confidence!). Rather than being about exerting maximum control over them, it gives them more certainty that they understand how the world around them works. For instance, crate training can help a dog feel safe and at home in a crate vs fearful and uncertain. Dog training can teach important skills, such as leash control, potty training or a general level of obedience skills. And lastly, it’s just fun for the dog to learn life skills and for their family. Training can be very stimulating and enriching for a dog and serve them throughout their entire healthy life!
Can an aggressive dog be trained?
Yes! Any dog behavior can be worked on through training and coaching. Aggression in dogs is a serious issue, but it is also a term that is used very broadly. Many dogs that are thought to be aggressive are actually reactive, which is a different behavior altogether. A trainer can help you interpret signs of aggression, such as excessive barking, fear aggression and leash aggression, and type of aggression. If you believe you have a dog with aggressive behaviors, we recommend reaching out to one of your local top trainers to get their diagnosis and advice.
I am a Washington DC dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Washington DC you can be considered for this list. We update this list once per year, normally starting in January. Make sure to keep an eye on our social media and sign up for email updates with Sniffspot in order to be in the loop on the next round of nominations.
See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Washington DC
Baltimore, MD
Frederick, MD
Richmond, VA
Virginia Beach, VA