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US
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 CGC exam.
Sam is committed to helping pet owners achieve their goals through scientifically based techniques, with a particular passion for helping those getting into therapy dog work.
Sam owns three furry friends of her own - Winnie the Miniature Dachshund, Luna the Australian Shepherd and Maple the Welsh Corgi- and loves to help others find joy in their pet relationships.
Training Philosophy
Sam Portillo is committed to helping pet owners achieve their goals through scientifically based techniques, with a particular passion for helping those getting into therapy dog work.
Services
Sam Portillo offers a variety of services, including:
Certifications
Sam Portillo is a Certified Training Partner with the Karen Pryor Academy and a CGC Evaluator for the American Kennel Club.
Specializations
Sam Portillo specializes in therapy dog work.
Training Methods
Sam Portillo uses positive reinforcement techniques.
United States
Positive Dog Solutions was founded by behavior consultants Jackie Maffucci and Vivian Levén. Jackie is a neuroscientist and Vivian is a mediator with a degree in conflict resolution. They have a combined 30+ years of experience working with dogs and people.
Positive Dog Solutions specializes in addressing more serious behavior challenges and is committed to improving behaviors in dogs using science-based techniques while enhancing awareness, knowledge, and compassion in the families and the communities in which they live. They follow the LIMA approach (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) and do not believe in using choke chains, electronic collars, or any other equipment that will create stress and suppress behaviors by adding threat or discomfort.
Positive Dog Solutions offers a wide range of services, including:
Certifications
Jackie Maffucci:
Vivian Levén:
Positive Dog Solutions specializes in addressing more serious behavior challenges in dogs, including fear, anxiety, reactivity, aggression, and other challenging behaviors. They also specialize in working with families with dogs and children, and in helping dogs who are anxious or fearful of vet or groomer visits.
Positive Dog Solutions uses science-based techniques and follows the LIMA approach (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive). They focus on building positive associations while reinforcing the animal for making good choices.
United States
Heidi Meinzer has a diverse background, with extensive experience in both criminal law and civil litigation. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI). She has been practicing animal law for many years and is dedicated to serving the rights and needs of companion animals and businesses in the pet care industry.
Heidi Meinzer is a positive reinforcement trainer. She believes in working with dogs in a way that is humane and respectful. She is also a strong advocate for animal welfare and is involved in a number of animal welfare organizations.
Heidi Meinzer offers a variety of services to pet owners and businesses in the pet care industry, including:
Heidi Meinzer is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI).
Heidi Meinzer specializes in animal law, dog bite defense, and dispute resolution. She also has experience in a variety of other areas, including:
Heidi Meinzer uses positive reinforcement training methods. She believes in rewarding dogs for good behavior and avoiding punishment.
United States
Helping Hounds LLC offers dog training and lost pet tracking services. They are dedicated to providing effective training solutions for dogs of all ages and breeds. Their methods focus on positive reinforcement and clear communication to help dogs learn and thrive.
With a passion for helping pet owners build strong, lasting bonds with their dogs, they strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for both the pets and their owners. Whether it's obedience training, behavioral issues, or lost pet tracking, Helping Hounds LLC is committed to helping dogs and their owners achieve a harmonious and fulfilling relationship.
United States
Karen Baragona
Karen Baragona has worked as a canine behavior specialist at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) and the Washington Humane Society (renamed the Humane Rescue Alliance). She has worked with many hundreds of dogs & their people in group training classes, private homes, and animal shelters using positive, force-free, reward-based principles and practices.
Training Philosophy
Karen Baragona uses positive, force-free, reward-based principles and practices.
Services
Certifications
Specializations
Training Methods
Media Appearances
Karen Baragona has presented webinars at the nonprofit Your Dog's Friend, and has been interviewed on Good Morning Washington.
United States
Name: Peggy Bowers
History:
Peggy Bowers has always been a devoted animal lover, starting at age two with her first dog Snuffy, a German Shepherd. After adopting two wonderful dogs Sunny and Bailey in 2001 and 2003, respectively, Peggy started volunteering with the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation (LDR) in 2005 as a foster and later as the LDR Puppy Foster Coordinator and an Adoption Counselor. As a foster specializing in pregnant and nursing dogs, Peggy and her husband successfully raised over 500 puppies in their home, many with their mothers. All are now in permanent, loving homes. After years of watching tens of thousands of wonderful dogs come through LDR and shelter partners, the desire to get dogs into homes - and most importantly, keep dogs in their homes - became a compelling force. Unfortunately, many dogs lacked basic training and many owners were guided down harmful training paths using harsh aversive methods that either caused dogs to shut down or become aggressive. After listening to many heartbreaking stories, Peggy knew that making dogs adoptable is really only half the game - keeping families together was just as vital.
Peggy has always trained dogs informally, although the thought of studying and making it a career had not really been an objective. In 2014, after a long and successful career in horticulture and landscape design, she decided to commit to her love of dogs with a career change to training dogs professionally. 'Sundogs' was born. After much study and research on positive training methods and its benefits, Peggy chose to study under world-renowned trainer, author and behavior consultant Pat Miller at Peaceable Paws Academy in Fairplay, MD. Having successfully completed 5 academies - including aggression and advanced behavioral modification - Peggy earned her Pat Miller Trainer Certification - PMCT 2. She is a Peaceable Paws Affiliate, and is a Professional Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, The Pet Professional Guild, the Association of Force Free Professional Trainers. Peggy is committed to understanding the science behind animal behavior, and staying informed on the most current force-free training techniques, ideas and scientific research.
Training Philosophy:
Sundogs philosophy embraces a positive approach to training, based on fundamental learning principles and science that promotes a healthy relationship between humans and animals. Our experience with hundreds of rescue dogs from all breeds and backgrounds allows us to bring unique insight and observational skills to canine training and rehabilitation. Every dog and owner can learn, and bringing the right technique that will work with dogs as individuals is what sets Sundogs Canine Consultation and Training apart. The holistic approach centers around 'training with the brain and not pain', and creating a working partnership between you and your dog.
Services:
Sundogs offers private, in-home instruction for people and their dogs. Our mission is to encourage and foster harmony between humans and dogs by providing quality training and behavior consultation services.
Services:
Certifications:
Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) - September 22, 2016 (CCPDT website)
Pat Miller Certified Trainer 2 (PMCT 2) - June 27, 2015 (Peaceable Paws website)
Pat Miller Certified Trainer 1 (PMCT 1) - April 11, 2015 (Peaceable Paws website)
ANWI - Associate Nose Work Instructor. As an ANWI I am actively engaged in the NACSW Certified Nose Work Instructor program. The CNWI program is designed to train instructors to teach K9 Nose Work(R) at the highest level utilizing the concepts as intended by the founders.
Specializations:
Puppy training, basic obedience, intermediate obedience, behavior consultation, adoption counseling, nose work
Training Methods:
Positive reinforcement, reward-based training, force-free methods
Social Media Links:
Follow Sundogs on Facebook!
United States
Pawsitively Possible LLC offers private basic and advanced obedience classes for puppies and adult dogs in both the owner's home and public places. Behavior modification is interwoven with the curriculum, and positive reinforcement is stressed. Group classes are limited to three dogs.
United States
Canine Connection offers private small puppy and dog training services, aiming to help small dogs live their best lives. The trainer provides day training and a concentrated program conducted in the client's home. Prospective clients are encouraged to schedule an initial consultation by phone.
Certifications:
Designations: Owner/Trainer
Job Title: Trainer
Training Equipment: flat collars, harnesses, leashes, toys
Training Philosophy: The trainer's approach involves allowing the dogs to have fun during training. Only modern, humane methods are used, making training a game for the dogs and ensuring enjoyable results for both the dogs and their owners.
Locations Served: Alexandria, VA and surrounding neighborhoods. The trainer stays close to the city to assist more dogs.
Languages: English
The trainer helps clients navigate various challenges including potty training, puppy nipping, crate training, and more.
United States
Wholistic Hound Academy is Alexandria's leading award-winning training and learning center for individuals and their dogs. The certified, professional, and experienced training team offers:
delivering tangible results. Certifications and designations include CPDT-KA. The job title for the owner, founder, and head trainer is held by the academy. Training equipment includes clickers, toys, and ample reinforcement. The training philosophy revolves around teaching people to train and communicate with their dogs using science-based, positive rewards-based methods and techniques, thus facilitating a more manageable and enjoyable coexistence.
Wholistic Hound Academy serves Alexandria, Virginia, and surrounding areas in the Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. region. The academy aims to simplify and enhance living with dogs, offering assistance with manners training, behavior consultations, basic foundation skills, and advanced training. Their science-based positive training methods also foster a strong and trusting relationship between individuals and their dogs, based on cooperation.
Private lessons for puppies and dogs of all ages are available, offering customized classes in the comfort and convenience of clients' homes or at the academy. Training is tailored to specific needs and goals, involving collaboration to create a training plan and address the most important behavior issues.
Wholistic Hound offers small-sized group classes in Puppy Training and Enrichment, Family Dog, Agility and Dog Sports, as well as specialized classes for more advanced work. The smaller class sizes enable more individual attention and a less distracting atmosphere, allowing participants to learn skills for training their dogs in various behaviors, including sit, down, stay, come when called, and loose leash walking, among others.
Consultation services are also available to assist in selecting the right dog for one's lifestyle. The academy emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions when choosing a dog, providing valuable guidance for individuals considering purchasing a dog from a breeder or adopting from a shelter. Making the right decision at the outset can set the stage for a positive, long-term relationship with one's canine companion.
United States
Lucky Labs Dog Training provides life skills training and behavior modification for dogs using positive reinforcement methods. Certifications include CPDT-KA and CBCC-KA.
Job title: CPDT-KA.
Training equipment consists of martingale collar and harness.
Training philosophy: all training is positive, humane, and with a gentle and effective approach.
Locations served: Alexandria, Arlington, Falls Church.
Looking for professional dog trainers in Alexandria, VA? We've got you covered. Finding the right dog trainer can make all the difference in helping your furry companion become a well-behaved and happy member of your family. Our network of experienced dog trainers in Alexandria, VA is dedicated to providing top-notch training services to address various behavioral issues and to help your dog reach their full potential.
Tailored training programs to suit your dog's unique needs.
Address behavioral problems and obedience training with proven techniques.
Benefit from the knowledge and experience of skilled trainers.
Help your dog to interact with other dogs and people in a positive manner.
Establish consistent training methods for long-term results.
Access ongoing support and advice for maintaining good behavior.
Whether you're dealing with puppy training, obedience issues, aggression problems, or simply want to enhance your dog's skills, our trainers are committed to helping you achieve your goals. With a focus on positive reinforcement and clear communication, our trainers work to build a strong bond between you and your dog while achieving desired behavior improvements. Investing in professional dog training services can lead to a happier and more harmonious relationship with your pet. It's an opportunity to provide the best possible environment for your dog to thrive and become a well-mannered and well-adjusted companion. Don't let behavioral issues come between you and your furry friend. Reach out to a professional dog trainer in Alexandria, VA today to pave the way for a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience with your beloved pet.
Unleash the full potential of your canine companion with expert dog trainers in Austin. These seasoned professionals bring years of experience and a deep understanding of canine behavior to every training session. No matter the breed or age, we tailor our approach to suit the unique needs of your furry friend.
Tailored training programs to suit your dog's unique needs.
Address behavioral problems and obedience training with proven techniques.
Benefit from the knowledge and experience of skilled trainers.
Help your dog to interact with other dogs and people in a positive manner.
Establish consistent training methods for long-term results.
Access ongoing support and advice for maintaining good behavior.
Ready to embark on a transformative journey with your dog? Contact trainers today to schedule your first session. Our team is here to support you and your canine companion every step of the way.
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
Dog trainers in Alexandria, VA offer a wide range of services including obedience training, behavior modification, puppy training, and specialized training for specific needs such as aggression or anxiety.
When selecting a dog trainer in Alexandria, VA, consider their experience, training methods, certifications, and client testimonials. It's important to find a trainer who aligns with your training philosophy and has a positive track record.
Yes, many dog trainers in Alexandria, VA understand the unique needs of local residents and their pets. Some trainers may offer specialized programs that cater to the urban environment, including socialization in busy city settings and obedience in public spaces.
Dog trainers in Alexandria, VA are experienced in addressing common behavioral issues such as leash pulling, jumping, aggression, separation anxiety, excessive barking, and fear-based behaviors that may be heightened in an urban setting.
Yes, many dog trainers in Alexandria, VA provide in-home training sessions to address behavior issues within the familiar environment of the pet. This personalized approach can be particularly effective for certain training needs.
Some dog trainers in Alexandria, VA may offer breed-specific training programs tailored to the unique characteristics and tendencies of certain breeds, helping owners better understand and train their specific type of dog.
The time it takes to see results from dog training in Alexandria, VA can vary depending on the dog's behavior, the owner's consistency in training, and the specific issues being addressed. Trainers often provide guidance on expected timelines during the initial consultation.
Yes, there are dog trainers in Alexandria, VA who specialize in working with rescue or shelter dogs, understanding the unique challenges and traumas these dogs may have experienced and tailoring training to accommodate their specific needs.
Many dog trainers in Alexandria, VA offer group training classes that focus on socialization, allowing dogs to interact with other pets in a controlled environment, which can be particularly beneficial for urban living.
Dog trainers in Alexandria, VA often offer ongoing support through follow-up sessions, group classes, or additional resources to ensure that the training results are maintained and that owners feel supported in their ongoing efforts with their pets.
