Certified dog trainers in
Takoma Park, MD
Hand-Picked Trainers

Learn from the best, certified trainers in

Takoma Park, MD

Discover skilled and certified trainers with a heart for dogs and a proven track record, ready to help enhance the bond between you and your pet.

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Local & Skilled

Learn & grow with local Trainers

All of our Trainers are certified to have proficiency in all basic, intermediate or advanced skills, are educated in animal behavior and canine communication, and are suited for most pet training tasks.

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Positive Training

Positive Vibes, Positive Training

Meet trainers who believe in kind, positive reinforcement methods, making training a joy for both you and your dog.

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Top trainers

John James

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Amanda Peet

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Julia Styles

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Judith L. Bardsley

US

Name: Judy Bardsley

History:
After completing a B.A. in Zoology at the University of Washington in 2003, Judy Bardsley started professionally walking, running, caring for, boarding and training dogs while raising two daughters. After years of part time professional experience training and caring for dogs, Judy was accepted into the Professional Dog Trainer certification program with Karen Pryor Academy, which she completed with distinction. Judy went on to become a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed, through the internationally recognized Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. In addition to experience, Judy strongly values current research, education, training and certification in this evolving field, and she continues to add to her own body of knowledge and experience through continuing education, including her most recent certification as a Fear Free Training Professional through the Fear Free Organization, and completion of Behaviorwork's Living and Learning with Animals course.

Training Philosophy:
"Redirecting unwanted behavior by asking for and reinforcing wanted behavior is much more enjoyable than punishment for both people and their dogs, and so it works better."
My training philosophy is based upon scientifically proven positive reinforcement training methods, including clicker, or marker training. Reinforcers can include treats, toys, playtime, praise, and anything else your pup LOVES. Of course it all starts with the basics: good food, secure home with a warm place to settle, plenty of people and dog socialization and respectful affection. I teach dog people the importance of physical exercise for their pups including walks, chew time and play time as well as mental exercise, such as training, games and puzzles.
Redirecting unwanted behavior by asking for and reinforcing wanted behavior is much more enjoyable than punishment for both people and their dogs, and so it works better. Training our four-legged friends is framed within consistent, kind and respectful treatment which they love, and which earns their trust. When they love training, and they trust us, they are engaged, focused, and ready to be, go, and train with us anytime. They are well mannered and relaxed in the home; confident and calm on walks, around other people and dogs, and are much easier and more enjoyable to live with.

Services:
Happy Pup Training offers positive reinforcement dog training classes and private dog training services in the Anacortes, North Whidbey, La Conner, and Mount Vernon areas. We also offer online video conferencing options for private and group coaching sessions.

Dog Training Classes

  • Puppy Start Right Preschool Program
  • Basic Manners 1
  • Basic Manners 2
  • A.K.C. Canine Good Citizen Test Prep Class
  • Doggy Quaren-Tricks & Enrichments Zoom Sessions!

Private Dog Training

  • Puppy Start Right Preschool
  • Private Day Training
  • Private Coaching

Certifications:
Judy Bardsley, BA, KPA CTP, CPDT-KA
In addition to her Zoology degree, her KPA CTP, CPDT-KA, and Fear Free certifications, she's a certified American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen trainer and evaluator, and is a member of The Association for Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and a supporting member of the The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

Specializations:
Puppy training, socialization, leash manners, anti-jumping, recall, basic manners, anxiety issues (dogs, people, separation), tricks

Training Methods:
Positive reinforcement training methods, including clicker, or marker training.

Customer Reviews:
Theresa Hampl, Facebook Review - Judy is a warm a loving person with a gift with dogs. I highly recommend her training services.
Katie and Brad Reading - Truly, Judy is one in a million! We loved she came to our home to meet our dogs in their environment and watched them function within our family dynamics to access individual training needs. Within minutes of the initial greeting our incredibly spunky puppy was miraculously sitting and then shortly after in a down position with her positive training approach. She has a unique train/play philosophy to keep the dog's attention during each session. We were amazed with the connection she had with our dogs, knowledge, support and professionalism. Honestly, our puppy sits by the front door and waits for her when she leaves after the session. We are fortunate to have crossed paths with Judy and highly recommend her.
Helen, Oak Harbor - I worked with Judy in private sessions with my challenging standard poodle puppy. We had multiple sessions together and, with her alone working with my pup. She was very knowledgeable and skillful especially with a number of puppy difficulties. She was easy to work with and communicated well with me and especially with the puppy. Her way with dogs is gentle, magical. She was one of the best trainers I have worked with in my many years of having dogs.
Judy and Wayne Thompson - Judy Bardsley worked with our two Shiloh Shepherd puppies for two months. They presented quite a challenge because there were two to train. Judy's "Happy Pup Training" was well organized and she gave us a "Reminder for Happy Pup Training" at the end of each session. Her training is based on kindness and lots of rewards/treats. She understands the markers in doggie body language for their mood and temperament. For example she knew Rainbow did not want to be petted at first so she gradually built up the level of trust between them.
Her techniques are consistent and based on years of study and education. She also did a great job with her human trainees. That might be her biggest success, training the humans how to interact correctly with their dog. She went the extra mile for us and we recommend her highly. She knows her stuff!
Annie Johnson - Just as if we brought home a new baby, we discovered that we knew nothing about having a puppy. Fortunately for us, we soon found Judy Bardsley to train us. Her system works! Daisy was soon sitting, lying down, coming and going to her "place" on command. She stopped whining and crying in her kennel. She's getting good at walking on a leash without pulling. Everywhere we take her, people comment on how well behaved she is. We were able to avoid ruining our little sweetie, even though she has a bit of a stubborn streak. Now when that shows up, we strap on a treat bag, get out the clicker and put her through a training session. She's soon back to that lovable, playful and happy Daisy that is a joy to be around.
Carrie Worra - We recommend Judy's training at home because our whole family was able to learn the best ways to have our dog behave. She could see how we live and our challenges with space, time, and kids coming and going. Judy was able to give us several great tools that we have incorporated into our daily lives. Our dog, Bailey was eager to please Judy because she expects good behavior and ignores bad. We look forward to taking more classes with Judy.
D. Exley, retired dog trainer - I've know Judy for a few years now and found her to be the kindest and most patient of souls. With the dogs and with the owners! She always makes a nice, effective connection with both.

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Francine Holland

United States

Funwalks Dog Training, led by Francine, specializes in obedience training, offering a range of services including private sessions, board & train, training maintenance, and CGC testing. Serving Montgomery County and Baltimore, MD.

Certifications:

  • Training Equipment: flat collar, leash, ez walker, head collars, clicker

Training Philosophy: Funwalks Dog Training emphasizes building a positive relationship with your dog while using a variety of training methods that focus on reward, praise, and real-life rewards. The approach avoids the use of choke or pinch collars, relying instead on the bond between you and your dog.

Locations Served: Montgomery County, Baltimore City, and Baltimore County.

Classes offered by Funwalks Dog Training emphasize relationship building, socialization, and training intervals incorporating lure, reward, praise, food, toys, and real-life rewards. The training approach focuses on making the experience enjoyable for both you and your dog, ensuring that your dog willingly complies because they want to. By becoming a benevolent leader, you can foster a desire in your dog to comply. This technique has been proven to be very successful.

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Joyce P. Loebig

United States

Rewards Dog Training offers dog training, behavior consultations, and classes in the Washington, DC area. The focus area includes Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Wheaton, College Park, and Hyattsville.

Their approach is based on positive reinforcement techniques, designed to solve training and behavior issues while respecting dogs and improving relationships with them. Their training methods are humane, kind, effective, and science-based.

Rewards Dog Training provides in-home consultations and training sessions, troubleshooting and solving behavior problems such as jumping, chewing, nipping, house training, crate training, growling, barking/lunging, and separation anxiety.

They utilize clicker-training principles to teach basic manners, polite leash walking, polite door greetings, and coming when called. Their aim is to help dog owners create, reward, and strengthen desired behaviors in their dogs using positive reinforcement techniques.

They also educate dog owners on understanding their dog's body language to optimize training and prevent behavior problems, as well as provide techniques for keeping dogs physically and mentally stimulated. The ultimate goal is to help dog owners learn how dogs learn and improve their quality of life with their pets.

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Peter Joshua Barinski

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Jechyl James

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Sandra Verbitski

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Lauren McKentire

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Guy Pearce

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Wesley Jachson

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Dingi Bells

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Mushita Babilon

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What’s essential in choosing a Dog Trainer?

Looking for skilled dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD? Look no further. We've compiled a list of professional dog trainers in your area. These trainers are experienced and ready to help you and your furry friend reach your training goals. Whether you're dealing with behavioral issues, obedience training, or simply want to enhance your bond with your dog, these trainers are here to guide you through the process.

Customized Training

Tailored training programs to meet the specific needs of your dog.

Effective Communication

Learn how to communicate with your dog effectively to build a stronger bond.

Behavior Modification

Address and correct problematic behaviors with the guidance of an expert.

Socialization Skills

Help your dog become more comfortable and confident around people and other animals.

Positive Reinforcement

Training methods that focus on positive reinforcement for a happy and well-behaved dog.

Customized Training

Benefit from the knowledge and experience of professionals who understand dog behavior.

When you choose professional dog trainer services, you're investing in the well-being and happiness of your dog. These trainers are committed to helping you achieve your training goals while ensuring a positive and enriching experience for both you and your dog. Reach out to one of the experienced dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, and take the first step towards a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your canine companion.

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.

Customized Training

Tailored training programs to meet the specific needs of your dog.

Effective Communication

Learn how to communicate with your dog effectively to build a stronger bond.

Behavior Modification

Address and correct problematic behaviors with the guidance of an expert.

Socialization Skills

Help your dog become more comfortable and confident around people and other animals.

Positive Reinforcement

Training methods that focus on positive reinforcement for a happy and well-behaved dog.

Customized Training

Benefit from the knowledge and experience of professionals who understand dog 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.

We've got the answers for your questions

What are the benefits of hiring a dog trainer in Takoma Park, MD?

Hiring a dog trainer in Takoma Park, MD, can help address specific behavioral issues, improve obedience, and strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Local dog trainers are familiar with the unique challenges of city living, making them well-equipped to address urban pet behavior.

How do I choose the right dog trainer in Takoma Park, MD?

When selecting a dog trainer in Takoma Park, MD, consider their experience, training methods, and areas of expertise. Look for trainers who understand the dynamics of city living and can tailor their approach to the specific needs of urban dog owners.

What training methods do dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, use?

Dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, employ a variety of training methods, including positive reinforcement, clicker training, and behavior modification techniques. Many trainers in the area prioritize force-free and humane training methods that are effective in urban settings.

Are there specialized training programs offered by dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD?

Yes, many dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, offer specialized training programs tailored to the unique challenges of city living. These programs may include urban agility, city socialization, and leash manners to help your dog thrive in an urban environment.

How long does it take to see results from dog training in Takoma Park, MD?

The timeline for seeing results from dog training in Takoma Park, MD, can vary depending on the specific needs of your dog and the training methods used. However, many owners notice positive changes in their dog's behavior within a few weeks of consistent training.

Do dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, offer in-home training sessions?

Yes, many dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, offer in-home training sessions to address behavior issues within the familiar environment of your home. This personalized approach can be particularly effective for city-dwelling dog owners.

Can dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, help with socialization in urban environments?

Absolutely, dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, understand the importance of socialization for urban dogs. They can help your dog acclimate to city sights, sounds, and other pets, fostering positive interactions in urban settings.

Are there dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, who specialize in specific breeds or sizes of dogs?

Yes, there are dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, who specialize in working with specific breeds or sizes of dogs. Whether you have a small apartment-friendly breed or a larger urban companion, you can find trainers with expertise tailored to your dog's needs.

Do dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, offer group training classes as well?

Many dog trainers in Takoma Park, MD, offer group training classes that provide opportunities for socialization and training in a controlled environment. These classes can be beneficial for both puppies and adult dogs living in an urban setting.

How much does dog training in Takoma Park, MD, typically cost?

The cost of dog training in Takoma Park, MD, varies depending on the trainer, the type of training, and the specific needs of your dog. It's best to inquire directly with local trainers to get a better understanding of their pricing and available packages.

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