Certified dog trainers in
Williamsburg, VA
Hand-Picked Trainers

Learn from the best, certified trainers in

Williamsburg, VA

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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Cathy Dodgen

United States

Sage Advice Pet Services offers Canine Behavior Consulting, Manners, Obedience, Games, CGC & Therapy / Service Dog training utilizing positive, reward-based training & behavior modification, humane education.

Certifications:

  • Training Equipment: Control by equipment (flat buckle or martingale collars, EZ Walk harnesses, leashes, long lines) is not a long-term goal for clients but provides a safety net while building the bond / partnership.

Training Philosophy: The goal for clients is to assist in building balanced and lasting partnerships with their dogs utilizing the power of positive, reward-based methods, creating a bond founded on trust & cooperation.

Locations Served: Williamsburg, James City County, York County, and surrounding areas.

Bonding with dogs means building a relationship based on trust and cooperation rather than relying on physical force or corrective equipment. Bonding is the rapport or partnership developed with dogs that leads them to choose to walk with us (as opposed to dragging us behind), happily pay attention to us (rather than be distracted by anything and everything else), and willingly come when called (because given the choice, they would prefer to be with us).

Building this partnership - especially in the initial stages - requires a firm commitment of time, attention, and a consistent management program to prevent (or, in some cases, extinguish) unwanted/inappropriate behaviors.

Over the past 30 years, the dog trainer has been involved with rescue and behavior rehabilitation of a variety of dogs including herding, sighthound, and terrier breeds. This, along with teaching classes and working with clients in resolving their dogs' behavioral issues, has given a deeper understanding of working with different breeds - many of whom are genetically hardwired for behaviors that are not always compatible with being ideal companions or 'easy keepers' for the average pet owner.

Partnership building also requires clear communication and a good reward system for acceptable & appropriate behaviors - one that is determined by the dog. It might be food, toys, petting, belly rubs, etc - or any combination as long as the dog finds them highly rewarding.

Dogs need to be challenged - both mentally & physically - on a regular basis to stay happy, healthy, and out of trouble. Dogs repeat behaviors (right or wrong) that they perceive to be rewarding to them (sometimes in ways not easy to comprehend). In the end, building a wonderful relationship with dogs requires patience, persistence, & planning and the desire to reward

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Adam T. Claar

United States

Adam T. Claar

Adam T. Claar believes in science-based, modern techniques that focus on practical, real-life skills. He emphasizes that training is not just about teaching commands, but about building a strong bond and creating a happy, healthy, harmonious home for both dog and owner.

Adam T. Claar offers dog training services, but he is not accepting new clients at this time due to the national shelter dog crisis. He recommends Shared Joy Dog Training for those in the Williamsburg area and suggests using the trainer search functions on the CCPDT and IAABC websites for other locations.

Certifications

  • Professional Level Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers
  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge and Skills Assessed from the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers
  • Certified Evaluator for the American Kennel Club for the STAR Puppy test and designation, Canine Good Citizen, Community Canine (CGCA), and Trick Dog Titles (Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced)
  • Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants

Adam T. Claar uses positive reinforcement methods and emphasizes the importance of building a strong bond between dog and owner. He believes in teaching dogs skills that are useful in real-life situations.

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Diana J. Marahrens

United States

Diana J. Marahrens

Diana has a B.S. in Ornamental Horticulture from Virginia Tech. She has professionally trained dogs and other pets since 2000 and has been internationally certified as a trainer since 2003 by the Certification Council of Pet Dog Trainers. She holds additional professional certifications from the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and Do More With Your Dogs.
Diana attends professional seminars and conferences to stay up to date with the most current research and training trials. She is currently studying new training methods that aim to reduce stresses on both the owner and pet. She is also evolving model action plans to treat problem behaviors in both pets and people alike. Much of her on-going training focuses on promoting strong bonds between pet and human by encouraging inter-species communication.
Prior to becoming a professional pet trainer Diana was a Certified Landscape Designer and Horticulturist. Throughout her life she always kept a special spot in her heart for animals. For almost two decades she has turned that passion into a career helping others enjoy meaningful, rewarding bonds with their pets.

Training Philosophy

Diana's training philosophy is to use positive reinforcement to modify your pet's behavior and create a communication system between you and your pet. The goal is to build a long-term relationship between your family and your pet. To build this bond an understanding must be gained of your pet's behaviors and how they communicate with humans. Pets don't speak English but they communicate using body language. Learning a pet's body language helps us communicate effectively with them. With patience, practice, and consistency you will soon have a happy pet whom you can enjoy and communicate with!

Services

  • Private, At-Home and Off-Site Training Instructions available in the Greater Williamsburg Virginia area
  • Private Dog Training Instructions
  • Basic, Intermediate, Advanced Dog Training Lessons
  • (K9) Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
  • Therapy Dog Preparation
  • Dog Behavioral Assessment and Recommendations
  • New Puppy Introduction
  • New Kitten Introduction
  • Adopting A Pet Into Your Home
  • Education for children on how to behave with a cat or dog
  • Private, At-Home and Off-Site Dog Training

Dog Training includes:

  • Basic/Intermediate/Advanced Lessons with Personalized Curricula
  • Preparations for Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog Certifications
  • Behavioral Assessments
  • Pet Introduction Seminars

New Puppy Introduction

  • Includes email documentation and at home session

New Kitten Introduction

  • Includes email documentation and one at home session

Adopting A Pet Into Your Home Seminar

Certifications

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
  • Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI)

Specializations

Dog training, Cat training, Puppy training, Kitten training, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Therapy Dog Preparation, Behavioral Assessments, Pet Introduction Seminars

Training Methods

Positive reinforcement

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Nancy Merrell

United States

Nancy Merrell

Nancy Merrell believes in using only positive training methods, as she believes that dogs deserve to be trained in a way that is enjoyable and effective for both the dog and the owner.


Services

  • Group Classes: These classes are limited to 8-10 dogs and cover basic obedience commands. There are both basic and advanced classes available.
  • Private Lessons: These lessons are conducted at the client's home and are tailored to the individual needs of the dog and owner.
  • Behavior Modification Programs: These programs are designed to help dogs with a variety of behavioral issues, such as aggression, fear, phobias, inappropriate elimination, and obsessive compulsive disorders.
  • Puppy Classes: These classes are for puppies under 6 months old and focus on socialization, house training, and basic manners.
  • Two Week Boot Camp: This program includes an initial consultation and two weeks of daily training sessions at the client's home.
  • House Training Help: This is a 90-minute session that focuses on proper house training for puppies or dogs that are still having housetraining issues.
  • Leash Walking 101: This program teaches dogs to walk properly on the leash, including loose leash walking and heeling.
  • New Puppy Consultation: This consultation helps new puppy owners get their home and family ready for their new puppy and provides guidance on house training, nipping, and basic puppy manners.
  • Create Your Own Program: This program allows clients to focus on specific behavioral issues that their dog is having.


Certifications

  • The Animal Behavior Center of New York
  • The Association of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors
  • She is also a professional member of The Association of Pet Dog Trainers
  • She is a certified instructor and evaluator for AKC Canine Good Citizen, Canine Good Citizen Advanced, Canine Good Citizen Urban, and AKC STAR Puppy


Specializations

Behavior Modification, Puppy Training, Basic Obedience, Advanced Obedience, Leash Walking, House Training


Training Methods

Positive Reinforcement


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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?

Are you looking for professional dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA? Look no further. Finding the right dog trainer is essential for the well-being and behavior of your furry friend. We've compiled a list of experienced dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA, who can help you and your pup. Whether you're looking to address behavioral issues, basic obedience training, or specialized training, these trainers have the expertise to guide you and your dog on the right path.

Tailored Training

Trainers develop personalized training plans to address your dog's specific needs.

Behavior Modification

Trainers can help address and modify undesired behaviors in your dog.

Socialization Skills

Professional trainers help your dog build social skills and adapt to various environments.

Expert Guidance

You'll receive guidance from professionals who understand dog behavior and psychology.

Time Efficiency

Training with a professional can often yield faster results than attempting to train on your own.

Tailored Training

Professional training can lead to lasting improvements in your dog's behavior and overall well-being.

Finding the right dog trainer can make a significant impact on your dog's life and your own. With the guidance and expertise of a professional trainer, you can build a stronger bond with your pet and ensure a harmonious relationship at home and in public spaces. Don't hesitate to explore the options available in Williamsburg, VA to find the perfect match for you and your furry 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.

Tailored Training

Trainers develop personalized training plans to address your dog's specific needs.

Behavior Modification

Trainers can help address and modify undesired behaviors in your dog.

Socialization Skills

Professional trainers help your dog build social skills and adapt to various environments.

Expert Guidance

You'll receive guidance from professionals who understand dog behavior and psychology.

Time Efficiency

Training with a professional can often yield faster results than attempting to train on your own.

Tailored Training

Professional training can lead to lasting improvements in your dog's behavior and overall well-being.

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

Are there certified dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA?

Yes, Williamsburg boasts a number of certified dog trainers who have undergone professional training and hold certifications in dog behavior and obedience training.

What training methods do dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA use?

Dog trainers in Williamsburg utilize a variety of training methods tailored to the specific needs and behaviors of individual dogs. These methods may include positive reinforcement, clicker training, and behavior modification techniques.

Where can I find dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA?

Dog trainers in Williamsburg operate out of various locations such as training facilities, pet stores, and some even offer in-home training services to cater to the convenience of dog owners.

What types of services do dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA offer?

Dog trainers in Williamsburg offer a range of services including puppy training, basic obedience training, advanced obedience training, behavior modification, and specialized training for specific activities such as agility or therapy work.

How do I choose the right dog trainer in Williamsburg, VA for my pet?

When selecting a dog trainer in Williamsburg, it's important to consider factors such as the trainer's experience, training philosophy, certifications, and client testimonials. Additionally, meeting the trainer in person and observing a training session can provide valuable insight.

What are the average rates for dog training services in Williamsburg, VA?

Dog training rates in Williamsburg vary based on the trainer's experience, the type of training, and the duration of the sessions. On average, group classes and private sessions in Williamsburg, VA can range from moderate to higher pricing.

Do dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA offer group training classes?

Yes, many dog trainers in Williamsburg offer group training classes which provide socialization opportunities for dogs while focusing on basic obedience and behavior training.

How long does it take to see results from dog training in Williamsburg, VA?

The timeline for seeing results from dog training in Williamsburg depends on various factors including the dog's age, breed, temperament, and the consistency of training. Some behaviors may show improvement within a few sessions, while more complex issues may take longer to address.

Can dog trainers in Williamsburg, VA help with specific behavior problems?

Yes, dog trainers in Williamsburg are equipped to address a wide range of behavior problems including aggression, separation anxiety, excessive barking, leash pulling, and more through personalized training plans and behavior modification techniques.

Are there specialized training programs available for working dogs in Williamsburg, VA?

Yes, in Williamsburg, some dog trainers offer specialized training programs tailored for working dogs such as service dogs, therapy dogs, and those involved in activities like search and rescue, scent detection, and agility.

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