Alexandria, VA
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
- Separation Anxiety
- Shy & Fearful
- Anxiety with Kids
Certifications
- CBCC-KA: Certified Behavior Consultant, Canine.
- CPDT-KA: Certified Professional Dog Trainer.
- CSAT: Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer.
Specializations
- Separation Anxiety
- Fearful Behavior
- Anxiety around Kids
Training Methods
- Systematic desensitization
- Desensitization & counterconditioning
- Nosework & scent games
- Consent to pet
- Pattern games to draw focus away from triggers
- Enrichment games for mental stimulation
- Tricks, e.g. high five and spin
- Life skills, like attention on you
Media Appearances
Karen Baragona has presented webinars at the nonprofit Your Dog's Friend, and has been interviewed on Good Morning Washington.
We've got the answers for your questions
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.
Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.
All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.
Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.
Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.
Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.
Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.
All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.
Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.
Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.
