Washington, DC
JW Dog Training & Behavior Consulting
JW Dog Training & Behavior Consulting is owned and operated by Juliana DeWillems, who has been training dogs since 2014. She graduated with distinction from the Karen Pryor Academy. The company has grown to include a team of certified trainers, including Kayleigh Sullivan.
Training Philosophy
JW Dog Training uses positive reinforcement training and science-based methods when working to change behavior, including clicker training, play, real life rewards, management, and more. They focus on building and reinforcing desirable behavior, while also implementing routines and management to decrease undesirable behavior.
Services
JW Dog Training offers a variety of services, including:
- In-person dog training: Basic training, behavior modification, puppy coaching, and follow-up lessons.
- Virtual dog training: Virtual coaching, single consultations, puppy coaching, basics coaching, behavior modification coaching, and follow-up lessons.
- Separation anxiety training: Offered by Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT) Yasmin Baylor.
- Cat behavior services: Offered by Teresa Villatoro, who specializes in reactive and fearful dog training, and helping newly adopted dogs acclimate to their home.
- Speaking engagements and media inquiries: Offered by Juliana DeWillems.
Certifications
The trainers at JW Dog Training hold a variety of certifications, including:
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
- Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
- Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (Accredited)
- Fear Free Certified Trainer
- Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT)
- TAGTeach Level 1 Certified
- Faculty Member, Karen Pryor Academy
Specializations
JW Dog Training specializes in a variety of areas, including:
- Fear
- Reactivity
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Puppies
- Basic Manners
- Adolescents
- Dog-Cat Introductions
- Dog-Dog Aggression
- Virtual Training
- Separation Anxiety
- Newly Adopted Dogs
- Enrichment
Training Methods
JW Dog Training uses positive reinforcement training and science-based methods, including clicker training, play, real life rewards, management, and more.
Customer Reviews
Colleen from Los Angeles, CA: I started working with Cynthia from JWDT based on a referral from a close friend. I had just adopted Sunshine, my pandemic puppy, and was totally overwhelmed. Cynthia is a miracle worker. She introduced me to R+ training and has helped me form a wonderful and trusting bond with my pup. And all over Zoom! I never thought it was possible to accomplish what we did over a video call, but it totally worked! She's also coached me through so many of the frustrating moments of new puppy training that I feel she should double as a therapist! Sunshine and I are so happy to know Cynthia and for all the amazing things she's helped us achieve. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Larry from Cleveland Park, D.C.: We have had several rescue dogs over the years and used several dog trainers. Juliana DeWillems is the absolute best. She knows the canine mind and can teach humans. She was able in the very first session to show me how to stop certain behaviors and shape others in our 12 year old dog. Our aging rescue dog is now even better behaved and happier with the training we are both getting. Our dog no longer attacks noisy buses and knows the trick dog pose. Juliana is in a different league from all the other trainers we have ever had. I recommend her and look forward to working with her with our next dog.
Katie from Palm Bay, FL: JW Dog Training was a godsend when I rescued my 9-month old German shepherd mix. Her previous owners misused an e-collar on her and she was very sensitive and distrusting of the training process. With the help of Kat (who is ABSOLUTELY amazing!!) and the others at JWDT, I was able to help my dog integrate into a multi dog household, manage her behavioral issues and reactivity, as well as give her the best life. I absolutely can't thank you guys enough for all of the guidance and ideas you've provided throughout this whole training process! I look forward to future sessions with the trainers at JWDT!
Hannah from Arlington, VA: We love JW Dog Training! We got a rescue who started displaying some fearful behaviors. Wouldn't go outside, would barely eat, and was afraid of *everything.* With the help of Kat & JWDT (and anxiety meds), we've been able to build up her confidence and implement new management techniques to help her navigate those tough moments. We started with the four-pack Behavior Mod package, and it is *definitely* worth the time, money, and effort. Kat responds very quickly to our messages and includes helpful links and videos to supplement what we learn in a session. Juliana and her team lead with empathy, dedication, patience, and compassion.
Tori from Arlington, VA: So grateful for Kat's help! She helped me and my Frankie with anxiety after dog attack, loss of other pup and moving over 800 miles for work. Gave me some wonderful tools, games to teach and Frankie is doing so well! I wouldn't hesitate to reach out to her again! Highly recommend
Alex and Cat from Adams Morgan, D.C.: We are so grateful we found Juliana! We were really struggling with our sweet, sensitive dog's reactivity to other dogs in our busy city neighborhood. Juliana patiently and compassionately gave us the tools to overcome this challenge, and most importantly trained us on how to help him! Now, he can walk past almost any dog with no problem. When we added a second pup to our family, Juliana helped us understand their dynamics and find creative techniques to keep our dogs happy during the settling in period. And, Juliana has given us insights that serve as building blocks to help our dogs with any new challenges that arise. We can't recommend her enough!
Sarah from Arlington, VA: Juliana helped me and my 9 month old golden retriever work through some fear issues (noise sensitivity, fear of the dark etc) and through typical teenage pup issues. She's so knowledgeable and available to help when you have questions. I love that she has many training credentials and uses a positive approach. She is so easy to work with and never makes me feel badly about my dogs behaviors. I highly recommend!
Media Appearances
Juliana DeWillems has been featured as a dog training expert in television, print, and radio media. She has shared her dog training expertise on WTOP and Good Day DC, and she was a regular guest on The Pet Show with Dr. Katy for many years. Juliana currently co-hosts the Live from The Ranch online broadcast with Ken Ramirez. She has also provided quarterly free seminars and webinars for dog owners through the non-profit Your Dog's Friend.
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.
