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The Best Dog Trainers in Virginia of 2024

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David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

This is a list of the top dog trainers in Virginia, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

  • Erika Proctor Photo

    Erika Proctor

    GDU TDT -AKC CGC and Trick dog Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    Charlottesville and Central Virginia

    Green Dogs Unleashed is a special needs animal rescue and therapy dog program. A non profit organization Founded in 2012, Erika Proctor has been the director and animal behavior specialist focusing on therapy work, basic through advanced classes, tricks, fitness and sport work, rescuing dogs on our community, and helping Pet parents build a bond with their furry friends ensuring happy well a...


  • Thomi Gill Photo

    Thomi Gill

    KPA-CTP

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Serving Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk

    Hi! I'm Thomi I can help with many common issues such as but not limited to:Fear, Anxiety, Stress, Destruction, Chewing, Digging, Scratching, House Soiling, Reactivity, Jumping, Barking, Over-excitement, Rough Play, Nipping, and more!Pet training isn't just about your pet. In fact, the most integral part of the training process is you. That's why we work together to make sure your training pla...


  • Elizabeth Staley Photo

    Elizabeth Staley

    CPDT-KA

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hampton, Smithfield, Newport News, Chesapeake, Zuni, Windsor, Norfolk

    Elizabeth has loved dogs her whole life. She grew up with a few mixed breeds but was given a Pomeranian in elementary school. A lack of knowledge lead to that dog being hit by a car when he slipped out of his harness. In Junior high a second Pomeranian joined the family and lived as a beloved pet until he was 15 years old. Once Elizabeth moved out and was on her own she rescued a beagle mix nam...


  • Cat Clark Photo

    Cat Clark

    CPDT-KA, VSA-CDT

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Yorktown, Williamsburg

    Sharing your home with an animal can be one of the most rewarding things in life. Making sure your animal is well trained will give both of you more time to enjoy each other's company, and less stress for your dog and your family. Modern, science based force-free training is full of fun techniques that will give you and your pet a happier life together through better communication.

    Cat...


  • Ashley Mosca Photo

    Ashley Mosca

    CPDT-KA

    Reactive dog training, Board and train, Puppy training

    Chantilly, Ashburn, South Riding, Centreville

    I started at Pender Pet Retreat in 2017 and my interest in dog behavior has only grown since then. I specialize in puppy training and basic obedience work. My training beliefs center around a strong relationship between the dog and human through proper communication.

    I received my CPDT-KA in 2021 and have enjoyed working with all different kinds of dogs and owners. I also love my own...


  • Michael Peer Photo

    Michael Peer

    Graduate of Police K-9 Dog Training School and was Certified for Narcotics Detection-by the USPCA in 1999

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training

    Reston, VA, Fairfax and Loudoun Counties

    Former Police K9 Officer turned Dog Trainer & Behaviorist, Michael Peer had found his "calling" when he created dOgbedience (short for Dog Obedience) in 2011. A year and half prior, he had rescued a 4 month old Rottweiler (Rogue) who was battling Addison's Disease; Rogue became his inspiration in helping other dogs and their families. In no time, he became Michael's dog training assistant and b...


  • Tara Moriarty Photo

    Tara Moriarty

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Albemarle and Greene county

    I've been training professionally for 5 years


  • Carla Blackmon Photo

    Carla Blackmon

    CPDT-KA

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training

    Prince William County (Occoquan, Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, Dale City, Dumfries, parts of Manassas), Fairfax County (Lorton, Burke, Springfield, parts of Fairfax), North Stafford

    Carla has an extensive background in animal behavior, training and animal care. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers® (CCPDT®). Carla has over 25 years of various animal related experience and education that she uses to formulate a customized training plan for your family and pets. Her back...


  • Andrea Marx Photo

    Andrea Marx

    CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC, FFCP, FDM

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Moyock, Newport News, Yorktown, Hampton, Suffolk

    I started Freak on a Leash in 2015 because I am passionate about positive reinforcement training and teaching people the kindest ways of interacting with their dogs. I am a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). I am also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer,...


  • Sarah Connor Photo

    Sarah Connor

    IAABC Accredited Dog Trainer, Graduate of CATCH Canine Trainer's Academy, Pet First Aid Certified

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, North Suffolk

    I am a 26-year old Accredited Dog Trainer with a passion for helping dogs and their humans live their best lives together.

    In September of 2018, I founded a dog walking and pet-sitting business that I dubbed "Barks and Rec." I had begun attending CATCH Canine Trainer's Academy the month before in pursuit of a dog training certification. For several months, I attended both a local univ...


  • Desiree Lomer-Clarke Photo

    Desiree Lomer-Clarke

    CPDT-KA

    Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Northern Virginia, DC, Maryland within the beltway

    I am a former lawyer turned trainer after dealing with a reactive dog of my own. I have been training since November of 2008 in Arlington, Virginia and I have the best clients.


  • Matt Revell Photo

    Matt Revell

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Northern Virginia and D.C.

    Having grown up with several large breeds in the house since a young age, he has developed a strong relationship caring for larger dogs. He has spent several years in the dog care industry. Working in daycare, boarding, and even running a foster program with a local beagle rescue. He has most recently settled on training and his passion for dogs has only grown since then.


  • Victoria T Photo

    Victoria T

    Service dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Dog trainer and boarder


  • Charlene Henderson Photo

    Charlene Henderson

    CGC Evaluator

    Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Fredericksburg, Virginia Stafford, Virginia Spotsylvania, Virginia

    I am Charlene and I own Pawsitive Reflection Dog Training! I've been training dogs for about 6 years. While stationed in Okinawa, Japan I was the only Positive Reinforcement Trainer! I am currently continuing my education through the Victoria Stilwell Academy and am excited to serve the Fredericksburg, Va and surrounding areas!


  • Lisa Marino Photo

    Lisa Marino

    PMCT-2, KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, CTDI, CCFT, CSAT, SDC

    Puppy training

    Winchester, VA

    I have always loved the companionship of animals, from dogs, to cats, to bunnies, parakeets and gerbils; and have had one or more at any given time since childhood. Pets can teach us so much about helping others, seeing humor in situations, and teach responsibility and compassion. Even though I have always had a menagerie of some sort, and loved my pets, I had never planned to be a dog trainer....


  • Crystal Partain Photo

    Crystal Partain

    CPDT-KA

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Hampton Roads Virginia and Northeast North Carolina

    With almost 2 decades of hands on experience in veterinary hospitals, local shelters and rescues, Crystal has been working with pets and their people to improve their lives together in many different settings. She received a dual bachelors degrees in biology and psychology, from Old Dominion University in 2009. Clients will often joke that she is their dogs therapist during their sessions toget...


  • Juliana DeWillems Photo

    Juliana DeWillems

    Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA)

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Arlington, VA Northwest, Washington, DC

    JW Dog Training & Behavior provides professional, expert dog training and behavior support to the DMV area -- primarily Arlington, NW DC, and parts of lower Montgomery County. We specialize in one-on-one lessons with clients, working virtually and in the client's home to thoroughly address behavior issues and build skills.

    Training sessions are fun and low stress for both the dog and h...


  • Karen Adams Photo

    Karen Adams

    In home training, Puppy training

    Chesapeake, VA

    After spending 30 years as a biology professor and training dogs all my life, I began teaching professionally. My experience with dogs ranges from owning a sled dog kennel in Michigan, training for the show, obedience, and Rally rings, and teaching classes for local obedience clubs.

    I specialize in changing mouthy, rambunctious puppies and out-of-control adolescent dogs into calm and w...


  • Stephanie Bass Photo

    Stephanie Bass

    PMCT2

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Surry County

    I am a Pat Miller Certified trainer and have worked with dogs in a shelter setting as well as in homes.


  • Gabrielle Johnson Photo

    Gabrielle Johnson

    Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Certified Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training

    Richmond, Chesterfield

    I support families whose dogs experience anxiety or display aggressive behaviors.


The Best Langley, VA Dog Trainers In 2024

  • Erika Proctor Photo

    Erika Proctor

    Green Dogs Unleashed is a special needs animal rescue and therapy dog program. A non profit organization Founded in 2012, Erika Proctor has been the director and animal behavior specialist focusing on therapy work, basic through advanced classes, tricks, fitness and sport work, rescuing dogs on our community, and helping Pet parents build a bond with their furry friends ensuring happy well a...

    View profile

  • Cat Clark Photo

    Cat Clark

    Sharing your home with an animal can be one of the most rewarding things in life. Making sure your animal is well trained will give both of you more time to enjoy each other's company, and less stress for your dog and your family. Modern, science based force-free training is full of fun techniques that will give you and your pet a happier life together through better communication.

    Cat...

    View profile

  • Ashley Mosca Photo

    Ashley Mosca

    I started at Pender Pet Retreat in 2017 and my interest in dog behavior has only grown since then. I specialize in puppy training and basic obedience work. My training beliefs center around a strong relationship between the dog and human through proper communication.

    I received my CPDT-KA in 2021 and have enjoyed working with all different kinds of dogs and owners. I also love my own...

    View profile

The Best Newport News, VA Dog Trainers In 2024

  • Thomi Gill Photo

    Thomi Gill

    Hi! I'm Thomi I can help with many common issues such as but not limited to:Fear, Anxiety, Stress, Destruction, Chewing, Digging, Scratching, House Soiling, Reactivity, Jumping, Barking, Over-excitement, Rough Play, Nipping, and more!Pet training isn't just about your pet. In fact, the most integral part of the training process is you. That's why we work together to make sure your training pla...

    View profile

  • Elizabeth Staley Photo

    Elizabeth Staley

    Elizabeth has loved dogs her whole life. She grew up with a few mixed breeds but was given a Pomeranian in elementary school. A lack of knowledge lead to that dog being hit by a car when he slipped out of his harness. In Junior high a second Pomeranian joined the family and lived as a beloved pet until he was 15 years old. Once Elizabeth moved out and was on her own she rescued a beagle mix nam...

    View profile

  • Andrea Marx Photo

    Andrea Marx

    I started Freak on a Leash in 2015 because I am passionate about positive reinforcement training and teaching people the kindest ways of interacting with their dogs. I am a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). I am also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer,...

    View profile

The Best Norfolk, VA Dog Trainers In 2024

  • Sarah Connor Photo

    Sarah Connor

    I am a 26-year old Accredited Dog Trainer with a passion for helping dogs and their humans live their best lives together.

    In September of 2018, I founded a dog walking and pet-sitting business that I dubbed "Barks and Rec." I had begun attending CATCH Canine Trainer's Academy the month before in pursuit of a dog training certification. For several months, I attended both a local univ...

    View profile

  • Crystal Partain Photo

    Crystal Partain

    With almost 2 decades of hands on experience in veterinary hospitals, local shelters and rescues, Crystal has been working with pets and their people to improve their lives together in many different settings. She received a dual bachelors degrees in biology and psychology, from Old Dominion University in 2009. Clients will often joke that she is their dogs therapist during their sessions toget...

    View profile

  • Karen Adams Photo

    Karen Adams

    After spending 30 years as a biology professor and training dogs all my life, I began teaching professionally. My experience with dogs ranges from owning a sled dog kennel in Michigan, training for the show, obedience, and Rally rings, and teaching classes for local obedience clubs.

    I specialize in changing mouthy, rambunctious puppies and out-of-control adolescent dogs into calm and w...

    View profile

The Best Richmond, VA Dog Trainers In 2024

The Best Virginia Beach, VA Dog Trainers In 2024

  • Kei Asper Photo

    Kei Asper

    My Alaskan Malamute, Silas, started my journey in dog training. We missed out on puppy classes in my rural college town due to lack of availability. Once in Virginia Beach we worked our way through CGC but were not ready to stop there. I found HROTC to take the CGCA test and then started learning Rally. I now look forward to giving new puppy owners guidance to form the solid foundation I missed...

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  • Keri Bagley Photo

    Keri Bagley

    My training career started with a reactive dog I adopted in 2017. I had to learn tons about behavior modification and reactivity to help him succeed in the world, which started my love of interpreting and identifying behavior. I spent time shadowing a professional trainer and earned my professional dog training certification in 2019 from the respected Certification Council of Professional Dog T...

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  • Cameron Boyd Photo

    Cameron Boyd

    Hey! My name is Cam and I am the owner of K9aholics. I am from Portsmouth, VA and graduated from Old Dominion University. I am a former Division 1 running back for ODU and Norfolk Police Officer. My love and passion for dogs started at an early age, but I really got into working dogs when I purchased my first Belgian Malinois, Draco. Shortly after, I attended Tarheel School for dog trainers and...

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Welcome to Virginia’s list of top dog trainers. The Virginia list is based on 1066 votes from the Sniffspot community. Only the Virginia dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Erika Proctor at the top of this list with 336 votes.

Our rankings include trainers certified by CPDT-KA and CPDT-KA. They also specialize in Puppy training, In home training amongst other training programs.

Virginia dog trainer services include:

  • Puppy training
  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Aggressive dog training
  • Agility training
  • Board and train
  • Off leash training
  • Deaf dog training
  • Service dog training
  • Protection/guard dog training
  • Herding training

Dog trainers in Virginia selflessly set pets up for success. Erika Proctor shares why they chose this path: To help pets with their people problems. All 69 trainers on this Virginia list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Virginia trainer, Thomi Gill, uses the following methods: I am a rewards based trainer specializing in clicker/marker training..

Explore the top dog trainers in Virginia as voted by our community:

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See The Best Dog Trainers By City In Virginia


FAQ: Meet the Top Puppy dog training Dog Trainers in Virginia

Who are the top Puppy dog training dog trainers in Virginia?

Our top-rated trainer, Erika Proctor, has earned 336 votes for their outstanding work in Aggressive dog training. Alongside them, Thomi Gill and Elizabeth Staley have also made a significant impact amongst Virginia pets.

What motivates Virginia dog trainers?

Erika Proctor became a dog trainer because To help pets with their people problems/. Similarly, Thomi Gill and Elizabeth Staley have unique motivations, with To help form a bridge between companion animals and their families. and2010 driving their passion.

What is Erika Proctor biggest tip?

For Erika Proctor, the best tip is to: Every dog is an individual and family makeup is different. It is important we respect that individuality and work towards realistic expectations that work for all involved.

What do Virginia trainers love most about their work?

Erika Proctor finds the greatest joy in Helping families stay together and work towards reasonable goals, while Thomi Gill and Elizabeth Staley cherish Seeing relationships change when families learn more about dog communication., and Seeing relationships change when families learn more about dog communication., respectively.

How do you become a certified trainer in Virginia?

All the top trainers in Virginia have earned certifications like GDU TDT -AKC CGC and Trick dog Evaluator, demonstrating their expertise in Puppy dog training, 20429, Reactive dog training, 19840, In home dog training, 17856, Aggressive dog training, 9196, Off leash dog training, 3597, Deaf dog training, 2040, Board and train dog training, 1850, Agility dog training, 864, Service dog training, 768, Protection/guard dog training, 13 and beyond.

Why are these certifications crucial in Virginia?

Qualifications like CPDT-KA ensure that each trainer is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to address a wide range of behavioral issues, from Aggressive dog training to Aggressive dog training.

How do their methods differ?

Virginia’s Erika Proctor describes their method as: As a student of science I subscribe to methods that are based in kindness, mutual respect and build relationships between owner and pet.. Meanwhile, Thomi Gill says: I am a rewards based trainer specializing in clicker/marker training.. As you can see, there are diverse approaches to Aggressive dog training in Virginia.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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  • Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.

  • Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US