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The Best Dog Trainers in Raleigh, NC of 2025

David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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

  • Joel Alexander Photo

    Joel Alexander

    According to his parents, Joel has loved dogs since before he can remember himself. He received his B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from N.C. State, but after a few years working in RTP, decided it was time for a change. He took a job at a local kennel and found his way to doggie daycare, where he worked for 4 years learning everything the dogs could teach him. Joel is an expert on pack interaction...


  • Gina Allen Photo

    Gina Allen

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hi! My name is Gina Allen and I am the Sales and Trainer Manager for Cornerstone K9. My husband, Jeff, and I started this company about 4 years ago and it has been an absolute blessing ever since. I was a REALTOR full time and would fill in periodically for sales and trained dogs for Cornerstone K9.In January of this year (2024), Jeff asked me to fill in temporarily for sales until he found som...


  • Jeff Allen Photo

    Jeff Allen

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hi, I'm Jeff. I started working and training pet dogs in 2010, a year after I was introduced to the dog sport of PSA (Protection Sports Association). Since that time, I have been training pet dogs with a wide variety of needs, and competing with my own dogs in PSA. I have decoyed at Regional and National level events and also competed with my own dogs at that level. I own 3 crazy Belgian Malino...


  • Kieli Atherton Photo

    Kieli Atherton

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

    Certified dog trainer Kieli Atherton has attended three of the top dog training institutions in the country, with her favorite being the Michael Ellis School for Dog Training.

    She is a committee member of the International Association of Canine Professionals, an organization committed to quality dog training and education.

    Kieli has attended seminars hosted by Cesar Millan and...


  • Mandy Baker Photo

    Mandy Baker

    Certified Behavioral Adjustment Training Instructor- Knowledge Assessed (CBATI) Certified Professional Dog Trainer Knowledge Assessed (CPDT ‚ KA), Certified Control Unleashed Instructor (CCUI); Certificate of Excellence from Living & Learning With Animals Program, Certified Instructor, Titled in Agility & Scent Work,Championship in Canine Musical Freestyle, Group Class Instructor (Leash Reacti...


  • Susan Bankauf Photo

    Susan Bankauf

    In home training, Agility training

    I have been training and competing with dogs for over 20 years. Initially, my focus was on competitive obedience but over time switched to agility. Agility is a great way to have fun with your dog while strengthening your bond and teamwork. Having competed at a National level and training several different breeds of dogs, I have a broad knowledge of the training needed for this sport. This has ...


  • Candace Brady Photo

    Candace Brady

    Puppy training, Agility training

    In her early years, Candace was required to do a science experiment for school. She decided to research the effects of Pavlov's Dog and using treats vs. praise. She used her brand new golden retriever puppy, Abigail, teaching many different behaviors. The experiment went to regionals where it won honorable mention. Candace always said it went so far and won because Abby was so cute. Her interes...


  • Heather Clarkson Photo

    Heather Clarkson

    In home training, Agility training

    Heather has been involved in dog rescue and training for more than ten years. She owns an assorted pack of herding breeds, spaniels, and poodles, and trains and competes in agility, dock diving, dog disc, and herding. Heather believes strongly in the bond achieved through teaching dogs and puppies new things, and loves helping owners create a lasting relationship with their canine companions.


  • Cal Corona Photo

    Cal Corona

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Cal has loved dogs since childhood, but began exploring his passion in 2013 when he trained his first service dog. This snowballed into a career change just after Cal graduated with his B.S. in Geology in 2019.Since this shift, he has enjoyed working most with high energy, high drive dogs and helping them process and work through their big feelings. He is an Accredited Dog Trainer (ADT) from th...


  • Megan Esala Photo

    Megan Esala

    In home training, Puppy training

    My name is Megan and I am a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (iaabc.org), a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (ccpdt.org) and a Licensed Family Paws Parent Educator. To learn more about Family Paws please visit: familypaws.comI've been working...


  • Chris Farr Photo

    Chris Farr

    Puppy training

    Chris Farr's journey in the world of dog training and competition began in 2002. By 2004, he was already making a name for himself, consistently achieving high rankings in obedience and protection competitions across the west coast. His exceptional talent led him to compete and secure placements at the national level. Driven by a passion for continuous improvement, Chris spent several years att...


  • Kayla Fox Photo

    Kayla Fox

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hello! My name is Kayla. I've been working professionally with dogs since 2010. But I've always been a dog nerd. I emersed myself into the dog world completely when I was 12. That's when I got my first Rottweiler. I had wanted one for 4 years. My Rottie and I competed in AKC conformation and obedience. I was the number 1 JR. Rottweiler handler in the country for 3 consecutive years. I also hand...


  • Henry Gayhardt Photo

    Henry Gayhardt

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Henry began his journey in animal sciences with his undergraduate courses at NC State, where he discovered a passion for animal care, animal behavior science, and the fundamentals of training. He worked with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds throughout his time in school, and at multiple daycares and kennels. Henry started his official journey into the world of dog training with the Animal ...


  • Laurence Gesquiere Photo

    Laurence Gesquiere

    In home training, Agility training

    Laurence has been involved in agility since 2004 and competes in AKC, USDAA, and UKI. She has attended several Nationals and has earned an ADCH as well as several MACHs on her sheltie Angel and border collie Bandit. She is currently competing with her two border collies, Cyclone and Twister, and training her two 7-month-old Border Collie puppies, Breeze and Storm. Laurence started teaching agil...


  • Michele Godlevski Photo

    Michele Godlevski

    In home training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Founder and Owner of Teamworks Dog TrainingAssociate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (ACDBC),Certified Behavior Consultant (Canine) Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA),SFSPCA Academy Certified Canine Behavior Counselor (CC), Certified Professional Dog Trainer Knowledge Assessed (CPDT KA), National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors Endorsements (N.A.D.O.I.) in Manners & Agility Instruction, Ch...


  • Patrice Goldston Photo

    Patrice Goldston

    Off leash training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Patrice graduated at the top of her class from the prestigious Highland Canine Training Program, where she received her certifications in on-leash, off-leash, and behavior modification training. Patrice is also a graduate of Peace College with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Animal Science.Patrice's love for dogs began with her first dog at the age of nine. At that early age, she recognized th...


  • Ashleigh Goss Photo

    Ashleigh Goss

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

    Ashleigh Goss is a certified dog trainer with a CDT title from the IACP.

    Growing up on her family's farm, Ashleigh's love for animals led her to work as a veterinary technician for several years. However, she soon discovered her true passion was working with dogs on a behavioral level.

    Ashleigh is active in dog sports. She has completed the E-Collar Training Course and Leash ...


  • Beth Grooms Photo

    Beth Grooms

    In home training, Agility training

    Beth is one of the owners of the Whole Dog Institute. She began her training career 25 years ago when she realized her first dog had some behavior issues. She went on to complete her Diploma of Canine Behavior Science and Technology from the Companion Animal Science Institute and earned her PMCT-2 by taking multiple week long workshops with Pat Miller. She passed her exam by the Certificatio...


  • Jen Hendrickson Photo

    Jen Hendrickson

    I've always had an affinity for animals, especially dogs, but I didn't bring home my first puppy, Thurber, until I was in my late twenties. I didn't have an interest in dog training until we enrolled in our first puppy class. Thurber and I had so much fun, and he was such a good boy! A few years later, his brother, Baxter, developed some serious behavioral problems that couldn't be resolved in ...


  • Robin Kirk Photo

    Robin Kirk

    In home training, Agility training

    Robin has always held a special place in her life for dogs. While observing her children interacting with their dogs she became interested in how dogs learn, relate and react to the people around them. In 2004, she graduated from Triple Crown Dog Academy, now called Starmark Animal Behavioral Center in Texas, as a Certified Canine Trainer and Behavior Specialist. Combining her BSN in nursing wi...


  • Erika Krahe Photo

    Erika Krahe

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hello, I'm Erika!I grew up in Raleigh, NC and have always been fascinated with animals! I began my career in the veterinary field but then realized that my true passion lies within the canine mind as opposed to the medical side.So in 2019 I delved into the world of training by taking a job in dog training. I gained pivotal hands-on experience with pet, personal protection, police and military w...


  • Dave Labowicz Photo

    Dave Labowicz

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Dave has been working with dogs since 2001. Prior to moving to North Carolina in 2014, he volunteered at an animal shelter for eight years and fostered ten different pups. Dave also made trips to post-Katrina New Orleans to volunteer his time with Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO).Dave was introduced to All Dogs Allowed when he fostered a dog who was in need of behavior modification. During that...


  • Diane Lewis Photo

    Diane Lewis

    In home training, Agility training

    Hi! My name is Diane Lewis. I have been doing agility with my rescue dogs since the late 90's. My current pack consists of an Aussie named Sissy( rescued at 2), Romeo, a border collie ( rescued after being chained for 3 years) and a darling mixed breed named Joy. They all learn differently and that has helped me become a better trainer. I have taught agility for several years and strive to make...


  • Ulli Mattern Photo

    Ulli Mattern

    A counselor by day and a dog trainer by night, Ulli's passion is to help her community be the best that it can be.Ulli has been active with Topline K9 Solutions since almost its beginnings in 2001. She teaches Home Manners, Public Manners, the How to Have a Well-Mannered Dog Seminar, as well as test for the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. She is also responsible for the Foster Education ...


  • Keegan Matuszek Photo

    Keegan Matuszek

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Keegan has always enjoyed working with all types of animals. They discovered a passion for building relationships and understanding through training and are especially appreciative of a dog's special role in a person's life; all of their dogs have taught them something different, and have contributed to shaping them as a person. Keegan strongly believes training should be fun for both the dog a...


  • Rae McCorkle Photo

    Rae McCorkle

    Rae has always loved dogs, but it wasn't until she adopted her lab mix, Forrest G., from the Wake County Animal Center and attended training classes at K9 Solutions that she realized dog obedience and training were her true passion. After working in corporate America for a number of years and growing increasingly tired of all the stress, it was time to make a move. So she signed up and complete...


  • Remy Metzger Photo

    Remy Metzger

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Remy has been passionate about animals for as long as she can remember. She previously rode horses,and has experience handling a variety of different animals, but has found that dogs are her true calling.Her first dog, Baby, developed reactivity and aggression towards other dogs. Working to rebuild Baby'sability to co-exist, and even enjoy the company of her own species is what ignited Remy's l...


  • Tyler minor Photo

    Tyler minor

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    What's going on! I'm Tyler minor, a professional dog trainer and canine specialist through Starmark Academy in 2017. Although I've been in the dog industries since 2015, where I started out at a doggy daycare boarding facility. I saw more potential in dogs that led me to a professional dog training school.I'm on the path to helping owners, and most importantly the DOGS that are in front of me. ...


  • Valerie Olszyk Photo

    Valerie Olszyk

    I have spent my life training animals to adapt to the lifestyles and demands that humans place upon them. Several years ago I discovered dog agility and the partnership it can create between dog and handler. My goal is to share the joy of this partnership with others through coaching, training, teaching, leadership and example.

    EDUCATION
    Duke University, B.S., Psychology (Animal ...


  • Vicky Palmer Photo

    Vicky Palmer

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Working at her parents' boarding kennel at the age of 14, kickstarted her journey working with and training dogs. Over two decades later, she's still doing what she knows best, helping dogs and their parents, using fun, positive and engaging methods.Vicky headed off to the animal shelter world after receiving a BA in Biology and Animal Behavior in 2009. After volunteering at her local animal sh...


  • Katrin Patergin Photo

    Katrin Patergin

    Puppy training, Agility training

    From a young age, Katrin has always held a special affection for dogs. Their intelligence and unique personalities have captivated her throughout her life. For many years, Katrin has been a dedicated dog walker, creating precious bonds with each furry friend she meets. She has a deep interest in dog training and has pursued her academic journey at the Animal Behavior College and the Nordic Educ...


  • Sylvie Pleasant Photo

    Sylvie Pleasant

    Sylvie Pleasant started volunteering at shelters in South Carolina and North Carolina back in 1990. She witnessed first-hand the owners giving up their dogs where education could have salvaged the relationships. It was at that moment the seed was planted. Sylvie began taking classes and learning all about dog training and dog behavior. In 2001, after years of training, K9 Solutions came to frui...


  • Katherine Pritchard Photo

    Katherine Pritchard

    Puppy training, Agility training

    As a crossover trainer, Katherine brings a unique background to her training. Her main focus is on the relationship between the owner and dog- and how to make the process fun for both. By utilizing rewards and a focus on communication, Katherine aims to not only train dogs but also empower owners to actively participate in their pets' learning process.Katherine's passion lies in working with hi...


  • Sorrel Robinson Photo

    Sorrel Robinson

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Sorrel specializes in helping dogs overcome fear, reactivity, and frustration challenges their own childhood dog faced. Sorrel's approach is deeply informed by a biological sciences background, emphasizing using an understanding of learning and behavior to build confidence in dogs and owners. A big proponent of play, many of Sorrel's training approaches involve game-like training exercises that...


  • Jordaan Romburgh Photo

    Jordaan Romburgh

    In home training, Agility training

    Jordaan grew up on a small farm in South Africa with a wide variety of animals. His down to earth, big-hearted approach to humans and animals give him a special way with clients and dogs. After spending 11 years working with shelter animals at San Francisco/SPCA and SF Animal Care and Control, Jordaan joined the staff of a dog training business in California where he worked for several years. I...


  • Lisa Rosendahl Photo

    Lisa Rosendahl

    Lisa has been an animal lover her whole life. She moved to North Carolina 13 years ago while working in the corporate world, and has volunteered at rescue organizations for years before joining the ranks of corporate burnouts to become a professional dog trainer. She started out volunteering with Sylvie's team at K9 Solutions while earning her certification through Animal Behavior College and K...


  • Sage Sanders Photo

    Sage Sanders

    Puppy training, Agility training

    From a young age, Sage found joy in animal breeding and training online games. This ignited a lifelong fascination with animal behavior and genetics.Over the past three years, she has dedicated her time to kennel work, gaining invaluable experience in caring for and understanding the needs of hundreds of canine companions. Her deep interest in training led her to successfully clicker train her ...


  • Katie Selvey Photo

    Katie Selvey

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Katie has been working with dogs professionally for 13 years and has her CPDT-KA training certification. She managed a successful dog daycare and boarding facility here in the area for 7 years. She fell in love with the fact that you can make your living helping both dogs and people. It was also during this time that she was introduced to the world of animal rescue. The dog daycare worked close...


  • Nora Torrey Photo

    Nora Torrey

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Nora has an extensive customer service and medical admin background, however, she also had a passion for working with dogs her whole life and has volunteered at animal sanctuaries and shelters on and off for years. In 2017, she decided to quit her desk job and start her own pet care business. Getting to work with more dogs every day (and learning their body language) naturally led to dog traini...


  • Ryan Walker Photo

    Ryan Walker

    He knew that he wanted to work with animals to make a difference. Over the years, Ryan has fostered numerous animals for medical, behavioral, social, and cruelty cases. Many times, it was just giving the animals a place to feel safe and relax. As a result of his work, he has experience with a multitude of behaviors as well as experience with giving daily medications. Ryan received his professio...


  • Pamela Wyman Photo

    Pamela Wyman

    In home training, Agility training

    Pamela Wyman is a Certified Trainer with 24 years of urban dog experience. She is a graduate of the renowned SF/SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers, taught by Jean Donaldson. Pamela also holds a Certificate in Separation Anxiety Treatment, having studied under Separation Anxiety expert, Malena DeMartini. Pamela brings an enthusiastic and creative teaching style to her work. Clients find Pamela able t...


  • Judith Young Photo

    Judith Young

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Judith recently started a new Pet Partners group, Pet Partners of NC Triangle. Judi has been a Pet Partners handler since 2011. Her first registered therapy dog was Jackson, an Australian shepherd. Jackson not only provided therapy on visits; he also helped Judi with her own mother's passing. When Jackson passed over the rainbow bridge, Judi wanted to keep his memory alive. She told us, He love...


Welcome to Raleigh’s list of top dog trainers. The Raleigh, North Carolina list is based on 0 votes from the North Carolina Sniffspot community. Only the Raleigh dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Joel Alexander at the top of this list with 0 votes. We also counted 521 votes for North Carolina, with the remaining trainers listed outside of Raleigh.

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

Raleigh dog trainer services include:

  • Puppy training
  • In home training
  • Agility training
  • Board and train
  • Reactive dog training
  • Aggressive dog training
  • Off leash training

Behind every successful Raleigh training session lies a passionate professional. Joel Alexander shares why they chose this path: . All 42 trainers on this Raleigh list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Raleigh trainer, Gina Allen, uses the following methods: .

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

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See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Raleigh

Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list


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Sniffspot Raleigh Dog Training Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the top-rated dog trainers in Raleigh, North Carolina?

In Raleigh, Joel Alexander has earned the highest recognition for their expertise in . They, along with Gina Allen and Jeff Allen, provide personalized training services to meet the diverse needs of Raleigh dog owners.

What drives Raleigh dog trainers to excel in their services?

Joel Alexander and other leading trainers in Raleigh are motivated by a passion for helping dogs and their owners. Joel Alexander was inspired to offer their services in Raleigh because .

What are the top services offered by Raleigh trainers?

The top trainers in Raleigh, such as Joel Alexander, specialize in providing .

How can I choose the right trainer in Raleigh for my dog’s needs?

Choosing the right trainer in Raleigh involves considering their services, such as Board and train, In home training, Puppy training and Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, as well as their qualifications, including .

Why are certifications important for Raleigh dog trainers?

Certifications like are crucial for trainers in Raleigh as they ensure that each trainer has the necessary skills and knowledge to provide effective and positive training.

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David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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  • Portland Dog Parks: Sniffspot vs. Public Options thumbnail

    Portland Dog Parks: Sniffspot vs. Public Options

    Ready to discover Portland's best dog parks? Whether you're looking for a public park or the unique experience of a private Sniffspot, this guide has you covered. We'll help you find the perfect spot for your pup, with tips on what to bring, how to prepare, and even understanding dog body language. Plus, we'll explore some top Portland dog parks, including public and Sniffspot options, so you can plan your next dog-friendly adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • German Shepherd Dog: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

    German Shepherd Dog: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

    Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

  • Labrador Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

    Labrador Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.

  • Golden Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

    Golden Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

    Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.

  • American Staffordshire Terrier: Your Complete Guide thumbnail

    American Staffordshire Terrier: Your Complete Guide

    Think American Staffordshire Terriers are tough? Think again. While their muscular build might intimidate some, these dogs are known for their playful and loyal personalities. This guide draws on the experience of nearly 10,000 AmStaff owners to reveal the truth about this often misunderstood breed. Want to learn more about caring for an American Staffordshire Terrier? You're in the right place.

  • Australian Shepherd: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

    Australian Shepherd: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ 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