Positive, fear-free, science-based training is an important part of the relationship-building process for you and your new canine companion; but finding the right trainer can sometimes be a challenge.  Wherever you go for training, you'll want to find someone with whom both you and your dog are comfortable.  Here are some links to help you navigate that important process.

 

Ten Questions to Ask Your Dog Training Professional -- Before You Hire Them from the Pet Professional Guild

 

How to Find a Good Dog Trainer by Victoria Stillwell.

Below are links to some professional organization membership directories to assist you in finding appropriate trainers in your area.

 

The Pet Professional Guild.  PPG is a membership organization representing pet industry professionals who are committed to results based, science based force-free training and pet care.

 

Peaceable Paws Dog and Puppy Training.  Peaceable Paws is the training academy run by renowned trainer, behavior consultant, and author Pat Miller.  In addition to a directory of Peaceable Paws Academy graduates, Peaceable Paws offers a number of group classes at their training facility in Fairplay, MD. 

 

Your Dog's Friend.  YDF is a non-profit dedicated to helping keep dogs out of shelters by supporting and educating their humans.  The YDF "resources" link also has information on other positive service providers such as dog walkers and vacation care.  YDF also offers a number of group classes at their training facility in Rockville, MD.

 

Academy for Dog Trainers.  Founded by renowned trainer and author Jean Donaldson, ADT certifies trainers in evidence-based dog behavior, training, and private behavior counseling.

​

Here are links to additional local trainers. 

​

Maryland

Fitnacity Dog Training in Frederick

Mischief and Manners Dog Training in Frederick

Atta Pup Dog and Puppy Training in Hagerstown

4-Legged Friends Pet Services in Hagerstown

Canine Character in Frederick

Canine Lifestyle Academy in Union Bridge

Coventry School for Dogs in Columbia

Fit Hound Positive Puppy and Dog Training in Frederick

Humane Domain Education and Training in Owings Mills/Marriottsville

Laughing Dog Academy in Rockville

My Fantastic Friend in Ellicott City

My K9 Buddy in Westminster

Social Tailwaggers in Laurel

Unleashed Joy in Woodstock

WiggleButts Dog Training in Eldersburg and at the Howard County Fairgrounds

​

Virginia

Fur-Get Me Not Training and Pet Services in Arlington

Hearts in Harmony Training and Behavior in Hamilton

Joyful Dog TTouch and Training classes in 5 locations: Fairfax, Great Falls, Hamilton, Purcellville, and Bluemont

Walking with A Friend in Gainesville

Wholistic Hound Academy in Alexandria

WOOFS! Dog Training Center with classes in Shirlington and Ballston

​

West Virginia

Sundogs Canine Consultation and Training in Shepherdstown

​

Board and Train Facilities

​

Puppies Only:

Urban Canine in Silver Spring, MD. " Puppy Sleep-Away Camp" for puppies up to 20 weeks old. "Puppy Camp 2.0" for puppies 3 to 18 months old.

 

Dog Crazy Lady in Hydes, MD.  "Puppy Sleepaway Camp" for puppies 10 weeks to 6 months of age.  

 

All Ages, MD:

Canine Lifestyle Academy in Union Bridge, MD

 

Unleashed Joy in Mt. Airy, MD

 

All Ages, VA:

WOOFS! Dog Training Center in Shirlington.  Dogs 12 weeks of age and older.

​