What Happens Next

1. We’ll review your contact form to make sure we’re a good fit for your goals. If we believe another professional would be a better match, we’ll let you know and share referral options when possible. Your dog’s well-being is our top priority.
    

2. If everything aligns, the certified trainer you’re matched with will send an email outlining our coaching package and inviting you to schedule your 60-90-minute consultation.
   
   Want information on payment plans for our coaching packages? Let your trainer know and they can send those details before your consultation so you can review your options ahead of time.
    

3. After the consultation, we’ll send you a detailed write up so you can start practicing the training and implement our recommendations before your next session. You will schedule your follow up lessons either during your consultation or shortly after.
    

What Our Training Process Looks Like

• You’ll work with a dedicated trainer (backed by a team of specialists behind the scenes).
   

• You’ll get a clear, flexible training plan tailored to your dog, your goals, and your environment. You will work on your prescribed training exercises between your scheduled lessons. Lessons are generally scheduled 1-2 weeks apart.
   

• You’ll receive feedback on videos you send in between sessions and have support throughout the process. We utilize a shared training log to track progress and setbacks.
   

• At the end of your package, you have the option to continue training with us. 

  • Some behavior concerns take time. Serious challenges like reactivity, aggression, fear, or anxiety don’t have quick fixes, but with the right support, they can and will improve. Our initial package is just the beginning for some clients. The package lessons allow us to build a strong foundation, and lasting change, especially for complex behavior, can sometimes require continued support beyond that. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint.
     

• If you're not in our in-person service area (Alexandria & Springfield, VA), we can help you virtually. Not so sure about virtual training? Read about why and how virtual dog training can be so effective on our blog.
   

What Makes Our Approach Different

• We don’t do one-size-fits-all. Every dog and human team is unique, and it’s our job to get to the bottom of what’s going on with your dog in your situation.
   

• We focus on long-term, sustainable change, not just temporary results. We take a trauma-informed approach and use the most up-to-date positive reinforcement based methods. Our training focuses on helping your dog heal and feel better while changing their behavior. Our goal is for you to understand your dog better and learn how to support them.
   

• We’re transparent about the timeline and effort required. We’ll never rush or pressure you.
   

• We want you to feel confident training your dog, not dependent on us forever.
   

• We will collaborate with the rest of your support team—your vet, your veterinary behaviorist, your dog walker, etc.—to make sure everyone is on the same page with the treatment plan.
   

What You Can Expect from Us & Yourself

• More progress when you’re actively engaged between sessions.
   

• A strong foundation before we move on to more complex goals.
   

• Kind and honest feedback.
   

• Use of management, food, and skill building to change your dog's behavior.
   

• Progress over perfection. (No dog is perfect—and yours doesn’t need to be.)
   

You’re Not Alone

Training can feel emotional, especially when serious behavior challenges are involved. We’re here to guide, support, and celebrate with you. You don’t need to be perfect, you just need to start. And you already have.

 

Our team of trainers are here to support you—meet them below.

 

Now What?

You will hear from one of our certified trainers soon! In the meantime, check out our DogTraining+ app that can jumpstart or supplement your training journey.