If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
RJ has been training dogs for 12+ years and is a skilled professional. He gets progress very fast and has a lot of different training methods to fit the individual dog. Once you have finished working with him you can expect your dog to consistently work happily with you, the owner.
Overview
Hired 21 times
8 similar jobs done near you
Background checked
1 employee
12 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
2024
Services offered
Dog training package
Dog size
Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs)
Small (16 - 25 lbs)
Medium (26 - 40 lbs)
Large (41 - 70 lbs)
Dog training type
Private lessons
Board and train
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
46 reviews
5
98%
4
2%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
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Read reviews that mention:
Renee P.
Apr 9, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I am a disabled military veteran, and I recently have been diagnosed with issues that would benefit from me having a service dog. I have reached out to many trainers in my 100 mile radius, and RJ is the only dogtrainer that actually returned my inquiry. We had a lengthy discussion on the phone prior to me accepting his services, he was professional and informative. I have since hired him and Rafael to train my service dog, and they are doing wonderfully. I would highly recommend RJ and his training service.
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Private lessons • Therapy or service dog training • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Rhonda S.
Jun 7, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
I had an in home session with Jay. He worked with our new rescue pup and gave me pointers to help with different behaviors. The session really helped ME to be able to help my pup!
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • Leash pulling • Barking • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
David G.
Feb 14, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
RJ did a very capable job at training my puppy for a number of commands. The dog has become much easier to handle, following the training.
Details: 6 - 12 months old • Extra large (70+ lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • Leash pulling • House training • Chewing • Destructive behavior • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Nick G.
Jul 7, 2026
RJ is excellent. His personality matches the energy for each dog he trains. He’s exceeded any expectations I had. You can tell he truly cares about his profession.
Chanelle W.
Sep 13, 2025
We had an amazing experience working with RJ to train our pittbull, Hera. From the very beginning, RJ was incredibly patient, communicative, and clearly has a natural talent when it comes to working with dogs. Hera immediately took to him, and we saw noticeable improvements in her behavior and confidence with every session. RJ took the time to explain each step of the training process, always making sure we understood what to do and why it worked. He was never rushed, always encouraging, and made the whole experience enjoyable—not just for Hera, but for us too. If you're looking for a trainer who is calm, knowledgeable, and truly passionate about what they do, RJ is the one. We’re so grateful for the progress Hera has made and couldn’t recommend him more!
Credentials
Background Check
Rj Hoppe
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
That they are very affordable. The general price is $60 to $80
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I evaluate you and your dog at your home, and then set you up a plan to meet your goals
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I apprenticed under Ted Hoppe at age 14 became a dog trainer at 21. I have done dog training internships in USA and Europe. I have worked with countless dogs and clients.
