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
I truly want to help the dog and their families. I charge a flat fee and stay as long as necessary to help the situation. I love dogs and I love training them and their families.
I love dogs. I always have. Before I go into people's homes I pray that I can reach the dog and help him become a wonderful member of the family. I 've gone into homes where the family was ready to give up the dog and my training methods have salvaged the relationship.
Overview
Hired 459 times
23 similar jobs done near you
Background checked
1 employee
21 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pro status
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2019
2018
2017
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
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.
Excellent 4.9
203 reviews
5
95%
4
3%
3
0%
2
1%
1
1%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Dawn M.
Jun 20, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Sal did a great first session with two dogs one large pittie and one medium pittie mix. The dogs did well on their first day with commands and we are looking forward to our next session in two days. I would recommended Sal as he appears to be highly experienced and happy to share his knowledge..
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • Barking • Chewing • Destructive behavior • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Anindit C.
Feb 10, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
We had a great in-home session with Sal. Our dog, Boba, barked quite a bit at him initially, but Sal remained incredibly patient, calm, and understanding throughout. He took the time to explain dog behavior in a way that was easy to understand and helped us see why Boba was reacting the way he was. The session was very informative and hands-on. We were given clear homework to practice specific tricks and behaviors, along with abundant notes to refer back to, which we really appreciated. By the end of the session, Boba was comfortable with Sal, which felt like a huge win. We absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for a thoughtful and knowledgeable dogtrainer.
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • House training • Barking • Crate training • My home, venue, etc. • At the pro’s location
Dog Training
Veronica V.
Apr 4, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Sal was great a listening to our concerns and helping us learn new techniques to use with Gus. Sal, is patient and really loves what he does.
Details: 6 - 12 months old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • Leash pulling • House training • Destructive behavior • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Thomas C.
3 weeks ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Sal was great. We chatted for 45 minutes. then started with our dog He taught Misha, our 12-week-old Goldendoodle, some commands. At 12 weeks, we can't expect too much, but she sits, paws, and now, with Sal's help, she lies on her stomach and comes when you call. Okay, the treats help, haha.
Details: 0 - 6 months old • Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • House training • Barking • Biting • Crate training • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Ann N.
Aug 21, 2025
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Sal is the calmest trainer I have ever encountered. My little Bagel fell in love with him immediately. For our 1st training session he learned 3 to 4 commands which we practice until this day. Sal is also realistic. Knowing the age of our puppy he knows developmental what he is ready for. You will also get your own educational session with him as well. Thank you Sal!
Details: 0 - 6 months old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • I'm flexible • Puppy training • Leash pulling • House training • Biting • Chewing • Destructive behavior • Crate training • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Credentials
Background Check
Salvatore Curcurato
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Fixed fee of $150 for each two hour training session If the customer wants a package of six private lessons the total would be $500 as I would give one free lesson.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I sit down at the table and talk about the dog and get to know the family. We discuss problems they are having and what they want to accomplish. I find out what the dogs eats, where he sleeps, what toys he has, etc. We then work on the problem areas first and then work on all six basic commands. I always teach Sit, Down, Look at Me, Stay, Recall from a Stay and Leave it if necessary. By the time I leave the pup is ready for a long nap.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BA with a Major in Psychology. Much of my training method is based on Skinnerian psychological principles. I also have my Certification as a Dog Trainer since 2005.
