Dog principal
Dog principal

Dog principal

Top Pro

$175
Estimated price


Specific behaviors to address

Responds in about 1 hour


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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more

Introduction
At Dog Principal, we specialize in Reality-Based Dog Training, providing personalized in-home sessions and real-world training in public areas across Washington, D.C., Arlington, Alexandria, and surrounding areas. Our approach is built on compassion, practicality, and respect for each dog’s unique personality. Whether tackling leash pulling, reactivity, or obedience, we create real-life scenarios so your dog learns in the environments where they need it most. With certification from Tarheel Canine and years of experience training aggressive and high-energy dogs, we deliver results that transform both dogs and their guardians. Choose expert training that fits your life—because your dog deserves the best.
Overview

Current Top Pro

Hired 28 times

Serves Arlington, VA

Background checked

1 employee

3 years in business

Business hours

Sun7:00 am - 9:00 pmMon7:00 am - 9:00 pm

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, Stripe, Venmo, and Zelle.

Social media

Instagram

Projects and media

105 photos

Projects and media

105 photos

Specialties
Dog training type

Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, punctuality, and professionalism.

Exceptional 5.0

19 reviews

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Read reviews that mention:


pro avatar
Diana D.
2 weeks ago
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

Adam is an amazing dog whisperer/trainer. My dog had issues with aggression and reactivity to other dogs, kids, people on bicycles-EVERYTHING! With only a few classes, he calmed her (and trained me!). Now my dog ignores other dogs and humans and is a pleasure to walk with. I didn’t have to buy any expensive packages or sign a contract with a minimum of sessions. Adam was truly a delight to work with and highly recommend him. You won’t be disappointed!

Details: 2 - 10 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • I'm flexible • Aggressive behavior modification • Biting • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.

Dog principal's reply
Hi Diana, Thank you so much for the kind words—it means a lot! I’m really glad I could help you and Moxie find calm and control in what used to be stressful situations. You both put in the work, and it shows! I’m always here if you need anything down the road. Best, Adam Hartman Dog Principal
Dog Training
pro avatar
Lauren F.
6 days ago
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

Adam is an excellent dog trainer. I like the way he communicates with us. He is a very nice person. My husband and I are very pleased with the training he provides our dogs!!!!!

Details: 2 - 10 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • Leash pulling • Barking • Digging • Chewing • Crate training • My home, venue, etc.

Dog principal's reply
Thank you so much, Lauren! It was a real pleasure working with you and your husband—and of course with your amazing dogs. I truly appreciate your kind words, and I’m so glad the training has been helpful. I’m always here if you need anything in the future! —Adam Hartman Dog Principal
Dog Training
pro avatar
Wanda N.
Mar 25, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

Adam did a great job training our dog Leo. I learned a lot of commands during the session. Adam even took Leo on a walk and showed me and my husband additional training for our dog. He also welcomed and answered questions when I called. I will definitely call Adam again!

Details: 0 - 6 months old • Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • House training • My home, venue, etc.

Dog principal's reply
Hi Wanda, Thank you so much for the thoughtful review! I really enjoyed working with you, your husband, and Leo. It was great to see how engaged you both were during the session, and I’m glad I could provide tools that helped right away. I’m always here if you have more questions or need help down the road—thanks again for trusting me with Leo’s training! Best, Adam Hartman Dog Principal
Dog Training
pro avatar
Ellen q.
Mar 10, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

Adam is absolutely wonderful to work with! He is incredibly knowledgeable in behavioral dog training and has made the transition for our new rescue puppy so easy and pleasant! We weren’t sure how it would go since we have already an existing dog at home, but he knew his stuff and knew how to get the results that we wantedout of our dogs.

Details: 2 - 10 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • Biting • My home, venue, etc.

Dog principal's reply
Hi Ellen, Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a pleasure helping you and your family through the transition with your new rescue pup. I’m really glad the training made things smoother with both dogs—it’s always great to see a home come together in balance. You were so open to the process, and that made all the difference. I’m here any time you need extra support! Best, Adam Hartman Dog Principal
Dog Training
pro avatar
Erin C.
3 weeks ago
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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired on Thumbtack

Adam was great! Very flexible with our crazy work schedules and gave us so many valuable lessons we have been able to use with our new puppy! Our sweet boy is now potty trained, does sit, down and is working on come and off! 5/5 stars!!!!

Details: 6 - 12 months old • Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • Leash pulling • Barking • House training • My home, venue, etc.

Dog principal's reply
Hi Erin, Thank you so much for the amazing review! I know how busy life can get, so I really appreciate you making the time and putting in the effort to apply what we worked on. Your pup made great progress, and it was a pleasure seeing how quickly he picked things up. I’m so glad you’re finding the lessons useful day-to-day. Keep up the great work—and I’m always here if you need support down the road! Best, Adam Hartman Dog Principal
Dog Training
Credentials
Background Check

Adam Hartman

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