Dog Training

Find a dog trainer near Chesapeake, VA

Find a dog trainer near Chesapeake, VA

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Top 3 Dog Trainers near Chesapeake, VA

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Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

How much does dog training typically cost?

The average cost of dog training ranges from $60 to $155 per hour. But, your dog’s training might cost more or less depending on a number of different factors. For example, you might pay less if you schedule group classes instead of private instruction. The type of training (aggressive behavior, basic obedience, off-leash training, etc.) could have different prices as well. 

Get an exact cost estimate by contacting several dog trainers near you

Learn more about dog training cost factors.

Is dog training worth the money?

Dog training can be a highly rewarding investment for most dog owners. With dog training, you can establish a better, healthier relationship with your dog, who will learn to understand your commands and wishes. Your frustration levels may decrease, and you might be able to resume activities you’ve put off, such as having people over or taking your dog to public places (though, this is hard to guarantee because each dog is unique). 

Just remember that no amount of dog training will pay off if you don’t practice and follow the directions the dog trainer gives you. Consistency is the most important factor.

Is it ever too late to start training a dog?

It’s never too late to train your dog — “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is a myth. Whether you adopt an older dog from the shelter or simply want to have a better relationship with your elderly dog, hiring a dog trainer can be a good investment.

What do professional dog trainers do?

Dog trainers can perform a range of activities, ranging from training law enforcement dogs to working with therapy dogs or search-and-rescue dogs. However, most people hire dog trainers for obedience training. This is largely a process of training the human — much of how a dog interprets our behaviors, commands, tone and body language is counterintuitive at first. The trainer will typically come to your home to observe your relationship with your dog, teach you how to train a command and give you guidance for reinforcing it.

Do dog trainers offer remote or virtual services?

Although dog training is traditionally performed in person, the COVID-19 pandemic may have caused some professional dog trainers to move to remote training and virtual services. You can contact dog trainers near you to ask about the possibility of remote or virtual services. Also, ask whether all aspects of the process can be digital, including payment.

How old should a puppy be for training?

Dog training shouldn’t wait until you’re having behavior problems. If you get a new puppy, start from the beginning with professional training to give both you and your puppy the tools you need for a healthy relationship. Dog training is as much about teaching the owner how to interact with their new dog as it is about the dog learning to behave. Puppy training can start as early as eight weeks old. Trainers who offer puppy training programs may works specifically with dogs between the ages of 8 and 18 weeks old. Trainers can teach owners about potty training and how to deal with accidents, working with separation anxiety, and training your pooch out of destructive behaviors like chewing, biting and demand barking. Puppies will start to learn to walk on-leash and other basic skills.

In addition to behavior training, socializing your puppy is an important part of dog training. Socializing your dog means they become comfortable and confident in a variety of settings and have a great foundation for becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. After your puppy has had the proper vaccinations, you can start to introduce it to a variety of different dogs and people in safe settings.

What is a dog boot camp?

A dog boot camp is basically a board and train program that focuses on training your dog or puppy. The trainers will work with your dog to curb unwanted behavior, teach them basic skills and show them how to walk on a leash.

Dog boot camps and training programs might differ when it comes to their services, so it’s always a good idea to do your research and ask them to explain exactly what they offer — and how much they charge.

How long does it take to train a puppy?

Dog training depends on the dog and how much homework the dog owner is willing to put in. Puppy training is similar to dog training in that the onus of the work depends on the owner learning new ways to interact with their dog. For a quick crash course, you can opt for a single, two hour smart-start puppy training consultation to teach you the ins and outs of being a new dog parent. You can learn how to manage potty training and what to do if the puppy experiences separation anxiety. As long as you’re willing to work on dog training a little bit each day, your puppy will quickly learn these new behaviors. If you’re not confident about training your puppy yourself, you can enroll in a 6- to 8-week puppy training course, with weekly lessons touching on everything from bite control to obedience. Puppies usually need to be at least three months old for group training classes. If you want more intensive one-on-one work, you can opt for private lessons. Some behavior problems can be resolved in one session if the dog owner learns and can implement new skills. In the case of more serious issues, 3 to 10 private sessions can typically correct challenges.

Which dog training method is best?

The best type of dog training for both you and your dog depends on the outcomes you hope to achieve. If you want your dog to learn agility training, go to someone who specializes in those techniques. Regardless of whether you want your dog to learn basic behavior or competitive-level tricks, the majority of dog training is actually about training the owner how to communicate with their dog. Most professional dog trainers agree that a model of training based on positive reinforcement breeds a happy, healthy, well-adjusted dog. The alternative to positive reinforcement training is using force or aggression techniques like physical punishment or shock-collar training to get the dog to do (or not do) a behavior. While the dog may learn how to behave as you direct, it is also learning to communicate with force and aggression, and will in turn use those behaviors on other dogs (or people) that are smaller or weaker than it is. Before signing up with a dog trainer, meet with the trainer and ask for references. Watch the trainer interact with your dog, and make sure they treat your dog with patience and firm kindness. Ask them questions about their training methods:

  • What type of training methods do you use?
  • What is your background and training, and how did you become a dog trainer?
  • How long do you expect that we will work together before we achieve the results I’m after?
Reviews for Chesapeake dog trainers
Nancy B.
Doggy decorum has helped with training my dogs
Doggy Decorum, LLCDoggy Decorum, LLC
Justin C.
Thomi is very easy-going and calm. She was not judgemental about us or our dog's behavioral problems and made us feel comfortable. She was gentle with our dog and we could tell she loves dogs. We learned a lot from our first appointment and are seeing potential in our dog we didn't see before from the training "homework" she gave us. It's great to have customized, professional help us train instead of relying on blog articles and YouTube videos which haven't been effective.
The Refined WolfThe Refined Wolf
David A.
Plain and simple...Renee and her team know what they are doing and they do it very well. Renee listens to you and develops a game plan around the results that you are seeking. She listens to your concerns and then caters the training experience to get the results that YOU want. It is easy to see that Renee and her team do more than train dogs; they love dogs. Before Renee: A very lovable dog (towards people) that totally lost his mind at the mere sight of ANY other dog; AGGRESSIVE barking, pulling, and snarling. After Renee: STILL a very lovable dog (did NOT lose his loving personality as a result of successful training) who I can walk confidently on OR off a leash with or without other dogs around. Did I mention my dog is 11 years old? I elected to do the behavior modification program where my dog stayed at Renee's. He has joint issues, is a bit overweight, and had medical requirements that were catered to and my specific care needs honored. Message Renee and give her a chance to show you what she can offer.
High Ground K9 LLC (Renee Richards)High Ground K9 LLC (Renee Richards)
Melissa E.
Andrea was great and shared lots of knowledge with us to help us train our dogs. She was very patient, kind and personal. I'd highly recommend her.
Doggy Decorum, LLCDoggy Decorum, LLC
Kierrah J.
James is awesome, I would definitely recommend him to anyone who’s dog is anything but perfect. I have an Akita and anyone who knows about Akita’s know that they are very stubborn and self minded dogs. I did the 3-week broad and train program, and he help me get my dog Neiko under control and well behaved. Neiko is a complete different dog than he was before James came into our lives. Definitely worth it!!!!!!
Main Street Dogs Training & BoardingMain Street Dogs Training & Boarding
Clinton Y.
The training session helped so much! Not only did my doggo learn, my fiancée and I learned so much as well! Since the training, we have been able to not only keep our dog well-trained, we have been able to use the techniques learned on our second puppy we adopted as well. I highly recommend!
Lifestyle ObedienceLifestyle Obedience
Susan b.
My puppy came back from his training a much better behaved dog. He learned some manners and commands and I am working on boundaries with him now. Renee and Rachel were both excellent with him and sent pictures and updates daily. I would highly recommend High Ground K9
High Ground K9 LLC (Renee Richards)High Ground K9 LLC (Renee Richards)
Thumbtack Customer
I highly recommend Andrea as a professional dog trainer. Not only was she extremely knowledgeable and an excellent teacher, she was readily available and very flexible with her schedule. Her instructions were very clear and beneficial. In addition, I appreciated that her price was reasonable and she made all of her suggestions in one visit. She could have easily and justifiably stretched the training out for multiple private visits. She addressed all issues in one visit but was willing to come back, if necessary.
Doggy Decorum, LLCDoggy Decorum, LLC
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