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The Best Dog Trainers for Puppy Training in Raleigh, NC of 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of top-rated dog trainers for Puppy training in Raleigh, NC. Based on feedback and votes from our Puppy training community, we've curated a list of top-rated trainers in the Raleigh area.

  • Gina Allen Photo

    Gina Allen

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hi! My name is Gina Allen and I am the Sales and Trainer Manager for Cornerstone K9. My husband, Jeff, and I started this company about 4 years ago and it has been an absolute blessing ever since. I was a REALTOR full time and would fill in periodically for sales and trained dogs for Cornerstone K9.

    In January of this year (2024), Jeff asked me to fill in temporarily for sales until he...


  • Jeff Allen Photo

    Jeff Allen

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hi, I’m Jeff…. I started working and training pet dogs in 2010, a year after I was introduced to the dog sport of PSA (Protection Sports Association). Since that time, I have been training pet dogs with a wide variety of needs, and competing with my own dogs in PSA. I have decoyed at Regional and National level events and also competed with my own dogs at that level. I own 3 crazy Belgian M...


  • Candace Brady Photo

    Candace Brady

    Puppy training, Agility training

    In her early years, Candace was required to do a science experiment for school. She decided to research the effects of Pavlov’s Dog and using treats vs. praise. She used her brand new golden retriever puppy, Abigail, teaching many different behaviors. The experiment went to regionals where it won honorable mention. Candace always said it went so far and won because Abby was so cute. Her inter...


  • Cal Corona Photo

    Cal Corona

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Cal has loved dogs since childhood, but began exploring his passion in 2013 when he trained his first service dog. This snowballed into a career change just after Cal graduated with his B.S. in Geology in 2019.

    Since this shift, he has enjoyed working most with high energy, high drive dogs and helping them process and work through their big feelings. He is an Accredited Dog Trainer (AD...


  • Megan Esala Photo

    Megan Esala

    In home training, Puppy training

    My name is Megan and I am a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (iaabc.org), a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (ccpdt.org) and a Licensed Family Paws Parent Educator. To learn more about Family Paws please visit: familypaws.com

    I’ve ...


  • Chris Farr Photo

    Chris Farr

    Puppy training

    Chris Farr's journey in the world of dog training and competition began in 2002. By 2004, he was already making a name for himself, consistently achieving high rankings in obedience and protection competitions across the west coast. His exceptional talent led him to compete and secure placements at the national level. Driven by a passion for continuous improvement, Chris spent several years att...


  • Kayla Fox Photo

    Kayla Fox

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hello! My name is Kayla. I've been working professionally with dogs since 2010. But I've always been a dog nerd. I emersed myself into the dog world completely when I was 12. That's when I got my first Rottweiler. I had wanted one for 4 years. My Rottie and I competed in AKC conformation and obedience. I was the number 1 JR. Rottweiler handler in the country for 3 consecutive years. I also hand...


  • Henry Gayhardt Photo

    Henry Gayhardt

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Henry began his journey in animal sciences with his undergraduate courses at NC State, where he discovered a passion for animal care, animal behavior science, and the fundamentals of training. He worked with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds throughout his time in school, and at multiple daycares and kennels. Henry started his official journey into the world of dog training with the Animal ...


  • Michele Godlevski Photo

    Michele Godlevski

    In home training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Founder and Owner of Teamworks Dog Training
    Associate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (ACDBC),
    Certified Behavior Consultant (Canine) – Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA),
    SFSPCA Academy Certified Canine Behavior Counselor (CC), Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT – KA), National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors Endorsements (N.A.D.O.I.) in Manner...


  • Patrice Goldston Photo

    Patrice Goldston

    Off leash training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Patrice graduated at the top of her class from the prestigious Highland Canine Training Program, where she received her certifications in on-leash, off-leash, and behavior modification training. Patrice is also a graduate of Peace College with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Animal Science.

    Patrice’s love for dogs began with her first dog at the age of nine. At that early age, she r...


  • Erika Krahe Photo

    Erika Krahe

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hello, I’m Erika!I grew up in Raleigh, NC and have always been fascinated with animals! I began my career in the veterinary field but then realized that my true passion lies within the canine mind as opposed to the medical side.

    So in 2019 I delved into the world of training by taking a job in dog training. I gained pivotal hands-on experience with pet, personal protection, police an...


  • Dave Labowicz Photo

    Dave Labowicz

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Dave has been working with dogs since 2001. Prior to moving to North Carolina in 2014, he volunteered at an animal shelter for eight years and fostered ten different pups. Dave also made trips to post-Katrina New Orleans to volunteer his time with Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO).

    Dave was introduced to All Dogs Allowed when he fostered a dog who was in need of behavior modification. D...


  • Keegan Matuszek Photo

    Keegan Matuszek

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Keegan has always enjoyed working with all types of animals. They discovered a passion for building relationships and understanding through training and are especially appreciative of a dog’s special role in a person’s life; all of their dogs have taught them something different, and have contributed to shaping them as a person. Keegan strongly believes training should be fun for both the d...


  • Remy Metzger Photo

    Remy Metzger

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Remy has been passionate about animals for as long as she can remember. She previously rode horses,
    and has experience handling a variety of different animals, but has found that dogs are her true calling.
    Her first dog, Baby, developed reactivity and aggression towards other dogs. Working to rebuild Baby’s
    ability to co-exist, and even enjoy the company of her own species is what...


  • Tyler minor Photo

    Tyler minor

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    What’s going on! I’m Tyler minor, a professional dog trainer and canine specialist through Starmark Academy in 2017. Although I’ve been in the dog industries since 2015, where I started out at a doggy daycare boarding facility. I saw more potential in dogs that led me to a professional dog training school.

    I’m on the path to helping owners, and most importantly the DOGS that ar...


  • Vicky Palmer Photo

    Vicky Palmer

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Working at her parents’ boarding kennel at the age of 14, kickstarted her journey working with and training dogs. Over two decades later, she’s still doing what she knows best, helping dogs and their parents, using fun, positive and engaging methods.

    Vicky headed off to the animal shelter world after receiving a BA in Biology and Animal Behavior in 2009. After volunteering at her l...


  • Katrin Patergin Photo

    Katrin Patergin

    Puppy training, Agility training

    From a young age, Katrin has always held a special affection for dogs. Their intelligence and unique personalities have captivated her throughout her life. For many years, Katrin has been a dedicated dog walker, creating precious bonds with each furry friend she meets. She has a deep interest in dog training and has pursued her academic journey at the Animal Behavior College and the Nordic Educ...


  • Katherine Pritchard Photo

    Katherine Pritchard

    Puppy training, Agility training

    As a crossover trainer, Katherine brings a unique background to her training. Her main focus is on the relationship between the owner and dog- and how to make the process fun for both. By utilizing rewards and a focus on communication, Katherine aims to not only train dogs but also empower owners to actively participate in their pets’ learning process.

    Katherine’s passion lies in w...


  • Sorrel Robinson Photo

    Sorrel Robinson

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Sorrel specializes in helping dogs overcome fear, reactivity, and frustration—challenges their own childhood dog faced. Sorrel’s approach is deeply informed by a biological sciences background, emphasizing using an understanding of learning and behavior to build confidence in dogs and owners. A big proponent of play, many of Sorrel’s training approaches involve game-like training exercise...


  • Sage Sanders Photo

    Sage Sanders

    Puppy training, Agility training

    From a young age, Sage found joy in animal breeding and training online games. This ignited a lifelong fascination with animal behavior and genetics.

    Over the past three years, she has dedicated her time to kennel work, gaining invaluable experience in caring for and understanding the needs of hundreds of canine companions. Her deep interest in training led her to successfully clicker ...


  • Katie Selvey Photo

    Katie Selvey

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Katie has been working with dogs professionally for 13 years and has her CPDT-KA training certification. She managed a successful dog daycare and boarding facility here in the area for 7 years. She fell in love with the fact that you can make your living helping both dogs and people. It was also during this time that she was introduced to the world of animal rescue. The dog daycare worked close...


  • Nora Torrey Photo

    Nora Torrey

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Nora has an extensive customer service and medical admin background, however, she also had a passion for working with dogs her whole life and has volunteered at animal sanctuaries and shelters on and off for years. In 2017, she decided to quit her desk job and start her own pet care business. Getting to work with more dogs every day (and learning their body language) naturally led to dog traini...


  • Judith Young Photo

    Judith Young

    Puppy training, Agility training

    Judith recently started a new Pet Partners group, Pet Partners of NC Triangle. Judi has been a Pet Partners handler since 2011. Her first registered therapy dog was Jackson, an Australian shepherd. Jackson not only provided therapy on visits; he also helped Judi with her own mother’s passing. When Jackson passed over the rainbow bridge, Judi wanted to keep his memory alive. She told us, “He...


Sniffspot’s top-rated list of dog trainers for Puppy training in Raleigh, NC is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For Puppy training, we received 0 total votes, resulting in 23 dog trainers who focus on Puppy training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for Puppy training listed first.

Dog trainers for Puppy training on this list are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Gina Allen, who has been voted the top dog trainer for Puppy training in Raleigh, NC.

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Gina Allen, as well as the other dog trainers on this Puppy training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Training in Raleigh, North Carolina

How can I get in touch with these dog trainers?

Each of the trainer profiles contains a link to their website. You can click through to their website where you can find more contact information.

Are these dog trainers certified professionals?

Each dog trainers certifications are listed in their profile. Dog training is not regulated at the federal or state level, so there is no standard dog training certification. However, many private institutions offer certifications. Some of the top certifications in the dog training industry are CPDT- KA, IAABC, Karen Pryor Academy - KPA certification, Jean Donaldson's Academy - CTC certification and Fear Free Certification.

What methods do these dog trainers teach?

There are many methods for teaching dogs. All of the trainers included on this list are positive reinforcement only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. You can see more information in each trainer’s profile regarding their training specialties.

How much do these dog trainers cost?

Dog trainers have a wide range of costs for different services. We recommend first picking a trainer that provides the services that you are looking for, then reaching out to them to get up to date pricing.

Is training a dog good for the dog?

Yes! Training has many benefits for dogs. Going through a training process with your dog can improve the bond that you share with them. Also, training can do a lot to improve the confidence of a dog; it gives them more certainty that they understand how the world around them works. And lastly, it’s just fun for the dog and for you. Training can be very stimulating and enriching for a dog.

Can an aggressive dog be trained?

Yes! Any dog behavior can be worked on through training. Aggression is a serious issue, but it is also a term that is used very broadly. Many dogs that are thought to be aggressive are actually reactive, which is a different behavior altogether. If you believe you have an aggressive dog, we recommend reaching out to one of your local top trainers to get their diagnosis and advice.

I am a trainer. How can I get listed here?

We update this list once per year, normally starting in January. Make sure to keep an eye on our social media and sign up for email updates with Sniffspot in order to be in the loop on the next round of nominations.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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