Charlotte dog training
built for city living
Most dog training works with treats in your living room. Ours works on the busiest streets in Charlotte.
One day a week, drop your dog off on your way to work. We train all day, then teach you at pickup. Daycare just tires your dog out. We actually teach them to behave so you can take them everywhere: breweries, the light rail, even the ballpark.
or call (704) 741-4471
Free, in person, no obligation. Most dogs show their first breakthrough in the session itself.
Michelle’s dog was out of control. Here’s what she wishes she’d known before choosing a trainer. (3 min)
Before you pick a dog trainer in Charlotte, watch this
Ten years ago, Michelle’s 10-year-old Chihuahua, Alfie, barked at everything, chased scooters and guarded her from everyone. A lot of trainers never called back, and a few said he was too old.
Then one free intro session changed everything: within 30 minutes, Alfie went from trying to bite the trainer to walking calmly beside him.
Here’s what we wish we’d known: never sign up with a trainer over the phone; board and train and in-home lessons each leave gaps; and in North Carolina, anyone can call themselves a dog trainer.
Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer in North Carolina
North Carolina requires no certification to train dogs. Before you hire anyone, ask these six questions. Here are our answers.
Do they assess your dog in person first?
Yes. Every program starts with a free, hands-on Transformation Session.
Are they insured?
Yes, fully insured.
Are they licensed?
Yes. State-licensed boarding kennel (NC Department of Agriculture, License #21111) and a licensed business.
Are they certified?
Yes. IACP members, with NePoPo Silver and Gold certified trainers.
Do they work with a veterinarian?
Yes. Our veterinary partner is Livewell Animal Urgent Care of South End.
Do they stay with you after the program?
Yes. Unlimited Club classes for the life of your dog.
Tried training before? This is different.
Most people’s idea of dog training is a 30-minute class in a small room with a pocket full of treats. Then they step outside and their dog falls apart.
We train where real life happens: the light rail, busy patios, and the parks you wish you could take your dog. They learn to listen without needing food in your hand, and you learn exactly how to keep it going when we aren’t there.
How day training works
Choose your path
Day Training
Drop off on your way to work. We train all day, then teach you at pickup. You stay involved, and your dog gets professional reps every visit. Includes Club for life.
See the Board & Train AlternativeBoard & Train
Your dog lives and trains with us for 3–5 weeks. Great results, less involvement from you.
Learn moreFrom “I just want to walk my dog” to Truist Field
The only dog trainer in Charlotte with a pro sports partner. Our trainers developed the Charlotte Knights’ first-ever bat dogs, Dog and Ike, and Obedient K9 presents Bark in the Ballpark at Truist Field.
Many of our clients start with “I just want to walk my dog around the block.” By graduation, they’re at the ballpark with us, with thousands of fans around.
Real dogs, real results
Golden Retriever puppyThe option for free group training classes after your dog graduates this program is a game changer too.
Bernedoodle, 9 monthsBy the third session, it was like a light bulb went off. Our daily routines became more engaging and fulfilling for our pup.
Shepherd Husky mix, 1 yearShe is a new, well listening and responsive pup and improved more than I thought she could during the program.
He made us feel comfortable and trained us as much as he trained our dog.
While the trainer, Alana, invested a ton of time and effort training her, she went way above and beyond to train us as well!
They didn’t just train Ricky; they gave us the skills and tools to continue working with her at home.
More success stories: Toast the reactive Pug · Pippa’s anxiety · Maisy’s confidence
Graduate, and you’re in for life
Every program includes unlimited Club classes for the life of your dog, plus members-only perks for graduates.
Unlimited Club classes
Keep training with the pack for the life of your dog, from agility nights to real-world outings.
Bark in the Ballpark nights
Graduate-only nights at Truist Field with the pack.
The Good Dog Club
Boarding and structured social, where every dog in the building is trained.
Three steps to a dog you can take anywhere
Book your free session
Takes two minutes.
See the difference
We work your dog in front of you in a private, fenced area and show you what’s possible.
Get the right plan
We recommend only a program that will work for your dog, or we’ll tell you who can help.
Questions owners ask
How much does training cost?
Every program is built around your dog after the free session. Our signature 5-week program is $2,900, and your plan depends on what your dog needs. Most families invest less than a new pair of iPhones, for 10 to 15 years of a dog they can take anywhere. About half our clients use 0% financing to make it monthly.
What tools do you use?
We use whatever tools fit your dog. Our whole team is trained in all of them, and we’ll walk you through everything at your free session.
Do you use positive reinforcement?
Yes, we use positive reinforcement. Please bring your dog’s food, favorite treats and/or favorite toy to your first session so we can see what motivates them.
Can you help an aggressive or reactive dog?
Yes, that’s much of what we do. We’ll assess your dog in a private, fenced area first and recommend only a program that will work for your dog.
Do you train puppies?
Yes. Foundation Preschool starts at 14–16 weeks, building manners, confidence and socialization early, with a second phase around six months.
Where do you train?
At our South End academy at 2250 Toomey Ave, and out in real Charlotte: breweries, markets, the Rail Trail and the light rail. Clients come from all over Charlotte.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. About half our clients use 0% financing to make it monthly.
See what your dog can do
Free, in person, no obligation. Most dogs show their first breakthrough in the session itself. Bring everyone who’ll be part of your dog’s life.
Book My Free SessionFree Foster Training every second Saturday with our rescue partners. Learn more