About A Better Companion Dog Training

A Better Companion Dog Training is a single-trainer business in Centreville, Virginia. Its promise is framed in everyday terms – a dog that walks politely past distractions, recalls off leash, and settles at an outdoor cafe – and the trainer sums it up as "I want you to have A Better Companion with the freedom and confidence to take your dog with you and to enjoy every minute together!"

What they train

Two formats are published: "I offer private lessons as well as residency programs so we can find the training that will work best for your family, and your dog." The problems addressed are described concretely – "If you've got a hyperactive, leash pulling, obnoxiously rude youngster or a sweetheart that needs a little polish to be walked with the kids, I am here to help" – and extend to dogs the owner cannot take out or leave alone. Her stated range covers "Obedience for home, public access and competition" and "Behavioral modification and training", with "Experience with all ages and breeds since 1996".

How they work

The method is stated as balance, and spelled out item by item: "A balance of structure to freedom", "A balance of yes and no", "Nurture and guidance", "Work and free time", "Exercise/excitement and calm/quiet time", and "Praise for learning and accomplishment vs. reasonable consequences for refusing known commands or inappropriate behavior." Training is customized rather than packaged: "Each dog is an individual and each family is unique. I love discovering your goals, desires and needs in order to customize training for your family so that you can succeed." The trainer is equally clear that the work is with people – "I love helping PEOPLE learn how to help their dogs."

Who runs it

The owner is named and her credential dated: "So I went to dog training school and in July of 1996 I graduated from the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers as a Certified Professional Trainer. I have been training professionally ever since." She describes starting out "as a grooming assistant and kennel attendant at a boarding and training facility", and lists work "with area vets, groomers, and rescue groups", therapy work "with the Delta Society (now Pet Partners)", participation "in AKC obedience and rally competitions", teaching "fun agility" and having "trained several service dogs". Those describe past experience; ask if you want any of them as a program. Continuing education is listed through "the National K-9 Dog Trainers Association, the International Association of Canine Professionals, and the Train the Trainer [T3] alumni", plus seminars including "the Volhard Healthy Dog Conference and the IACP Conference".

A note on scope

The site devotes real space to diet and complementary care, arguing that nutrition and related protocols affect "a dog's behavior and train-ability". That is the trainer's stated view, not advice. The site directs owners to the FAQ and contact pages; ask about prices and program lengths there.