About Black Jack Dog Training

A canine coach for Chittenden County

Black Jack Dog Training is run by trainer and canine coach Emma Starkweather and serves Chittenden County within about a 30 minute radius of Richmond. It takes a holistic approach to training and behavior modification, with the goal of fostering a deeper bond between owner and dog rather than only correcting problems. Focus areas include building on basic obedience, calmer walks, reliable recall, settling in busy environments and reducing barking and lunging. Training is offered as private sessions and group classes.

About Emma

Emma graduated from the University of Vermont in 2021 with a B.S. in Animal and Veterinary Science. She lists 5+ years in dog handling skills and 3 years of dog training and behavior modification, and holds the Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) credential from the CCPDT. She entered the field through Vermont Dog Behavior (formerly Dogs Rock! Vermont) before launching Black Jack, and keeps learning through behavior conferences and workshops. Her own dog Jet, a Shepherd mix, helps with training.

What owners say

One client wrote: "As first-time dog owners, there were so many steps along the way where we could have made mistakes, but you helped us bring out his best doggie-self."

What to ask

Ask about group class schedules and pricing for private sessions.