Frequently Asked Questions
Everything dog owners in Charlottesville and Central Virginia ask us about board & train, in-home lessons, pricing, methods, and how to get started.
Getting Started
How do I get started?
Reach out for your free consultation. We will assess your dog, recommend the right program, and get you scheduled. Call us or visit charlottesvilledogtraining.com.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes, we offer a free consultation to discuss your dog, your goals, and the best program. Call us or reach out through our website to schedule.
Where is Off Leash K9 Training Charlottesville located?
We are located at 8782 Seminole Trail in Ruckersville, VA, just north of Charlottesville. We serve Charlottesville and the surrounding communities including Crozet, Earlysville, and Ruckersville.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Charlottesville, Ruckersville, Waynesboro, Harrisonburg, Staunton, Culpeper, Lexington, and the surrounding Central Virginia area. Browse all the areas we serve to find training near you.
Do you train all breeds?
Yes, we train every breed and size, from small companion dogs to large working breeds. See our plans and pricing for the full range of programs.
Programs & Pricing
How much does dog training cost?
Our programs range from a $500 marker-training program to multi-week board-and-train programs. Reach out for a free consultation and we will recommend the right program for your dog and goals. You can also compare all of our dog training services to see what each program covers.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Payment plans are available. Call us today to learn more about payment options.
Do you offer board and train programs?
Yes! Board and train is our signature program. Your dog stays and trains with our professional trainers for an immersive experience, then comes home with obedience and manners locked in.
What is board and train and how does it work?
Your dog stays with our trainers for a set program length and receives daily, structured training. At pickup, we transfer the skills to you so the results last at home. See the 2 Week Board and Train Program for details.
Do you offer training in my home?
Yes. Several of our programs are in-home private lessons, done where your dog actually lives and behaves, great for targeting specific behaviors in your day-to-day environment.
What is the difference between board and train and in-home lessons?
Board and train is immersive: your dog stays and trains with a professional trainer and comes home with obedience and manners locked in, the fastest route for busy owners. In-home programs are one-on-one lessons at your home, where your dog actually lives and behaves, ideal for targeting specific behaviors. Both build the same reliable obedience; the right fit depends on your dog and your schedule.
What does an in-home lesson program include?
Our in-home packages run 4 or 8 private lessons. The 4-lesson Basic Obedience program covers the core commands: come, sit, down, place, out, loose-leash walking, and off (no jumping). The 8-lesson Basic & Advanced program adds extended-distance commands, heel, watch, through, front, and stand, and includes the e-collar and leash.
Methods & Training
What training methods do you use?
We use balanced, proven methods focused on clear communication, structure, and real-world reliability. We also offer a positive-reinforcement-only marker program for owners who prefer reward-based training.
Do you offer positive-reinforcement-only training?
Yes. Our Basic Marker Mastery program is a 4-week, positive-reinforcement program that builds confidence and foundational obedience using marker and clicker training, with no e-collars or prong collars. It includes a 15-ft leash, clicker, and slip lead.
Do you offer off-leash training?
Yes. Off-leash reliability is one of our specialties, giving you a dog you can trust off-leash around distractions, other dogs, and people.
How long does training take?
It depends on the program. Our board-and-train programs run about two weeks; in-home programs run 4 to 8 lessons. We will map out a realistic timeline at your consultation.
How old does my dog need to be to start training?
We train dogs of all ages. Puppies can start early with socialization and foundation work, and formal training programs start at five months. We regularly help adult and senior dogs too. It is never too late to train your dog.
Behavior & Special Programs
Can you help with an aggressive or reactive dog?
Absolutely. We specialize in aggressive, reactive, anxious, and fearful dogs. Our experienced trainers safely address leash reactivity, dog aggression, and fear-based behavior, including a dedicated in-home aggressive dog program. Curious how these cases turn out? Read real client success stories.
Can you help with puppy potty training and crate training?
Yes. Our puppy program covers socialization, potty training, crate training, bite inhibition, and foundational obedience during those critical early months.
Can my dog be trained for therapy work?
Yes. Our therapy dog preparation program readies you and your dog for therapy dog testing, with certification available through any therapy dog certifying agency. It runs as an 8-lesson in-home program.
Do you offer tracking training?
Yes. Our Tracking Board and Train is a 2-week program that develops your dog's tracking skills, from woodland tracks and street crossings to urban environments, ideal for lost-pet recovery, game recovery, and human tracking.
Still have questions?
Tell us about your dog and your goals. We will recommend the right program and get you started with a free consultation.