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I am a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA, ADB-CCBC, CSAT). My goal as a trainer is to always empower guardians to create strong relationships with their dogs based on clear communication, deep rooted connection and cooperation. I truly believe that this allows the dog to become a more mindful thinker. I use force-free, science-based, positive reinforcement training methods that yield terrific results. I am always expanding my education in the field to bring new, practical techniques to my clients. My hope is that I help create harmonious homes for all dogs and pet parents!

I am an IAABC certified dog behavior consultant and a licensed Family Dog Mediator who works with families to meet the needs of both dogs and humans. I specialize in reactive and aggressive behaviors and will help you understand why your dog is behaving a certain way, so we can work together on the positive changes that need to be made.

A force-free dog training, dog walking, and dog sitting company owned by a recovering attorney. This business has been open since 2008 and serves Arlington for dog walking as well DC, Falls Church, Alexandria, and Fairfax for training.

A graduate of the Dog Training Internship Academy - a comprehensive program that provided me with a thorough understanding of animal behavior & learning and focused on the use of science-based training techniques to change both a dog's behavior and a dog's underlying emotional state that may be driving undesirable behavior. I'm also certified by The Certification Council of Pet Dog Trainers. This requires that I have a minimum of 300 hours of experience; references from a veterinarian, client, and colleague(s); and have passed a comprehensive examination testing my knowledge of learning theory, canine ethology, animal husbandry, classroom management, and teaching techniques.

We may get nostalgic for the ‘old days’, but when it comes to dog training we’re sure glad that some things have changed. Our understanding of animal behavior has grown a lot over the years, transforming the way we think about dog training. Shake It Off approaches training with a modern, choice-driven, compassionate methodology that is grounded in the science of behavior. It’s no trick —we owe our success to positive-reinforcement and rewards-based techniques that are free from pain, force and intimidation. It is so effective, you can use it to train almost any animal —humans included. It’s not magic, but we can understand why some of our clients think so.

As a positive reinforcement trainer, Christina believes that training should be fun for both the dog and the handler. She loves to celebrate success and can’t wait to meet you and your dog! A passionate student of behavioral science and animal learning, Christina holds a CTC (Certificate in Training and Counseling) and is an Honors Graduate of the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers. www.tailsdogtraining.com

We offer group and private lessons for all ages & breeds. You'll participate in socialization, fun and education. We DO NOT offer punishment-based training including the use of e-collars. Groups classes coach you and your dog on how to work as a team. Topics include Puppy Manners, Adult Manners, Agility, Rally, Tricks, Rally FunGility, AKC FIT DOG, Scentwork, Fetch! and Therapy Dog. Can't attend a regularly scheduled group class? Is your pup too shy or lively to work around other dogs? Private lessons can be scheduled either at our facility or your home. Lessons available for both Puppies and Adult dogs.

Joyful Dog works one-on-one and in group classes with people and their dogs, teaching fun ways to live together with force-free tools and techniques for creative communication. We provide training in basic manners, behavioral problem-solving, puppy socialization, and a variety of special interests. Our positive approach includes Connection, Cooperation, and Control™, a curriculum founded on Suzanne Clothier’s Relationship Centered Training techniques, and Tellington TTouch® methods of body work and movement, to help dogs achieve physical and behavioral balance. We serve an online clientele, as well as in-person in Leesburg, Loudoun and western Fairfax counties in Virginia.