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My name is Stephanie, and I am a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner with 14 years of experience working in the veterinary field. I have a bachelor's degree in Animal Biology from the University of California, Davis, accreditations in low-stress handling, Fear Free, and more. I love to learn and go to training, veterinary, and behavior conferences to stay up to date on the most current information on training methods, anxiety, and aggression. I specialize in helping pets with anxiety and aggression during vet visits, and I love teaching owners how to help their pets gain confidence in previously frightening environments.

I am passionate about helping people bring out the best in their dogs, and build better relationships through positive reinforcement training.

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.

My goal is to help you and your dog achieve your training goals and build a strong, healthy relationship in the process. As a CPDT-KA Certified Dog Trainer, you can rest assured that your dog is in caring and qualified hands. I can't wait to meet you and your dog and help you start building a better relationship!

We are a fear-free certified practice. We offer fear-free grooming, puppy grooming training, and behavior consulting including behavioral modification for scared dogs. Our founder is a CBCC-KA (Certified Behavior consultant-canine) certified by the CCPDT, as well as a IAABC member. Dogs are family to us.

Established in 2016, we are the historic Dogpatch neighborhood's go-to for dog care. Give your pup the quality care and education they deserve. Dog Club offers a variety of training services and dog outing services to help you and your dog live your best life together.

IT'S HARD BEING A PUP PARENT. LET US DO THE HARD WORK FOR YOU Raising a new dog is confusing, challenging, and controversial. It seems everywhere you go there are differing opinions about health care (like vaccinations, spay/neuter, diets) and behavior (i.e. socialization and training methods). What are you supposed to believe? As a veterinarian and working dog enthusiast, I understand this problem deeply and I'm here to help! Using my wealth of behavior expertise and unflinching commitment to evidence-based medicine, my passion is to help you and your new pup: from start to finish. Through a unique "concierge" service, you will be empowered with full health, behavior, and training plans.