Group classes for puppies, beginners, and intermediate levels to teach basic commands and socialization.
Intensive training sessions where dogs stay for weeks, returning with skills like crate and potty training.
Drop-off sessions for ongoing reinforcement and behavior correction while owners are at work.
Professional grooming services, including nail trimming, to keep dogs healthy and comfortable.
Safe and supervised overnight stays for dogs, with training integration available.
Specialized training to prepare dogs for therapy work and certification.
I’ve had nothing but wonderful experiences with Dog Lovers Obedience School. My dog, Bingley, has grown enormously through all of the different types of training he’s received — from their excellent group classes (puppy, beginner, and intermediate) to the half-day training sessions he attends while I’m at work, and the board-and-train programs when I’m out of town. I’ve learned so much from their team as well. The trainers are patient, knowledgeable, and truly committed to each dog’s progress. I can’t recommend them highly enough!
Several months ago, our rescue dog, Lily, joined our family. We knew she needed some structure and we needed help with her manners and listening to us. Thankfully, our friend referred us to Dog Lover's Obedience School! Lily completed beginner and intermediate classes with flying colors. She loves all the trainers, especially her favorite, Jess Cagnina! She is a sweet, funny, very food motivated girl and very smart and Jess "got her" right away. Recently Lily completed a 1-week board and train with Jess and she has come home to us like a "new and improved" dog! (Jess sent videos, photos and texts daily of Lily's progress and the "why" of some of the things she was working on with her.) She also sent a small printed packet for us to refer to now that she's home. We are so pleased with the work Jess did and we are following OUR instructions, too, now that we have Lily home. (She--and we--are doing beautifully)
I have been bringing my pup, Leo, to Dog Lovers from inception. I could not have made a better choice. Emily and her team are phenomenal. I joke and say, “They trained me and the dog.” It’s a lifestyle they offer, similar to parenting. Leo has used several offerings, including therapy dog course, half day, and boarding. He absolutely loves Dog Lovers and will let Emily do tasks no one else can do successfully, such as cut his nails. My dog is well behaved and my family jokes that Leo went to college. Everyone compliments his behavior. Dog Lovers is a one stop shop for training, grooming, boarding, private classes, and even social outings. They’re also great at dog photography! I trust them with Leo’s life and do not go anywhere else. You won’t be disappointed!
I put Finn through Emily’s puppy starter program and let me say, it is SO worth the investment. Finn was gone for 4 weeks and he came back crate trained, potty trained, knew basic commands, was socialized. Finn is my first dog and finding Emily was the best thing that could have happened to Finn and I. Continuing in Emily’s training courses has made it easy for me to take Finn just about everywhere I go, from patios, to farmers markets, to just everyday shopping! Her staff is also amazing! Finn absolutely loves Jess! If you are on the fence about it, just do it! It’s 100% worth the investment!
We started taking our 10 week old puppy to Dog Lovers Obedience School, and he's now 7 months and graduating Intermediate! We've had a wonderful experience throughout. Emily is very knowledgeable and was so helpful with puppy tips and tricks during the puppy classes. We hadn't had a puppy in quite some time, and it's crazy how much you forget about training! Our pup can be a handful, but she was always patient and effective in correcting naughty behaviors as well as offering positive re-enforcement for his obedience. I also loved that they welcomed kids to class, as it helped both our daughters bond and take more ownership of having a dog. Our time at the school has definitely helped our puppy integrate into our family and we look forward to more classes soon.

Transforming dogs and owners with expert training and care in Richmond.
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Dog Lovers Obedience School in Richmond, VA, is a premier destination for dog training, offering comprehensive services including obedience classes, board-and-train programs, grooming, boarding, and therapy dog courses. Led by Emily and her dedicated team, we provide personalized, effective training that builds well-behaved, happy dogs and educated owners. With a 4.7/5 rating from 93 reviews, we're trusted for our patient, knowledgeable approach and commitment to canine success. Whether you're starting with a puppy or refining skills, we offer a one-stop shop for all your dog's needs.
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