Specialized programs for dogs with aggression, fear, or anxiety issues, using proven methods to build confidence and reduce reactivity.
Teach your dog to walk calmly on leash without pulling, dragging, or reacting to distractions, transforming stressful walks into enjoyable outings.
Foundational training covering commands like sit, stay, come, and heel, establishing clear communication and control.
Expert handling and training for dogs with biting tendencies, focusing on safety, redirection, and behavioral modification.
Structured group sessions to help dogs learn to interact appropriately with other dogs in a controlled, supportive environment.

Transforming reactive and challenging dogs into confident, well-behaved companions through expert training.
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The Northwest Dog Trainer specializes in transforming reactive, anxious, and hard-to-train dogs into well-behaved companions. Led by expert trainers Marcus and Jeremy, we use a balanced approach combining positive reinforcement with leash corrections to address severe behavioral issues like aggression, anxiety, and poor leash manners. Serving Des Moines and surrounding areas, we provide personalized training for rescue dogs, reactive pets, and owners seeking reliable off-leash control. Our supportive, family-like environment ensures both dogs and handlers gain the skills for lasting success.
Comprehensive coaching for owners to develop consistent skills and techniques, ensuring long-term success beyond training sessions.
The trainers are great. Marcus and Jermey helped us to train our traumatized rescue dog. He now is able to play with other dogs. He went through basic training and bite work training and he has amazing recall. We are very thankful to have worked with this amazing team!
Before coming to The Northwest Dog Trainers, my dog was at risk of getting put down. She bit the delivery driver, and they wanted to press charges. When I met Marcus (the owner), my dog also wanted to bite him too. She went from a dog that’s over protective to a dog that is starting to see some patterns of off leash walking. Their methods of training use some positive reinforcements mixed with leash corrections and the trainers help you fine tune your skills. I always thought it was just dog training, but they also need to train the handler. Both Jeremy and Marcus are expert at their crafts and you’ll definitely see a difference with them
UPDATE: This was my last class with my reactive dog Juno, and I want to thank the whole team for how they handled training her the past few weeks. They slowly integrated her into group classes so she could experience being around other dogs. I left feeling so proud of her for how far she's come. The leash training is something I never knew going into this, and they taught me how to work with my dog without verbal commands. I want to personally thank her trainers Jeremy, Melissa, and Marcus. And I want to thank the girls at the front Melisa and Trinity. Everyone was so friendly and supportive throughout our training, and I never felt like I couldn't do something. I wanted to see how far Juno could go. And I am really proud of the results and how much my rescue dog has learned in a matter of a few weeks. This is the best training facility I could have taken my dog to. Significant difference in my dog already since coming here. It's a work in progress but I love everyone here. It feels like a second family because everyone here knows me and my dog Juno. Totally worth it if you have a reactive dog/ rescue from shelter. Avoid regular pet stores for training if your dog can't even be in the same room with another dog. Take your dog to Northwest Dog Trainer asap if you've been thinking about it
I wish we came to NW dog trainer sooner! After having 2 well behaved dogs that were easy to train, we thought getting a 3rd would be the same…joke was on us! instead we got a high anxiety, high energy and what we thought was a “hard to train” dog 🥴 we found NW dog trainer and have been shocked at how quickly our dog has changed. It’s incredible how simple commands and consistency have truly made a positive impact on her overall behaviors and demeanor. Not even half way through our sessions, we went from a dog who would drag us down the street, to a dog who can walk on leash comfortably. The trainers are great, they keep it professional yet relaxed — comfortable and welcoming environment while still providing good feedback to owners. If you’re thinking about it, just do it! It’s worth it.
There is a reason why The Northwest Dog Trainer has 5-star reviews; Marcus & his team are phenomenal! They are beyond knowledgeable, patient, understanding, etc. They make training fun and keep you engaged and genuinely want your dog and you to succeed! My sweet gal, Abba, was a reactive, skittish, rescue that fell into my lap unexpectedly. After a few months of thinking I could do it on my own and continuing to fail I contacted The Northwest Dog Trainer. From the start Marcus & Melisa were so supportive and I instantly felt a huge weight lifted off my chest. Every issue I told them about in our evaluation they didn’t even bat an eye at and reassured me they could help, and they did! I am so grateful I found them and I put my trust in their more than capable hands. Abba and I can now go on walks without me having to worry about crossing paths with another dog or a “scary” object. I have been able to take her to places that I never dreamt of being able to take her; work, stores, pack walks, trick or treating, etc. I genuinely cannot say enough positive things about my experience with The Northwest Dog Trainer. They give you & show you the tools you need to succeed & if you put in the work and utilize their knowledge/training and make an effort you will succeed!
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