Dog Training Approach

At Calvert Dog Academy, we understand that every dog is special. Our training methodology is not just about commands and behaviors; it’s about fostering a deep, respectful bond between you and your furry friend.

Why Our Approach Works

We employ scientifically-supported, non-aversive techniques tailored to each dog’s unique personality and needs. Our approach goes beyond basic training, focusing on understanding the ‘why’ behind your dog’s behavior and working together to achieve harmony and understanding.

We will never use a prong collar, stim collar, or slip lead to train your dog. This equipment often has the unwanted side-effect of causing avoidance behaviors (aka fear) in dogs. Instead, we focus on finding ways for you and your dog to effectively communicate both of your needs.

Real Stories, Real Success

Hear from our satisfied clients about their experiences.

Our trainers, Elizabeth and Kelly are absolute geniuses in Dog Psychology! We have 2 Special Needs Jack Russell Terriers that I didn't think could be helped. Our 5 year old, Dixie has fear aggression. She was raised as a puppy without human contact. Elizabeth and Kelly were able to gain her trust! We were in Amazement because we've been through other Dog Trainers in Calvert County. Dixie is allowing us to touch and pet her, she's not in constant fear and loving her training sessions, so are my husband and I! Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Calvert Dog Academy!!! I definitely recommend Calvert Dog Academy, you won't be disappointed!

I am so happy I reached out to Calvert Dog Academy after getting multiple positive reviews from the Nextdoor app for my Luna’s training! Kelly was phenomenal in teaching me how to communicate with my dog. If you are looking for a trainer with decades of experience, look no further than Calvert Dog Academy! I cannot recommend this business enough!

We enlisted Calvert Dog Academy's help with our newly rescued "less adoptable" fear aggressive and reactive 3-year-old dog. I called many trainers who just didn't know what to do with an under socialized or traumatized dog, they really only knew how to train commands with a well socialized dog. Calvert Dog Academy understood the breadth and depth of behavioral training, as well as obedience training, using progressive, humane, fear-free methods. Kelly St. Marie is a dog whisperer and understands that it is a patient process to understand what a dog is trying to communicate, offering meaningful gems of wisdom in that communication pathway each training session. She was River's advocate, as well as ours, and rooted us on to take it one-day-at-a-time, pointing out River's marked, and nuanced improvements, each session.

Kelly is amazing with our 2-year old German Shepard. Her knowledge, experience, and demeanor are stupendous. She has plenty of insightful ideas and techniques. We purchased the 4-class plan; assuredly we'll be buying more in future

Calvert dog academy is amazing. Elizabeth and Madi worked with us for several months with our golden buddy and every session was so helpful. You can tell Elizabeth truly cares about your pet. We especially love how you are taught to teach your dog to want to do the right thing because they want to do it and not because they are afraid to do the wrong thing. After every session you get a “report card” reviewing the last lesson with things to work on until the next visit. Just amazing. We did weekly one on one training with Madi and Buddy only where Madi would come to your home and pick him up to take him out on a walk and train for an hour. After every day training you could tell a difference and every time he saw Madi walking towards the house he would wiggle with excitement so I know that she was giving him a lot of love as well as teaching. Highly recommended Calvert Dog Academy.

Catering to Every Need

Whether it’s managing leash reactivity, socialization challenges, jumping, or puppy training, our programs are designed to address the specific challenges you and your dog are facing. Learn more about our specialized approaches:

Explore Our Unique Approach to Dog Training

Discover what makes Calvert Dog Academy’s dog training approach distinct and effective. We believe in a fear free methodology that focuses on understanding each dog’s individual personality and needs. In our 30-minute online consultations, you have the chance to learn more about our methods and how they can be applied to your dog’s training. Our experienced trainers will provide personalized advice, answer your questions, and may suggest initial exercises to start your journey. With a special introductory rate for the first 30 minutes, you’re taking the first step towards a better understanding and a stronger bond with your dog. Join us in a journey of compassionate and effective dog training!