Amy Dunlap, ABCDT
Personalized dog training solutions through private lessons at Amy’s property, group classes, or board and train options. Certified Dog Trainer, Amy Dunlap, uses proven, reward-based techniques catered exactly to what you and your dog need.
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Reliable Dog Training in Weston, WV
Do you have a dog who has some of the following problem behaviors?
- Pulling on a leash
- Barking at any animal it sees
- Jumping on guests
- Not coming when called
- Chewing on furniture
- Fearfulness
- Resource guarding
- Mouthing/nipping
- and more...
Let Ruff Start Dog Training help you on your way to the companionship you desire with your dog!
Sign Up for a Private or Group Class Today!NICE TO MEET YOU
I'm Amy Dunlap
After completing my schooling at Animal Behavior College, I began training dogs in peoples' homes. I have volunteered with Pets 4 Vets Chicagoland, worked for a wildlife management company training working dogs in wildlife management and scent detection. I worked 2 years mentored in a facility that specialized in training Fear and anxiety cases. My family moved to Southern California for 3 years where I trained in-home with clients. The good Lord blessed us with 11 acres in Weston, WV, where I currently hold obedience classes.
As a mother of 4 children, and having large breed dogs of my own, I understand how hectic dog training can be on a family. I have always had a deep connection with dogs and feel they are a great enrichment to our lives. My own dogs have seen me through my husband's deployments, life transitions, and much more. They are my daily companions. It is my passion to bring dogs who have had a Ruff Start to the peace and companionship that we all know and love our dogs for. I do this by training PEOPLE to train their own dogs, so you don't need a dog in training the rest of your life (unless you love it as much as me). I hope to offer affordable solutions to your dog training needs.
READ MY STORY

"You sure helped us through our early Ruff Start and I thank you for that. Such workable training methods and ideas. I think you would be proud of Princess now. We sure are."
- Debbie

"We have newfound hope in Roxy's therapy. You are an answer to prayer!"
-Steve

"Amy at Ruff Start Dog Training is knowledgeable, kind, and absolutely wonderful. She empowers you and teaches you how to help your furry baby by showing you how to read their physical cues as well as reward based training.
I cannot say enough about how lucky we are to have found her. Our German Shepherd/Corgi baby is happier and less destructive since she has been helping us with training him!"
-Priscilla
What We Offer:
Ruff Start Classes teach more than technique!
Amy uses encouraging methods that empower clients. You and your family will feel supported and heard in your quest to resolve problem behaviors.

Private Lessons at Amy's Property
Come to Amy's home and learn how to solve your dog's individual problems. This involves understanding body language, learning management techniques, and solving a wide variety of problem behaviors. It's our goal to teach you your dog's needs while also helping your dog adjust to and like your lifestyle.

Group Classes
Group classes are held at Amy's 11 acre property in the hills of Weston, West Virginia. You and 4 other clients will learn obedience training ensuring you have ample attention. Learn engagement techniques, sit, down, stay, recall, loose-leash walking, basic problem solving, and more!

Board and Train
The Ruff Start Retreat
We understand that your time is valuable, and training a dog requires consistency and expertise. Our board and train program offers an immersive training experience that ensures your dog receives the best possible education and while you enjoy peace of mind.

Ruff and Ready Packages!
At Ruff Start Dog Training, we believe in providing comprehensive and tailored solutions to help your dog become a well-behaved and happy member of your family Our Ruff and Ready Packages offer a perfect blend of group classes and private lessons designed to deliver the best results.
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