Call Now for a FREE Consultation

CLICK HERE TO CALL

Live a Happier Life Together With Your Dog

Are you experiencing behavioral issues with your dog? Our dog-friendly training methods can help you overcome these issues quickly. We train in your home where you and your dog are most comfortable. With our efficient, results-oriented training program, you can achieve the communication and leadership you want with your dog.

Dog Training Services

Common Dog Behavioral Issues We Address:

  • Aggression
  • Adjusting to New Home
  • Barking
  • Biting
  • Chewing
  • Destruction
  • Digging
  • Focus & Listening
  • Housebreaking
  • Improving Confidence
  • Jumping
  • Leash Pulling
  • Marking/Peeing
  • New Baby Preparation
  • Obsessiveness
  • Respecting Other Pets
  • Running Away
  • Separation Anxiety
  • Sibling Rivalry – in House Tensions/ Fights

 

Not sure where your dog could use improvement? Take our free behavioral quiz today.

Meet James & Michelle, Your Professional Dog Trainers

large james michelle rodriguez 1

Home Dog Training in Charleston, including Mt. Pleasant, Summerville & Goose Creek!

Welcome. We are James and Michelle, your local Bark Busters trainers in Charleston since 2008. We have helped train thousands of dogs.

We are: 

  • Certified Behavioral Therapists and Obedience Trainers
  • Bark Busters National Trainers of the Year
  • Highly recommended by the veterinary community

"James and Michelle with Bark Busters have become invaluable resources for our doctors, our staff and our clients over the years."

Read more testimonials from Veterinarians

We are not your typical dog trainers. We are both veterans of the armed forces, have been married more than 20 years, and as owner operators we exclusively do all of the training with our clients.

We left the corporate world and pursued our dream of helping people and their dogs. We believe that the relationship between the owner and dog is the most important element of effective training. We teach dog owners how to inherently meet the needs of the dog and build a relationship built on love and respect.

Our unique and effective training approach yields people immediate and long lasting results...

"We contacted Bark Busters after already having tried a training class and multiple individual training sessions with a different trainer, and were still having disruptive behavioral issues with our 1 year old puppy. Our vet recommended Bark Busters, and literally after one session we noticed huge, wonderful differences!" - Happy Client

We assist with all types of obedience, puppy training, off leash control as well as behavior issues like separation anxiety, aggression and much more. Let us teach you why your dog is doing what he is doing and what you can do to change it.

Please reach out to discuss your situation. We love what we do and would love to share our passion, knowledge, and experience with you. Happy Dog's = Happy Families :)

Contact Us Today

Veteran Owned Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Client Reviews

See what our clients in Charleston have to say

...Pulling wasn’t the only issue; she was highly reactive around other dogs. It got so bad I dreaded walking her. What I liked about Bark Busters was that they work with you and your dog. So many places want you to hand over your dog for training. James’ training methods are thoughtful and kind. And he respects the dog owner’s training desires and the dog’s personality. What I learned from him about dogs and training is invaluable. What Laney has learned is that she can walk right by my side, enjoy her walks, and feel safe. And I can feel safe and enjoy the walk as well.
Jill R.
Google Rating
See All Google Ratings
Michelle is absolutely amazing. I can not believe the changes I am seeing since hiring her. She is teaching ME how to be the leader of my dog. She is "training" me how to train my dog. What's interesting is these techniques are relatively simple once they are explained. Michelle is very knowledgeable. She is always available through phone or email. She answers questions in simple and easy to understand terms. Michelle is patient and kind. She never makes me feel bad or stupid when asking questions. After the 1st session my husband and I began to see improvements in our dog's general obedience. Michelle has given me the hope for my dog. She has given me the confidence and the know how to introduce my dog to people in a safe manner. The program is not cheap but both my husband and I believe it to be worth every…
Keenalynn P.
Moncks Corner, SC
Yelp Rating
See All Yelp Ratings
I cannot say enough good things about James and Bark Busters! My dog, Pepper, was extremely reactive to other dogs and would pull so hard on walks that I was often getting dragged. I spent eight months trying different training methods with little success—until I found James. In only eight weeks, Pepper has completely transformed. After the very first lesson, I saw an immediate change in her behavior. Thanks to James’ incredible guidance and training techniques, she now walks calmly on a leash, listens to me, and—most importantly—we can walk around other dogs without fear of a meltdown. Our walks have gone from stressful to enjoyable, and I finally feel confident handling her. If you’re struggling with a reactive dog, I highly recommend James. He is patient, knowledgeable, and truly understands how to bring out the best in your pup. Thank you, Bark Busters, for giving us the tools to…
Carol J.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
We found James and Bark Busters after searching for training that didn’t rely on rewards. We got so much more! We have a 3-pack of happy chill hounds that coexist in ways in our home with our young kids we had only dreamed of. Through James’ and Bark Busters methods we have gotten to know our dogs more as who they are individually but more importantly how they function as a pack that we are part of. We had previously done traditional obedience training with two of the three dogs and it was lengthy, exhausting and just way too time consuming, resulting in commands that did not stand the test of time. Bark Busters method of behavioral training is transformative in a way that makes it natural for the dogs (and humans!) to follow and the results happened quickly for our pack by spending 10-15mins a day working with the dogs. We loved that the majority of the training took place in our home where the most…
Courtney O.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
I can't say enough good things about BarkBusters. Their deep understanding of dog psychology and behavior made an incredible difference in my dog’s temperament in just two weeks. They use excellent tools and techniques to redirect unwanted behaviors effectively, and the results have been very good—my dog is now calmer, happier, and more secure in her place within our "pack."

James is also incredibly responsive to any questions and his contract provides ongoing support when needed, ensuring long-term success. If you're looking for a knowledgeable, patient, and results-driven trainer, I highly recommend them!
Elyse S.
Mount Pleasant, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
In one visit, we have experienced a complete transformation. Thank you, James. I'm not sure what we're going to talk about next visit. Maybe we can figure out what is wrong with the cat? 😂
Gracen Jennings Watts & Rob C.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
James has helped me become a happy dog owner and my fur baby, Laney, a happier and calmer dog. Laney is a shelter rescue. When I first adopted her, she had no connection to the person on the other end of the leash. Pulling wasn’t the only issue; she was highly reactive around other dogs. I'm a shelter volunteer and had walked her numerous times and she never reacted around other dogs. But after a couple weeks of having her, that changed. It got so bad I dreaded walking her. I watched dog training videos online, read a Cesar Milan book and not much changed. What I liked about Bark Busters is that they work with you and your dog. So many places want you to hand over your dog for training. That made zero sense to me. James’ training methods are thoughtful and kind. And he respects an owner’s dog-training desires and the dog’s personality. What I learned about dogs and training from him is invaluable. What…
Jill R.
Summerville, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
5 stars!!!
Mary Anne D.
Ravenel, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Thanks to James at Bark Busters, our 7 year old dog no longer lunges at other dogs when we walk her! James showed us great techniques that actually work and it was unbelievable how fast it worked. We were also taught what to do when we have visitors come to the door. We have a different dog! Highly recommend using Bark Busters.
Sharon E.
Mount Pleasant, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
First, this is a must read review! I honestly at the beginning thought there was no way with how they set this up that is this EVER going to work. First, my dog was out of hand. Did not sit still for a moment! She is a rescue, 37lbs, 4 years old, NO basics (sit, stay, down, etc) and was not housebroken. Training her on my own was very difficult as she did not want to listen. I was seriously at my wits end thinking I could not do this. But…. I never give up on dogs. After our first training session with James, I laughed thinking nope, and he’s not coming back for 3 weeks? Wow. Well, let me say, this training ME to train MY dog, Morgan, was absolutely the most incredible thing ever! In 3 weeks, I had her listening, I had her under control, I had my space if needed, and our walks became soooo very enjoyable! She was used to eating everything and anything off the ground… even ate an entire jellyfish!! In those 3 weeks, she has not touched one…
Jan S.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Such nice and incredibly helpful people. Our dog is almost 4, and we thought we’d never be able to get her out of these bad habits that she’s always had. But they really helped us control her negative behaviors in a way that is not demeaning in any way. Our dog is thriving and we couldn’t be happier. Really worth the investment.
Clarissa B.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
I cannot give enough high praise to James. He is knowledgeable, patient and empathetic. I saw a drastic difference in my girls behavior after the first session. The homework is manageable and you really see results. James helped me feel confident and reassured throughout the entire process. My dog and I’s relationship is the best it’s ever been now that I understand her behavior and can speak her language. For the first time I can see the light! Without James help, I’m not sure her and I would still be in each others lives in the long run. Contacting Bark Busters is the best decision I’ve ever made for her and I.
Leigh W.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Our family was all over the place when it came to training our dogs. I reached out to Bark Busters as I loved the idea that they would come to our home and work with us in our house. I also was impressed that they offer a lifetime commitment to helping us work with our dogs. James Rodriguez is our trainer. Our first visit was reassuring. He met with our entire family & our dogs. He explained the methods (loved that they don’t use shock collars) and how those methods help us understand how dogs think. We made the commitment and the results are very encouraging. I’ve had dogs my entire life and I recommend this method to anyone struggling with their pup’s behaviors. It works! James is knowledgeable, calm, encouraging and our dogs love him…
Cheryl Knox .
Johns Island, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Well worth the money! James is so knowledgeable, honest, personable and magical with dogs. Trust him. Our dog now has No anxiety when we leave him to run errands, decreased incidences of barking to almost none- we are still in training and listens to our commands with the proper techniques taught to us :)
So happy!! And so is our dog;).
Terri C.
Moncks Corner, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Today was my first session with Bark Busters. James came out and gave us so much information and explained the entire process. You could see his love for dogs and the opportunity to help with the training process. I would absolutely recommend Bark Busters to anyone with training needs. Thank you James for a great session. - Kathy Harrell
Kathy H.
Moncks Corner, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
4 stars because it’s a little pricey but worth it! We adopted our Betty when she was around 1 year old and knew she had the potential to be a good girl. But after a few months she started testing her boundaries and we started losing hope in her. We reached out to Bark Busters and James trained us how to train Betty. Now she comes when called, walks well on leash, and we know how to redirect her or keep her away when needed. It’s also great to know we can reach back out to Bark Busters whenever we have questions or issues.
Christina Russell L.
Beaufort, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Michelle Rodriguez is wonderful! It's a process, not an instant fix and you have to do the work if you want to be successful. She's super supportive and the training is available for the life of your dog. Every time we run into a new situation she's there to help me through it. If you're willing to work on the training every day you WILL see results, this program works!!! And all without fear or punishing your best friend (or friends), just learning to be the leader of your pack!
Merikay P.
Ladson, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Michelle is absolutely amazing. I can not believe the changes I am seeing since hiring her. She is teaching ME how to be the leader of my dog. She is "training" me how to train my dog. What's interesting is these techniques are relatively simple once they are explained. Michelle is very knowledgeable. She is always available through phone or email. She answers questions in simple and easy to understand terms. Michelle is patient and kind. She never makes me feel bad or stupid when asking questions. After the 1st session my husband and I began to see improvements in our dog's general obedience. Michelle has given me the hope for my dog. She has given me the confidence and the know how to introduce my dog to people in a safe manner. The program is not cheap but both my husband and I believe it to be worth every…
Keena P.
Moncks Corner, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
James Rodriguez is a master: experienced, knowledgeable, authoritative when necessary, and successful in gently overcoming a dog's bad behavior or habits. James first educated us on the traits of dogs in general, and our dog Rocky in particular. He was correct in all respects, and quickly taught us the best methods to help Rocky shed behavior that had become intolerable. Those methods proved to be successful. Money well spent. Frank and Tami…
Frank M.
Johns Island, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Michelle began working with my dog as a 12-week old puppy. Since then, she has continued to implement training that is age appropriate as my dog enters new phases of life. I could not be happier with the results. I look forward to continuing these steps as my dog grows into adulthood. Michelle is very professional, but also just a joy to be around! I highly recommend Bark Busters and James and Michelle. You will not be disappointed.
Kelly C.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Working with Michelle from Bark Busters has been so very helpful with our feisty (albeit adorable) little Pomeranian who kind of thought he was in charge of the world! Michelle provided super helpful tools, strategies, and information so we could understand how dogs think and communicate, and learn how to change our dogs behavior by changing our behavior. It takes practice, however the strategies work! She has made herself readily available via a combination of in person sessions, phone calls and texts. We highly recommend Bark Busters! Thank you!
Diana B.
Mount Pleasant, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Bark Busters has changed our lives. James is unlike any trainer, he is always there for anything that comes up. We've been working with him for the last 2 years since getting our dog, and he still comes out when we have questions. He's even helped us with our new puppy and the transition of bringing her into our family. This isn't just a one time, pay for training and be done, this is for the life of your pet. As life changes, as environments change, as your dog matures and other challenges come up, James has been there with us through it all. He's only a text away, and always makes time for us. I couldn't say enough good things about Bark Busters. If you're thinking about it, just do it, its the best investment we've ever made into having a well trained, obedient, and loyal dog. He takes the time to teach you about your dog so you can understand what training works and why. If I went back in time knowing what I do…
Leslie S.
North Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
James has been such a phenomenal trainer and person throughout every interaction we have had with him. When we adopted Braxton, we were informed that he had behavioral issues with children and other animals. He had bitten myself within the first few weeks of taking him in so we began to search for someone to help us since we had not experienced this before, and giving him up was NOT an option. On our first visit with James, he took the time to educate us on Braxton's learned and inherited behaviors and certain things that could and could not be completely changed. We learned how to establish dominance and recreate our family dynamic in order for Braxton to feel more secure as well as situations that helped or hindered his traits. After working with James over multiple sessions- Braxton is a COMPLETELY different dog. It has been night and day of a difference. Our bonding has strengthened immensely and he…
Alexis L.
Bluffton, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
Michelle is great and really passionate/realistic on what you can get out of your dog. Signed up for two dog training and one of our pups passed shortly after signing up and Michelle was prompt and thoughtful to refund us accordingly.
Thomas R.
Charleston, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
We adopted one puppy intentionally and then fell into a stray puppy a few months later. We were in over our head and were beyond frustrated that our dogs wouldn't listen, chewed everything, barked at neighbors, dug holes, you name it, one or both dogs did it. One was so aggressive when meeting new dogs I thought we would never be able to take them anywhere or have dog friends over. This sounds dramatic, but James from Bark Busters was a life changer. I knew we were the problem, not so much the dogs, but he showed us how to communicate with them in a manner they understand and everything is different now. They are delightful. Perfect? No. But they listen better, we can leave them unsupervised for longer, and their whole demeanor is so much calmer. They are changed dogs because we are better at communicating with them.
Meredith J.
Goose Creek, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings
James from Bark Busters has been our trainer and has taught us how by learning to lead our 95lb. Boxer mixed dog - Charley, we can modify his behavior tremendously in a positive way. We had been dealing with behavioral territorial, protective, and fear based issues that lead him to bite in 3 different situations. We tried other training methods in the past and nothing seemed to work. Charley is a sweet good behaved dog when around the people he has always known, but we would always refrained from bringing other people home because of fear of his reaction. James taught us how establishing leadership and following through with consistency can change Charley’s behavior from a fearful reactive dog, to a more calm and secure dog. Side note: While his fears of thunderstorms were not addressed in the training, by establishing leadership, his fear and anxiety of thunderstorms changed dramatically. Last night we…
Diana W.
Summerville, SC
Bark Busters Rating
See All Bark Busters Ratings

Let's Get Started!

Connect with us Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

Please begin by confirming your zip code.

What Makes Bark Busters Charleston Unique

Bark Busters is the worldwide leader of in-home dog training, helping over 1 million families and their dogs around the globe since 1989. We wholeheartedly believe in our methods and 30+ years of results. At Bark Busters Charleston, we clear up the miscommunication between dogs and humans at the root of many behavioral issues by teaching everyone to speak the same language – dog!

Our nurturing, dog-friendly approach teaches you, the pet parent, the same natural communication methods that dogs understand instinctively. Our efficient, results-oriented, training program prioritizes clear communication and leadership while addressing issues in the locations they occur.

This means faster, longer-lasting solutions for you and your dog.

Dogs learn best in a familiar, safe environment, free of outside distractions and disruptions. That is why we come directly to your home, on your schedule to build an effective foundation for better behavior. We work first to build an effective foundation for better behavior. We teach you how to communicate with your dog. Dogs naturally live in families and look to their family leaders for guidance, safety, and love. Most people don't know how to appeal to a dog's natural sense of leadership or communication. We teach you how to use friendly, canine leadership and to "speak dog" using your body language, voice tones, and timing so you and your dog communicate better! You will see results. You want to see a change in your dog’s behavior, preferably sooner rather than later.

Any Breed. Any Age. Any Issue. Get Started Today!

We customize our training sessions to achieve your specific goals and meet your dog’s unique needs. When you learn to "speak dog" the Bark Busters way, you get real results – and nurture positive relationships and lasting emotional bonds with your canine family member.

Learn More about Bark Busters

 

Home Dog Training

Our Services

Bark Buster trainers conduct the one-on-one training in your home, without the distraction of other dogs or the stress of being sent away for dog obedience training at a kennel. After learning in your home, our behavioral therapist and trainer will work with you as needed outside and around real distractions, once you and your dog are ready.

Learn More
Life of Dog Support Guarantee

Life of Dog Support Guarantee

Bark Busters Home Dog Training provides a Life of Dog Support Guarantee that is unique in the industry. It is designed to help owners resolve their dog's behavior and obedience problems and to provide customers with the satisfaction of ongoing support and peace of mind.

Learn More
Dog Behavior Issues

Tips & Advice

We're here to help. From general dog training tips, to puppy toilet training best practices, to learning about various dog breeds we've worked with, Bark Busters offers our free tips and advice on common dog behavior problems and more.

Learn More

Professional Dog Training Near You!

Servicing: Adams Run, Awendaw, Charleston, Charleston AFB, Cordesville, Edisto Island, Folly Beach, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Hollywood, Huger, Isle Of Palms, Jamestown, Johns Island, Ladson, McClellanville, Moncks Corner, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Ravenel, Sullivans Island, Summerville, Wadmalaw Island

Subscribe to my e-newsletter

Designed exclusively for my territory.

Stay Connected

Learn more about Bark Busters in Charleston, South Carolina!

  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Get Started Today!

CALL 1-877-500-BARK (2275) OR ENTER YOUR ZIP CODE TO SEND US A MESSAGE.

Please begin by confirming your zip code.