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Efficient, Natural, and Results-Oriented Dog Training

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. Live a happier life together 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.

About Mark, Master Dog Trainer and Canine Behavioral Therapist

Happy Dog Trainer with Rottweiler in backyard

Home Dog Training in Loudoun & Fairfax County!

Hello! I’m Mark Renshaw, your local Master Trainer and Canine Behavioral Therapist. I serve most of Loudoun County, Herndon, Reston, Great Falls, Vienna, Fairfax, Chantilly and Oakton.

I have owned and operated Bark Busters Northern Virginia for more than 24 years, and have had the pleasure of training over 12,000 dogs. Having been established as the original office to open in the United States, my passion is to help people to create a much deeper understanding of their dog’s behaviors and foster a unique and loving bond that positions them as ‘the leaders of the pack’. This process is transformational for both people and their beloved companions!

I train in and around your home, where your dog is most comfortable and receptive to learning. These are also the areas where unwanted behaviors manifest and can be addressed effectively. The training method is so dynamic, that immediate positive results are often seen within the first 2-3 hours of training. When I first arrive at your home, I custom tailor each training to exceed your goals and expectations based upon your dog’s unique temperament and the problems you are facing.

I use a training method which is based in the way in which dogs communicate naturally, it is completely non-physical nor harsh and is designed to empower you to communicate in such a way that fosters immediate and clear understanding. Our dogs are part of our families, and learning how to communicate with them is key to creating a foundation of trust and understanding that can be truly life changing for everyone!

I have taken great pride and pleasure in working with many different local rescue groups and animal shelters over the years, and in doing so have helped many dogs overcome serious behavioral issues that may have otherwise been the catalyst for their return. One of many that comes to mind was a 1 year old Boxer mix who had been deemed ‘unadoptable’. The reason he had this unfortunate label, is that he was so reactive towards other dogs that he could not even be taken to an adoption event. Working with his foster family, we were able to not only entirely stop his reactivity so that he became ‘the star of the show’ at his next adoption event that week, but he immediately found a loving home with another dog! This is what drives and inspires me to do everything that I can to create Happy Dogs and Happy Families!

Contact me today

Client Reviews

See what our clients in Northern Virginia have to say

...The tools we were armed with worked like a charm and flipped a switch in both of our dogs for immediate obedience and “green zone” behavior. We feel 100% more confident in our pups being well behaved in mixed company in our home. There is hope for a happy and well balanced family with your dogs, give Mark a call!
Michael C.
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Mark came by today to see our Mila and unfortunately we were not able to move forward with the training. Nothing to do with Mark and his ability to train, but because the training method was not compatible with our dog. But the honesty that we got from Mark was amazing. He told us right away (once we started the training portion of the 1st session) that Mila would not respond to the training. We appreciated his honesty because, had we moved forward with this training, we would have ended up paying the training fee for nothing. Thank you Mark for being honest with us. To everyone else, please don't let this review deter you from reaching out to Mark. It just so happens that our Mila wasn't compatible with the training, doesn't mean yours…
DaeYoung K.
Marietta, GA
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We have a very high-energy sporting breed puppy, and we reached out to Mark for help on how to curb nipping, jumping on people, leash pulling, and other puppy behaviors that we worried would become bigger problems as she got older. Within just a few hours, we saw a dramatic improvement! We also felt very confident that we knew how to apply Mark's methods to keep the progress going. The training has made us enjoy our puppy even more, and she seems happier and more relaxed, too. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would! I will not hesitate to recommend Mark to other dog owners, and I look forward to continue to work with him in the…
Sarah L.
Aldie, VA
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After searching for months for a dog trainer, I finally settled on Mark with Bark Busters based off two things: 1. No e-collar which meant I wouldn't have to constantly be holding something and 2. A google review mentioning how Mark was up front and honest with a client and let them know he would not be a good fit to train their dog after meeting them. This level of honestly showed me Mark wasn't in business for the money. I have an English Bull Terrier and they are extremely hard headed, stubborn and have never ending energy along with a high prey drive. I honestly did not expect much to come from just 3 hours of training. Prior to Mark, my dog would charge up and down the stairs (knocking me down them twice), bulldoze his way past me to the door, bark constantly at any and everything outside, jump on everyone I had over, bark/lunge at the TV, and would drag me all over on walks. It's been one day... ONE day and…
Belinda T.
Ashburn, VA
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After spending 2 1/2 hours with Mark all I can say is that we made an Excellent choice on picking someone to teach us how to train 2 seven month old puppies. The way everything was explained to us and demonstrated was phenomenal. Our puppies responded quite well to the training that we did that day but also left my wife and I with a feeling of confidence that we can train our pups and a level of calm that I surely did not expect. Our dogs responded immediately to some of the techniques shown to us and knowing that Mark is available to us at any point in time is reassuring. We both can't thank Mark enough. His professionalism and demeanor were amazing. EXCELLENT choice for any dog owner in need of training, you won't regret it.
Don H.
Fairfax, VA
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Mark Renshaw's accomplishments with our Golden Doodle, Bennie, has been stunningly successful! Before Mark's arrival, Bennie was a completely lovable but insane puppy who would jump on anyone in the street or who came through the front door. He would also lunge at cars and trucks in the street, making it impossible for wife to walk him. This, in spite of our having worked with a number of other trainers (and training facilities). We had presumed our case was hopeless. But after just a few hours with Mark, and armed with new techniques developed by Bark Busters, Bennie is a new boy. He is still completely lovable but he now sits away from the front door upon command when the bell rings, and rarely jumps on anyone. And the lunging at cars and trucks are greatly subsided. We realize Bennie is still a work in progress but, with Mark's guaranty of continuing support, we know he'll continue to improve. It's just up to us to…
Eli J.
Leesburg, VA
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All I can say is that Mark changed the entire trajectory of our future with our Golden Doodle, Bennie. We had tried a number of individual trainers and a larger training center over the past 2 years but with only limited success. Up until the time we met Mark, it was very difficult to walk Bennie. He would consistently lurch towards passing cars and trucks, barking loudly. He also would attack the door and anyone who walked through it with a virtual body slam of unwelcome enthusiasm. The same would happen meeting people in the street. Very uncontrollable. After just one 3-hour session with Mark, everything changed - that very same day. Using Mark's simple instructions, Bennie now sits when the doorbell rings, and no longer jumps on visitors or people on the street. He sits on command in general without hesitation, which was also a major challenge in the past. Walking him is now a breeze with minimal correction needed, and no…
Eli & Susan J.
Leesburg, VA
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Our dog is 9 years old and needed SO much work especially now that we live in an apartment. He was pulling, lunging, and barking at our neighbors to the point that we had to strategize our exits from the building. Mark came over and after an hour of training, he is a completely different dog at NINE years old! He is doing so well and Mark has been so helpful with any follow up questions we have had. I 100% recommend this training program with Mark. It is clear that an old dog can indeed learn new tricks.
Erika D.
Leesburg, VA
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After just one session with Mark, we have course-corrected the fear aggression that we have seen building over time within our 4-year-old dog, Finnegan. After two (2) poor encounters, one at a groomer and one with another dog, Finnegan developed a very intense reaction to other dogs (and anyone in scrubs), to the point where we could not walk past another dog across the street. He would bark and pull and just go crazy, all out of immense fear. Other aspects of his temperament also started worsening like guarding socks and/or toilet paper. We felt like we were losing our dog. The worst realization was that our 1-year-old dog, Daisy, was beginning to pick up the same characteristics simply by watching him. We tried other training methods over the years that all helped/made small improvements but nothing was as dramatic as Mark and Bark Busters. He helped us reset with the dogs, establish leadership and own…
Jessica B.
Leesburg, VA
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It took one session. One, and Harley learned to look to us for direction when she saw another dog or squirrel immediately instead of becoming a crazed, prey driven beast. I almost emailed Mark after the first day, because the change was so incredible. On our first encounter walking, she got one reminder from me and that was all it really took. Not only did she start walking behind me on our walks, she looks at passing dogs, looks at me, and then just keeps going - zero fuss. We've stopped and watched squirrels calmly and she no longer vocally alerts us to passers by from her couch perch. My husband is thrilled with how well she is behaving in the yard and even had her sit calmly next to him while he pet a passing dog over the fence. She and the other dog even "met" through the fence, with no hackles or teeth and calm, wagging tails. We're both in awe of how quickly and well it worked when we committed to it and have been…
Jill D.
Herndon, VA
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Mark's dog training expertise has truly transformed our relationship with our furry companion. His unique approach empowers us, as pet owners, to better comprehend our canine friends' perspectives. Through this understanding, we've been able to guide our dogs in harmonious cooperation rather than adversarial encounters. Prior to enrolling in Mark's program, our dog Duncan posed several challenges. He exhibited erratic behavior during walks, reacted poorly to new people, and engaged in biting incidents. As he transitioned into adulthood, these issues became increasingly alarming. Even after investing in a 3-week boarding training program and traditional retail lessons, we saw only marginal improvements. However, Mark's simple yet effective techniques have been a game-changer. After just one initial lesson, Duncan underwent a remarkable transformation. He now walks gracefully on the leash, refrains from…
Colin C.
Fairfax, VA
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First of all, Mark is an extremely nice man and very easy to be around! The first training was today and we were blown away! The techniques Mark showed us are working already an we couldn’t be more pleased. We are excited to be in control and enjoying our wonderful dogs. Thank you mark for everything!! You are truly the BEST!!
Mary W.
Ashburn, VA
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Mark Renshaw saved my sweet Zena. We adopted Zena from a shelter. She is a Tree Walking Coonhound and we discovered pretty quickly that she was a barking, howling, neighbor infuriating two year old that would not listen to a thing. We also soon discovered that she could be reactive to new people, and a bit aggressive at times. The biggest problem was that she simply could not be controlled or reasoned with. We were on the verge of bringing her back to the shelter, but she is also sweet and very loving that we had to try something to keep her with us. Bark Busters was her last chance. Mark met with us and we started to work with Zena...the first meeting was a bit tenuous. Zena approached Mark with her usual aggressive bark and attitude. He took it in stride and started to train me and Zena on some of the techniques that would help her be less aggressive, reactive, and quell her attempts at being dominant. There…
A.J. H.
Chantilly, VA
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We had a wonderfully great experience with Mark at Bark Busters Home Dog Training Northern Virginia. It was absolutely surprising and shocking how effective Mark's techniques worked with our two pups. I did not expect these two cuties to respond so well and immediately to the guidance and leadership Mark showed us. Mark thoroughly covered the psychology of how dogs perceive their world and the dynamics of how they interact and respond. With the tools and techniques Mark gave us, our pups began obeying our space restriction the first day (not rushing the front door when the bell rings, allowing us to pass through doorways first, and stop jumping up on us or visitors when not wanted). We still have some work to do on going up and down stairs and some house breaking, but we're confident now that our pups will succeed at those in short order. Mark was attentive to our dog's reaction to the training and…
Don B.
Herndon, VA
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We had amazing progress with our first dog training session with Mark Renshaw at Bark Busters, Northern Virginia. He explained the leadership relationship between humans and dogs and helped us understand and speak dog. He explained and demonstrated all the exercises and techniques for us to command our dog Dash. We were amazed of the progress in completing the exercises with Mark’s help. We are looking forward to continuing to practice the training exercises and making Dash the envy of the neighborhood. Moreover, Mark made us feel comfortable about following up with any questions and training assistance.
Richard B.
Chantilly, VA
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Theia is our 6-month-old, near 60lb Bernese Mountain Dog who has done quite well with basic puppy training when we got her at 9 weeks old; however over the past few weeks, has had recurring issues with mouthing, jumping and boundaries. Due to her current size and growth expectations (and my aching muscles from trying to control her), we needed Mark's services and help. When he walked in and stated we would see a change by the end of our time together, we were skeptical, however, we saw Theia's behavior change immediately. A few days later, we still see a great change in her that actually allows us to enjoy our time with her much more. The biggest thing I realized during this training was not that Theia was being trained to do what we needed, but that we were being trained on the correct communication skills so she had the opportunity to learn the habits we wanted her to…
Jennifer S.
Vienna, VA
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I am absolutely shocked by the huge change that one visit has made on me and our dog. Even though we have done some training and I have read various websites, the session today with Mark was simply amazing. If I wasn't there I wouldn't believe the changes. This was 100% worth every dollar and minute spent.
Meg C.
Leesburg, VA
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Mark was very professional and knowledgeable. There was immediate results in his methods in just the first hour. Mark came to meet my dogs, Jasmine and Zeus, to address some sibling rivalry and some unwanted jumping and pulling while on walks. He explained how to get into the mind of the dogs and how to establish dominance. I highly recommend Mark and Bark Busters to anyone who needs.
Jose N.
Aldie, VA
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Can't say enough about the difference one session made with our dog! Her behavior is so much better and she seems happier. Mark explained how and why they use their techniques and practiced them with us until we felt comfortable with them. He even worked with our 5 year old grandson so he could use the techniques and control our dog. I love that they have a lifetime guarantee that this will work. We would highly recommend Mark at Bark Buster's.
David T.
Ashburn, VA
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We have two dogs, even though both very lovable, one was starting to think she was more of the alpha and our male was beginning to show some fear based aggressive tendencies. We knew if we did not get some serious training our dogs could end up negatively affecting all four of our lives. We want our dogs to be happy and content and we were getting concerned with their nuisance barking and sometimes poor behavior on the leash, just to name a couple issues. After some research and taking recommendations we decided to go with Mark Renshaw from Bark Busters Home Dog Training. We loved that Mark came to our home and that we recieved a lifetime guarantee. I would HIGHLY recommend Mark and Bark Busters. Mark was not only kind and professional, he was clear and patient in how he helped us learn to communicate with our dogs. After just one day we could not believe the transformation in our dogs and how…
Sarah Grace F.
Fairfax, VA
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We could not be happier with the results we are already seeing from Bark Busters! Our dog Apollo is 18 months old and has experienced behavioral issues from the start. Prior to Mark coming into our lives, we generally just attributed Apollo's confident personality to his breeds (German Shepherd/Husky/Chow mix) and shrugged our shoulders. When he bit one of our family members, however, we knew things had to change. We tried other trainers such as a 6 week program with Petco but barely saw any results. In just 3 hours of Mark coming into our home, though, Apollo has literally transformed before our eyes. Mark is professional, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable. We couldn't believe that we didn't have to use treats, clickers, or any other gimmicks, but it's true! Apollo is now learning that we are the boss, not him, and that he must respect and listen to us always (something I never thought would be possible before). It is…
Nicolo P.
Ashburn, VA
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Mark talked to us first about what we wanted Luna to learn and then taught us how to do it. I did not think Luna would respond to his methods but she did! We have been continuing to use the new methods and see a remarkable change in our dog.
Merritt W.
Vienna, VA
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Mark is a miracle worker! My puppy, Cooper, needed some basic training, and so did I, as a new dog owner. Mark taught me how to most effectively communicate with my little bud so that we can have an even better relationship. Cooper took to Mark’s training methods immediately, which showed me how easy it would be to maintain discipline going forward. I couldn’t recommend him and the Bark Busters system more highly.
Lauren G.
Sterling, VA
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So happy I found Bark Busters! I worked with Mark and couldn’t be more satisfied with him and the techniques he taught me. I am learning to speak dog and am well on my way to having two wonderful, well mannered dogs. No harsh treatment. No shock collars, choke chains. Not even treats. It’s so simple that it seems like it won’t work but immediately my dogs responded. I highly recommend Bark Busters for all behavioral problems. Your relationship with your dog will grow beyond your wildest expectations.
Jennifer B.
Ashburn, VA
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Mark said at our first meeting he would get Luna to stop jumping on people and not rush the door when the doorbell rang before he left that day. I snickered and thought yeah sure no way. Not only did he stop her jumping all over a new visitor she actually waits for us to call her over to say hello! AND we took her for a walk with his wag walker collar and she was semi behaved. Never has she walked a straight line on a leash before. I cannot believe we waited so long to get help. Mark was amazing.
Merritt W.
Vienna, VA
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Our 4 month puppy was playing so aggressively with our family of 4 I was seriously considering sending her back to the breeder. It didn't seem like normal puppy play but I had never had a dog. We had a dog trainer come to the house when our puppy first came home to get us started with some general commands which she followed very quickly. By the trainers second visit our puppy had begun playing very aggressively and I actually had my kids show the trainer all the kids ripped clothes. The trainer gave us some more tips on controlling this play and the biting but it started to get even worse! After our vet experienced our puppies unruly behavior she confirmed that it needed to be dealt with and quickly. She gave us a list of preferred trainers and said she couldn't attest to all but she knew dog owners that had had great experiences with Bark Busters. Luckily Mark had an opening the day after we called. We…
Missy D.
Vienna, VA
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No Matter the Dog Behavior Issue, We're Experts in Finding the Solution.

Aggressive Dog Training Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Are You Struggling with an Aggressive Dog?

Aggressive dog behavior toward humans or other animals is a learned behavior and can be caused by a number of factors including: improper socialization, dominance, frustration, possessiveness, trauma, neglect, medical issues or fear.

Understanding the root cause of your dog's aggression is essential. Bark Busters Northern Virginia is here to help. Through a thorough assessment, we’ll identify the underlying issue and guide you in implementing effective strategies to address it. Our goal is to reduce the stress caused by aggressive dog behavior while fostering a positive learning experience for both you and your dog.

Get Professional Help Now

For over 35 years, Bark Busters trainers have helped clients overcome a wide range of behavioral challenges, specializing in behavior modification for complex cases, including aggression, separation anxiety, sibling rivalry, and multi-dog household dynamics.

While some trainers avoid working with aggression cases, Bark Busters Northern Virginia has successfully dealt with an array of aggression issues including: 

  • Resource guarding
  • Human aggression
  • Dog-on-dog aggression
  • Food aggression
  • Possessive aggression
  • Territorial aggression 

The best way to help an aggressive dog is to take proactive steps to prevent dangerous situations and seek professional guidance. Prevention is key. If you’re struggling with your dog’s aggression, we’re here to help. Connect with us today.

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What Makes Bark Busters Fairfax and Loudoun Counties 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 Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Professional Dog Training Near You!

Servicing: Aldie, Ashburn, Chantilly, Dulles, Fairfax, Great Falls, Hamilton, Herndon, Leesburg, Lincoln, Merrifield, Oakton, Paeonian Springs, Philomont, Purcellville, Reston, Round Hill, Sterling, Vienna, Washington, Waterford

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Learn more about Bark Busters in Northern Virginia: Fairfax and Loudoun Counties!

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