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Efficient, Holistic, 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
  • Barking
  • Biting
  • Change in Address
  • 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 Patrick, Tom & Minnie, Your Local Professional Dog Trainers

In-Home Dog Training in Southern Charlotte, NC!

Patrick Hickey Bark Busters Home Dog Trainer Charlotte South v2

About Patrick Hickey, Dog Trainer & Dog Behavioral Therapist

I've been an animal lover and dog owner all my life, but my heart still belongs to my 14-year-old Akita, named Karma. Sadly, Karma crossed over a short time ago after living a full and happy life after I rescued and rehabilitated her. I've also been a rescuer all my life, having served my country for more than 20 years in The Army and as a Medevac helicopter pilot. I'm a proud Army veteran and small business owner, and have been a resident of Charlotte, North Carolina for more than 10 years.

In addition to my military service, I've also previously worked at a large financial institution training clients. Through my military and corporate careers, I've dedicated my life to teaching, training, saving, and improving lives.

Now, as your local Bark Busters professional Dog Trainer and Dog Behavioral Therapist, I am able to merge my love and passion for dogs with my desire to teach, train, and rescue. Helping families live happier lives together with their dogs is my passion.

My dog training methods are based on the foundational principals of compassionate leadership, affirmation and praise, and safety and security. I help dog owners and their canine companions communicate, and watch unwanted dog behaviors disappear. 

I look forward to using my skills, experience, and client service to help you and your family with your dog training or puppy training.

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Tom and Minnie Hughes Bark Busters Home Dog Trainers Charlotte South

About Tom and Minnie Hughes, Dog Trainers & Dog Behavioral Therapists

Tom is excited to be part of the Bark Busters Greater Charlotte team where he helps owners and their dogs form stronger, healthier relationships built on communication, trust, and respect. Originally from Long Island, NY, Tom has called Charlotte home for over 30 years. He is also a Personal Trainer at the DOWD YMCA, where he motivates his clients to improve every day. His passion for health and fitness mirrors his dedication to improving the lives of both dogs and their owners.

Minnie has been a dedicated Personal Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor at the DOWD YMCA for 18 years, driven by her passion for fitness and helping people stay healthy and strong. She has 35 years of experience in sales and customer service. A former marathon runner and Boston Marathon finisher, Minnie is also an enthusiastic sports fan, cheering for the Carolina Panthers and enjoying Charlotte Hornets basketball and Charlotte FC soccer games. In 2023, Minnie faced a major challenge when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Now, as a proud cancer survivor, she continues to inspire others with her resilience.

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Veteran Owned Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Client Reviews

See what clients from Charlotte to Ballantyne & Waxhaw say

Patrick is amazing! He was kind and caring and made me and my pups feel at ease. He listens and takes the time to address your concerns. After one visit I see huge changes in my dogs. I could not be happier. Looking forward to completing this journey together and working on makes them be more confident in me as their leader!
Christina Lako
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Wow! I can't say enough good things about Patrick - even after ONLY ONE training session! At the end of our 1st appointment, he had trained my dogs ... or rather, trained ME to train my dogs... to STOP jumping on me (and everyone who came in the door), to stop pulling on their leashes and walking ahead of me but rather to be attentive and walk right next to me, and to come when called! I know I have to work with them to make this new training "stick", but Patrick explained the WHY of what he taught me to do, which totally made sense and will help me stick with it. Thank you, Patrick, for being so incredible! I'll post an update here in a week or so, surely bragging about how well the boys are doing. Note to all: If your dog/dogs are doing ANYTHING that you don't want them to do, like barking, whining, telling YOU when it's time to play, Patrick can help you! I had tried everything - and this is the first time I've seen results.
Elizabeth Drummond
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This review is for Patrick.
We recently started working with Patrick after having worked with Jordan previously. We are happy with the training methodology of Bark Busters and Jordan helped us get started. What I was very pleased with Patrick is that he came in and took our training with our dog Maddie to the next level.

After a few months, we were forgetting the "growl" and letting Maddie rule us again. Patrick quickly straightened that out and within 15 minutes, I was much firmer and Maddie responded immediately. That training with Patrick continues to pay dividends. I don't know what we would have done without Bark Busters. Some reviewers may not like the fact that WE actually need to be trained, not the dogs. They will respond when we know their language.
I highly recommend Patrick and Bark Busters. It seems to me that Bark Busters has been more effective as a training that some of my neighbors who send their dogs away to doggie boot camp and come back and can't maintain it. Again, it is about training us to direct and respond to our dogs in their language; not ours.

We will use Bark Busters again and recommend Patrick to you.
Debbie G.
Charlotte, NC
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I highly recommend Patrick, Minnie, and Tom at Bark Busters. Their training techniques are logical, easy to follow, and deliver results quickly. We saw noticeable improvements right away, and their guidance made a real difference for us and our dog Noah! He gave us the tools for canine communication that we were lacking. This has made a huge difference in our household.
Cynthia Z.
Charlotte, NC
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My wife and I brought home our newborn and our dachshund wasn’t adapting well at all, he was acting like our newborn was a threat he was jumping and nipping at him. We spent hours crying over the thought of having to give our sweet dog away. Patrick and Minnie came out and in one session it was like we had our old dog back. In 30 minutes they had our dog sitting and staying on his bed until we called him off it was amazing to see, never in a million years was our dog doing that before! They were amazing they made the training so simple and easy to do on your own once they leave I can not recommend them enough! They brought our family back together and we will always be truly grateful for what they have done!
Jarrett .
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick came this week to help my dog Ziggy work through some issues with dominant/defiant behavior and even dog-dog aggression. When we met, he said that after the first session, we would probably see a good 70% improvement in Ziggy's behavior. We spent time working on communicating properly with the dog and showing him who is in charge using "dog language" and well as setting boundaries.
I was amazed. When Patrick left about an hour or so later, our boy Ziggy was already acting like a different dog (not to mention he was exhausted from the mental workout). We've been implementing his strategies since and he has absolutely delivered on his promises and can't wait to work with him again in our next session! Thanks Patrick!
Brian .
Monroe, NC
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We had a young male rescue being fostered by an experienced dog lover. Alfie is a long tall Golden Retriever who didn’t have an off switch.
He was bossy to the foster dog and a toy hoarder. Everything and everyone was his, including furniture and humans. He wasn’t hostile but just had no manners that he thought should change. He was getting walks and playtime but decided he could set the rules and dismiss attempts to change them. This didn’t set him up to be a wonderful companion to potential adopters. We called Patrick based on a glowing referral from another of our adopters.
Patrick listened to our issues. Came to visit at the fosters, explained the system and then proceeded to patiently speak dog to Alfie and show him (and us) what was expected and it was a thrill to see how effective it is to ‘speak dog’. I am amazed at how receptive Alfie became immediately. It’s true that most dogs want to fit in, and some have so much energy that needs to be redirected. In under 3 hours Alfie was a happy boy, learning new things and feeling good about it.
All it takes from the humans is repetition.
Alfie now is in a wonderful home and living his best life understanding his place and loving every minute.
Patrick set him up for success and we, experienced dog owners, learned a great foundational skill we can apply to help our rescues in the future.
If you want a trainer who loves and respects your animals and knows how to teach you and them how to break through the communication gap - you need to call Patrick at Bark Busters. I know we will continue to tap into his expertise. He’s a wonderful asset and a terrific human.
He’s more than a 5 Star experience.
Eileen S.
Ballantyne, NC
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Patrick is excellent! He helped us greatly with turning Charlie's behaviors around and he's a great resource for questions or concerns. We enjoyed his methodology and professional approach and it was great for him to see some of the issues happening in real time in our dogs home environment. Would highly recommend him to anybody who is having behavioral or other issues with their dog(s)!
Anthony Lorenger and Meg Murphy .
Elizabeth, NC
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Patrick was great today leading the dogs in the clinic. He has a lot of patience and explains everything very well. He always addresses all our concerns and gives us lots of encouragement. Daisy has learned so much. We appreciate all that he has taught us. We highly recommend Patrick as a trainer.
Caryn N.
Ballantyne, NC
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Patrick tremendously helped my pitty go from wanting to chase the cats with low impulse control to being able to rest in the same room as the cats. Thank you for brining harmony back to my home!
Kathryn .
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick is so patient, thorough and knowledgeable. After the first session I noticed a positive and significant difference with both my resident dog and my foster dog. He took the time to make sure I understood everything. He sets you up for success with specific instructions and actionable steps to take in between sessions. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with him again! Definitely five stars!
Ali
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick Hickey was an answer to our prayer! He was patient taking all the time needed to educate, demonstrate, perform and practice the training exercises. The first session started with a thorough informative and educational discussion regarding communication with the dog. Very detailed handouts were included and have been most helpful. Our 4 year old rescue Doberman (in our care for 2 months) has been a delight with the major exception of leash pulling and a few other issues. After just the initial session with Patrick, our dog is much calmer overall. He will now walk beside us cooperatively and calmly. He is obedient to all commands and methods that were demonstrated and practiced in that first session. Regular, daily, and repetitive practice of the exercises was stressed with a daily checklist of the tasks provided. We have much to learn and practice; we are looking forward to doing it with Patrick's care and guidance. Thank you Bark Busters!
Rebecca
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick was very helpful when he came out to help with one of my foster dogs, Milkshake! We worked on his pulling on leash, claiming the couch, getting him to “stay”, and also just listening better overall! In one session I could see drastic improvement in my foster and his reception to listening to me! I’m very grateful for all that Patrick was able to accomplish so fast!!
Taylor H.
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick Hickey was so amazing to both Bogey and I! He came to my apartment and met Bogey and listened to me explain everything I wanted to work on (and there was a lot being Bogey is my first foster dog and first reactive dog). I cannot thank him enough for all his help, he made me feel more confident when working with my dog, so much that I saw improvement just after the first visit. He is great when handling dogs and made me feel comfortable to step out of my comfort zone with Bogey. He is very knowledgeable and helped a tremendous amount with just the first visit! Cannot recommend him enough
Carlie .
Charlotte, NC
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We are fostering a sweet pit bull from Charlotte Animal Control named Lexie. Patrick came to our house and within 2 hours, Lexie understood I was the pack leader and was following my commands! I couldn’t believe it! Patrick was amazing! He was very patient with Lexie and me and encouraged us every step of the way! I would highly recommend Patrick and their amazing program!
Cindy G.
Waxhaw, NC
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Let me start by saying that our 5-star experience began with our initial call with Meg. She was super knowledgeable and passionate which helped me to get excited about this next phase in our life with our dogs. We have 3 rescue dogs with separation anxiety paired with a strong pack mentality (one boxer mix, one chow mix and one pit-bull mix). Over the years, as life got busier, we found it easier to just "give in" with the dogs which has created major behavioral issues. Three dogs is a lot of work but its time to make a much needed change. Our first child is on the way this spring so we have some HEAVY work to do! We wanted a training program that was humane and would work with us in the our space. Our trainer Patrick was amazing from the moment he stepped foot in our home. He was patient, listened to my myriad of concerns and worked effortlessly to train my husband, my mother and myself to what changes needed to be made. I would be lying if I said that this wasn't ridiculously challenging work, given that we have 3 stubborn dogs. But we saw immediate improvement from day 1!! In three short days, the power is continuing to shift back to my husband and I which is a necessity at this point! We both trust that if we continue to follow the program, each and every day, all of us will have a much better quality of life thanks to Patrick!!!
Andrea P.
Waxhaw, NC
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Patrick Hickey with bark busters came to our home and was amazingly patient with us and our younger foster dog! We are an older couple and really needed baby steps to understand and implement some key training and he helped us SO much. We FULLY recommend his service for your family. We are following through with instructions he left and WE (our dog and us!) are improving daily!
Anne and T.
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick has been helping me our foster, Frankie, from CMPD Animal Care & Control. Frankie has made great progress with Patrick's training tips, and is now a pro at walking on a leash, is probably better behaved than our resident dogs, and is getting over her separation anxiety!
Lindsay S.
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick was great. He came right on time and in just one lesson I feel like I was dealing with a completely different dog. It’s been amazing. My dog also seems much more relaxed on walks. It’s been a win for both of us!
Alex
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick was great. He came right on time and in just one lesson I feel like I was dealing with a completely different dog. It’s been amazing. My dog also seems much more relaxed on walks. It’s been a win for both of us!
Alex
Charlotte, NC
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Thank you for being the exception. It seems every training system today relies on prong and e-collars. I was so excited to find a system that didn't train on fear or punishments. I was even more excited once I learned how it's based on a Dog's natural tendancies. Patrick made an immediate impact. Our dogs started correcting behaviors immediately. I look forward to continuing their training and making the barking, jumping and everything else a thing of the past. Thanks Patrick!!!!
Chris B.
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick was AWESOME! He responded quickly, was on time and very professional. We saw immediate results with our year and half year old schnauzer/poodle mix. He gave us great tips to help with mouthing, leash walking, barking at the door, staying, etc. He also gave us information and a chart for us to continue the work at home and scheduled a follow up visit. We are very thankful to have Patrick as the Bark Busters Charlotte trainer!
Amy and Keith E.
Matthews, NC
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Patrick did an awesome job with me and Darwin!
Steve S.
Indian Trail, NC
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Patrick is a very kind and skilled dog trainer. Highly recommended!!!
Stephen N.
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick did a great job explaining the techniques we need to practice with Dunkin.
He spent over 3 hours on the first visit practicing the techniques both inside and outside.
This was after not being very happy with our first trainer.
There was a noticeable difference.
Nice in what we had with our first trainer and what Patrick went over with us .
Daniel L.
Fort Mill, SC
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Patrick did a great job training my dog, and me! She responded immediately and he continued to encourage us both. He was patient and spent plenty of time with us to make sure we had a good plan for ongoing training. Thanks Patrick!
Kristin T.
Charlotte, NC
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Patrick is a kind and gifted trainer - not just for dogs but for their humans, too. The insight into our dog's psychology - and how our behaviors are influencing him, have been so helpful. And the techniques Patrick taught us began making a difference literally on day 1 of training! Our dog's anxiety has made it tough to have friends over, answer the door, and walk him safely. We're so grateful and relieved to be working with Patrick and for the improvements our whole family is seeing.
Darby M.
Charlotte, NC
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We're Experts in Resolving Unwanted Dog Behaviors

Dog with anxiety Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Is Your Dog Suffering from Symptoms of Separation Anxiety?

If your dog howls, whines, barks or is destructive when you leave them, they may be suffering from separation anxiety. Dog separation anxiety simply means the fear of being left alone. Your dog may be stressed and will stay that way-every day-until you come home. Your dog needs to learn that it is OK for you to leave - because they'll be safe and you will come home.

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can materialize differently in different dogs and in different situations, but may include:

  • Excessive vocalization (howling, barking)
  • Inappropriate toileting
  • Destructive behavior (chewing, digging)
  • Excessive panting
  • Pacing and drooling

Separation anxiety in dogs has several causes, one being incorrect conditioning by owners, where puppies are over-indulged, and never given the chance to become accustomed to being left alone. Over-indulging a puppy also includes allowing it into the house the moment he or she cries to be let in or immediately after you arrive home.

Dog Training Can Help Relieve Separation Anxiety

At Bark Busters Charlotte South, we specialize in addressing separation anxiety in your dog's home environment. If your dog exhibits anxiety upon your departure, professional intervention is vital. Call us at 877-500-2275. Our team provides tailored solutions to alleviate separation anxiety and offer guidance to resolve your specific issues.

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Meet Your Local Professional Dog Trainers, Business Owners

Charlotte South Dog Trainers Tom and Minnie
Bark Busters Charlotte South Dog Trainers
Charlotte South Dog Trainers Patrick Tom and Minnie

What Makes Bark Busters Charlotte, Fort Mill & Waxhaw 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 Charlotte, Fort Mill & Waxhaw, 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: Ballantyne, Belmont, Charlotte, Cramerton, Elizabeth, Fort Mill, Gastonia, Harrisburg, Indian Trail, Matthews, Myers Park, NoDa, Pineville, Plaza-Midwood, Rock Hill, South End, Steele Creek, Uptown, Waxhaw

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