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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
  • 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.

About Mark, Master Dog Trainer and Canine Behavioral Therapist

large mark renshaw

Home Dog Training in Loudoun & Fairfax County!

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

I have owned and operated Bark Busters Northern Virginia for more than 20 years, and have had the pleasure of training over 8,000 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

visit my Bark Busters Northern Virginia website

Client Reviews

See what our clients in Northern Virginia have to say

Mark was great and we saw a huge improvement in our 5 month old Lab and 8yr old Goldendoodle. Highly recommended.
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 will.
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.
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 continue working with him as Mark instructed.

If you've tried other methods but have not yet had success - the Bark Buster approach is the way to go and Mark is your guy!
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 more lurching and jumping. If he gets out of line, we can easily call him back into where we need him to be.

We are so very grateful to Mark for what he's done for us! The change in Bennie has been truly astounding.
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.
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 the space so that our dogs feel safe and look to us for direction. We have work to do to reinforce the training and make it our way of life, but we feel very excited and thankful for all of it. Our dogs are much happier as well, even after just a few weeks. We would HIGHLY recommend Mark and Bark Busters to anyone.
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 consistently owning the space and reminding her she can count on us to be in charge.

I know she will test us, but we know this works and will stay vigilant. We're so happy to see how successful we've been so far and how relaxed she now is just hanging out without having to be on constant alert. Thanks Mark!
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 barking or displaying aggression without reason, resists the urge to bolt out the front door, refrains from jumping, waits patiently at staircases until given the signal, responds promptly to recall commands, and has become an absolute delight to everyone he meets. He has blossomed into an absolute sweetheart.

We wholeheartedly endorse Mark's training program. Equipped with the knowledge we've gained, we feel confident in our ability to address and overcome any dog-related challenges that may arise. This training has undeniably improved our dog's behavior and our overall quality of life. If you want to transform your canine companion into a well-behaved and delightful friend, Mark's guidance is the way to go.
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!!
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 was an amazing difference after that first training session. One of my neighbors said, "You'll have to pinch me, I'm dreaming, that can't be the same dog.", another thought that we had decided not to keep Zena. It has really a miracle turnaround. Zena is staying, and she is really the wonderful dog that we knew she could be, thanks to Bark Busters and Mark. We are still working with her every day, and it has been worth the time and cost of the training. Zena is an incredible Best Friend and family member who will be with us for years to come now. I can only say thank you to Mark for his patience, with me and Zena, and for all that he invested in us for this success.
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 adjusted to their personalilites as needed. He answered all our questions and provided fantastic advice and guidance on working with these pups going forward. Best of all, Mark is available to us at anytime to return for adjustments and further training as needed, should issues arise in the coming years.
We are so pleased that we chose Bark Busters Home Training Northern Virginia for our pup's traning because ultimately it's all about making and keeeping these cuties calm and happy in the "Green Zone."
Both of our dogs are rescue dogs from two separate rescue situations. One from Mississippi and one from Texas. They are both very young, one about 6 months old and the other about 4 months old.
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.
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 have.
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.
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.
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.
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 much better they were listening to us AND how much more relaxed they were. Mark truly taught us how to "speak dog" in a way that keeps us from having to raise our voices or pull on our dogs collars in order to remove them from a situation, like when they would jump all over guests at the door. I was so impressed that this training worked so well without treats or e-collars. I can not say enough good things about our experience!
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 honestly life-changing for our family and we will continue with this program forever. I recommend Mark for ANY issues you may be having with your dogs, he is absolutely, hands-down, the best.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 were desperate and hoped he could start us on our way to enjoying our puppy instead of being terrified of her. After the first 30 minutes of training I couldn't believe the results. Mark spent so much time with us and never made me feel like he was in a rush which the first trainer we hired did since they worked on an hourly basis. This level of time is absolutely crucial for getting the training down. Believe me when I say you will pay more for a trainer that is charging by the hour because they will need to come back often. The first visit with Bark Busters will be 2 and 3 hours and yet it felt like it flew by. I am happy to say that it's been 24 hours since Mark stepped in our door and I can not believe the change in the house. I am now walking around signing "Leader of the Pack"!!!
I volunteer with a rescue and last year we hired Mark to work with a dog that acted highly aggressive to other dogs. It was so bad that he could not come to adoption events for months and honestly was one of the worst cases I had seen. Once we got him into a foster home, Mark started working with the foster parents and after the first session, the improvement with Ollie was nothing short of remarkable! Not only could he come to the adoption events without problems but he is now living in a home with another dog and going on play dates every day with the adoptor's mom (who has several dogs). The whole transformation was amazing! After we hired Mark, it was only a matter of a few weeks before Ollie got a great adoption application. We have now just hired Mark to work with another dog and I am completely confident that we will see the same great results. The methods Barkbusters use -- all gentle and easy to learn -- are so effective. I wish we had used Mark and the other trainers years ago with some of the dogs that had some "issues". We have had great success with their other Barkbuster trainers as well but Ollie was such a hard case -- or so we thought --- but Mark showed us what a great dog he could be (indeed was) with other dogs.
Mark was very patient and understanding with our particular needs of our two dogs. He has so much previous experience that has allowed him to understand just about any situation you throw at him with your dog. Through the BarkBuster methods, he has helped my husband and me understand the importance of following through with practicing methods. Mark is really a trainer for trainers versus dogs and helps owners understand the dogs perspective of their actions. While we have only experienced the first day of training, I expect awesome results moving forward if we practice the skills we learned. Thank you Mark for your help bringing our furry family closer together. Highly recommended

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No Matter the Dog Behavior Issue, We're Experts in Finding the Solution.

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.

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.

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.

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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