Dog principal

$175

Estimated price

Zip code

Dog training type

Dog training package

Specific behaviors to address

Responds in about 3 hours

Introduction

At Dog Principal, we specialize in Reality-Based Dog Training, providing personalized in-home sessions and real-world training in public areas across Washington, D.C., Arlington, Alexandria, and surrounding areas. Our approach is built on compassion, practicality, and respect for each dog’s unique personality. Whether tackling leash pulling, reactivity, or obedience, we create real-life scenarios so your dog learns in the environments where they need it most. With certification from Tarheel Canine and years of experience training aggressive and high-energy dogs, we deliver results that transform both dogs and their guardians. Choose expert training that fits your life—because your dog deserves the best.

Overview

Serves Bethesda, MD

Background checked

1 employee

3 years in business

Business hours

Sun7:00 am - 9:00 pmMon7:00 am - 9:00 pm

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, Venmo, and Zelle.

Social media

Instagram

Projects and media

39 photos

Projects and media

39 photos

Specialties

Dog training type

Reviews

Exceptional 5.0

10 reviews

100%

Read reviews that mention:

Thumbtack Customer

4 weeks ago

From Google

I had Adam come over to help with my 2 Frenchies. Bruno is 9 and Willie is almost 2. I honestly thought Bruno was a lost cause .lunging at people and other dogs and charging folks at the door. Willie was learning these behaviors as well so I had 2 out of control frenchies !! After only 4 sessions the dogs were walking nicely and learned how to calm down when folks came to the door. Adam left me with easy yet effective ways to make this happen and be consistent and they will only continue to get better. I tried other trainers in the past and has zero results. I highly recommend Adam for any dog !!!!

Dog principal's reply

Hi Christy, Thank you so much for this fantastic 5-star review! We're absolutely thrilled to hear about the progress Bruno and Willie have made. It's truly rewarding to see their positive transformation after just four sessions. You know, we understand the challenges of managing multiple dogs with behavioral issues, especially when those behaviors start influencing each other. Bruno's lunging and charging, and Willie picking up those habits, is something we see often. It takes a dedicated approach to address these issues effectively, and we're delighted that our reality-based dog training methods resonated with you and your Frenchies. At Dog Principal, we focus on practical, real-world solutions. We empower dog owners with the tools and techniques they need to create lasting change, and we're so glad that the methods we shared have proven easy for you to implement consistently. Consistency is key, as you've seen, and we're confident that Bruno and Willie will continue to thrive! Thank you again for recommending Dog Principal so highly! Your trust in our services means the world to us. For anyone in the Arlington, VA area or the wider Washington DC metropolitan region looking for a dog trainer near me or a dog trainer in Arlington VA, we encourage you to reach out! We specialize in reality-based dog training and are passionate about helping dogs and their owners build stronger, happier relationships. We address real-world challenges with effective, practical solutions. Just like Christy experienced with Bruno and Willie, we can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your training goals. Dog Principal - Serving Arlington, VA and the surrounding areas.

Thumbtack Customer

4 weeks ago

From Google

We were very pleased with Adams training sessions. He created customized plan for our two large overexcited dogs and we were able to safely walk them for the first time in two years. He also addressed corrections to stop unwanted behaviors.He was knowledgeable, patient, thoughtful and a great communicator. We highly recommend Adam.

Dog principal's reply

Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a pleasure working with Blue and Rosko, and I’m thrilled to hear that you're now able to enjoy safe, stress-free walks with them after two years. Seeing their progress and helping you achieve that transformation was truly rewarding. I appreciate your trust in my training methods, and I’m always here if you ever need guidance in the future. For anyone in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including Alexandria, VA, looking for expert, customized dog training, I’d love to help! 🐾 #RealityBasedDogTraining #DCMetroDogTrainer

Thumbtack Customer

Jan 17, 2025

From Google

I recently had the pleasure of working with Adam to train my foster english pointer dog, Chester, and I can confidently say that the experience has been transformative for both of us. When I first took Chester in, he was a handful he pulled aggressively on the leash, lunging at other dogs during walks pulled me off my feet, and had even jumped up on the counter in search of food. It was challenging to take him to the park or enjoy outings, as his aggressive behavior towards other dogs made it nearly impossible for adoption events.From the moment I reached out to Adam, it was clear that he was dedicated and knowledgeable about dog training. He took the time to assess Chesters specific needs and crafted a personalized training plan that was both realistic and effective. Adam's hands-on approach was incredibly helpful; he demonstrated techniques that I could easily implement during our walks and at home.One of the most beneficial aspects of working with Adam was his expert recommendations for equipment that would promote good behavior. He guided me in selecting the right collar and leash that would give me better control over Chester and reduce his tendency to pull. The tools he suggested made a noticeable difference right away.Over the course of our sessions, I saw significant improvements in Chester's behavior. Not only was he more manageable on walks, but he also learned to respond positively to commands and cues. Adams methods really encouraged me to build a strong, trusting bond with Chester, which I believe has been key in helping him overcome his issues.Thanks to Adams training, I can now take Chester to the park and enjoy outings without the constant worry of him lunging at other dogs. Its incredible to see how far weve come, and Im genuinely grateful for Adam's support and guidance through this journey.If youre looking for a dog trainer who is knowledgeable, patient, and effective, I highly recommend Adam. He has made a world of difference in Chester's life, and I believe he can do the same for any dog in need of training. Thank you, Adam, for all your help!

Dog principal's reply

Dear Lisa, Thank you so much for sharing your experience with Dog Principal! It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Chester. I’m thrilled to hear that our training approach made a positive impact and helped address your concerns. Chester is an incredible dog, and I’m so proud of the progress he’s made. At Dog Principal, I’m committed to creating tailored solutions that work for both dogs and their families, and it means so much to know that you felt supported throughout the process. Your kind words inspire me to continue making a difference for clients like you and Chester. If you ever need anything in the future or have additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always here to help! Warm regards, Adam Hartman Founder & Trainer

Thumbtack Customer

Jan 15, 2025

From Google

Adam did an outstanding job training both me and Gucci. His calm professional demeanor and knowledge provided a safe, positive and productive environment for success. We trained in many settings in and out of the home. Calling Dog Principal was the best decision.

Dog principal's reply

Thank you so much for your kind words and for trusting me with Gucci’s training! It was a pleasure working with both of you, and I’m thrilled to hear that the experience was positive and productive. Seeing Gucci’s progress and your dedication throughout the training process has been incredibly rewarding. Providing high-quality dog training in Raleigh, NC, is my passion, and I’m so glad I could help create a safe, positive, and productive environment for success. Whether you’re looking for dog training near me, a dog trainer in Raleigh, or personalized training solutions, I’m here to support dogs and their owners. Thank you again for your support—it means so much! If you ever need anything in the future, I’m always here to help. Best regards, Adam Hartman Dog Principal

Thumbtack Customer

Jan 14, 2025

From Google

Adam and Dog Principal are the real deal. Professional, personalized training that works. Yesterday, we went to a park with a large field and our pup was off-leash (near to us so we had control) and listened/obeyed without hesitation even with other dogs and distractions nearby. This was not just a test for Tucker, but also a validation of the techniques Adam taught me. Because, really, the lessons are for the owner AND the dog. Over the course of six weeks or so, we learned about rewards, and words to use consistently (that's the key) and the principles of a repectful, rewarding relationship with your dog. Highly recommend!

Dog principal's reply

Hi Courtney, Thank you so much for this incredible review and for trusting me with Tucker’s training! It’s been an absolute pleasure working with you both and seeing the amazing progress Tucker has made. The strong, respectful, and rewarding relationship you’ve built with him is a testament to your dedication and hard work. I’m thrilled to hear that the techniques and consistency are making such a difference, even in challenging situations with distractions like other dogs. Providing personalized, professional dog training in Raleigh, NC, is my passion, and it’s been so rewarding to see Tucker thrive in off-leash settings. If you ever need anything or additional training support, whether you’re looking for dog training in Raleigh or dog training near me, I’m always here to help. Thank you again for your trust and support—it means the world to me! Best regards, Adam Hartman Dog Principal

Credentials

Background Check

Adam Hartman

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My training sessions are $175 per session, with each session lasting one hour. However, the first session is always 1.5 hours at no additional cost. This extra time allows me to thoroughly assess your dog’s behavior, understand your training goals, and answer any questions—ensuring a tailored approach right from the start. I offer: • Private In-Home Training – Personalized 1-on-1 sessions at your home. • Public Space Training – Real-world practice in parks, neighborhoods, and public areas. • Multi-Session Packages – Discounts available for clients who commit to multiple sessions. My focus is on delivering real, lasting results, not just temporary fixes. Every session is designed to build a well-behaved, confident, and happy dog that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
1. Initial Consultation – I assess your dog’s behavior, training goals, and lifestyle. 2. Customized Training Plan – Based on the assessment, I design a structured plan focusing on obedience, behavior modification, or specialized skills. 3. Hands-On Training – Sessions take place in-home for foundational work and in public areas for real-world exposure. 4. Owner Involvement – I teach you how to reinforce training, ensuring lasting results. 5. Progress Updates & Adjustments – We adapt as needed to ensure long-term success.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a graduate of Tarheel Canine one of the best police dog training schools in the U.S. My hands-on training covers obedience, behavior modification, and working with high-drive and aggressive dogs. Additionally, I have three years of professional experience specializing in in-home and public space training, ensuring dogs learn in real-life environments where they need structure the most.