Dog Training Near Me

There is no such thing as a bad dog, only ones that have learned bad habits.”

I’m Harriet the Vero Dog Hero

I am a dog lover, animal enthusiast, and professional dog trainer. I am super hands-on and believe in teaching dog owners how to get the best out of their dogs. The beauty of my service is that I come to you. We can transform your dog in the comfort of your own home.

I’ve been a trainer for over ten years, specializing in training puppies, service dogs, and scent work (dogs who work with their noses).

I mainly focus on dog obedience training near me in the Vero Beach and Sebastian area. My current focus is on older dog owners and solving their unique challenges. For example, I teach dogs to alert their owners to things they might be unable to hear (doorbells, phones, and alarms).

I want to make the training as easy and stress-free as possible (for you and your dog). This is why I always kick off the training process in your home. Dog training only works because of continuous reinforcement.

Having a dog trainer nearby is crucial, as repetition is your friend. To solidify the training, we need to reinforce it regularly.

As a home dog trainer, I work to create training programs that can tackle single items (jumping, barking, chewing) or a full boot camp. Some things are easier than others to embed, and it also depends on the dog. E.G. Potty training is relatively easy, but some issues can be more challenging (separation anxiety, behavioral issues)

Here is what sets me apart:

Private Dog Training Near Me

I work with one dog at a time.

(If you have more than one dog you would like to train, we can do separate sessions on the same day)

  • Easier for your dog to focus

  • The training is more effective

  • It eliminates competition between pets if there is concern for guarding.

Private sessions ensure we get the most out of the training classes. Most folks think training is just about the dog—it's not. We have just as much work to do with the owners and handlers. Private lessons make a huge difference in increasing the likelihood of success.

In-Home Dog Training Near Me

I work in an environment the dog is familiar with

  • Easier for both dog and owner (remember what those car trips to the vet can be like)

  • The training is more likely to stick as it takes place in the dog's natural environment.

  • Familiar space fosters a positive learning environment free from distractions and smells.

Home dog training is the best way to solidify the training. I use positive reinforcement when training dog behavior.

Low-Cost Dog Training Near Me

I teach you how to reinforce the training so you become the trainer.

  • Dog training doesn't have to cost the world.

  • I teach you how to fish (so to speak), reducing the need for extra classes.

  • The costs of not training your dog can quickly outweigh the savings.

Affordable dog training near you quickly pays for itself. Check out some more findings on this topic here

My Background

My grandmother was a champion gun dog trainer and breeder in Co. Meath, Ireland. I feel my love for dogs and training skills are in my blood! Working with her, watching her, and learning her techniques ignited my passion for dog training. Something I would carry with me for the rest of my life.

Every great journey begins with a single step, and mine began in London, England, as a dog walker. I loved it so much that I quickly founded my dog-walking business catering to time-poor Londoners. I also volunteered for a charity, Canine Partners, and in my spare time, assisted disabled people with service dogs. 

Seeking warmer climes, I made my way to Vero Beach, Florida, and have called it home since 2017.

Dogs For Life was my first gig. I loved assisting veterans with disabilities (hearing, mobility, and PTSD). I learned so much about dogs and people during this time and am grateful for the experience. I also volunteered with the Humane Society of Vero Beach, which allowed me to hone my skills.

Having recently completed an advanced training course with Scent Work UK, I continue to sharpen my saw. I have founded a sister company, On The Nose Scent Training, where I train dogs to detect Citrus Greening.

The American Kennel Club has recognized me as an official evaluator of the Canine Good Citizen test, which is the first step I recommend all dog owners take in training.

Here are some additional areas we can help with

  • Obedience training for dogs near me

  • Dog agility training near me

  • Dog training classes near me

  • Obedience dog training near me

  • Training schools for dogs near me

  • Dog sports

  • Dog learning

  • Dog behavior training near me

  • Reactive dog training near me

  • Behavioral dog training

    The learning path is never complete.

    I hope you will join me on my journey towards making lasting connections between dogs and their owners.

Harriet McCarthy's Signature