Janet is incredible working with puppies. She took great care of our dog, Annie, while she was with her and made sure to keep us updated on her progress. She is very responsive and helps teach us how to continue all the training back at home. We would highly recommend working with Janet.

Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland
Silver Spring, Maryland
About Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland
Pawz For Health Dog Training Maryland, provides in home dog training servicing areas: Silver Spring, Bethesda, Kensington, Olney, Rockville, Ashton, Fulton and surrounding areas. We use positive reinforcement dog training methods and never support the use of shock collars ever! We work with puppy behavior problems such as: Puppy manners, crate training, housebreaking, jumping, puppy biting/nipping, separation anxiety, leash walking, off leash walking, coming when called, obedience (sit/down/stay/off/leave it/drop it/door manners. We train owners to train their dog through developing a trusting respectful relationship. Janet Oquendo is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer & Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Call a Certified Trainer now.
Training & services
Training goals
- Behavior consultation
Program details
We work with all dog and puppy behaviors, from basic obedience / manners training : Sit, lay down, come when called, stay, door manners, jumping and leash walking. Using positive reinforcement dog training techniques only.
- Crate training
- House training
- Leash training
- Obedience training
Program details
Basic puppy manners; sit, down, stay, no jumping, leash walking.
- Puppy training
Program details
Our puppy obedience training programs are fun, simple, and effective. We use 100% positive reinforcement dog training techniques, and do not support the use of any harmful dog training techniques. Your puppy’s physical and emotional wellbeing is our commitment.
Our services are unique in that all puppy training is carried out with the home of the trainer. Ensuring your puppy continues to gain skills within a home/ living environment. We never kennel dogs outside, all puppies will get crate training, housebreaking, leash walking, socialization.
We offer puppy training in Maryland and surrounding areas. We are certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT-KA) and Certified Dog Behaviorist (CDBC).
We offer a unique puppy board and train program. Your puppy will live in our home for up to two (2) weeks working on crate training, house breaking, basic manners, leash walking, as well as receiving invaluable puppy socialization with other puppies and socialized adult dogs in our home environment. we never use pain to train, we use 100% positive reinforcement dog training techniques only.
Puppy manners, crate training, housebreaking, leash walking, puppy socialization
- Socialization
Behavior support
- Chewing
- Fear and confidence
Program details
Helping shy and fearful dogs overcome their anxiety. Working with dogs and owners to help their dog develop confidence and reduce overall fear and anxiety through positive reinforcement dog training techniques.
- Reactivity training
- Resource guarding
- Separation anxiety
How training happens
- Board and train
- Day training
- Group classes
- In-home training
- Owner coaching Customer-reported
- Private training
Dog age
- Adult dogs
- Puppies
Program details
Working with puppies who are puppy biting. Helping the puppy learn how to use their mouth appropriately and not to bite their owners. Teaching bite inhibition (soft mouth) and understanding how to interact with the family without biting.
Training level
- Beginner training
Support between sessions
- Follow-up support
- Personalized training plans
Your dog’s background
- Rescue dogs
Training approach
- Positive reinforcement
Additional services
- Boarding
Other listed services
View 22 additional details
- Dog training
Program details
Our Dog training programs are providing to all breeds of dogs, of all ages, exhibiting undesirable behaviors. We recognize that once dogs reach their adult developmental stage, their behavior changes. We provide dog training programs to meet all needs.
- Animal Behavior Consultants
- Animal Rehabilitation
- Animal Rescue
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultants
- Certified Dog Trainer
- Certified Dog Trainer - CCPDT-KA
Program details
Certified professional dog trainer, through council for certified professional dog trainer. Using positive reinforcement dog and puppy training techniques only.
- Challenging Behavior
- Day Stay
- Dog Bark
- Dog Behavior Assessment
- Dog Bite Prevention
- Dog Leash
- Dog Parents
- Dog Training Maryland
Program details
We offer dog training in Maryland and surrounding areas. We are certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT-KA) and Certified Dog Behaviorist (CDBC).
- Dogs Health
- Kids And Dogs
- Overnight Camp
- Shock Collars
- Shy Dogs
- Veterinary Behaviorist
- Pet training in Maryland
Program details
If you are looking for a pet trainer in Maryland please get in touch with our certified dog and puppy trainer. We are only using positive reinforcement.
Confirm current programs and availability directly.
Business-stated qualifications
Qualifications stated by the business, not independently verified.
- Training team
- CDBC
Questions & answers
From GoogleWhat people have asked about this business.
I have a 2.5 yo male chesapeake bay retriever not fixed who is very stubborn. Growls at us shows his teeth etc. Need a good trainer. Maybe a long term setting Any advice
Maybe he just doesn't like you.
Community answer · Harrison DySard · 2024-09-21
Yes. Please get in touch with me by filling out the contact form on the website. Thank You.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2024-09-21
What is positive reinforcement training?
Positive reinforcement training is scientifically proved to be the most effective method of training, using rewards! Rewards can consist of high value food, praise, toys, attention..i.e. anything the dog wants and views as a reward. Positive reinforcement ensures your dog is more likely to repeat the behavior consistently and is the most highly used method in this modern day to change your dog's behavior.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How do I deal with a dog that has aggression?
First of all seek out a certified professional dog trainer or a certified dog behaviorist. Aggression can be the result of many emotional issues and it's important that you are able to identify the underlying cause of this behavior. Once the underlying cause has been established working with a certified professional who utilizes positive reinforcement dog training techniques is key. Aggression can often be the result of lack of trust or fear so in order alleviate fear in your dog trust must be established using positive reinforcement techniques. It's important to avoid any punishment based training at all costs. Punishment will only result in mistrust and is likely to escalate the dog's aggressive behavior.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How do I choose a good dog trainer?
Always check the credentials of a dog trainer. There are many professional organizations which certified dog trainers in specific skill areas. The majority of positive reinforcement dog trainers often belong to professional certification organizations. Find the organization and check if the trainer you are considering using is certified. Always research dog trainers, get references. If you identify that a dog trainer uses any techniques other than positive reinforcement dog training techniques avoid them at all cost. You should always use a trainer who is positively motivating your dog and not using aversive training methods which results in fear and intimidation.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
Is it possible to train an older dog?
YES! It certainly is. There are however factors to consider. If your dog is older it's likely he or she has had a significant amount of time to practice and exhibit undesirable behavior or bad habits. So bearing that in mind it can take a little while to undo some of those habits, but as with any training as long as you maintain a high level of routine, repetition and patience there is no reason why your older dog cannot achieve the same goals as a dog who is much younger - it just might take a little more time.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How do I deal with a dog with anxiety issues?
This is a specialist area! Dogs that exhibit anxiety usually have underlying issues. Therefore contacting a certified professional or a veterinary behaviorist is likely the best option as they will be able to identify the triggers and the best solution to address the anxiety. Anxiety can be a medical condition which will require the intervention of a veterinary behaviorist.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How can I train my dog to stop barking excessively?
As with any behavior we have to identify why the dog is barking. There are several reasons why dogs bark i.e. Territorial / protective barking, fear and anxiety, or boredom. So each of the reasons require different techniques and responses. If possible provide your dog with safe doggie activities to do throughout the day to alleviate boredom, i.e the use of Kongs, or stuffed marrow bones, give your dog plenty of exercise to burn of excess energy helping them to relax and sleep as opposed to barking, as tired dog does less barking! You can also teach your dog the command “quiet” in a calm but first voice say ‘quiet” and when they are quiet for a period of time they are rewarded. Whatever the reason is for your dogs barking, ensure it's not allowed to continue as it becomes a habit and is difficult to stop.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How do I teach my dog to come when called?
This is a “simple” one: always reward your dog for coming when you call them. At first you can use a piece of high value food.. you call your dogs name and reward with a treat. Once your dog is responding well and coming consistently using a high value treat you can then call your dog and provide them with 5-10 seconds of physical praise i.e. rubbing them playfully on their torso. Repeating this exercise will teach your dog every time you call them “something good happens” as a result calling your dog results in them responding consistently.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
What should I do if my dog is not responding to training?
Assess why your dog is not responding to training! Are you communicating clearly to your dog what behavior you are looking for? Dogs often get mixed messages from their owners as a result the dog becomes confused and is unable to respond to your training requests. Other factors to consider is your dog fearful? Is the environment conducive for your dog to learn and respond to training? i.e. is it free of distractions? Are you using high enough value food? Are you giving your dog enough time to process the training requests so he understands? Are you providing enough motivation for your dog to respond? Once all the factors have been resolved there is no reason why your dog should not respond to training.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How long does it take to train a dog?
There is no one time frame that fits all when you are training your dog. There are so many factors to consider when training. i.e. the age of the dog, how much training the dog has previously had (if any), the stress level of the dog-stressed dogs take longer to learn as they have to ensure they trust the process before they can progress and this can take time again. Each dog is different. If you remain patient and consistent, your dog will achieve the desired goal.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
What is the best way to train a dog?
The most effective way to train a dog is first of all ensure you utilize positive reinforcement dog training techniques. Positive reinforcement training is where we provide the dog with a reward every time he or she performs the behavior we desire. The Use of positive reinforcement ensures your dog will reliably repeat the behavior he or she is being rewarded for. When you start training your dog, be sure to minimize any distractions to help your dog remain focused on you, and train in short segments to avoid your dog losing interest and becoming disinterested and overwhelmed. Be sure to exercise patience and consistency as all dogs learn at a different pace and only move onto a new training area once your dog has mastered and fully understood the basics. Also ensure you and your dog have fun as it enhances learning and develops a lasting bond between you and your dog.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
Can I train my dog to do tricks at home?
YES you can! Usually training at home is easier and more relaxed for dogs to learn. Training your dog at home provides the dog with a familiar environment which is familiar and relaxing as a result training tricks at home becomes fun and rewarding.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How much does dog training usually cost?
It all depends on what dog training service you are looking for. The cost for group classes is significantly less than private in home training. If you use a certified professional through an accredited association the cost is likely to be more expensive as you are utilizing the services of a trained, qualified expert with qualifications to back up their knowledge. You can also use a trainer who is not certified but you run the risk of limited knowledge without any expertise to back up the training being provided.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
Can I train my dog myself, or do I need a professional trainer?
There are many do it yourself training books on the market as well as a variety of resources on the internet. Oftentimes the resources available are great references and many dog owners have been able to follow them with some success. However as all dogs are not the same and all have varying degrees of behavior training requirements using some of the generalized training resources may not apply to the specific challenges you are having with your dog. Seeking out the help of a certified professional dog trainer or behaviorist allows the professional to identify exactly what your dog needs and modify training to accommodate your dogs behavior to meet your training goals.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How can I tell if my dog is enjoying training or not?
This is all about body language! Reading your dog's body language is an important factor when you are trying to gauge how your dog is feeling about training. If your dog has a soft wriggly body, mouth open (looks like he or she is smiling), tail soft and wagging, eyes are soft and focussed on you, the owner, they are playful and enthusiastic. It's highly likely your dog is enjoying training.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
How often should I train my dog?
Every dog is different, as all dogs learn at different levels and some have a different capacity to retain the information than others. Depending on your dog, You should consider training little and often. Dogs learn quicker and more consistently if you train in shorter durations. It doesn't have to be every day it could be 2-3 times a week but whatever the training schedule you afford your dog, be sure to provide it consistency. It's more effective to train your dog 10 minutes a couple times a day rather than 1hr once a week with no follow up reinforcement after that 1 hr training session. Repetition is key to ensuring you get consistent results from your dog.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
What are 3 common mistakes to avoid when training a dog?
Some common mistakes people make when training their dog is 1) the dog owner assuming the dog knows exactly what you want. Ensure you have effectively communicated the behavior you are desiring your dog to perform and ensure you reward immediately. 2) rewarding too slow! If the dog provides you with the behavior you are looking for you must ensure you reward that behavior immediately as it occurs. This ensures the dog makes the connection between the behavior he or she has performed and the reward. 3) Yelling at your dog. Yelling at your dog during training is not effective and will not result in your dog performing the behaviors you desire any quicker, actually its highly likely the dog will begin to show fear and shut down from training all together. Always make training fun and positive.
Community answer · Pawz For Health Dog and Puppy Training Maryland · 2023-09-21
Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.
Customer reviews
Google listingMentioned in reviews
- Crate training 44
- Positive reinforcement 42
- Leash training 41
- Potty training 23
- Calmer dog 11
- Board and train program 8
All 10 topics
- Puppy socialization 7
- Holistic approach 5
- Dog behavior expert 3
- Board and socialize program 2
Google review topics, not confirmed services.
Janet has been wonderful to work with on socializing and training our puppy. He got very sick while he was staying with her and we were away on vacation. Janet nursed him back to health, buying and cooking him a special diet. We are so grateful to have someone like Janet, that we…Read full reviewClose full review
Janet has been wonderful to work with on socializing and training our puppy. He got very sick while he was staying with her and we were away on vacation. Janet nursed him back to health, buying and cooking him a special diet. We are so grateful to have someone like Janet, that we can trust. It’s been invaluable to have her expertise to rely on while our puppy transitions from adoption to our family.
High, high, high recommend for Janet and Pawz for Health. I got Milo when he was about 11 weeks old and needed guidance on how to train him so we both could have a good start/build a good foundation. Janet is very knowledgeable and accommodating, Milo took to her right away. He s…Read full reviewClose full review
High, high, high recommend for Janet and Pawz for Health. I got Milo when he was about 11 weeks old and needed guidance on how to train him so we both could have a good start/build a good foundation. Janet is very knowledgeable and accommodating, Milo took to her right away. He spent 1 week at PFH Puppy Camp. Janet would send video updates and was responsive to any e-mails/questions. Milo had a blast, made new puppy friends, and learned a lot of skills quickly, which have been easy to continue with once he came back home since Janet provided us with a schedule, tips, and advice before and after camp. I would have Milo do another week with Janet in a heartbeat.
Putting my puppy into Janet's care at Pawz for Health for Puppy Socialization Camp was the best thing I could have done to improve my small pug puppy's confidence with other dogs and behavior in general! I was recommended to Pawz for Health by another puppy parent and am so happy…Read full reviewClose full review
Putting my puppy into Janet's care at Pawz for Health for Puppy Socialization Camp was the best thing I could have done to improve my small pug puppy's confidence with other dogs and behavior in general! I was recommended to Pawz for Health by another puppy parent and am so happy I went ahead with the 7-day boarding program. My puppy was previously displaying a fearful response to other dogs on our walks and at our Puppy Kindergarten class: hiding behind me and barking at other puppies and running away if they tried to sniff her. After only 7 days staying with Janet, I saw vast improvements in my puppy's behavior - she was brave and exploratory now instead of fearful. She greets other dogs politely and calmly now and is excited to initiate play with other puppies. She no longer cowers in fear of other dogs, but LOVES to play and romp around with other dogs. Everyone in our weekly Puppy Kindergarten class commented on the amazing difference they saw in her behavior in the next class during free play time. Another great outcome from my puppy's stay at Pawz for Health was crate training. I previously had my puppy in a larger playpen at home, which was great for when she was little, but now that she was growing and could hold her potties longer, it would be more convenient to have her crate trained. My puppy came back home from camp very comfortable to be in a crate, with no crying or whining and willingly enters her crate to sleep. A third lovely outcome of Pawz for Health's puppy socialization camp was that my puppy plays with ME way gentler! She has learned to use her mouth softer to play with me and no longer bites or nips too roughly when we play with toys at home. This has been such a relief to my hands :) One week after returning from Pawz for Health's puppy socialization camp, I took my puppy to Dogtopia, a doggy daycare facility, for a behavior assessment to see if she would do well in their open-play environment and she scored A+ across the board with greeting humans, greeting dogs, and comfortability in a crate for break times. She warmed up to the dogs in the playroom quickly (there were like 20 dogs in there!) and made several friends on Day #1. If you want a well-socialized puppy and are considering Pawz for Health - DO IT!!! It is so so worth it.
We sent our 9 week old standard Bernadoodle to Janet for her two week socialize and train program -- and we couldn't have been more pleased. When our puppy came home he was no longer nipping, could walk w/o issue on his leash, did well in his crate (after 2 days of acclimating to…Read full reviewClose full review
We sent our 9 week old standard Bernadoodle to Janet for her two week socialize and train program -- and we couldn't have been more pleased. When our puppy came home he was no longer nipping, could walk w/o issue on his leash, did well in his crate (after 2 days of acclimating to home) and was just a happier, more relaxed little guy. Janet was easy to work with and kept us updated throughout the process. We drove 3 hours to reach her and she is absolutely worth the trip!
Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.