At The Polite Dog, we provide compassionate, science-based training for families across Northern Virginia. With over 15 years of experience, we specialize in private coaching for puppies and adult dogs, helping you transform challenging behaviors into clear communication. Every program is fully customized to your goals and takes place in the environments where training matters most, your home, your neighborhood, and your local parks. Schedule your complimentary phone consultation today!
Training & services
Training goals
Leash trainingCustomer-reported
Puppy training
How training happens
Private training
Dog age
Adult dogs
Puppies
Assistance and working dogs
Medical-alert and mobility assistance
Training approach
Positive reinforcement
Additional services
Dog walking
Other listed services
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Behavior Consultants
Day School
Dog Bark
Dog Pick
Dog School
Pet Dog
Training Program
Training Your Dog
Confirm current programs and availability directly.
5/5Mark has been a tremendous help to my whole family. Before we met Mark, both of my dogs were struggling with reactivity on walks and some demand barking in the home. My dogs immediately took to Mark and he was able to work on these behaviors to create more enjoyable walks and mor…Read full reviewClose full review
Mark has been a tremendous help to my whole family. Before we met Mark, both of my dogs were struggling with reactivity on walks and some demand barking in the home. My dogs immediately took to Mark and he was able to work on these behaviors to create more enjoyable walks and more peace in the home. He is very knowledgeable and kind, with a calming presence for both pets and people. He has given our family tools and techniques to be successful and also to deepen our connection and communication with our pets. I feel so lucky to have found Mark and to have benefited from his help. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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Katie G
5/5
Our Belgian Tervuren pulled on the leash as if she was pulling a dogsled, and she was very aggressive with other dogs and people with whom we came in close contact. Mark did an amazing job of training her (and us!) so that she now walks beautifully on the leash and isn't bothered by other dogs or people. He does a great job of teaching both dogs and people!
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Max Laplante
5/5
We had great sessions with Mark! He is knowledgeable, patient and kind. We saw great improvement with our dog's behaviors.
We highly recommend Mark!
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Nick Choi
5/5
I had my puppy trained by Mark and I can’t thank enough for his help. As first time dog owner, I lacked knowledge and experience to raise and train my puppy properly. Mark didn’t only trained my puppy but also provided me with sufficient education so that I can feel confident with continuing the training. My puppy now is a totally different dog and I am truly grateful.
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RC Platenberg
5/5Mark has an exceptional relationship with dogs. One example stands out among many. While walking through a crowded area near the concessions at Great Falls Park, a stream of people were passing a Retriever type of dog on the way back to the main path.
The dog was uninvolved wit…Read full reviewClose full review
Mark has an exceptional relationship with dogs. One example stands out among many. While walking through a crowded area near the concessions at Great Falls Park, a stream of people were passing a Retriever type of dog on the way back to the main path.
The dog was uninvolved with every person walking by until they saw Mark. The dog lifted its head, perched up its ears and began wagging it tail. Mark reached out his hand in passing and the dog looked as if Royalty or a Celebrity had walked past. I saw this happen and have witnessed Mark's interactions with numerous dogs over the years. He has a consistent connection that is unique and quite special.
I highly recommend Mark to you for your dog training needs with absolutely no reservation. Your dog may meet a knowledgeable kindred spirit able to show them the way to becoming-
A Polite Dog.
Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.