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Your Trusted Partner for Pet Training & Care Solutions
The DogSmith Of The Blue Ridge exists to enhance the lives of pets and their owners by improving their relationship and the quality of life they share. We provide professional support and training to dog owners while supporting animal shelters and rescue organizations to minimize the number of unwanted animals. Our services include force-free, learning-theory-based dog training programs that form the foundation of our professional pet-sitting and dog-walking services. We emphasize a holistic approach to dog training and pet care, attending to the physical, emotional, and environmental well-being of pets in our care. Our behavior consulting case management philosophy is grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis, focusing on observable relationships between a dog's behavior and its environment.

We work with clients to develop specific, measurable, and realistic behavior change programs tailored to their goals. As a founding member of Pet Advocacy International, we promote ethical standards and consumer protections in the pet care industry. Our proprietary education system (ARRF) and operational implementation process (MTR) ensure consistent, science-based service delivery. We are committed to transparency, evidenced by our publicly available training approaches and code of conduct. With operations across the USA, UK, and Spain, we combine extensive corporate experience in leadership and customer service with specialized expertise in dog training and behavior consulting.
Services
Dog Training Pet Care Virtual Training Behavior Consulting Dog Walking Puppy Training Training Retreat KittySmith Services
Highlights and features
  • We implement science-based training methods grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis
  • Our programs include measurable goals with set timelines for behavior modification
  • We provide support through check-up communications even after service completion
  • Our founder holds multiple certifications including PCBC-A and PCT-A designations
  • We maintain transparent operational practices with publicly available training protocols
Associations and certifications
  • Pet Professional Accreditation Board
  • Pet Advocacy International
What people say
Patient, professional trainers Highly recommend services Effective behavior modification Excellent puppy classes Professional agility training
Services
Dog Training
Our dog training programs utilize force-free, learning-theory-based methods grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis. We address behavioral issues through functional assessments that examine environmental factors influencing canine behavior. Our customized programs include measurable goals with set timelines to ensure effective learning outcomes for both pets and owners.
Pet Care
Professional pet care services include in-home visits, dog walking, and scientifically-based enrichment systems. Our DogVenture program promotes physical and mental health through structured activities tailored to each pet's specific needs while owners are away from home.
Behavior Consulting
Expert evaluation and modification of challenging canine behaviors using evidence-based approaches. Our consultants develop individualized programs that focus on observable behavior-environment relationships, implementing positive reinforcement techniques to create lasting behavior change while improving owner-pet relationships.
Virtual Training
Flexible web-based training solutions that maintain scientific rigor while offering remote accessibility. This service provides structured learning modules and real-time consultation with certified professionals, ensuring consistent application of behavior modification principles in various home environments.
Puppy Training
Specialized programs for young dogs covering basic training through advanced socialization. Our curriculum addresses developmental milestones while teaching owners effective communication techniques, establishing foundational behaviors that prevent future behavioral issues through positive reinforcement methods.
People
Niki Tudge
Founder & President
Certified Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant with MBA from Oxford Brookes University. Founder of The Pet Professional Guild and DogNostics Career College. Holds multiple certifications including PCBC-A, PCT-A, and Six Sigma Black Belt. Published author on dog training and behavior consulting.
Questions
What training methods does DogSmith Of The Blue Ridge use?
We use force-free, learning-theory-based methods grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis that focus on positive reinforcement and environmental behavior modification.
Do you offer services outside the USA?
Yes, we operate across the USA, UK, and Spain with locally certified professionals in each service area.
How are behavior programs structured?
Our programs are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic with set timelines developed through functional behavior assessments of each dog's environment.
What pet care options are available?
We offer in-home pet visits, dog walking, DogVenture enrichment systems, and scientifically-based boarding services with certified care technicians.
Are virtual training options available?
Yes, our web-based training solutions provide flexible access to certified professionals through structured learning modules and real-time consultation.
How do you ensure service quality?
We maintain transparency with publicly available training protocols and hold accreditations from The Pet Professional Accreditation Board and Pet Advocacy International.