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Atlantic Coast K-9 Training Service

Charlottesville, Virginia

(42)
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‘21 Certificate of Excellence, 2021

About

We are a Full Service, Professional Dog Training business offering training in Basic and Advanced Obedience, Schutzhund/IPO, Personal Protection, Search and Rescue, Explosives and Narcotics Detection, Service Dog Training and Security Services.

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Reviews (42)

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5/5

42 customer reviews

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5 May 2022

Ralph is an excellent trainer and completely turned around a dangerous aggression issue that had developed with my one year-old German Shepherd dog. The situation was pretty desperate when I first contacted Ralph. Our puppy had already bit me and my daughter, her primary care givers, on several occasions, and not just play bites, serious ones. I had already worked with two other trainers but the situation was not improving, if anything it was getting worse. Ralph and I talked for over an hour when I first contacted him and he was very concerned. He wasn’t sure if he could help me but he said that if the situation could be fixed it would be through a solid foundation of basic obedience. I signed on for the training and Ralph was 100% correct. We built up a solid foundation of obedience training and were able to completely turn the situation around. Any sign of aggression was countered by an obedience command which then shut down the aggressive behavior. It worked and now after just 6 sessions, I have a smart, obedient, and loving dog. Of course we still have work to do but I am very grateful to Ralph for giving me the tools that I needed to change the situation. You are a hero Ralph, thank you so much! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

2 May 2022

Best dog trainer in Virginia! Ralph is very knowledgeable and compassionate about what he does and he has many years of experience.

Reviewed on Facebook

1 May 2022

I recently wrapped up level 1 protection training with Ralph at Atlantic Coast K9. It was the best investment in my dog to date. I am pleased with Ralph's commitment to the practice and his knowledge and communication. He can effectively break down each command, action, stance, movement, etc., in a way that is easy to understand. I was driving just under two hours to visit Ralph every Saturday, and I would do it over again if I could. Thanks for everything Ralph and I am thankful that my girlfriend and I now have a Belgian Malinois that is capable of protecting us should she ever need to. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

24 April 2022

We had our golden doodle, Pono, stay with Ralph in February of 2021 for a board and train. He would bark at passing dogs and squirrels anytime we were on a walk. When I picked him up he was completely dirty and smelled like urine; and he was even more reactive to dogs and squirrels. The training did not help at all with his behavior. Whenever I try to contact Ralph to get clarification or ask for guidance he wouldn’t answer my calls or respond to my emails. Ghosted. So eventually my husband and I stopped trying to contact him and soon after moved away. We spent a lot of money to have our dog regress in his behavior. Since then we have worked with other trainers and had much better results. I feel terrible for leaving my dog there, and do not recommend the board and train to anyone. I always meant to write a review but never got around to it. Hopefully this helps someone avoid a bad experience and the guilt I have about my dog staying there. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

26 July 2021

Ralph is an amazing trainer and did an excellent job with my sons stubborn Rottweiler . I highly recommend him for any type of dog.

Reviewed on Facebook

21 July 2021

Ralph really teaches the classes well for both the dog and the owner. Over the six week class my dog has learned everything that was taught in his obedience class. Overall it was a great experience and would recommend Atlantic Coast K-9 Training Service to anyone that is looking to train their dog. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

21 May 2021

Ralph is an amazing trainer and we thank him for training Pyro to be the best he can be! He is teaching him protection work and takes a beating from Pyro twice a week! You are awesome Ralph! See you next week. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

10 December 2019

Brought my dog in for some behavioral corrections, and ended up with working foundational manners! My dog took well to the training and Ralph does it in a sinple way for it to happen quickly and effectively. We now have polished new manners, although the better behavior comes with consistent patience and continued practice of what Ralph has trained both us on. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for this service. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

12 September 2019

Ralph was absolutely fantastic working with my Labrador Retriever Cooper and I. He was thorough, educational and EXTREMELY patient with the neurotic nature that Cooper came in with. He was able to help me communicate with Cooper and work with him to get a confident, cooperative and most of all obedient dog that will be able to go on to be not only a successful family member but a great potential therapy dog in the future. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

26 June 2019

Ralph Smith with Atlantic Coast K-9 is amazing. Even though our golden/lab mix is unlikely to do protection or agility work, Ralph patiently taught her (and me! ) how to focus and got our dog to consistently respond to all of the fundamental commands. Our dog now sits when we tell her, and knows the difference between sit and down, which is something she definitely did not get with previous trainers. She is now great on leash, and vastly improved when interacting with strangers. Our dog even listens to our elementary school-aged kids. Highly recommend! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

19 June 2019

Ralph not only took great care of our Zoe but she completed Obedience Training ???? Thank you Atlantic Coast K-9 Training Service!

Reviewed on Facebook

16 June 2019

Our Great Dane was too big and stubborn for other trainers in the area.. lots of waisted money and time. We were pleased to find Coast K-9 Training who taught our puppy to sit, lay down, stay, come and walk on a leash. Highly recommend!

Reviewed on Facebook

16 May 2019

When we got our 3 month old Plott Hound 3 months ago, we knew she would benefit the best from one-on-one training rather than in a group situation. I searched online and found Atlantic Coast K9. I read all the reviews I could find and was very impressed with Ralph's history and the scope of his training. Needless to say, our Plott Penny graduated yesterday from his Silver package at 6 months of age! Ralph doesn't tell you just "how to do it" he explains the reasons behind WHY his training methods are so effective. It helped us to understand Penny better and to solidify the training steps in our own minds so that we could be the best we can be for our pup and to help her be a well behaved, happy dog. We are so proud of her and greatly enjoyed the sessions with Ralph and will always highly recommend him to anyone searching for training for their dog that goes that extra mile and when you look down, your pup is heeling right beside you. :) More...

Reviewed on Facebook

17 March 2019

5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️We took our dog Lucy who is a standard golden doodle to Ralph for off the leash dog training. We trained during the winter so we have several missed lessons because of the weather but Ralph kept her on track and did a wonderful job with her. He is very accommodating and worked with our crazy schedule. She is so much more enjoyable to walk and we feel she is safer because she knows what we expect. She responded well to him and he gave her great praise. She graduated this weekend. We were so please with his training ability and the results, we plan to continue with him to get her good citizen award. I highly recommend him! Since going to him I’ve met several people in the area who’ve used his services as well and have had the same positive experiences. He also guarantees his work! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

10 December 2018

We took our German Shepherd, Otto to be trained by Ralph! He did an excellent job working with Otto. I would tell anyone to go see Ralph with their dog.

Reviewed on Facebook

30 October 2018

Went there for months. Great place and great people. The owners are fun and teach classes and the other instructors are awesome. Highly encourage anyone looking in to getting fit to try this place out. They are patient working with new people. The atmosphere is such that everyone encourages everyone else. Even if your a beginner the most advanced people pay you on the back. All I can say is, try this place. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Ralph did a great job with my Doberman, Dillon. Highly recommended!!

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Atlantic Coast K-9 training services is a 5 star for sure. Josie and I are so please with Ralph Smith!

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Ralph and his training made all the difference in the world in our 8 year old lab mix's behavior. Her focus is amazing- taking her for walks is enjoyable for her and us. .....I appreciate your work and learned as much if not more than her. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Ralph did a great job with our lab, Casey. He's a joy to walk, take to restaurant patios and bring anywhere around Charlottesville. He patiently waits for his food, listens to commands, has better focus and overall was a great dog before but now an all-star! Thanks, Ralph! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Ralph was recommended by our breeder and we are so thankful we found him! We are currently training toward IPO titles (obedience, tracking and protection sport) with our Doberman Pinscher. Ralph really takes the time to answer all of our questions, to demonstrate the techniques and to assist us with continuing to practice at home. The results have been immediate and lasting! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Ralph Smith is a gifted trainer. His high level of excellence, honesty and integrity are unique and rare in these times. I signed up for the ultimate package and am extremely pleased with the training so far. My GSD is 16 months old and does not always respond to training the way that is expected, however, Ralph adapts and finds a method that works. Ralph's methods are systematic and paced on how your dog responses. I never feel like I am being hurried along. My dog is well behaved and responses to the commands we have put in place. I could not be happier. We will be taking our Canine Good Citizenship soon and I am confident we will have no trouble passing the test. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Hands down the best trainer a person could ask for. We had a very hard headed Pit Bull before we met Ralph. Even though I only paid for a certain amount of his time, he would not give up on getting the dog to do the things he said he would have him doing before we were done. I have a 4 year old son and you wouldn't believe how good the dog listens to him. You could put a big juicy chicken breast right in front of him and he will not touch it until we tell him it's okay. In the future I would take any dog to this man right here before anyone else. I recommend anyone with a dog trying to train it to do anything to go here. He even went as far as teaching me to get the dog to do really cool tricks that I would not have known how to do otherwise. I couldn't tell a person enough how important taking a class with this company has did for me and my family. If you want a really smart dog that will listen to you, not pull you around on a leash, or listen well enough to not even need a leash, GO HERE!!!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Out of all the dog training facilities we have gone through with our Dobies.. hands down the best one! Highly recommend, Ralph is very knowledgeable and thorough! Can't wait for Camorra's next class, and to bring our other 2 in!�� More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Ralph did amazing work with my German Shepherd Ares. He truly is a master of his profession and by far one of the best in Virginia. He gave me constant updates on my dogs progress and met with me several times to show me step by step instructions on the training. This is more then just a job for him this is his passion and he's amazing. Whatever issues your dog may have or what ever level of training you want this is the go to guy who will go above and beyond! Keep it up Sir!!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

I took my GSD mix, Bandit, to Ralph hoping to correct pulling while walking on-leash and help him listen to commands better while distracted. After the first week, Bandit greatly improved with walking on leash. Today, Bandit graduated from the “Gold Package” training program and I’m very impressed with how focused he has become and the transformation from our first session to now is incredible. Ralph used his expertise to individualize training every week, only proceeding at the pace of my dog and I learning the necessary information and building on the skills each week. I appreciate that he took the time to explain why he teaches things a certain way and we never felt rushed to get through our classes. I’ve received compliments from friends on how well-behaved Bandit is while out and about now!

I love the new and improved Bandit and I’m so thankful for the training he received with Ralph! I definitely recommend Atlantic Coast K-9!
More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

Lalah, my soon to be 9 month old Rough Collie, just graduated from obedience training today. Ralph Smith, owner and trainer at Atlantic Coast K-9 Training Service, is the consummate professional. Lalah's progression was just as Ralph promised and she has achieved all of her training goals, on-leash and off-leash. Thanks to Ralph, Lalah has really turned into the dog of anyone's dreams. Everyone compliments her well behaved demeanor. I take Lalah with me everywhere and she does exactly what is expected of her. We have Ralph to thank for that. I will be getting another Rough Collie puppy in December and will, most definitely, be taking her to Ralph! I would highly recommend Atlantic Coast K-9 Training Service to anyone who would like to have an obedient dog! Thank you so much Ralph! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

25 September 2018

When I researched trainers in the Charlottesville area, I did not truly envision the impact professional training would have on my family. After speaking with various trainers, I decided Atlantic Coast K-9 Training Services was the best fit due to their methodology, knowledge-base, reputation, and price.

People regularly stop me to comment on my 2 year old pup Rue's exceptional behavior. She went from wildly energetic, zooming about, jumping on strangers, to incredibly attentive, focusing on every command and tuning out distractions in chaotic situations. Words cannot express my gratitude for Ralph's training, so please, even if you don't think you *need* training for your dog, just take a look at what Atlantic Coast has to offer.

I'm happy to talk about my experience, so feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
More...

Reviewed on Facebook

28 May 2018

Dropped in while in town on business. Both Kit and Angela were awesome to meet. Everyone on their box is very friendly. Got some great coaching on the power snatch while I was there. I highly recommend giving them a try. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

15 May 2018

I took my GSD mix, Bandit, to Ralph hoping to correct pulling while walking on-leash and help him listen to commands better while distracted. After the first week, Bandit greatly improved with walking on leash. Today, Bandit graduated from the “Gold Package” training program and I’m very impressed with how focused he has become and the transformation from our first session to now is incredible. Ralph used his expertise to individualize training every week, only proceeding at the pace of my dog and I learning the necessary information and building on the skills each week. I appreciate that he took the time to explain why he teaches things a certain way and we never felt rushed to get through our classes. I’ve received compliments from friends on how well-behaved Bandit is while out and about now! I love the new and improved Bandit and I’m so thankful for the training he received with Ralph! I definitely recommend Atlantic Coast K-9! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

8 May 2018

When I researched trainers in the Charlottesville area, I did not truly envision the impact professional training would have on my family. After speaking with various trainers, I decided Atlantic Coast K-9 Training Services was the best fit due to their methodology, knowledge-base, reputation, and price. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

20 November 2017

Reviewed on Facebook

23 October 2017

Out of all the dog training facilities we have gone through with our Dobies.. hands down the best one! Highly recommend, Ralph is very knowledgeable and thorough! Can't wait for Camorra's next class, and to bring our other 2 in!�� More...

Reviewed on Facebook

19 October 2017

Ralph was recommended by our breeder and we are so thankful we found him! We are currently training toward IPO titles (obedience, tracking and protection sport) with our Doberman Pinscher. Ralph really takes the time to answer all of our questions, to demonstrate the techniques and to assist us with continuing to practice at home. The results have been immediate and lasting! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

19 October 2017

Atlantic Coast K-9 training services is a 5 star for sure. Josie and I are so please with Ralph Smith!

Reviewed on Facebook

10 September 2017

Reviewed on Facebook

30 May 2017

Ralph and his training made all the difference in the world in our 8 year old lab mix's behavior. Her focus is amazing- taking her for walks is enjoyable for her and us. .....I appreciate your work and learned as much if not more than her. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

17 May 2017

Ralph did a great job with our lab, Casey. He's a joy to walk, take to restaurant patios and bring anywhere around Charlottesville. He patiently waits for his food, listens to commands, has better focus and overall was a great dog before but now an all-star! Thanks, Ralph! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

24 December 2016

Hands down the best trainer a person could ask for. We had a very hard headed Pit Bull before we met Ralph. Even though I only paid for a certain amount of his time, he would not give up on getting the dog to do the things he said he would have him doing before we were done. I have a 4 year old son and you wouldn't believe how good the dog listens to him. You could put a big juicy chicken breast right in front of him and he will not touch it until we tell him it's okay. In the future I would take any dog to this man right here before anyone else. I recommend anyone with a dog trying to train it to do anything to go here. He even went as far as teaching me to get the dog to do really cool tricks that I would not have known how to do otherwise. I couldn't tell a person enough how important taking a class with this company has did for me and my family. If you want a really smart dog that will listen to you, not pull you around on a leash, or listen well enough to not even need a leash, GO HERE!!!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

22 December 2016

Ralph Smith is a gifted trainer. His high level of excellence, honesty and integrity are unique and rare in these times. I signed up for the ultimate package and am extremely pleased with the training so far. My GSD is 16 months old and does not always respond to training the way that is expected, however, Ralph adapts and finds a method that works. Ralph's methods are systematic and paced on how your dog responses. I never feel like I am being hurried along. My dog is well behaved and responses to the commands we have put in place. I could not be happier. We will be taking our Canine Good Citizenship soon and I am confident we will have no trouble passing the test. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

4 December 2016

Ralph did amazing work with my German Shepherd Ares. He truly is a master of his profession and by far one of the best in Virginia. He gave me constant updates on my dogs progress and met with me several times to show me step by step instructions on the training. This is more then just a job for him this is his passion and he's amazing. Whatever issues your dog may have or what ever level of training you want this is the go to guy who will go above and beyond! Keep it up Sir!!! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

4 December 2016

Ralph did a great job with my Doberman, Dillon. Highly recommended!!

Reviewed on Facebook

Q&As

I have a passion for what I do and many have called it a "gift" to train dogs. For me, it's not a job but rather a way of life. There is no greater feeling than knowing that I played a part in helping to mold my clients dogs into the best trained dogs in the world.

I am recognized as one of the top trainers in the country. I don't take that distinction lightly. Most people think that all dog trainers are the same. That couldn't be farther from the truth. The truth is, the majority of dog trainers these days are amateurs who offer a lot of gimmicks that fool the average person into believing that they're getting quality training when they're really not. I have worked with dogs for over 25 years and have competed at National Level Competitions having titled more dogs than just about anyone. I am known and well respected across the United States and the World for my abilities. People may think, "well, I'm not going to show my dog so I don't need that type of training". What they fail to realize is that to be able to compete at the level that I compete requires a tremendous amount of knowledge and ability that is only achieved through many years of experience. I have worked with and competed against the best trainers in the world. It is the equivalent of competing regularly in the Superbowl. Most other trainers don't even possess the knowledge to teach the things that I teach and many don't even know what those things are. I have clients who send there dogs to me from hundreds and sometimes thousands of miles for training. Yet, I keep my prices very fair and reasonable because it's important to me to give back to my community and to share my knowledge with others and help my clients to achieve a success with their dogs that they never imagined was possible.