Arlington Dog Nanny

Training programs include private one-on-one sessions tailored to specific behavioral or obedience goals, group classes (paused as of current information), and intensive options like Day School (45 minutes daily for one week) and Board and Train (boarding with daily training). The Attentive Walking Boot Camp is a 5-day intensive program focused on leash walking, with video follow-up. All training is based on positive reinforcement, with personalized plans developed by Desiree. Virtual training is available for private sessions. Programs are structured to teach both dogs and owners, emphasizing communication and relationship-building.

Pricing Summary

Private training: $150/hr; Attentive Walking Boot Camp: $200/week (5 sessions); Day School: $575/week; Board and Train: $575/5 days plus boarding; Private Classes: $575 (5 weeks); Group Classes: $250 (6 weeks, currently paused). Dog walking: $13–$38 per visit depending on duration and frequency. Pet sitting: $23/hr, $75/full day, $125/full day for reactive dogs or puppies under 4 months. Additional services include nail trims ($15), pet taxi ($40/hr), and key pickup ($5).

Policies

For dog walking, monthly prepaid services require no cancellations except for one vacation per year. Walks are scheduled via the TimeToPet portal. There is no refund policy explicitly stated for training packages, but one client reported services were canceled without refund after a boundary issue. Key pickup and lockout fees apply. All walkers and sitters are background checked and trained.

Arlington Dog Nanny is a dog training and pet care business based in Arlington, VA, founded by Desiree, a certified dog trainer who started the company to provide the high-quality, science-based care she wished for her own active Miniature Australian Shepherds. The business offers positive-reinforcement, science-based dog training services including private lessons, group classes, day training, and board-and-train programs, all designed to build a strong bond between dogs and their owners through kind, practical methods. In addition to training, they provide dog walking, pet sitting, and overnight stays, ensuring consistent routines and loving attention for dogs throughout the day. Their team consists of rigorously background-checked professionals trained in positive training theory and first aid, with a passion for dogs and a commitment to never short-changing a pet’s time or attention.

Desiree personally leads all training programs and emphasizes teaching owners how to communicate effectively with their dogs without fear, intimidation, or submission. Training is available for dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, and addresses a wide range of behaviors including leash pulling, reactivity, separation anxiety, and basic obedience. They also offer specialized programs like the Attentive Walking Boot Camp and Day School for intensive skill-building. All services are tailored to individual needs, with virtual training options available.

The business is known for low staff turnover, reliable communication via the TimeToPet portal, and a focus on treating every dog like family. While some clients have raised concerns about boundaries and consistency in service delivery, many praise the team’s genuine care, professionalism, and the noticeable progress in their dogs’ behavior.

Accomplishments

Desiree is a certified dog trainer with a background in law and personal experience training highly active, intelligent dogs. She founded Arlington Dog Nanny to fill a gap in professional, science-based dog care in Arlington. The business is noted for low staff turnover and consistent client satisfaction, with many long-term clients.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can contact the business via email or phone to inquire about services. Training begins with a consultation, after which Desiree develops a personalized plan. Clients can schedule services through the TimeToPet client portal. Virtual training is available for private sessions.