Helping Howls NOVA

Helping Howls offers three Board & Train programs: Raise & Training for puppies 8–12 weeks old, focusing on potty training, socialization, and foundational obedience; Slow & Steady for adolescents 8–14 months, using play-based training to build impulse control and leash manners during developmental stages; and Intensive for dogs 15+ months, targeting service dog tasks and public access skills. Each program includes weekly updates, two live video calls per month, and a 1–4 day transfer session with the owner. Training is conducted at their facility and in public environments, with no use of force or suppression techniques.

Pricing Summary

Board & Train programs: Raise & Training at $375/week (4-week minimum), Slow & Steady at $750/week (5-week minimum), Intensive at $1,000/week (5-week minimum). Veterinary costs for puppies are additional ($300). Private sessions and virtual training pricing not specified.

Policies

Board & Training stays for 2026 are currently being booked with limited space. Refund and cancellation policies are available on their Terms of Service & Refund Policy page, but specific details are not provided in the content.

Helping Howls NOVA, operated by Helping Hunds LLC, is a professional dog training business based in Midlothian, VA, specializing in ethical, positive reinforcement training for service dogs and young dogs. They offer owner-trained service dog support for psychiatric, medical response, mobility, and autism service dogs, with in-person private lessons and real-world field trips in Northern Virginia, including Tysons Corner, Fairfax, Arlington, and the Mosaic District. Their flagship service is Board & Train programs exclusively for puppies, adolescents, and young adults, with three structured tiers: Raise & Training (8–12 weeks), Slow & Steady (8–14 months), and Intensive (15+ months). Each program includes weekly updates, live video calls, and a transfer session to coach owners on maintaining progress. They do not accept aggression or severe behavioral cases, focusing instead on foundational skills, confidence-building, and real-life public access preparation. They also provide virtual training nationwide and sell training-related products through their shop.

Their training philosophy centers on science-based, force-free methods, emphasizing clarity, communication, and lifelong partnership over quick fixes. Trainers work closely with handlers to tailor training to individual goals, ensuring dogs become reliable, calm, and capable service partners.

They offer additional services including fully trained service dog placements, owner-trainer coaching, and a retail shop for training tools and gear.

Accomplishments

Tala Castro, the Training Director, holds certifications as an Atlas-CT, CPDT-KA, FDM, and FFCP, and has been mentored by trainers with over fifty years of combined experience. Helping Howls is recognized as Virginia’s only exclusive positive reinforcement Board & Train program dedicated solely to puppies and young dogs.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can schedule a free consultation call to discuss their dog’s needs and determine the best program fit. Board & Train programs require advance booking, with 2026 slots currently open.