The Dog Deacon Dog Training

Training programs include board and train (2–5 weeks), day school (daily drop-off), and in-home private lessons. Programs are customized based on dog’s needs and include obedience, behavior modification, and specialized training for therapy, service, or antler detection roles. Owners receive guidance on maintaining training post-program. Service dog training is limited to one dog at a time for full focus.

Pricing Summary

Two-week board and train: $1,800; three-week board and train: $2,700; therapy dog board and train: $3,000; antler detection training: $900/week; in-home private training (five lessons): $575; day school: $125; puppy lessons (single): $125, (five lessons): $575.

The Dog Deacon Dog Training is a professional dog training business located in Mocksville, NC, operated by Mark Minton, a certified dog trainer with over 20 years of experience. Mark offers personalized training programs including board and train, day school, in-home lessons, and specialized training for puppies, service dogs, therapy dogs, and antler detection dogs. His approach combines timely corrections with positive reinforcement, tailored to each dog’s age, breed, behavior, and history. He limits the number of dogs in his care at one time to ensure individualized attention. Mark’s background includes working as a K9 Officer with the NCWRC and training at Vetosa Kennel’s K9 Academy, where he earned certifications in obedience, tracking, and detection. He also emphasizes teaching owners how to maintain their dog’s training after completion.

Mark’s training services are rooted in his personal journey, beginning with his late father’s influence and his bond with his first training dog, Diesel. He is deeply committed to improving the quality of life for dogs and their families, and many clients report transformative results, including resolving aggression, leash reactivity, and poor obedience.

In addition to training, Mark offers free consultations and provides video and photo documentation of progress. He trains dogs of all sizes, from small breeds to giant breeds like Great Danes, and works with dogs of all ages, including puppies, adolescents, and adults.

Accomplishments

Mark Minton graduated with a degree in fisheries and wildlife biology from North Carolina State University in 1993. He served as a Wildlife Enforcement Officer (1997) and K9 Officer with the NCWRC (2004). He completed training and certification at Vetosa Kennel’s K9 Academy in obedience, tracking, and detection. He has trained dogs professionally since 2014 and has successfully prepared dogs for therapy and service roles, including a therapy dog now working in a school.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can schedule a free consultation to discuss their dog’s specific needs. During the consultation, Mark assesses the dog’s behavior and tailors a training plan. Clients can then choose from board and train, day school, or in-home programs based on their preferences and goals.