Understanding Your Dog, LLC

Training programs include private one-on-one sessions, group socialization and focus classes, fast-track intensive training, and 4-week trick training workshops. Classes are structured by age and skill level, with Puppy 101 Manners, Focus Class, and Intermediate Puppy Class offered on scheduled dates. Sessions are held at the training center with optional field trips for real-world distraction work. Clients receive emailed handouts after each session to guide home practice.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not explicitly listed online, but client testimonials note that one-on-one rates are reasonable. Packages and sessions are offered with follow-up materials provided after each session. Gift certificates and loyalty perks are available.

Understanding Your Dog, LLC, led by certified dog trainer Theresa Pitner, provides dog training services designed to help owners build strong, lasting relationships with their dogs through practical, human-centered methods. Theresa teaches owners how to train their dogs using balanced, reward-based techniques that prioritize positive reinforcement while minimizing aversive methods. Services include private one-on-one sessions, group classes, fast-track training, and field trips for distraction work, all primarily held at their training center in Salisbury, NC. She also offers free online dog talks, workshops, and special events to support ongoing learning. In addition to training, the business provides dog grooming, dog walking, and even hosts dog-themed birthday parties. Theresa’s 20+ years of experience as a social worker informs her approach, emphasizing that training the human is key to changing the dog’s behavior. She tailors her methods to fit busy schedules and provides emailed handouts after each session to reinforce learning.

Theresa is certified as a CPDT-KA and is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, with memberships in APDT, PPG, and Family Paws. She has fostered rescue dogs, developed the Comforting Dogs Program for hospice patients, and led the effort to create Salisbury’s first off-leash dog park, Pitner Park. Her training philosophy focuses on clarity, consistency, and compassion, ensuring both dogs and owners feel confident and supported.

The business serves dogs of all ages—from puppies to seniors—and addresses common issues like leash pulling, reactivity, biting, separation anxiety, and potty training. Clients appreciate her organized, communicative style, quick follow-ups, and reasonable pricing for personalized training.

Additional services include dog grooming and dog walking, making it a one-stop resource for pet owners seeking comprehensive care and training.

Accomplishments

Theresa Pitner is a CPDT-KA certified trainer and AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She became a Licensed Family Paws Educator in 2019 and is a member of APDT and PPG. She founded DogPAWs, Inc. to build Pitner Park, Salisbury’s first off-leash dog park. She developed the Comforting Dogs Program for Hospice of Cabarrus County and has fostered numerous rescue dogs. She holds a professional dog training certificate from Animal Behavior College (2016).

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can contact Theresa via phone, email, or the website contact form to discuss their training needs. A free initial consultation is offered to assess the dog’s behavior and determine the best training approach. Clients are then guided to enroll in private sessions, group classes, or fast-track programs based on their goals.