Dog Trainers in Knoxville, TN
Choosing a dog trainer is a big decision. At K9 Services Unlimited, you work with experienced Knoxville dog trainers led by Justin Rigney, who has 33 years of professional dog training experience and spent 10 years as a police K-9 handler and trainer. Our team trains family pets, puppies, and dogs with serious behavior problems, and every program includes coaching for you, not only for your dog.
- 33 yearshead trainer experience
- 1,000+dogs trained by our team
- 5.0on Google, 151 reviews
- 7 days7 AM – 7 PM
Meet our Knoxville dog trainers
Justin Rigney
Founder and Head Trainer
Justin has 33 years of professional dog training experience and spent 17 years in law enforcement, 10 of them as a K-9 handler and trainer. He holds a diploma in the NePoPo® Gold Training System, has trained with hundreds of police K-9 teams, and has helped thousands of pet owners build a better relationship with their dogs.
Rebeka
Dog Trainer, NePoPo® Gold Certified
Rebeka has three years of dedicated training experience and treats every client’s dog as if it were her own. Clients value her clear communication, including regular progress updates during board and train programs.
Jonathan Acker
Certified Dog Trainer
Jonathan completed his certification in 2020 under Justin Rigney. He has been an active law enforcement K-9 handler since 2008 and leads his department’s K-9 unit and its training. He also trained and titled two dogs in Schutzhund sport, one to Schutzhund 3.
James Presson
Dog Trainer
James became a K-9 handler in 2016 and holds his trainer’s certificate from Justin Rigney. He trains pet dogs for families and loves helping owners connect with their dogs on a deeper level.
Curtis
Dog Trainer
A U.S. Marine veteran, Curtis brings patience, dedication, and clear communication to every session, with a focus on trust and understanding between dogs and their families.
Dog training programs from our Knoxville trainers
- Puppy training in Knoxville, TN: early socialization, potty and crate training, and foundation commands
- Dog obedience training in Knoxville, TN: leash manners, essential commands, and impulse control
- Board and train in Knoxville: immersive training while your dog stays with our trainers
- Day training in Knoxville, TN: structured training while you are at work
- Off-leash dog training in Knoxville, TN: reliable recall and distance control
- Behavior modification and aggressive dog training
- Service dog training, working dog training and police K9 training
What Knoxville dog owners say
To say we are pleased with our experience with K9 Services Unlimited is a huge understatement. We are so happy with our decision to use them for training for our 6 month old Brittany, Bo. Rebeka was absolutely fantastic. I cannot say enough good things about our experience with her. We went with the 6 week off leash board and train. She was so communicative, sending weekly updates as well as quick response to any texts we had along the way. Bo came back home to us with fantastic discipline. We have already been able to see his training at work on hikes and visit to local restaurants. I would highly recommend Rebeka and the K9 staff to anyone looking for training for their dog.
— Patrick N., Google review
Read all 151 reviews on Google
How to choose a dog trainer in Knoxville, TN
Dog training is largely unregulated in the United States, so anyone can call themselves a trainer. A few questions help you tell the difference:
- How much real experience do they have? Ask how many dogs they have trained and in what settings, not only how long they have been in business.
- What credentials and training systems do they use? A trainer should be able to explain their method and where they learned it.
- Will you be taught too? Most behavior problems are reinforced at home, so the owner has to learn the skills along with the dog.
- What happens after the program? Look for follow-up, clear communication, and support when questions come up.
- Can you see their results? Read recent reviews and look at photos of dogs they have trained.
Dog trainer FAQs
How much does dog training cost in Knoxville, TN?
Cost depends on the program (day training, board and train or private lessons) and on your dog's needs. Our Knoxville dog training cost guide explains what drives the price, and a free consultation gets you a clear recommendation for your dog.
What training methods do your Knoxville dog trainers use?
We use balanced training methods tailored to each dog, and every program includes owner education so results carry over at home. Our puppy training program is built on positive reinforcement.
Can your trainers work with aggressive or reactive dogs?
Yes. Behavior work is a core part of what we do. Read about our aggressive dog training in Knoxville, TN and behavior modification programs.
Which areas do your dog trainers serve?
We serve Knoxville and the surrounding communities, including Farragut, Maryville, Loudon, Oak Ridge and Lenoir City. See all areas we serve.
How do I get started?
Request a free consultation online or call (865) 455-5191 any day between 7 AM and 7 PM. We will talk through your goals and recommend the right program.
Talk with a Knoxville dog trainer
Tell us about your dog and what you would like to change. Schedule a free consultation, send us a message, or call (865) 455-5191 any day from 7 AM to 7 PM.