My Story

Richmond, VA Dog Trainer

My name is Mariah Dudley, and I am the proud owner of Confident Canine Coach. 

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In 2017, I adopted a sweet but challenging rescue pup named Sadie. We faced many challenges together, as we learned from one another and I learned to be her advocate. 

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I dove into training with her, interning at a local facility, and eventually making the move to Positive Reinforcement Dog Training when I realized we needed to find a more humane and science-based approach with her and my second dog, Opie. The change in my dogs (and in myself) was immediate and drastic! Our relationship improved and so did our lives. In January of 2019, I brought that knowledge to my clients and their dogs while teaching classes at Petsmart. I had the privilege of working with dogs of many different breeds, ages, and sizes, as well as their humans. 

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I began Confident Canine Coach to be able to help humans and their dogs strengthen their relationships with their dogs and improve their lives. I believe in empowering humans and dogs by listening to their needs and creating a plan to help them be successful in their goals. I approach every client and their dog with an open mind, and treat each dog and human client with compassion and dignity. 

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My goal is to help you and your dog achieve the best possible outcomes through Positive Reinforcement Dog Training and Behavior Modification. I am a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed) through the Council of Certified Professional Dog Trainers, I am a supporting member of IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants) and I am a member of the APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers). I chose these organizations, because they are Science-Based, Positive Reinforcement organizations with specific guidelines for trainers to follow, and they are organizations that push for regulations in the Dog Training Industry. 

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Confident Canine Coach is excited to provide Positive Reinforcement Dog Training to the Greater Richmond Area! We provide Private Lessons, Classes, and Workshops, and specialize in Manners (including loose leash walking, strategies to reduce jumping, counter surfing, crate training, and other common behavior issues), Puppy Training, New Rescue Behavior Adjustment, Dogs and Babies/Toddlers Home Preparation.