Service Dog Owner-Training

in Richmond

A black service dog laying down next to a person, with the person supporting the dog's head with their hand, in front of a building with a glass window.

In-Person Sessions

  • For those looking to work on specific skills, public access testing, refresher lessons, or other individualized goals, we offer both individual & group sessions tailored to your needs. These sessions & field trips provide hands-on guidance to build confidence, and refine essential skills in various environments. Whether it’s one-on-one training or learning alongside others, we’re here to support you and your dog every step of the way.

  • Open! See Below.

  • $160 per 1-hour lesson.

    For those looking for a longer-term program & discounts, please consider applying for our complete service dog program.

  • Lessons are open. Please contact us for more information.

A large black dog with curly fur sitting on grass, wearing a blue vest that says "Helping Humans" and "Working Service Dog." The dog has its mouth open and tongue out, with a person holding its leash near its body in a park or garden area with trees and a building in the background.

Complete Service Dog Program

  • For those seeking a comprehensive program to train their own dog as a service dog to assist with disability mitigation, this program provides expert guidance, and support. Through positive, fear-free methods, we help you, and your dog develop the skills needed for effective teamwork & public access success. This program encompasses the entire process: from basic obedience to task work to graduated working team.

  • This program lasts a minimum of 6 months. Most dogs will take 1 ½ to 2 years on average to complete this program.

  • $350 per month.

    In-person program includes: 4 1-hour lessons per month, and 2 45-minute virtual lessons.

    Hybrid program includes: one 1-hour in-person, and four 1-hour virtual sessions.

    Helping Howls offers an Accessible Program Rate for our complete service dog training program to help ensure dedicated handlers can still pursue a well-trained service dog when finances may otherwise be a barrier. This rate is limited, offered on a case-by-case basis, and details are not publicly listed. If you believe you may qualify or would like to learn more about the Accessible Program Rate, please contact us directly for additional information.

  • Our application process ensures you, and your dog are a great fit for our program. It includes a detailed application, an evaluation of your dog’s temperament + current skills, and a discussion to understand your specific needs.

    Applications are now open! Click here to apply.

A Shetland Sheepdog sitting outdoors on grass, wearing a blue training vest with instructions and symbols, with a person holding a leash nearby.

Virtual Sessions

  • For those seeking flexible training options, we offer individual virtual sessions tailored to your needs, no matter where you are in the world. These one-on-one sessions provide personalized guidance to help you and your dog work on specific skills, troubleshoot challenges, or even prepare for public access testing. Virtual training allows us to support handlers worldwide in their journey to success.

  • None currently.

  • $100 per 1-hour virtual lesson via zoom.

    Webinar pricing varies.

  • Click this link to reach out to work with us.

Upcoming Group Outings

  • July 18 - DC Trip

  • August 8 - TBD

  • TBD

Learn More & Sign-Up!

What Our Clients Are Saying

  • Alyssa H.

    “…If you need a very knowledgeable, kind, & think outside the box professional in your corner I always recommend Tala! I got such fantastic ideas…and I always feel so excited after our sessions with the new things to try!!”

  • Carmen P.

    “It was my dear fiend of mine who suggested I talk to Helping Howls who she believed would have the match for me- and wow I was blown out of the water. I was introduced to not only an outstanding breeder, but I got to meet Brick (now Pochita). To put it bluntly- he blew me away. He had already been temperament tested by Helping Howls…and he was everything Tala had described and more. He’s an outstanding dog…”

  • Ava M.

    “…After trying multiple trainers AND programs, I have to say Helping Howls is like the BEST EVER! 1000000/10 recommend them if you are owner training! Trust me when I say I know how hard finding good people in this industry is! We’ve been through it.”

  • Serena S.

    “Having the support of a good, knowledgeable trainer is so invaluable. It can really make all the difference in the world when you’re owner-training. Endlessly grateful to Helping Howls for all the support and insight they’ve provided in the months we’ve been working with them.”

  • Leena K.

    My poodle, Bambi, did a 2 week board and train with Tala and it was amazing! I was really impressed to see how much Bambi's skills improved in such a short period of time. Tala genuinely has a special talent with dogs. I've also had a couple virtual sessions with her and she is so knowledgeable and helpful. Poodles can be a lot for some trainers, but Tala understands them very well.

  • Teresa S.

    “Baxter (SDit) went to Michael’s today with me & my mom for about 45 minutes and did great with tons of distractions, people, narrow aisles, following my mom, standing between me and the counter while checking out…super proud momma moment thanks to you guys.”