Lanternβ€ΊGreater Charlestonβ€ΊPet Servicesβ€ΊDog Training

    Best Dog Training in Greater Charleston

    Areas served: Charleston, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston

    13 local businessesRanked by Lantern Score β€” a measure of reputation and business quality. We don't accept payment for placement.
    Updated April 20, 2026

    Charleston-area dog trainers work with residents to address behavioral issues, provide obedience training, and prepare dogs for family life in the metro's pet-friendly communities. Trainers serve both new pet owners and experienced dog handlers.

    Show businesses best for:
    85
    Lantern
    Score
    Hanahan, SC
    Serves Hanahan, SC and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(92 Google reviews)

    The Doggie Disco, owned by groomer Madi with 15+ years of experience, is a full-service dog care facility in Hanahan offering professional grooming for all breeds, stress-free boarding and daycare, and AKC training with positive reinforcement methods. Specializing in anxiety-aware, personalized care for dogs of all sizes and temperaments, they've earned recognition as Holy City's #1 Best Pet Groomer and Best Pet Resort. Madi's commitment to continuing education and her own pack of three dogs reflect a genuine passion for providing tail-waggin' care.

    Ideal clients: Dog owners seeking all-in-one care, anxious or nervous dogs, breed-specific grooming needs, owners wanting boarding with training services
    What sets them apart
    • Specializes in calming high-energy and nervous dogs, ensuring every pup feels safe and comfortable during grooming.
    • Madi personally manages operations and continuously pursues continuing education to stay current with best practices in dog care.
    • One location handles grooming, boarding, daycare, and AKC training with positive reinforcementβ€”no need to visit multiple providers.
    Dog GroomingPet BoardingDaycareDog TrainingAll Breeds
    Phone(843) 804-2192
    The Doggie Disco
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    North Charleston, SC
    Serves North Charleston and surrounding areas, SC
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(78 Google reviews)

    Wild Wags is a comprehensive dog training and care facility in North Charleston offering obedience training, behavior modification, professional grooming, boarding, and daycare services. Founded in May 2023 and expanded in summer 2025, they specialize in helping dogs and owners learn together through hands-on training programs. Their expertise in behavior modification combined with full-service pet care makes them a one-stop destination for dog owners seeking training solutions and reliable care.

    Ideal clients: Puppy owners, dogs with behavioral issues, owners seeking hands-on training education, busy pet parents needing boarding and daycare
    What sets them apart
    • Named Best Dog Trainer in 2024 and 2025, Wild Wags combines professional training with hands-on owner education.
    • One location offers training, behavior modification, grooming, boarding, and daycare β€” eliminating the need for multiple providers.
    • Specializes in behavior modification programs that address training challenges beyond basic obedience.
    Dog TrainingBoardingDaycareGroomingBehavior Modification
    Phone(843) 732-3782
    Wild Wags
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
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    Summerville, SC
    Serves Summerville, Charleston, and greater Charleston area including Mount Pleasant, Daniel Island, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, and surrounding neighborhoods
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(64 Google reviews)

    Dog Ops is Charleston's premier dog training company offering board & train programs (2-4 weeks), obedience training, puppy training, behavioral modification, and aggression management. Led by certified military working dog trainers with Department of Defense credentials, they specialize in solving real behavioral issues like leash reactivity, separation anxiety, resource guarding, and aggression through science-based methods. They serve Charleston's most discerning pet owners with guaranteed results, mobile training throughout greater Charleston, and lifetime support included with every program.

    Best for: New PuppiesAggressive DogsBusy OwnersSocializing Dogs
    Ideal clients: Busy professionals and executives, families with behavioral challenges, rescue dog owners, puppies needing foundation training, dogs with aggression or anxiety issues
    What sets them apart
    • Team consists of certified military working dog trainers with Department of Defense credentials, bringing professional-grade training methodology to civilian dog owners.
    • Every program includes lifetime support and ongoing guidance, with a 100% client satisfaction guarantee backing their science-based training approach.
    • Offers 2-4 week intensive board and train programs combining full-time professional training with daily progress updates and personalized training plans tailored to each dog's needs.
    Dog TrainingBoard & TrainBehavior ModificationObediencePuppy Training
    Phone(802) 624-3380
    Dog Ops, LLC
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Mt Pleasant, SC
    Serves Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(58 Google reviews)

    Dog Training Now Charleston, owned and operated by lead trainer Mary Leonardis, offers comprehensive dog training and boarding services in Mount Pleasant. Their immersive training programs include potty training, obedience, behavior modification, leash manners, off-leash training, and safety skills for dogs of all ages and breeds. They provide multiple training options including Puppy Preschool, Day Training Academy, Board and Train programs, private lessons, and one-on-one consultations, with trainers working directly with both dogs and owners to ensure lasting results at home.

    Best for: New PuppiesBusy OwnersSocializing Dogs
    Ideal clients: Puppy owners, dogs with behavioral issues, busy professionals needing boarding with training, families wanting hands-on obedience instruction
    What sets them apart
    • Mary Leonardis, the owner and lead trainer, has dedicated over a decade to professional dog training with a lifetime of experience working with dogs of all temperaments and breeds.
    • From Puppy Preschool and daily drop-off Day Training Academy to intensive 10-day Board and Train boot camps, they offer options tailored to each family's needs and lifestyle.
    • Recognized as Best Dog Trainer and Best Locally Owned Dog Training Company in the 2025 Best of Mount Pleasant awards.
    Dog TrainingBoard & TrainObediencePuppy TrainingBehavior Modification
    Dog Training Now Charleston
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
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    Charleston, SC
    Serves Charleston, South Carolina and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(284 Google reviews)

    K9 Control Training is a professional dog training facility in Charleston specializing in board and train programs, obedience training, behavioral rehabilitation, and socialization for dogs of all sizes and breeds. They use their proprietary K9 Control Training Methodβ„’, a motivational-based approach that addresses issues from leash pulling and aggression to separation anxiety and destructive behaviors. The facility offers introductory board and train programs with follow-up lessons and lifetime group classes, plus in-home training sessions, day camp, and refresher courses to ensure lasting results and long-term support.

    Best for: Busy OwnersPersonalized TrainingSocializing Dogs
    Ideal clients: Dog owners with behavioral issues, first-time dog owners needing obedience foundation, owners of aggressive or anxious dogs, busy professionals needing board and train programs
    What sets them apart
    • Dogs that complete the introductory board and train program receive twice-monthly group classes for the life of the dog at no additional cost, ensuring ongoing reinforcement and skill maintenance.
    • Their proprietary motivational-based training approach identifies what motivates each individual dog and uses positive reinforcement combined with effective redirection of undesirable behaviors.
    • The facility provides free initial evaluations, follow-up one-on-one lessons, in-home training options, refresher courses, and day camp services to address specific behavioral needs and prevent regression.
    Dog TrainingBoard & TrainBehavior ModificationObedienceSocialization
    Phone(843) 901-9499
    K9 Control Training
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Summerville, SC
    Serves Summerville, SC and the Lowcountry region including Ladson, Goose Creek, James Island, Johns Island, Daniel Island, Wadmalaw Island, and Kiawah Island
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(51 Google reviews)

    Activate Canine Dog Training, run by Alicia Hale in Summerville, specializes in balanced, reward-based dog training with 10+ years of hands-on experience and E-Collar Technologies certification. They offer six flagship programs ranging from the Apprentice Package (7-10 days for leash walking and manners) to the Reset Package (21-42 days for behavioral issues like aggression, anxiety, and reactivity), plus board & train, private sessions, and ongoing maintenance programs. All graduates receive unlimited follow-up lessons at no extra cost through their lifetime training guarantee, with owner-focused coaching to ensure training sticks at home and in real-world situations.

    Best for: Aggressive DogsBusy OwnersSocializing Dogs
    Ideal clients: Families wanting reliable leash manners, hiking and outdoor enthusiasts needing off-leash control, owners of dogs with reactivity or aggression issues, dog owners seeking professional board & train programs
    What sets them apart
    • All graduates receive unlimited follow-up lessons at no extra cost as long as they practice the assigned homework, providing long-term support and peace of mind.
    • Uses a combination of treats, praise, and gentle e-collar cues for clear communication without fear or confusion, with certification from E-Collar Technologies.
    • Provides detailed instruction on how to work with your dog, including body language techniques, so training translates to your home and everyday life.
    Dog TrainingBoard & TrainBehavior ModificationBalanced TrainingLowcountry
    Phone(843) 709-0762
    Activate Canine Dog Training
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Charleston, SC
    Serves Charleston and greater Charleston, South Carolina
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(184 Google reviews)

    Sit Means Sit Dog Training Charleston offers comprehensive professional dog training for all ages, breeds, and temperaments. Their certified trainers specialize in obedience, behavior modification, aggression, reactivity, and anxiety using science-based positive reinforcement methods. They provide multiple training options including Board & Train, Day Training, private lessons, puppy training, group classes, and therapy dog training, all designed to strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.

    Best for: New PuppiesAggressive DogsBusy OwnersPersonalized TrainingSocializing Dogs
    Ideal clients: Dog owners with behavioral challenges, busy professionals needing Board & Train services, puppy owners, dogs requiring aggression or anxiety training, therapy dog handlers
    What sets them apart
    • Offers Board & Train, Day Training, private lessons, puppy training, group classes, and specialized therapy dog training to meet diverse needs and schedules.
    • Staff uses science-based, positive reinforcement methods and has extensive experience resolving behavioral issues including aggression, reactivity, anxiety, and general obedience.
    • Each dog receives an individualized evaluation and customized training program tailored to their unique personality, age, breed, and behavioral needs.
    Dog TrainingObedienceBehavior ModificationBoard & TrainProfessional Trainers
    Phone(843) 484-7171
    Sit Means Sit Dog Training - Charleston
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    83
    Lantern
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    Mt Pleasant, SC
    Serves Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Daniel Island, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, and the greater Lowcountry; online training available worldwide
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(145 Google reviews)

    Purely Positive Dog Training is a certified, experienced dog training service specializing in positive, customized behavior solutions for dogs and puppies. Led by Susan Marett (CPDT-KA, CSAT), the business offers private in-home training, family dog training, puppy training, separation anxiety specialist services, and group classesβ€”both in-person and virtual via Zoom. With nearly 25 years serving the Lowcountry, Purely Positive focuses on real-world results that fit busy families' schedules, addressing issues like aggression, anxiety, fear, jumping, leash pulling, and housebreaking.

    Best for: New PuppiesAggressive DogsPersonalized TrainingSocializing Dogs
    Ideal clients: Busy families with new or problem puppies, dog owners dealing with separation anxiety or aggression, families wanting in-home training convenience, rescue dog adoptees needing behavior support
    What sets them apart
    • Susan Marett holds CSAT certification and specializes in separation anxietyβ€”one of the most challenging behavioral issuesβ€”with personalized daily support via Zoom for clients worldwide.
    • Operating since 1999, Purely Positive is trusted by veterinarians, groomers, and daycare owners in the Lowcountry for her compassionate, customized approach.
    • Offers private in-home training, family group classes, virtual sessions, and puppy-focused programs to fit busy schedulesβ€”not one-size-fits-all solutions.
    Dog Behavior TrainingSeparation Anxiety SpecialistPuppy TrainingPositive ReinforcementIn-Home Training
    Phone(843) 532-8154
    Purely Positive Dog Training
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Mt Pleasant, SC
    Serves Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(82 Google reviews)

    Key2K9 Dog Training & Behavior, owned by Ali Wadham, provides comprehensive dog training and behavior services in Mount Pleasant. The business offers basic to advanced obedience classes, private one-on-one sessions, small group classes, walk and train programs, and specialized behavior modification for aggression, anxiety, jumping, pulling, and other issues. Ali uses caring, compassionate methods tailored to each dog's unique needs and also offers virtual consultations for convenience.

    Best for: New PuppiesAggressive DogsPersonalized TrainingSocializing Dogs
    Ideal clients: First-time dog owners, families with puppies, owners dealing with behavioral issues, rescue dog owners, busy professionals seeking virtual training options
    What sets them apart
    • Ali Wadham specializes in working with dogs from all walks of life, including extreme rescue cases and behavioral issues, with experience supporting local law enforcement.
    • Offers private lessons, small group classes, walk and train programs, and virtual Skype/FaceTime consultations for busy owners.
    • Recognizes that every dog is unique and tailors training methods to each dog's specific needs rather than using one-size-fits-all techniques.
    Dog TrainingObedience ClassesBehavior ModificationGroup ClassesWalk & Train
    Phone(843) 606-1400
    AddressConch St
    Websitekey2k9.com
    Key2K9 Dog Training & Behavior, LLC
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    82
    Lantern
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    Charleston, SC
    Serves Charleston, SC and the SC Lowcountry including Johns Island and surrounding communities
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(31 Google reviews)

    DogWatch of the SC Lowcountry is a locally owned and operated dealer of DogWatch hidden dog fence systems, serving the Charleston area and Lowcountry. They specialize in underground pet containment systems that use radio signals to keep dogs safely within designated yard boundaries or away from specific areas like pools and gardens. The business also offers indoor pet boundary solutions and comprehensive dog training programs to help pets learn their fence boundaries, plus they provide ongoing customer support and warranty coverage.

    Ideal clients: Homeowners seeking pet safety alternatives to traditional fencing, property owners with pools or gardens needing selective containment, pet parents wanting training support and long-term system support
    What sets them apart
    • DogWatch systems feature FM Safelink design with 2-year battery life, significantly longer than competitor systems that last 3-4 months.
    • Includes initial professional training plus guided daily sessions over two weeks with customized plans for each pet's specific needs.
    • Offers both underground yard systems and indoor boundaries to keep pets off furniture or out of rooms, plus wireless indoor options without wiring.
    Hidden Dog FencesPet ContainmentDog TrainingPet SafetyLocal Service
    Phone(843) 478-5038
    DogWatch of the SC Lowcountry
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    North Charleston, SC
    Serves North Charleston and surrounding Charleston area, SC
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(645 Google reviews)

    The Pet Mahal is a full-service pet care facility in North Charleston offering dog boarding, doggie daycare, grooming (bath services), and dog training programs. Founded to provide luxurious, home-like accommodations, the facility features spacious private suites with raised beds, posh bedding, and 24/7 security cameras. Their experienced staff includes certified dog trainers (NADOI-certified and AKC evaluators) and caregivers who provide daily attention, indoor/outdoor play, treats, and soothing amenitiesβ€”making it the go-to choice for pet parents seeking premium, affordable care.

    Ideal clients: Working pet parents needing reliable daycare, owners traveling and seeking premium boarding, dogs requiring professional training, multi-pet households
    What sets them apart
    • Offers boarding, daycare, grooming, and dog training all in one location. Recently added certified dog trainers (NADOI-certified and AKC evaluators) to provide basic manners through advanced obedience programs.
    • Spacious private suites with raised beds, plush bedding, and 24/7 security cameras throughout. Located across from North Charleston Fire Station with emergency lockbox access.
    • Provides daily updates, photos, and videos of pets during stays. Extended hours include weekday mornings from 6:15am and weekend availability for convenience.
    Dog BoardingDog DaycareDog GroomingPet TrainingDog Spa
    The Pet Mahal
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    82
    Lantern
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    Mt Pleasant, SC
    Serves Mount Pleasant and surrounding Charleston area
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(355 Google reviews)

    My Three Dogs Coleman is a full-service pet care facility in Mount Pleasant offering dog boarding, daycare, grooming, and training services. With a dedicated team experienced in caring for dogs of all ages and temperaments, they provide a safe, supervised environment where pets receive individualized attention and exercise. Their comprehensive services make them a one-stop destination for pet owners seeking reliable care, whether for short stays, regular daycare, or professional grooming and training.

    Ideal clients: Busy pet owners, travelers, dogs needing socialization, owners seeking grooming and training services
    What sets them apart
    • Offers boarding, daycare, grooming, and training all under one roof, eliminating the need to visit multiple facilities.
    • Staff trained to handle dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments with individual attention and proper exercise routines.
    • Located on W Coleman Blvd in Mount Pleasant for easy access to residents in the immediate area and surrounding communities.
    Dog BoardingPet DaycareDog GroomingDog Training
    Phone(843) 491-5389
    My Three Dogs Coleman
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Charleston, SC
    Serves Charleston and West Ashley, SC
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(220 Google reviews)

    My Three Dogs is a full-service pet care facility in West Ashley offering dog boarding, daycare, grooming, and training services. The facility provides a safe, supervised environment where dogs can play, socialize, and receive professional care while their owners are away or at work. With experienced staff and a focus on individual attention, My Three Dogs specializes in keeping dogs happy and healthy during their stay.

    Ideal clients: Working pet owners, travelers, dogs needing socialization, owners seeking training support
    What sets them apart
    • Offers boarding, daycare, grooming, and training all under one roof with experienced staff.
    • Emphasizes supervised play and social interaction to keep dogs mentally stimulated and physically active.
    • Provides dog training services alongside boarding and daycare to help with behavior and obedience.
    Dog BoardingDog DaycareGroomingDog TrainingPet Care
    Phone(843) 286-4996
    My Three Dogs West Ashley
    Updated 5/6/26Learn More β†’
    This directory of dog training local businesses serving Greater Charleston, is maintained by Lantern. Rankings are determined by the Lantern Score β€” not advertising or payment for placement. Learn how it works. Last updated April 20, 2026. To claim or update a listing, contact us.