ExFed Dog Training - Brewster, MA
Certified Professional Dog Trainer; graduate of the prestigious National K9 School for Dog Trainers in Columbus, Ohio; Professional Member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) where I serve on the Board of Directors.
I started training dogs at 10 years old and friends, neighbors and my own dogs with my innate ability with dogs and many referred to me as the local Dog Whisperer. After a 36-year career as a Special Agent in federal law enforcement, I decided to “retire” and pursue my passion and fulfill my dream by entering the world of dog training full-time.
As a dog trainer, I am dedicated to positive and effective training solutions that are balanced and fair for the dog. I am equally committed to furthering my education, so that I am able to offer you the best possible training solutions and methods.
Most problems are solved with structure, leadership and counter conditioning. My methods are not "correction based" and I am a relationship based trainer and use a pressure and release technique, combined with very consistent direction to help dogs succeed and not allow them to fail. I then use constant feedback and praise, as well as treats to keep the dog happy and motivated. I am not a "yank and crank" correction based trainer, although I do use corrections when appropriate (with aggressive dogs) and I am not a "cookie trainer" where I would be a human treat dispenser. I find myself able to use all methods and tools that are appropriate for the dog in front of me and balance the training modalities.
I offer a low cost, comprehensive evaluation/training session ($100) as well as private one-on-one sessions and Board & Train options. Contact and Book us through Petworks today. Thank you.
- Insured
Pricing Packages
How do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Pet First Aid Training
- Animal Behaviorist
- Puppy Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
What training tools do you use?
- E-Collar
- Front-clip Harness
- Head Collar
- Leash
- Long Line
- Martingale Collar
- Muzzle
- Praise/Affection
- Prong Collar
- Slip Lead
- Toys
- Treats
Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?
- Dog Obedience Training
- Pet Behavior Modification
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Dogs
Proud member of...
- International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP)
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
Cape Cod, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Chatham, Eastham, Mashpee, Falmouth, Sandwich, Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Plymouth Massachusetts
What year did you begin serving pets?
2009
SERVICE AREA: Within 75 miles, including Cape Cod, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Chatham, Eastham, Mashpee, Falmouth, Sandwich, Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Plymouth Massachusetts
Distinction
Customer Reviews
Rick Alto is the best trainer I have ever encountered. Notice, I did not say dog trainer. His job would have been so much easier if I had arranged for my dog to live at his house and be trained by him. I got my dog at 11 months from the breeder, so I had lots of catching up to do. All my life I was used to getting puppies at 8 weeks old. Quite a different story when your new dog is a very large 55# puppy with no initial training. Rick knew at the get go, (I hadn’t figured this out yet) that his job was to train me. And, sometimes I got it, and other times I was clueless and it took me weeks before I could consistently do any one thing he suggested, properly. Words to describe him during our lessons are: professional, courteous and consistent. There was never even the slightest hint of criticism towards me, even when I over and over forgot what he had told me over the weeks. I have had a number of dogs over the years and have gone to a number of training classes. Some here on Cape Cod. I am used to the basics. But this time, I have a dog that is a challenge for me, for a variety of reasons. Rick boiled everything down to some simple commands. My job will be to continue to remember his lessons every day. The way I see it, I believe Rick teaches you to be one with your dog. I guess that is the best way I can explain my interpretation of his teaching. I realize now I cannot just walk out the door absent-minded, thinking of what I am going to do that day. NO! The moment I put the leash on her, I need to stay focused on her. After all, she deserves my attention during this time. I am looking forward to processing weeks of lessons and actually remembering and doing what he said. I know I can do it. He taught me to envision what I really wanted my dog to do. He did it….I saw him focus on her, shut his eyes for a moment, then by golly, she did it! If Rick Alto did it for me and my doggie, he will do it for you too. - Cape Cod, MA - April 2025
- Anne SRick is patient and professional. We enjoyed our training session. - Brewster, MA
- John DI couldn’t have been more pleased with Rick’s training. We did the two weeks board and train with our dog Jingle (11 month mini-Aussie Doodle). When we picked our pooch up it was the first time I could effectively communicate with Jingle. Jingle was aloof and resistant to commands. After our training he started giving us kisses and following basic commands. The best part was the clear and consistent communication throughout the process from Rick. We enjoyed the photo and video updates. After our training we boarded Jingle with Rick (and look forward to doing so again). I knew that Jingle was well cared for and enjoying himself while in the company of Rick, Tia, and Ace.
- L BHow do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Pet First Aid Training
- Animal Behaviorist
- Puppy Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
What training tools do you use?
- E-Collar
- Front-clip Harness
- Head Collar
- Leash
- Long Line
- Martingale Collar
- Muzzle
- Praise/Affection
- Prong Collar
- Slip Lead
- Toys
- Treats
Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?
- Dog Obedience Training
- Pet Behavior Modification
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Dogs
Proud member of...
- International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP)
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
Cape Cod, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Harwich, Orleans, Chatham, Eastham, Mashpee, Falmouth, Sandwich, Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Plymouth Massachusetts
What year did you begin serving pets?
2009
Customer Reviews
Rick Alto is the best trainer I have ever encountered. Notice, I did not say dog trainer. His job would have been so much easier if I had arranged for my dog to live at his house and be trained by him. I got my dog at 11 months from the breeder, so I had lots of catching up to do. All my life I was used to getting puppies at 8 weeks old. Quite a different story when your new dog is a very large 55# puppy with no initial training. Rick knew at the get go, (I hadn’t figured this out yet) that his job was to train me. And, sometimes I got it, and other times I was clueless and it took me weeks before I could consistently do any one thing he suggested, properly. Words to describe him during our lessons are: professional, courteous and consistent. There was never even the slightest hint of criticism towards me, even when I over and over forgot what he had told me over the weeks. I have had a number of dogs over the years and have gone to a number of training classes. Some here on Cape Cod. I am used to the basics. But this time, I have a dog that is a challenge for me, for a variety of reasons. Rick boiled everything down to some simple commands. My job will be to continue to remember his lessons every day. The way I see it, I believe Rick teaches you to be one with your dog. I guess that is the best way I can explain my interpretation of his teaching. I realize now I cannot just walk out the door absent-minded, thinking of what I am going to do that day. NO! The moment I put the leash on her, I need to stay focused on her. After all, she deserves my attention during this time. I am looking forward to processing weeks of lessons and actually remembering and doing what he said. I know I can do it. He taught me to envision what I really wanted my dog to do. He did it….I saw him focus on her, shut his eyes for a moment, then by golly, she did it! If Rick Alto did it for me and my doggie, he will do it for you too. - Cape Cod, MA - April 2025
- Anne SRick is patient and professional. We enjoyed our training session. - Brewster, MA
- John DI couldn’t have been more pleased with Rick’s training. We did the two weeks board and train with our dog Jingle (11 month mini-Aussie Doodle). When we picked our pooch up it was the first time I could effectively communicate with Jingle. Jingle was aloof and resistant to commands. After our training he started giving us kisses and following basic commands. The best part was the clear and consistent communication throughout the process from Rick. We enjoyed the photo and video updates. After our training we boarded Jingle with Rick (and look forward to doing so again). I knew that Jingle was well cared for and enjoying himself while in the company of Rick, Tia, and Ace.
- L B🐾 About Rick Alto – Expert Mobile Dog Trainer based in Brewster, MA
Rick is a trusted professional dog trainer in Brewster, MA, dedicated to helping dogs and their families build lasting, trusting relationships. With years of hands-on experience working with dogs of all sizes...from playful puppies to seasoned seniors, Rick Alto uses positive, effective, science-informed techniques to make training enjoyable, rewarding, and results-driven for you and your dog.
🏙️ Personalized Training Right at Your Home
Living in a busy urban or suburban environment can bring unique challenges for dogs - distractions, new neighbors, and varying routines. Rick Alto’s canine training services bring expert guidance directly to your door, providing flexible schedules, personalized attention, and safe, fun walks and training sessions for dogs of all energy levels.
🐶 Obedience & Manners – Teaching reliable commands and respectful behavior
📏 Leash & Walking Confidence – Ending pulling, lunging, and stress during walks
🧠 Behavior Modification – Addressing fear, anxiety, reactivity, or unwanted behaviors
🐾 Puppy Foundations - Socialization and good habit development from the start
❤️ Transforming Your Dog’s Life - and Yours
Training is about more than obedience. It’s about connection, trust, and confidence. When your dog understands expectations and communicates clearly, everyday life becomes calmer and more joyful. Imagine stress-free walks, confident greetings at home, and a deeper bond built on love, patience, and understanding. Rick Alto is dedicated to helping you and your dog experience this transformation.
📘 Training Tools & Techniques
Rick Alto uses customized, positive methods tailored to each dog’s needs:
🎯 Clicker or reward-based reinforcement
🦴 Treats, toys, and praise for motivation
🐾 Safe harnesses and leashes for structured practice
🧠 Behavior plans focused on sustainable, long-term results
These techniques strengthen good habits, reduce problem behaviors, and make training fun for your dog.
📌 Book a Session With Rick Alto Today
Ready to see lasting results with your dog? Book a virtual or mobile dog training session with Rick Alto in Brewster, Barnstable County, Hyannis, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Mashpee, Falmouth, Chatham, Harwich, Orleans, Eastham, MA at your convenience.
Whether you’re tackling basic obedience, leash issues, or more complex behavioral concerns, expert guidance is just a click away. Explore verified reviews, request quotes, and start your journey toward a happier, more harmonious life with your four-legged companion!
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