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 — Certified Dog Trainer in Brewster, Massachusetts
Rick Alto is a certified dog trainer serving Brewster, Barnstable County, and surrounding areas including Hyannis, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Mashpee, Falmouth, Chatham, Harwich, Orleans, Eastham, dedicated to helping dogs and their families build lasting, trusting relationships. Using positive, science-based methods tailored to each dog's age, temperament, and specific challenges, Rick makes training effective, enjoyable, and built to last.
❤️ The best dog trainers don't just train dogs — they teach you how to communicate with yours. Rick brings that philosophy to every session, working alongside you and your dog to build trust, consistency, and real, lasting results.
What Rick Can Help With
Obedience & manners — reliable commands and respectful behavior at home and in public. Leash & walking confidence — ending pulling, lunging, and stress on walks. Behavior modification — addressing reactivity, anxiety, fear, and aggression. New dog foundations — building good habits and confidence from the start.
Why Book Rick on PetWorks?
Verified, certified professional with credentials you can trust. Personalized one-on-one sessions — in-home, mobile, or on-site. Force-free, positive reinforcement methods that are humane and proven. A judgment-free approach focused on the wellbeing of both you and your dog. Backed by real reviews from pet parents across Barnstable County and Hyannis, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Mashpee, Falmouth, Chatham, Harwich, Orleans, Eastham.
How Booking Rick on PetWorks Works
Booking Rick is secure and straightforward.
Review Services: Browse Rick's training packages and services listed on this page and choose the one that fits your dog's needs.
Click "Book Now" or "Request Quote": If you see a package that fits, you can book directly. If your situation is unique or you'd like to discuss your dog's specific challenges first, click "Request Quote" to start a conversation with Rick.
Secure Payment: All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Klarna. Your payment is held safely and only released once the booking is confirmed.
PetWorks Care Coverage: Every booking includes PetWorks Care Coverage, giving you peace of mind and access to our dedicated concierge team if you ever need support.
Connect & Schedule: Once your booking is initiated, you'll use the PetWorks Inbox to coordinate the best time and location for your session and share any details about your dog that will help Rick prepare.
Ready to get started? Browse Rick's verified reviews, compare credentials, and book confidently on PetWorks — serving Brewster, MA and the surrounding Barnstable County area.
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