Walk and Dog Train With Drop In Visits - Durham, NC

Member since Apr 2026

As a certified dog trainer and walker, I bring a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to every pet I work with. I'm proud to be certified by Fear Free Pets and CATCH Canine Trainers Academy, ensuring that I provide top-notch care and training tailored to your pet’s unique needs. My specialty lies in working with reactive dogs, a passion inspired by my own furry companions. I also hold a Pet Tech Pet CPR & First Aid Certificate, so you can rest assured knowing your beloved pet is in safe hands.

My services are designed to fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle, offering flexible morning, afternoon, and evening dog walk-and-train sessions, as well as convenient drop-in visits. I understand the importance of positive reinforcement, and I provide delicious treats to reward your dog during our sessions. However, I am more than happy to use treats you prefer, ensuring your pet's health and habits are always respected. I am fully insured, giving you peace of mind as we embark on this journey of learning and fun with your dog.

I take pride in the glowing 5-star reviews I’ve received on Rover, which reflect my commitment to excellence and the satisfaction of pet parents like you. Whether your dog needs extra training or just a fun and engaging walk during the day, I am here to help. Ready to see a positive change in your pet’s behavior? Book me through Petworks today!

  • Certified

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Private Dog Training
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Dog Behaviorist

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Cats
  • Dogs

Pet Certifications

  • CATCH Canine Training Academy - Certified Dog Trainer
  • Fear Free Certified Professional
  • Pet Sitters International (PSI) Certification
  • Pet Tech Pet CPR & First Aid Certificate

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Durham County NC, Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Apex, Hillsborough, Burlington, Sanford, Fuquay-Varina, Wake Forest North Carolina

What year did you begin serving pets?

2016

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amy atkins

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BASED IN: Durham, NC
SERVICE AREA: Within 50 miles, including Durham County NC, Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Apex, Hillsborough, Burlington, Sanford, Fuquay-Varina, Wake Forest North Carolina

Distinction

Pet Sitters International (PSI) Certification Fear Free Certified Professional Pet Tech Pet CPR & First Aid Certificate CATCH Canine Training Academy - Certified Dog Trainer

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Private Dog Training
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Dog Behaviorist

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Cats
  • Dogs

Pet Certifications

  • CATCH Canine Training Academy - Certified Dog Trainer
  • Fear Free Certified Professional
  • Pet Sitters International (PSI) Certification
  • Pet Tech Pet CPR & First Aid Certificate

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Durham County NC, Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Apex, Hillsborough, Burlington, Sanford, Fuquay-Varina, Wake Forest North Carolina

What year did you begin serving pets?

2016

🐶 About Amy Atkins — Certified Dog Trainer in Durham, North Carolina


Amy Atkins is a certified dog trainer serving Durham and the surrounding Durham County area, including nearby communities such as Raleigh, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, Garner, Fuquay-varina, Clayton, Carrboro. They specialize in helping dogs and their people build calm, trusting, and lasting relationships through positive, science-based training. Whether you're working through leash pulling, anxiety, reactivity, or simply want a well-mannered companion, Amy tailors each session to your dog’s personality, history, and learning style—so progress feels natural and sustainable, not forced.


❤️ Great dog training isn’t just about commands — it’s about connection.


Amy works closely with you as the owner, helping you understand your dog’s behavior, build clear communication, and create routines that lead to real-world success at home and in public.


Training Support for Real-Life Challenges


From everyday manners to more complex behavioral concerns, Amy provides practical, results-driven support with:


  • Obedience and focus for home and public settings

  • Leash training and more relaxed, enjoyable walks

  • Reducing anxiety, fear, and reactivity

  • Puppy and new dog foundations for long-term success

Each session is designed to be encouraging, easy to apply, and tailored to your daily routine.


Recommended Certifications for Dog Trainers


When choosing a dog trainer, professional certifications are a strong indicator of expertise, experience, and commitment to ethical, science-based methods. Widely recognized credentials include the CPDT-KA or CPDT-KSA from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, which demonstrate mastery of modern training techniques, canine behavior, and learning theory. The KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner) highlights trainers skilled in positive reinforcement and clicker training, while the IAABC Certified Dog Trainer credential, recognized internationally, signals advanced knowledge in behavior modification and problem-solving. Membership or certification through the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) further reflects ongoing education and adherence to ethical standards. Many trainers also pursue specialty certifications in areas such as aggression management, behavior modification, or puppy development to address specific challenges.


For pet parents, choosing a certified trainer like Amy Atkins, ensures that your dog’s training is grounded in science, safety, and compassion. Asking about a trainer’s credentials is one of the best ways to make a confident, informed choice.


Why Pet Parents Book Through PetWorks


Booking through PetWorks gives you more than access to a qualified trainer — it gives you confidence in your choice.


Amy is a verified professional who uses force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in modern behavioral science. Pet parents value the supportive, judgment-free approach, along with the ability to read verified reviews and book securely through a trusted platform.


🦔 How Booking Dog Training in Durham, NC on PetWorks Works


Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On PetWorks, you can explore Amy ’s profile, read real feedback from pet parents across Durham County, and either initiate a booking offer by clicking the "Book Now" button, or start with a conversation by clicking 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Send Message'.


Training works best when you begin at the right time. For puppies and newly adopted dogs, early training builds strong habits from the start. For older dogs, challenges like leash pulling, anxiety, or reactivity can absolutely improve with consistent, professional guidance — with many pet parents noticing meaningful progress within just a few sessions.


In Durham and throughout North Carolina, demand for experienced, force-free dog trainers can increase during the spring and early fall, when routines shift and outdoor activity picks up. Booking a bit in advance can help you secure the schedule that works best for you.


Most dog training sessions across the U.S. typically range from $75–$150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and training type. On PetWorks, you can review available services and choose the option that aligns with your goals.


All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. Every booking also includes PetWorks Care Coverage, giving you access to a dedicated concierge team, added protection, and support throughout your experience. Once you connect, you’ll coordinate scheduling, location, and training goals directly with Amy to get the most out of your sessions.


Dog Training FAQs


How many dog training sessions will I need? Every dog is different, but many pet parents begin to see progress within 2–4 sessions. More complex behavior issues like reactivity or anxiety may require ongoing training and consistency at home.


Do you offer in-home dog training in Durham, NC? Many trainers on PetWorks, including Amy , offer flexible options such as in-home sessions, local meetups, or virtual coaching. Check the services listed above or use Request Quote to confirm what works best for your situation.


Can dog training help with aggressive or reactive behavior? Yes. Positive, science-based training can be very effective in addressing reactivity, fear, and certain forms of aggression. Early guidance from a certified professional helps ensure safe, lasting progress.


🐾 Start Building a Better Relationship With Your Dog


Training is an investment in your dog’s happiness — and your peace of mind.


Explore Amy ’s profile, read verified reviews from local pet parents across Durham County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog today. Availability can vary week to week, so booking ahead is recommended.