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Coastal K9 Academy

Virginia Beach, Virginia

4.7/5· 34 Google reviews

About Coastal K9 Academy

Coastal K9 Academy is a professional dog training company based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, serving the Hampton Roads area. We specialize in puppy training, basic and advanced obedience, behavior modification, and off-leash reliability for dogs of all breeds and ages. Our balanced, results-driven training programs are customized to meet each dog’s needs and help owners build clear communication, structure, and lasting control in real-world situations. Whether you’re looking for puppy obedience or help with challenging behaviors, Coastal K9 Academy is committed to creating confident, well-mannered dogs throughout Virginia Beach and surrounding communities.

Training & services

Training goals

  • Behavior consultation
    Program details

    Behavior modification targets challenging issues such as aggression, anxiety, reactivity, or destructive habits. This service identifies the root cause of behavioral problems and replaces them with calm, controlled responses using proven training methods. It is designed to bring lasting change, help

    This service targets unwanted behaviors such as aggression, anxiety, and reactivity. It uses structured rehabilitation methods to replace negative behaviors with calm, controlled responses.

    Focuses on improving indoor behavior such as barking, jumping, and boundary respect, ensuring a peaceful household environment.

    Prepares dogs for calm and controlled veterinary visits.

    Ensures dogs remain calm during grooming sessions.

    Expert advice and evaluation session.

  • Crate training
    Program details

    Teaches dogs to view crates as safe, comfortable spaces while preventing anxiety and destructive behaviors during confinement.

  • House training
    Program details

    Guides puppies and adult dogs in developing consistent bathroom habits using structured schedules and reward-based reinforcement.

  • Leash training
    Program details

    Loose leash walk training ensures your dog walks beside you without tension on the leash, creating a smooth and controlled walking experience. It emphasizes patience, focus, and proper leash etiquette so your dog learns to stay calm and attentive even in distracting environments.

    This service eliminates pulling, lunging, and inconsistent walking behavior. Dogs learn calm, structured walking patterns that make daily walks enjoyable and stress-free.

    A focused group class for dogs who pull or lose focus on leash, teaching loose-leash walking around real distractions.

    One-on-one work to stop leash pulling and teach calm, controlled walks on any leash or harness setup.

    Builds a rock-solid recall so your dog comes back reliably, even around distractions, parks, or the beach.

    Teaches dogs to walk politely on leash without pulling, lunging, or dragging their owner around.

  • Obedience training
    Program details

    Designed for dogs of all ages, this program teaches fundamental commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. It improves communication between owner and dog, ensuring better control, discipline, and everyday behavior in home and public environments.

    This service refines obedience skills to a higher level, focusing on off-leash control, distraction handling, and precision commands. It transforms well-trained dogs into highly responsive companions in real-world situations.

    Trains dogs to calmly wait at doors without rushing or jumping, improving safety and household discipline.

    Teaches polite behavior such as greeting guests, waiting calmly, and avoiding unwanted habits.

    Reinforces previously learned commands and corrects regression.

    Builds obedience consistency in outdoor environments.

    Ongoing training to preserve behavior standards.

    Combines obedience and emotional control.

    Upgrades basic obedience to advanced level.

    Social learning environment where dogs improve obedience while interacting with others.

    For dogs who've completed the basics and are ready for off-leash-level reliability and distraction-proofing in a group setting.

    Private, in-person sessions built around your dog's specific behavior goals, with a trainer's full attention every session.

  • Puppy training
    Program details

    Structured group sessions for puppies focused on socialization, basic manners, and building confidence around new dogs, people, and places.

    A 4-week puppy socialization and basic manners package, run in a small group setting.

  • Recall training
    Program details

    This service ensures your dog returns immediately when called, even with distractions present. It strengthens safety and reliability in outdoor environments.

    Strengthens recall commands in highly distracting environments.

    Ensures immediate response in critical situations.

    A private training package focused entirely on building a dependable off-leash recall.

  • Socialization
    Program details

    Exposes dogs to city environments, traffic, and crowds for adaptability.

    Puppies are exposed to controlled environments, people, and other dogs to build confidence and reduce fear-based behaviors later in life.

Behavior support

  • Aggression training
    Program details

    Focused on dogs displaying aggressive tendencies, this program works to identify triggers and rebuild trust and control through structured correction and reinforcement methods.

    A structured program that addresses dog-to-dog and dog-to-human aggression using behavioral correction techniques and controlled exposure therapy.

    Addresses possessive behavior around food using desensitization techniques and controlled feeding exercises.

    Targets fear-based aggression and rebuilds confidence.

    Private sessions addressing reactivity toward people, dogs, or specific triggers, using a structured, balanced approach.

    A private training program for dogs with aggression or reactivity toward people, dogs, or specific triggers.

  • Barking
    Program details
  • Fear and confidence
    Program details

    Helps anxious or fearful dogs build confidence through gradual exposure, trust-building exercises, and positive reinforcement strategies.

    Develops confidence in shy or insecure dogs through structured exposure and positive reinforcement exercises.

  • Jumping up
    Program details
  • Reactivity training
    Program details

    Designed for dogs that overreact to stimuli such as other dogs, people, or noises, this program builds calm responses and emotional control.

    Stops barking or lunging at door activity.

  • Resource guarding
    Program details

    Helps dogs overcome protective behavior over toys, food, or objects through trust-building and structured correction.

    Private training to safely reduce guarding behavior around food, toys, or spaces.

  • Separation anxiety
    Program details

    Helps dogs cope with being alone by gradually building independence and emotional stability.

How training happens

  • Board and train
    Program details

    This combined service offers both professional boarding care and structured training sessions during your dog’s stay. While your dog enjoys a safe and supervised environment, they also receive obedience and behavior work that reinforces discipline and improves overall manners. It is an effective way

    The board and train program is an immersive training experience where your dog stays with professional trainers for intensive daily sessions. This structured approach accelerates learning by reinforcing obedience, discipline, and behavior correction throughout the day. It is ideal for owners seeking

    Dogs stay in a structured training environment where professionals work on behavior correction, obedience, and discipline. This immersive approach accelerates learning and provides lasting results for busy owners.

    An extended board and train program focused on building reliable off-leash obedience and recall.

    A board and train program adapted for puppies — potty training, crate training, and early obedience.

    An intensive board and train program for dogs with more serious behavior issues like aggression or severe reactivity.

    A 1-week board and train program — your dog stays with our team for an immersive obedience foundation.

    A 2-week board and train program for dogs needing more time to build reliable, lasting obedience.

    A 3-4 week board and train program, our most immersive option for dogs with bigger behavior goals.

    A board and train program adapted for puppies — potty training, crate training, and early obedience, all in one stay.

    An extended board and train package focused on building reliable off-leash obedience and recall.

    An intensive board and train package for dogs with more serious behavior issues like aggression or severe reactivity.

  • Day training
    Program details

    Day training allows your dog to receive professional instruction during the day and return home in the evening. This service focuses on consistent reinforcement of obedience and behavior goals in a controlled training environment. It is perfect for owners who want professional progress without full-

    The day training program is a structured plan where dogs attend regular training sessions throughout the week to build obedience, improve behavior, and develop better manners. Each session is designed to reinforce positive habits and gradually correct unwanted behaviors, creating steady and measurab

    Day training sessions concentrated on one specific issue like reactivity, pulling, or impulse control.

    Daytime structured training sessions for puppies, building good habits early without an overnight stay.

    A 1-week day training program — your dog comes in for structured, one-on-one sessions each day, no overnight stay.

    A 2-week day training program for dogs needing more repetition to lock in new behaviors.

    An ongoing monthly day training program for continued reinforcement after initial training.

    A day training package built for puppies, focused on early habits without an overnight stay.

  • Group classes
    Program details

    A 4-week group obedience class package covering core commands and real-world manners practice alongside other dogs and owners.

    A single drop-in group class session — a low-commitment way to try group training before booking a full package.

  • In-home training
    Program details

    Professional trainers work directly in your home environment to address real-life behavioral challenges.

  • Pack walks
    Program details

    Transforms walks into disciplined training sessions that reinforce obedience and focus.

  • Private training
    Program details

    Focused training sessions designed specifically for young puppies and early development stages.

    One-on-one sessions tailored to your dog’s unique needs and behavioral goals.

    One-on-one training sessions held at your home, working with your dog's real daily environment and routine.

    One private, one-on-one training session focused on your dog's specific goals.

    A 3-session private training package for owners who want ongoing one-on-one coaching on a specific issue.

    A 6-session private training package for dogs needing a longer runway to build reliable, lasting behavior change.

    A private lesson package built specifically for puppies — potty training, basic commands, and early socialization.

Dog age

  • Adult dogs
    Program details
  • Puppies
    Program details

    This service builds the essential groundwork for young puppies by introducing structure, communication, and early obedience. It focuses on preventing future behavioral issues through guided routines, social exposure, and positive reinforcement techniques that help puppies grow into confident, well-m

    Guides puppies through critical developmental stages for long-term success.

    Reduces biting habits in young dogs through controlled correction.

  • Senior dogs
    Program details

    Gentle, adapted training for older dogs, focused on manners, comfort, and safety rather than intensity.

Training level

  • Advanced obedience
    Program details
  • Advanced training
    Program details
  • Beginner training
    Program details

    Builds foundational skills required for future service or support dog development.

Class options

  • Drop-in classes
    Program details
  • Small classes
    Program details

Support between sessions

  • Follow-up support
    Program details
  • Personalized training plans
    Program details
  • Refresher training
    Program details

Assistance and working dogs

  • Protection training
    Program details

    Introduces controlled protection behaviors while maintaining obedience and handler safety.

    Refines protection skills for highly trained working dogs under expert supervision.

  • Service dog training
    Program details
  • Therapy dog training
    Program details

    Prepares dogs for emotional support roles through calmness and obedience training.

Your dog’s background

  • Multi-dog households
    Program details

    Helps manage behavior and harmony in homes with multiple dogs.

  • Rescue dogs
    Program details

Training approach

  • Balanced training
    Program details
  • Positive reinforcement
    Program details

Additional services

  • Boarding
    Program details

    Dog boarding provides a safe, structured, and comfortable environment where your dog is cared for while you are away. Beyond basic supervision, this service ensures your dog maintains a healthy routine with proper feeding, exercise, and attention. It gives owners peace of mind knowing their dog is i

  • Dog walking
    Program details

    Walks that reinforce obedience and leash discipline during real-world outings.

  • Grooming
    Program details

Other listed services

View 66 additional details
  • Dog training
    Program details

    Each description must be in single paragraph, engaging and clearly explain the value of the services.Avoid bullet points, emojis and repetition. Make a persuasive and customer focused tone. Each services heading must be separarted from the description.

    Dog training services offer a complete range of solutions designed to address obedience, behavior issues, and communication between dog and owner. This service is tailored to individual needs, ensuring each dog receives the right level of guidance to become well-mannered, responsive, and balanced in

    Training services provide professional support to address a wide range of obedience and behavioral challenges. These services are designed to help dogs of all ages develop discipline, improve communication with their owners, and adapt to real-world environments with confidence and control.

  • Leash Walk
    Program details

    Leash walk training focuses on teaching your dog to walk calmly and respectfully without pulling, lunging, or excessive distraction. This service transforms stressful walks into structured and enjoyable experiences by building discipline and focus, making daily outings easier and more controlled.

  • Training Program
    Program details

    The training program is a customized approach designed to improve obedience, behavior, and overall responsiveness. It follows a structured progression tailored to your dog’s needs, ensuring consistent learning and long-term behavioral improvement through professional guidance and repetition.

  • Off-Leash Control Training
    Program details

    Dogs are trained to respond reliably without a leash in safe environments. This builds trust, discipline, and responsiveness even in distracting situations.

  • Jumping Prevention Training
    Program details

    Eliminates unwanted jumping on people through structured correction and impulse control exercises.

  • Anxiety Reduction Training
    Program details

    Targets separation anxiety and general stress in dogs using calming techniques and behavioral restructuring.

  • Heel Command Mastery
    Program details

    Teaches dogs to walk closely and calmly beside their owner regardless of distractions.

  • Distraction Training Program
    Program details

    Improves obedience in high-distraction environments such as parks, streets, and public spaces.

  • Impulse Control Training
    Program details

    Builds patience and self-control in dogs through structured behavioral exercises.

  • Dog Leadership Training for Owners
    Program details

    Helps owners learn how to communicate effectively and establish calm leadership over their dogs.

  • Owner-Dog Communication Training
    Program details

    Improves understanding between dog and owner using clear signals, timing, and reinforcement techniques.

  • Behavioral Assessment Consultation
    Program details

    A professional evaluation to identify behavioral issues and design a customized training plan.

  • Working Dog Training
    Program details

    Develops discipline, obedience, and task-based performance for working breeds.

  • Structured Exercise Programs
    Program details

    Combines physical activity with obedience training for balanced development.

  • Behavioral Enrichment Training
    Program details

    Stimulates dogs mentally and physically to reduce boredom and destructive behavior.

  • Confidence Walk Programs
    Program details

    Designed for nervous dogs to build confidence in outdoor environments.

  • Rural Environment Training
    Program details

    Builds obedience in open spaces with natural distractions.

  • Dog-to-Dog Interaction Training
    Program details

    Improves social behavior and reduces aggression during interactions.

  • Canine Behavior Evaluation Report
    Program details

    Detailed assessment of dog behavior with professional recommendations.

  • Noise Sensitivity Training
    Program details

    Helps dogs adjust to loud environments like fireworks and traffic.

  • Public Space Etiquette Training
    Program details

    Teaches proper behavior in public places like parks and stores.

  • Calm Behavior Conditioning
    Program details

    Encourages relaxed behavior in stimulating environments.

  • Structured Feeding Program
    Program details

    Creates disciplined feeding routines to eliminate food-related issues.

  • Dog Behavior Reset Program
    Program details

    A full behavioral restart program for severely misbehaved dogs.

  • Canine Discipline Training
    Program details

    Builds structure and respect through consistent rules and reinforcement.

  • Calm Mind Training for Dogs
    Program details

    Helps dogs remain relaxed under stress or excitement.

  • Household Rules Training
    Program details

    Establishes clear boundaries and expectations inside the home.

  • Guest Greeting Training
    Program details

    Teaches dogs to greet visitors calmly and politely.

  • Behavioral Correction Sessions
    Program details

    Focused correction of specific unwanted behaviors.

  • Dog Stability Training
    Program details

    Creates balanced temperament and emotional stability.

  • Structured Play Training
    Program details

    Uses play as a controlled reinforcement tool.

  • Canine Focus Development
    Program details

    Improves attention span and obedience focus.

  • Training Reinforcement Coaching
    Program details

    Helps owners maintain long-term training success.

  • Dog Habit Correction Program
    Program details

    Eliminates deeply ingrained bad habits.

  • Controlled Exposure Training
    Program details

    Gradual exposure to fears and triggers.

  • Real-Life Scenario Training
    Program details

    Simulates real-world challenges for better adaptation.

  • Behavior Tracking Program
    Program details

    Monitors behavioral progress over time.

  • Owner Training Education Program
    Program details

    Teaches owners how to continue training effectively.

  • Canine Leadership Development
    Program details

    Builds leadership structure between owner and dog.

  • Dog Confidence Reinforcement
    Program details

    Strengthens emotional resilience in dogs.

  • Behavioral Consistency Training
    Program details

    Ensures consistent obedience in all environments.

  • Calm Energy Training
    Program details

    Encourages relaxed behavior through structured control.

  • Anxiety Trigger Desensitization
    Program details

    Reduces reactions to known triggers.

  • Structured Environment Training
    Program details

    Creates predictable routines for stability.

  • Dog Discipline Reset
    Program details

    Re-establishes rules and boundaries.

  • Controlled Social Exposure
    Program details

    Safe introduction to new environments and dogs.

  • Advanced Behavior Correction
    Program details

    Handles complex behavioral issues with expert techniques.

  • Customized Dog Training Plans
    Program details

    Personalized programs based on individual dog needs.

  • Dog Training Strategy Planning
    Program details

    Custom roadmap for behavior improvement.

  • Long-Term Behavior Coaching
    Program details

    Ongoing support for sustained results.

  • Dog Training Progress Review
    Program details

    Evaluation of training effectiveness.

  • Emergency Behavior Intervention
    Program details

    Immediate correction for severe behavioral issues.

  • Behavioral Transformation Program
    Program details

    Complete behavioral overhaul for dogs.

  • Structured Dog Lifestyle Training
    Program details

    Integrates training into daily routines.

  • Canine Emotional Balance Training
    Program details

    Balances excitement, fear, and aggression.

  • Lifetime Dog Training Support Program
    Program details

    Ongoing guidance for lifelong behavioral success.

  • Jumping & Greeting Manners
    Program details

    Private lessons to stop jumping on guests and teach calm, controlled greetings at the door.

  • E-Collar (Remote Collar) Training
    Program details

    Balanced training using low-stimulation e-collar tools like the Mini Educator, taught safely and correctly for reliable off-leash communication.

  • New Dog Training Consultation
    Program details

    An initial evaluation and training plan session for new clients, identifying the right training path for your dog.

  • Working-Line & High-Drive Dog Training
    Program details

    Training for working-line and high-energy breeds (e.g. German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois) needing structured outlets and advanced obedience work.

  • E-Collar Starter Package
    Program details

    Introductory training on balanced e-collar use (Mini Educator), taught safely and correctly for reliable off-leash communication.

  • New Client Training Consultation
    Program details

    A one-time evaluation session where we assess your dog and map out the right training path and package for your goals.

  • Mini Educator E-Collar (Ecollar Technology)
    Program details

    The e-collar we use and sell for balanced training — low-stimulation, precise, and paired with proper hands-on instruction so it's used correctly.

  • Garmin Sport Pro E-Collar
    Program details

    A rugged e-collar option for active and working dogs, sold and supported with in-person training on correct use.

  • Military & Public-Service Discount Package
    Program details

    A discounted training package for military members, veterans, and public-service workers — ask which program qualifies.

  • Training Gift Certificate
    Program details

    A gift certificate toward any group class, private lesson, day training, or board and train program — a good gift for a new puppy owner.

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Customer reviews

Google listing
4.7
out of 534 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • leash pulling 8
  • tailored sessions 4
  • dog behavior 3
  • puppy training 3
  • reactive dog training 3
  • anxious pup training 2
All 10 topics
  • board and train 2
  • confidence building 2
  • dog boarding 2
  • stubborn dog training 2

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

34 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Kevin Bonneville
5/5
Josh and his team helped our dog Tyson have the training foundation that he needed. Tyson did a 3-week board and train, he was well taken care of during his time away while in training. We would also like to give special thanks and a shout out to Stephanie! She was so great throu…Read full reviewClose full review

Josh and his team helped our dog Tyson have the training foundation that he needed. Tyson did a 3-week board and train, he was well taken care of during his time away while in training. We would also like to give special thanks and a shout out to Stephanie! She was so great throughout the entire process! We highly recommend Coastal K9 Academy if you are looking for a holistic approach towards dog training. Josh is very patient with the owners and the dog as well! He will teach your dog the most important commands to keep your dog safe and secure. Just keep in mind that this training is a 2-way street. You, the owner must reinforce and continue the training at home. We have had Tyson back for a couple of weeks now. He has most definitely improved since he first left for training. Tyson came back a much more structured and calm dog. He is nearly a 120 pound and very tall Rottweiler! Needless to say he is too big to be jumping up on folks. Since completing training with Josh at Coastal K9 Academy, the jumping has stopped. Tyson is a joy to be around with his training regiment he was given. He does very well with sit, stay, down, leave it, wait, watch me, and come when called. He was also introduced to place and overall recall off leash. For Tyson, we are also working with him on reinforcing place. He can be stubborn, but he is very smart and learning to understand what we as his people are asking him to do. As I previously stated, this is a 2-way commitment! Please reach out to Josh and his team for an evaluation of you and your dog(s) needs. You will be satisfied, and if for any reason you need any refresher training, Josh offers lifetime coaching. Courtnay and I would like to personally thank Josh and the Coastal K9 Academy team for a successful 3-week board and train! One other positive! If you do training with them you can also board your dog for family vacations or long weekend getaways if available. It is very comforting to know your family member has a safe place to be should you need it! Tyson has become a social butterfly since completing training! Now it is your turn to have a well balanced fur baby!! Very Respectfully, Kevin & Courtnay B.

Antoinette Gray
5/5

Thank you for your training of Shadow. He does not run the house anymore. And no biting family. He can bite strangers. No is our friend now.

Francis Castle
5/5
What a great experience! I was nervous about let my sweet Methuselah go for 3 weeks but it was worth it! I learned so much about my dog and myself! I found the most beneficial part of the training was me learning how to correctly read and communicate with my dog, which has bette…Read full reviewClose full review

What a great experience! I was nervous about let my sweet Methuselah go for 3 weeks but it was worth it! I learned so much about my dog and myself! I found the most beneficial part of the training was me learning how to correctly read and communicate with my dog, which has better helped me become a better dog owner! I only did. I learn a lot, but it has forced me to keep up with the training which has become a healthy part of my daily routine! Thank you, Josh for taking the time to explain things to me to the point where I understand .

Karine Ymer
5/5

Awesome trainers. Very personal and knowledgeable. Our Mali has made such great stride and so glad we trusted you with our boy.

Rachael Stone
5/5

Josh has been super helpful many times in assessing behavior of dogs in our rescue. We fully trust his assessments, as he is fair and smart about dog behavior.

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

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