Efficient, Holistic, and Results-Oriented Dog Training

Are you experiencing behavioral issues with your dog? Our dog-friendly training methods can help you overcome these issues quickly. We train in your home where you and your dog are most comfortable. With our efficient, results-oriented training program, you can achieve the communication and leadership skills you desire. Live a happier life together with your dog!

Dog Training Services

Common Dog Behavioral Issues We Address:

  • Aggression
  • Adjusting to New Home
  • Barking
  • Biting
  • Chewing
  • Destruction
  • Digging
  • Focus & Listening
  • Housebreaking
  • Improving Confidence
  • Jumping
  • Leash Pulling
  • Marking/Peeing
  • New Baby Preparation
  • Obsessiveness
  • Respecting Other Pets
  • Running Away
  • Separation Anxiety
  • Sibling Rivalry – in House Tensions/ Fights

 

Not sure where your dog could use improvement? Take our free behavioral quiz today.

Meet Heather, Your Local Professional Dog Trainer

Heather Crawford Bark Busters Home Dog Trainer Columbia

In-Home Dog Training from Lake Wylie and Clover to Lake Murray and Greater Columbia, and Everywhere in Between!

Are you experiencing behavioral issues with your dog? Our expert training methods can help. Our cruelty free program focuses on natural canine communication, giving you the tools needed for success. Bark Busters' in-home approach has helped millions of dogs and owners throughout the world. Let me help you achieve these long lasting and effective results with your dog today.


I am Heather Crawford, your local Bark Busters Dog Trainer and Dog Behavioral Therapist in the Greater Columbia area. A proud native of South Carolina, I attended college in Columbia and worked in the healthcare field for more than 25 years. I have been an animal lover all my life and over the years have raised a variety - from dogs and cats to reptiles, rodents, and farm animals.

I love spending quality time with my friends and family, including my two teenage daughters, and am often found in areas like Five Points and Riverfront Park. I am passionate about feeding the local community, especially our veterans and the homeless, and love exploring new places as a travel, hiking, and foodie enthusiast. I am dedicated to supporting local businesses and volunteering regularly at our local Humane Society.

After I became acquainted with the Bark Busters method, I was inspired to become a dog trainer myself and use these techniques to help families live happier lives together with their dogs. We do not use harsh physical techniques or bribe with food to extort good behavior. Our nurturing, dog-friendly approach teaches you, the pet parent, the same natural communication methods that dogs understand instinctively. Our efficient, results-oriented, training program prioritizes clear communication and leadership while addressing issues in the locations they occur.

Any Breed. Any Age. Any Issue. Please reach out to me to learn more!

Contact Me Today

Client Reviews

See what our clients in Columbia have to say

Heather at Bark Buster's is AMAZING. I have an elder small dog that has some not so favorable behaviors, and she is helping us work through them. She is so patient, very calming as Emma gets excited. I enjoy our time together and look forward to next session.
I reached out to Bark Buster's as I loved the idea of training at our house. I was also impressed they offer a lifetime commitment to helping us work with our dogs. Heather showed us how to help Maggie with leash pulling and aggression towards other dogs. We saw results that day and with our continued work, she has come such a long way. If you're committed to doing the work, the bark Buster's system is effective and you will see results.
Heather is a true professional. Not only is she personable and knowledgeable in training our pups, you can tell that she loves her job. I highly recommend that you contact her for whatever training needs you may have. Both of our pups' behavior has improved tremendously even after only "two" sessions. Under her guidance, it wont be long before our fur babies will be perfect angels-- well, as perfect as they can be at least :)
We have 3 crazy energetic boxers (all rescues). When we moved into our new home last year one of our fur babies started getting aggressive with guests who visited the house. We were very concerned. We called to get more info and Whitney talked us through the entire program and was so nice. Heather came to our house and worked with all the dogs. She taught us how to stop the anxiety and bad behavior. I knew training was going to help but I didn’t realize we would see such drastic results from just 2 visits! The price for all three dogs was lower than I expected too! There’s just an extra fee per dog instead of having to pay full price for each dog. We highly recommend
Our German Shepherd, Nancy, was starting to fight with her brother. She was very aggressive with visitors and they both pulled so badly on the leash we couldn't walk them. We were referred to Heather and Bark Buster's by our vet for their behavioral problems. Whitney was so helpful. She answered all our MANY questions and was flexible with our schedule. Heather spent the first part of the lesson asking us questions and helping us make a plan for each dog. We decided it would be best to train both dogs so we could establish leadership in the household. She worked with each dog individually and then together. We were walking them both on a loose leash by the end of the first lesson! I could not believe the difference in Nancy. Both dogs were exhausted and slept the rest of the day. We have daily exercises for both that are quick and easy. We could not be more pleased with the results. Heather followed up with us a few days ago to check the progress and is coming for a revisit next week. Thank you so much Heather and Whitney for your help with this process. We're looking forward to seeing the continued progress with our pups.
My Labradoodle Ozzie has such high energy. He's impossible to walk because he pulls so hard and wants to meet every dog he sees. He barks and jumps on guests constantly. I wanted to fix this behavior before the Thanksgiving and Christmas parties. Then I found Bark Buster's! Their training is exactly what I was looking for. They are in- home trainers that use a holistic approach. No harsh devices and NO treat training. We had a previous trainer who used treats and that didn't work for long. The first visit went great! Heather explained everything and took a detailed history on Ozzie. He was 80% improved after just a couple hours. I couldn't believe the difference! AND they offer a lifetime guarantee of support. So if he has any more behavioral issues, she will come back at no extra cost! I couldn't be happier with the new and improved Oz
Heather was great. She worked with my rescue and he's so much calmer now. We rescued him a couple of months ago and he had some separation anxiety that made him claw the floor at the front door. He almost made it to the subfloor. Heather worked with him and us and he's so much better ❤️. She's coming back next week to make sure he's all better and more settled. That is some wonderful customer service. I'm so grateful
We highly recommend Heather! When our puppy, George was 10 months old we went with a different trainer and George did good. But overtime he went back to his old ways. We hired Heather when George was 3 years old. We were so surprised how quickly her training methods were working. Heather came to our house for 3 lessons and we are so happy with the results!
George loves Heather & we wish we had hired her earlier.
We have had such an amazing experience with Bark Busters. Our first visit was very informative, tailored to our specific needs and we’ve already noticed quite a bit of progress within our pups. Heather provided us with different techniques for queuing, space management and leash training. We are very pleased with the services we received and amazed by their ability to work with three dogs at once. The best part about Bark Busters is the instant results and that the training is for LIFETIME of the dog enrolled.
Heather and Patrick are amazing trainers! Having 3 dogs can be overwhelming especially when they aren’t trained. She’s very knowledgeable when it comes to the different dog behaviors and how to counteract them. We look forward to our next visit and cannot wait to see what new training techniques I will learn. Thank you so much for helping me. See you soon!
Heather is an amazing trainer. We are first time dog owners of a 7 month old Cane Corso which means we have a lot of questions. Heather is very quick at responding to all inquiries that we present to her whether it’s through email, text message or phone calls. The training sessions are informative and never feel rushed. We are very grateful for all of the support that she has provided thus far.
Heather has been amazing!!
We have two 9 month old pit mix puppies (brother and sister) I can't say enough about her professilalizem. I have texted her many times with new concerns and questions. She has always replied promptly and has even come the next day to teach us new techniques.
She has helped us to be able to really enjoy our new family members.
We couldn't have done it without her.
Heather is so good with my dog Buster. He is a rescue and had severe issues with aggression towards people he didn't know and also around food. Heather knew exactly what to do and worked with Buster at my home. She was very patient with him and her training methods improved his temperament significantly. My stress level when having company is so much better!
I saw a rapid improvement in both of my puppies after the initial session. Heather is experienced, patient and an awesome teacher. It is clear that she loves dogs and helping families to be the best caregivers. The training was informative and immediately impactful. I highly recommend her to any new dog owners for her passion, care, instruction and friendliness.
So we took the plunge and paid for help to hopefully get this dogs attitude right! Well...it's worth the upmost happiness and joy that I tell you, he's a changed dog!!! Bark Buster's Columbia here in Blythewood/Columbia, specifically Heather Crawford, is AMAZING!!! 1-ONE session and he's no longer the demon dog! There are follow up sessions and life of the dog support! WORTH EVERY PENNY
Heather was tremendously helpful in helping me prevent my dog, Marshmallow, from digging under the fence and escaping my yard. Heather was friendly, professional and highly knowledgeable. Her solutions were simple, reasonable adjustments to our habits that led to quick and effective changes. She has also been more than willing to make good on the promise of follow-up visits at no additional cost, which adds tremendous value to the training services. Her support has been invaluable to our piece of mind, and I would happy recommend her and Bark Busters to anyone in need of dog behavioral assistance.
Heather did a wonderful job training my Dixie Lou! We always have difficulty walking her. She pulls constantly and is reactive to other dogs. We saw a massive improvement after the home visit. We're putting in the work and it shows. Highly recommend!!
Heather is the best! My girl Trixie is a good girl but definitely needed some help with aggression towards other dogs and leash pulling so I could take her to breweries and parks without her acting like a fool : )
Heather taught techniques that trained both Trixie and me! She was kind and gentle with my girl but at the same time showed her who was boss. We now practice what we were taught daily. It was a great experience! Look out breweries Trixie and I are coming for ya!
My Jojo is a happier dog now that Heather worked with him to calm him and his issues. She did a fabulous job, and we are very pleased. Thank you, Bark Busters.
We were at our wits end with our Husky Jimmy. He would not stop barking and lunging at other dogs on walks. He also had terrible jumping habits when guests would come over. Heather helped so much within the first visit. She showed us how to train him with simple language and no treats. We tried training before, without the results we wanted. We are working with him daily and have seen such an improvement! Bark Buster's methods work and we could not be more grateful. Thank you Heather!!
Great service! Heather and crew are super friendly & professional.
I had a wonderful experience with my dog Jack! I was really struggling to understand how to make him feel less anxious and provide him with what he needs. Heather came in and patiently helped me understand how to help Jack out. She also taught me how to become a proper leader so Jack could be more relaxed and less anxious.
Heather did a wonderful job training my Dixie Lou! We always have difficulty walking her. She pulls constantly and is reactive to other dogs. We saw a massive improvement after the home visit. We're putting in the work and it shows. Highly recommend!!

Let's Get Started!

Connect with us Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

Please begin by confirming your zip code.
Dog Showing Aggression

Are You Struggling with Dog Aggression?

Aggression, whether directed towards humans or other animals is not a personality type, it’s a learned behavior. Most often aggression is caused by fear, which mixed with adrenaline and inappropriate education can be a recipe for danger. At Bark Busters Columbia we firmly believe that no dog is beyond help.

Understand the Root of Dog Aggression

If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior, for any reason, it’s critical to get the help of a professional dog trainer. Our Columbia team is available to help you assess the root cause of your dog’s aggression and help you implement strategies to resolve these issues and reduce the stress it causes while training, learning, and growing.

There are many different types of dog aggression, including:

  • Aggression with other dogs or other animals
  • Aggression towards humans
  • Food aggression
  • Possessive aggression
  • Territorial aggression

Resource guarding is one of the most common forms of aggression that our clients have come to us for. This is when a dog becomes aggressive when protecting a high-value item like food or a toy. We are here to help, and have extensive experience with resource guarding, human aggression, and dog-on-dog aggression. We have successfully dealt with an array of dog aggression issues with many of our clients.

The most important thing you can do to help your aggressive dog is to prevent situations that may lead to danger. Manage your dog’s exposure to problem situations. Prevention is always the best precaution.

If you’re struggling with dog aggression in any form, please let us help.

Contact Me Today

What Makes Bark Busters Columbia Unique

Bark Busters is the worldwide leader of in-home dog training, helping over 1 million families and their dogs around the globe since 1989. We wholeheartedly believe in our methods and 30+ years of results. At Bark Busters Columbia, we clear up the miscommunication between dogs and humans at the root of many behavioral issues by teaching everyone to speak the same language – dog!

Our nurturing, dog-friendly approach teaches you, the pet parent, the same natural communication methods that dogs understand instinctively. Our efficient, results-oriented, training program prioritizes clear communication and leadership while addressing issues in the locations they occur.

This means faster, longer-lasting solutions for you and your dog.

Dogs learn best in a familiar, safe environment, free of outside distractions and disruptions. That is why we come directly to your home, on your schedule to build an effective foundation for better behavior. We work first to build an effective foundation for better behavior. We teach you how to communicate with your dog. Dogs naturally live in families and look to their family leaders for guidance, safety, and love. Most people don't know how to appeal to a dog's natural sense of leadership or communication. We teach you how to use friendly, canine leadership and to "speak dog" using your body language, voice tones, and timing so you and your dog communicate better! You will see results. You want to see a change in your dog’s behavior, preferably sooner rather than later.

Any Breed. Any Age. Any Issue. Get Started Today!

We customize our training sessions to achieve your specific goals and meet your dog’s unique needs. When you learn to "speak dog" the Bark Busters way, you get real results – and nurture positive relationships and lasting emotional bonds with your canine family member.

Learn More about Bark Busters

 

Home Dog Training

Our Services

Bark Buster trainers conduct the one-on-one training in your home, without the distraction of other dogs or the stress of being sent away for dog obedience training at a kennel. After learning in your home, our behavioral therapist and trainer will work with you as needed outside and around real distractions, once you and your dog are ready.

Life of Dog Support Guarantee

Life of Dog Support Guarantee

Bark Busters Home Dog Training provides a Life of Dog Support Guarantee that is unique in the industry. It is designed to help owners resolve their dog's behavior and obedience problems and to provide customers with the satisfaction of ongoing support and peace of mind.

Dog Behavior Issues

Tips & Advice

We're here to help. From general dog training tips, to puppy toilet training best practices, to learning about various dog breeds we've worked with, Bark Busters offers our free tips and advice on common dog behavior problems and more.

Professional Dog Training Near You!

Servicing: Blackstock, Blythewood, Bowling Green, Catawba, Chapin, Chester, Clover, Columbia, Edgemoor, Elgin, Fort Lawn, Gilbert, Great Falls, Irmo, Lancaster, Lexington, Little Mountain, Lugoff, McConnells, Prosperity, Richburg, Ridgeway, Rock Hill, Winnsboro, York

Stay Connected

Learn more about Bark Busters in Columbia, South Carolina!

  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Get Started Today!

CALL 1-877-500-BARK (2275) OR ENTER YOUR ZIP CODE TO SEND US A MESSAGE.

Please begin by confirming your zip code.