Live a Happier Life Together With Your Dog

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 you want with your dog.

Servicing: Ackworth, Adel, Alleman, Altoona, Ames, Anita, Ankeny, Bevington, Bondurant, Booneville, Cambridge, Carlisle, Clive, Colfax, Cumming, Dallas Center, De Soto, Des Moines, Dexter, Earlham, Granger, Grimes, Hartford, Huxley, Indianola, Johnston, Kelley, Knoxville, Linden, Madrid, Martensdale, Milo, Mitchellville, Nevada, Newton, Norwalk, Otley, Panora, Patterson, Pella, Pleasant Hill, Pleasantville, Polk City, Prairie City, Prole, Runnells, Saint Charles, Saint Marys, Sheldahl, Slater, Swan, Urbandale, Van Meter, Waukee, West Des Moines, Windsor Heights, Winterset, Woodward

Dog Training Services

Common Dog Behavioral Issues We Address:

  • Aggression
  • Barking
  • Biting
  • Change in Address
  • Chewing
  • Destruction
  • Digging
  • Focus & Listening
  • Housebreaking
  • Improving Confidence
  • Jumping
  • Leash Pulling
  • Marking
  • 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.

About Deb

large debra boswell

Best Dog Training in Des Moines, IA!

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers Better Business Bureau


Hello! My name is Deb Boswell your local Bark Busters Dog Trainer and Dog Behavioral Therapist in Des Moines/Central Iowa. I have owned Bark Busters of Greater Des Moines since October of 2007. I have a bachelors and master’s degrees in journalism. I followed my dream to help dog owners have a more rewarding relationship with their dog.

I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed [CPDT-KA] that requires a specified experience level, recommendations from veterinarians and clients simply to be allowed to sit for a grueling 4-hour exam. 

I have trained over 2,000 dogs the Bark Busters way on the local level and have helped fix every imaginable issue dog owners encounter. If you’re like me, your dog means the world to you. Maybe he’s 95% awesome but it’s that 5% that makes life a challenge. I can guide you to the dog of your dreams in the dog you already have! 

Immediate results. What if I told you that most of my dog behavior clients see positive changes by the end of the first 2-3 hour lesson? It happens all the time! With minor tweaking on the home front, most clients are well on their way to a well-behaved dog in a matter of days. Whether you have an 8-week-old puppy or a 12-year-old Great Dane, I will solve your problems. Any age, any breed, any issue.

In-Home Dog Training. My whole-dog, natural approach is customized to the needs of each client and dog! Bark Busters trains in your home because that is where most of the problem behaviors happen – not in a classroom with 10 other dogs. All of the solutions that I give you are proven effective in real life situations. I love helping dog owners learn how to communicate and read their dog and seeing their amazement when the dog they felt was beyond help, begins to understand what their human wants. The once “stubborn” pup is suddenly responding and eager to please.

Customized program – your schedule, your goals, 100% focus on your dog. Uses a simple, efficient yet powerful method based on canine thinking and communication. All training is done in your home / neighborhood / location of the problem behavior with fast results. Free ongoing support for the life of your dog! The help you need doesn’t expire at the end of a set time or number of lessons. Help is always a phone call away!

Dog-friendly methods. Non-physical approach allows your dog to learn appropriate behavior in a positive way. No clicker or treat training or dominance. I coach you to train your dog. This training/growth process will enrich the bond between you and your dog(s). Bond, trust and respect are the foundation of a stable relationship and a happy, calm dog! The approach I teach you is “less is more”. You will learn how to make your dog feel secure in your decisions and, in seeing you as the decision-maker, your dog will start to be calmer. Bark Busters International was founded over 30 years ago in Australia and is now the largest in-home dog training company in the world. As such, each trainer is backed by the knowledge base of hundreds of fellow trainers.

Contact me today

visit my Dog Training Des moines website

What Makes Bark Busters Des Moines 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 Des Moines, 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’s 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 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.

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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.

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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.

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Behavior Issues

Resources

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.

Learn More

Get Started Now

Free, No Obligation Consultation. Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

Please begin by confirming your zip code.

Des Moines Client Reviews

See what our clients have to say

Deb came over to our home to help my Fiancé and I with our 14mo old German Shepherd, Luna, who is incredibly reactive to other dogs (whether passing them on the street, or seeing them out a window). She also barks whenever company comes over, and when she hears noises!

Deb was extremely patient, and answered all of our questions. She provided a plethora of knowledge as to why Luna is acting this way, and what we can do to help her. Absolutely recommend Deb and Bark Busters for all of your dog training needs!
Gaby Wagler
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Deb came over to help with our sweet moose who thinks he is on Security duty 24/7. The moment anyone walks in he usually barks constantly. Deb was able to walk in and he only barked a handful of times before he went up and said hello!! This was already a huge success for us. Zach and I are looking forward to implementing what we have learned and to see moose learn.
Julia Albin
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Deb was great to work with. We especially liked that her training methods weren’t treat based. She sets you and your dog up for success. After one training session with Deb, and some at home practicing, we’ve seen a huge improvement in our 3 year old Border Doodle. Highly recommend Deb with Bark Busters, you won’t regret it.
Morgan H.
Waukee, IA
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We have been working with Deb Boswell and are so happy with our progress and with Deb's work with us.
Deb has been to our home and has given us suggestions about our house and yard. She has also given us tools to understand our labradoodle and help our 10 month old puppy understand who is really calling the shots and which of us is running this household.
She has demonstrated the techniques and worked with us to practice them.
She has advised us on nutrition and play toys.
She is only a text message or phone call away and has been responsive to us.
We look forward to continued work with Deb.
Jennifer T.
Des Moines, IA
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Deb is great to work with and has been very thorough and responsive to my questions and issues with my two pups. Support remains ongoing as we work through behavioral issues, but I'm seeing some improvement already after just a few weeks.

Bark Busters provides support for a variety of behavioral issues and also provides advice on things such as diet. As a result we have switched to higher quality dog food as it was potentially causing some of the underlying stressful behaviors.
Bryan N.
Altoona, IA
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My husband and I chose Bark Busters to help with our rescue pup a few years ago and we couldn’t be happier. When we first adopted our dog, Nomi, she was unsocialized and afraid of everything, including us. We did our best to get her comfortable in our home but after a few months of very slow progress we realized we needed help.
After our first session with Deb, we saw a huge transition in our dog. She gave us the tools to help Nomi feel more confident which led to her being more social and less scared. After practicing what Deb taught us we were able to get Nomi on walks (something she was too scared to do before), learn basic commands and not be so scared of new people. After a few months of reinforcing the training Deb gave us, Nomi was a completely different dog! She’s so happy, loves to play, loves people and is such a good and sweet dog.
We recently reached out to Deb because Nomi was getting aggressive towards other dogs while on walks. She came out to our house again and showed us how to work with Nomi to stop her aggressive behavior. After just a week of working with Nomi we’re already seeing a change. There is still work to do, but I am confident if we keep working with her she will stop the unwanted aggression.
I would highly recommend Bark Busters to anyone who needs help with their dog. Deb is professional, patient and very good at explaining how to communicate with your dog.
Annie S.
Urbandale, IA
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I was utterly impressed with the improvement in behavior in just one session. Deb is great and came prepared with information that would help each of our dogs individually (we have three) and helped us learn the skills we need to be the leaders of the pack
Sarah K.
Waukee, IA
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Marlowe has shown tremendous improvement after just one lesson! I am looking forward to working more with Deb so I can help Marlowe reach his full potential. Deb's techniques and advice gave me an increased sense of confidence in my ability to guide Marlowe to success.
Patricia S.
Johnston, IA
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Deb is the dog whisperer! I was about to rehome my fur baby as I wasn’t getting anywhere with training her. Deb came to my home and spent hours working with us and it has made a huge difference. My neighbors can’t believe how much better behaved my fur baby is and neither can I! Thank you so much Deb, you don’t know how much I appreciate your help and knowledge!! Carrie and Reba
Carrie S.
Altoona, IA
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We decided to go with Bark Busters for our one year old (new) Boxer. Deb came to our home and immediately we were comfortable with her. She got right to it, teaching us skills and how to be a good positive leader for our Boxer. The training is positive rewards vs snacks, which is wonderful. Our homework is working and our dog is responding. We are very happy with our choice to have Deb come to our home!
Colleen M.
West Des Moines, IA
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Absolutely amazing! I have 2 Jack Russell Terriers and a Black Lab that (between them) have ALL of the bad behavior issues. Deb was able to bring peace to my home and address all of their behaviors in one session. I definitely feel very confident that I have the proper training tools now to keep my dogs under control and train them the right way. I honestly cannot thank her enough! I will most definitely be recommending her to others. I wish I knew about her sooner!
Amy N.
Johnston, IA
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We just had Deb at our home this afternoon to work with our 5 month old Golden Retriever. Deb was very thorough in explaining all aspects of the training protocol and we were happy with the immediate results we saw with our puppy. We would have no hesitation recommending Deb and Barkbuster to our friends with pets
Larry R.
Woodburn, IA
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Deb came over to our home to help my Fiancé and I with our 14mo old German Shepherd, Luna, who is incredibly reactive to other dogs (whether passing them on the street, or seeing them out a window). She also barks whenever company comes over, and when she hears noises!

Deb was extremely patient, and answered all of our questions. She provided a plethora of knowledge as to why Luna is acting this way, and what we can do to help her. Absolutely recommend Deb and Bark Busters for all of your dog training needs!
Gaby W.
Grimes, IA
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I met with Deb for the first time today, and was beyond impressed! My boy has shown reactiveness, separation anxiety, and food aggression for 8ish months now. I had tried everything I could think of. I could see a difference in my boys behavior before we even started actually working with him, and continue to see improvements in his behavior as the night goes on. I am so thankful for Debs help!
Chelsie M.
Madrid, IA
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Deb from Bark Busters totally changed my relationship with my dogs. I have two dogs, one is 4 years old hound mix and the other is 7 months old corgi mix. There has been some sibling rivalry, some aggressive behavior around feeding time (coming from the corgi towards the hound), and the typical barking, jumping, etc. I took a dog training course with the hound but when I tried training the corgi he wouldn't listen, just wanted the treat. Deb came to our home and totally flipped the script on how to handle my dogs. It's only been one week and we still have some work to do in certain areas but I noticed my dogs are a lot more relaxed and when your dog sitter texts you saying "Holy *beep*! What did you guys do? They didn't jump on me when I came into the house!" I find that a great success and the steps to the right direction! Thank you, Deb!
Cory W.
Adel, IA
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This training is amazing and I'm seeing results with my puppy in a very short period of time. I had the initial training about 2 weeks ago. And now Neighbors and friends commenting on my puppy's improved behavior when greeting them outside. I highly recommend Bark Busters!!
Debbi T.
West Des Moines, IA
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We needed Deb to help train our 2 year old bernedoodle before our baby due in June. By the time our first session was over, we already saw major behavior changes in our dog and are still seeing them three days later. We learned valuable skills and strategies to use that prevent barking, pulling on leash, and grabbing items that aren’t supposed to be chewed on. The best part is Deb shows you exactly what to do and lets you practice while she’s there. Deb also went above and beyond to give us helpful information about how to introduce our dog to the new baby. What we learned from this session is SO valuable!
Hillary L.
West Des Moines, IA
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Deb came over to help with our sweet Moose who thinks he is on Security duty 24/7. The moment anyone walks in he usually barks constantly. Deb was able to walk in and he only barked a handful of times before he went up and said hello!! This was already a huge success for us. Zach and I are looking forward to implementing what we have learned and to see Moose learn.
Julia A.
Waukee, IA
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Deb was thorough and the training is very effective. My male poochon was getting very aggressive at times. He also thought he was the boss. The training is working and we are practicing every day. The barking is getting under control. He now listens to me. Thank you, Deb. Well worth it.
Susan G.
Urbandale, IA
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While researching Bark Busters, I was cautious with so many highly-rated reviews and wondered if some of them were fake or bots. However, after just one session with Deb, I was completely blown away! My young Jack Russell Terrier was naturally very hyper and after she was attacked by two large dogs we were really struggling with her behavior. Intense leash pulling, fearful/aggressive reactions to dogs and birds, barking, etc. I wasn't sure if her anxious behavior could be improved. Deb quickly showed me how to effectively communicate with my dog and we can actually enjoy walks together now. It was an immediate improvement after just one visit with Deb and my dog enjoys the training. I only wish I had booked an appointment with Deb sooner - money very well spent!
Kate B.
West Des Moines, IA
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Deb is wonderful! We have a large dog who is just over a year old who was very reactive to both dogs and certain people. He would jump and bark whenever he saw another dog and at times would show signs of aggression. We were unable to introduce him to other dogs out of fear that he would hurt them. Before Deb, we had tried 2 other trainers with no signs of improvement. After 1 session with Deb, you could see things start to click with our dog, and us! Deb takes a different approach and really gets you to think how the dog thinks to understand the root of problem behavior. Our dog has come a long way and we continue to see improvements. Walks are not a stressful thing anymore and we have even been able to have play dates with some other dogs. We are still working on things, and we love that Deb is willing to continue working with us to reach our goals. We would hands-down recommend Deb to anyone who is dealing with a reactive dog.
Cammy B.
West Des Moines, IA
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We were blown over with how the two girls responded to Deb's commands . And yet, the commands were so simple actually. Our neighbors that are randomly showing up to ring the doorbell to help with training are just AMAZED as well. We now have one quiet household and no need to board up the windows due to the dogs, LOL!!!
BEYOND BELIEF.
Joyce F.
Dallas Center, IA
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Deb did a great job with our dog. Very thorough and professional. The training tools makes sense and were working with our dog immediately.
Mary K.
Des Moines, IA
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I was at my wits end when I contacted Deb about working with one of my dogs; Sherman. Asking for help in training a dog wasn't easy, since I've been working with dogs professionally for 40 years. His barking was incessant, and no amount of corrections helped. Deb to the rescue!

Deb patiently walked my husband and I through Bark Busters methodology, explaining each step clearly and concisely. We then began working with Sherman, and he and I both appeared surprised; it worked!

Deb did explain that we would need to be extremely consistent, and that he would require firm, consistent guidance to obtain the best results.

It's been approximately two months now, and all I can say is THANK YOU DEB! Sherman's barking is minimal now, and he continues to make forward strides. And as far as me; you can teach an old dog new tricks!

An added bonus has been that he seems to be relieved he has the guidance he was looking for, and has become so much more affectionate!

A Win-Win!
Diane S.
West Des Moines, IA
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It was a great to have Deb in our home to help with our pack! I feel like I am becoming the “top dog” as where before the pack ruled me!! Thank you Deb!!
Michelle G.
Lacona, IA
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Rosie is the world’s sweetest dog (seriously) but has never wanted to listen. Since Deb came to help us with how to effectively communicate with Rosie, she is like a completely different dog! It has been two weeks and Rosie no longer barks at dogs outside, shoves her nose through an opening dog or tries to jump up on the counter. We couldn’t be happier with Deb’s help!
Katie M.
Waukee, IA
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