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 you want with your dog. Live a happier life together with your dog!

Common Dog Behavioral Issues We Address

Our expert puppy training, dog training, and dog behavior services in Raleigh, Durham, Cary & Chapel Hill resolve the most challenging dog behavior issues including:

  • 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.

About Your Dog Trainer, Jerry Hvizdos

Professional Dog Trainer & Dog Behavioral Therapist

Raleigh-Durham Dog Trainer

Top-Rated Dog Training in Raleigh-Durham, Cary & Chapel Hill

Is your dog’s behavior issues causing stress in your home or in your relationships? Have you recently adopted a puppy and are struggling with normal puppy training issues like chewing, nipping, and potty training?  Does your dog take you for walks around the neighborhood?

I understand, and Bark Busters Home Dog Training is here to help you! Bark Busters is the worldwide leader of in-home dog training, helping over 1 million families and their dogs for more than 30 years!

I’m Jerry Hvizdos, your certified Bark Busters Dog Trainer serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Cary. With nearly 15 years of experience and hundreds of dogs trained, I specialize in in-home dog training for all ages—from puppies to seniors. 

Whether you're dealing with basic obedience or serious behavior issues, I use proven, dog-friendly methods focused on communication, leadership, and lasting results—right where problems happen: in your home.

In-home dog training. I come to your home where most of your dog obedience issues occur. Your dog is most comfortable and receptive to training in its own environment. I work with you in your home and tailor my dog training and puppy training methods to your specific goals, and to meet your dog’s unique needs. 

Dog-friendly training methods only! Our training is humane and produces lifetime results. I do not use choke collars, shock collars, prong collars, or clickers. And, while dog treats are fun, they shouldn’t be a constant aspect of training, but rather a ‘treat’.

Effective dog training. Our first lesson runs approximately two - three hours, with any lingering issues addressed in follow-up sessions. You'll be amazed at the difference in your dog's behavior even after one lesson! By reinforcing our training techniques 10-15 minutes a day, you will build a relationship with your dog based on mutual trust, love, and respect.

Learn to communicate with your dog. I will teach you a method of communication that your dog understands based on body language, and natural dog instincts. You will learn how to use voice tones and your body language to better communicate with you dog in order to allow your dog to focus on you and respond to your directions. When you learn to "speak dog" you get real results – and nurture positive relationships and lasting emotional bonds with your canine family member.

Life of Dog Support Guarantee. If you purchase our gold service and continue to follow our training instructions provided during our lessons, I provide training support for you and your dog for the life of your dog without any additional charges. If former issues resurface or new training needs arise, I will be there for you and your pup for the life of your dog!

Contact me today

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Client Reviews

See what our clients in Greater Raleigh-Durham have to say

Jerry helped us resolve some aggression issues with my dog Oliver. Three sessions have. Made a world of difference and I feel so supported knowing we can call and access his expertise whenever we need. I highly recommend him and Bark Busters!
Meagan M.
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... have already seen a huge difference in my pups behavior. Both in obedience and overall a calmer dog. Can’t recommend enough!
Chris C.
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The training has been a virtual miracle for my dog Rosie. I know I am the one being trained, but she is so much better behaved it is amazing. I highly recommend this method and Jerry, this trainer, is wonderful. Five stars
Janice F.
Chapel Hill, NC
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Just had my first training session with Jerry from Bark Busters. The 3 hours went by quickly. I received an intensive tutorial on dog behavior, and the impact of becoming a pack leader on their training, comfort level and happiness. I was shocked at how immediately effective the training was and continues to be several days later. This has greatly increased my confidence. Looking forward to seeing what’s possible with the next training session.
Jan K.
Durham, NC
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Jerry is an AWESOME dog trainer & Tattoo is trying very hard to do what Jerry has taught us as a team. Jerry is very pleasant & calm when teaching & training me. I LOVE JERRY & BARK BUSTERS. # 1!!!!
Sharyn S.
Chapel Hill, NC
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Bobby is an energetic 6 year old rough coat Jack Russell Terrier who is deeply loved. In his first year, I had hired 2 different dog trainers because Bobby was a lively, stubborn, head strong, know-it-all puppy. Absolutely adorable, but difficult to train. The last I wanted is to break his exuberant spirit and just went on with the training he received. As it turned out, Bobby thought he is the alpa in the house and wanted to run the show. Finally I googled and stumbled over "Bark Buster" which had excellent reviews. One week after contacting Bark Buster, Jerry arrived at our house for home training. The first session was long, thorough and I learned a lot! Bobby responded excellently to the new training methods which are applied in "dog language" and are absolutely non-violent. Three weeks later, we had the second session with outside walking training. Here too, Jerry took his time and explained thoroughly what to do walking Bobby outside. As it turned out, Bobby needed to know that he is protected by me and does not need to bark so ferociously outside thinking he had to protect himself. Again, Bobby responded excellently. Of course, the most work lays in the hand of the owner to continue showing the dog that the owner is "the alpha", in charge, and lets the dog know that he is protected. I will continue the training and hope the promise of life-time coverage will be kept by Bark Buster. I highly recommend Jerry. He is an excellent trainer for both, owner and dog.
Inka M.
Raleigh, NC
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Jerry is amazing! You can tell he has a lot of experience and really cares for the dogs he works with. We are first-time dog owners with a big energetic dog who wasn't listening to us and was chewing up our things. Jerry helped us with some training tactics to help our dog understand that we are in charge while still being friendly and loving. After just one session, our dog is much calmer and listens to us much more! We can't wait for future sessions and to see all the growth in our dog. Jerry is also very responsive and is willing to call in between lessons. He even scheduled our next lesson later than his regular working hours to accommodate for the heat so we can work on training our dog outdoors. I can't recommend him enough!
Jacob S.
Durham, NC
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Our first session with Jerry went really well! We learned a lot about helping our pup understand who is the pack leader (it's me, not him!). There were noticeable changes in Fury after just one session and Jerry took the time to focus on the specific issues we were facing. It's also really clear how much Jerry loves dogs and that through his training he wants them to feel secure, safe and happy. Looking forward to our second session!
Melissa B.
Durham, NC
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I’m thrilled with everything I’ve already learned from Jerry, and am seeing immediate results. Can’t wait to learn more from him about how I can be a better parent!
Tina H.
Pittsboro, NC
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We loved that Jerry (and Bark Busters) went above and beyond to help us communicate with a deaf dog who had aggression and separation anxiety issues. Through the training, we became increasingly aware of dog psychology and our misconceptions which were only serving to reinforce our dog's bad behaviors. Jerry patiently demonstrated not just the training process but also guided us through the logic behind each exercise which was really eye-opening for new dog owners like us.
Bibek S.
Durham, NC
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Our little Yorkie was a heavy nuisance Barker, barked at anything that moved when we walked him and also when anyone got near our pool. It literally took Jerry minutes to correct Biscuit!! It was quite Amazing!!!
Tom H.
Apex, NC
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We got Kirby during the summer of 2020 as a puppy. Jerry helped us with some aggression issues with food as well as doing some leash walking outside. He is now acting a like a perfect gentleman and walks nicely while ignoring stimulants that previously made him very difficult to handle. We feel like we have a different dog and our family is all much happier.
Lori B.
Durham, NC
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I got a rescue dog who barked and snapped at everyone, every dog, every car, every leaf, every breeze... You get the picture. I was desperate for some help and Jerry with BarkBusters came to my rescue! He told me that after the first lesson (3 hours) that I would see an immediate improvement. As improbable as that may seem, that was the case! By using the techniques he taught me, my dog was amazingly better that same day. No hitting or shock collars or prong collars. Only humane training. Today Jerry is here for more training. I am thrilled with her progress. Jerry and BarkBusters are the best. If you need help with your dog, I highly recommend him!
Robin F.
Raleigh, NC
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I am so pleased with the results I am seeing in Molly. She is a 4 month old shih tzu puppy with lots of energy. Molly responded so well to Jerry's methods. I was amazed how quickly she caught on. Jerry was so thorough teaching and explaining to us his methods. We covered a lot during our first session. I think Molly really enjoyed learning how to behave. Now we are enjoying Molly growing up.
Anita S.
Chapel Hill, NC
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Jerry, is very professional. His knowledge and expertise as a trainer is beyond expectations. Our Rottweiler responded immediately too the techniques we were taught by Jerry. The hands on for us was more than helpful. Learning by doing really set in our minds what we need to do to have our puppy become a happy adult and have a good quality of life for us and him. The concepts of Bark Buster’s of the Triangle, Jerry, is the best program that we have been involved in over 35+ years, training and raising Rottie’s.
Daniel P.
Cary, NC
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The program is designed to help dog owners be better communicators and leaders of their "pack". I have done training with other programs with other dogs, but am so glad that we found Jerry and the Bark Busters program for our quarantine labradoodle Kenobi. We had tried the treat training, but he swiftly learned how to "game" that system. In one afternoon with Jerry, I gained Kenobi's respect and he became a different dog. There is still work to do, but we are well on our way with this program. A huge thanks to Jerry and this program.
Randall B.
Cary, NC
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I reached out to Bark Busters after my 6-month-old Bluetick Coonhound, Banjo, bit me multiple times on a walk; I got bitten on some walks but this one was particularly awful. I remember my neighbor said that “I have the option to give him away,” I was devastated but that absolutely was not an option for me. After that incident, not only was I afraid to take Banjo on walks alone without my boyfriend, but I was also ashamed and embarrassed. I knew Banjo just needed better training, but I did not have the tools yet. After the first lesson with Jerry, my boyfriend and I were taught how to show Banjo that we are pack leaders, which not only decreased his aggression, but calmed his nerves.
After the first session, we noticed dramatic differences. Jerry explained in terms I can understand how dogs think about packs, and that Banjo thinks he is the pack leader, which was the root of the problem. After coaching me and my boyfriend, I can say with full honesty that I no longer am afraid of getting bitten on my walks with Banjo. Not only am I not afraid, but I am excited and look forward to our walks together. Since I am able to communicate to Banjo in a way he understands, our bond has become incredible.
Jerry was patient, honest, and genuine. I am a young woman, and this is my first puppy, and his guidance gave me the confidence I needed to train him properly. Banjo is now 8 months old and does not show signs of aggression in any way; he’s like another puppy! I would recommend Bark Busters to any owner who is experiencing aggression, or any other issue that Bark Buster deals with. A true LIFE SAVER!
Amber W.
Carrboro, NC
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Jerry's training is having a positive impact on our rescue dog, Caesar's behavior. Caesar needed to learn door manners and to learn to recognize my husband and I as his leaders. He also suffers from separation anxiety and follows me to ever room 24/7. Since our training with Jerry, Caesar is backing up at the door and is coming to my husband when called. He is learning to stay put when I leave a room. He's learning quickly and is understanding what we want from him, which is such a relief. We are grateful to have a trainer that is effectively addressing how to work with Caesar in a humane manner.
Jacqueline C.
Cary, NC
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Our 3-year-old German Shepherd had been to numerous training programs, but obeyed only when she wanted to. We had tried treat training, an e-collar, and commands and hand signals. Jerry offers something different: training based on body language. He taught us how to act in such a way that Maggie recognizes us as her leader and obeys because that is her dog nature. Sounds like magic but it actually works! We are still practicing, but the change in her behavior was immediate. Jerry gave us skills to use, such as a simple hand clap in Maggie's face, or an erect posture when giving commands, that have replaced the e-collar and treats. He really understands dogs and was able to teach us how to control our dog through a natural relationship. Highly recommend.
Nancy H.
Durham, NC
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Thanks to Jerry our rescued, pit-mix, Kylie went from an over-defensive and territorial dog to a relaxed and welcoming puppy in ONE SESSION!!! Now we can have guests without any apprehension. We are still working on her manners when walking outside, but the difference is significant, no more pulling and dragging. The training technique is so effective, no treats, no choking collar, just learning the dog’s language. We are extremely thankful to Jerry, and we highly recommend him.
Camila H.
Raleigh, NC
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We highly recommend Jerry and are very glad we gave him a call. His dog training ability is second to none, and within hours he taught us how to communicate to our young pup in a way that he understands -- both verbally and non-verbally -- so that he knows that we are the pack leaders! The results were instantaneous, and we are continuing to build on what Jerry taught us. Can't recommend highly enough!
Blake B.
Durham, NC
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I highly recommend Jerry for any training needs or behavior problem. He really does understand how the dog thinks, and does a great job of explaining it to the humans. Results are seen very quickly and in a way that makes perfect sense to the dog.
Meredith H.
Willow Spring, NC
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We had an amazing experience with Jerry! The skills we learned allowed our pup to fear less/understand that he isn’t responsible for defending everyone/our home and taught us how to be educated pack leaders. All of our lives our going to be so much happier & stress free. If you or anyone you know has ever struggled with a pup who has “aggressive” behavior...before resorting to extreme measures or using bark/choke collars (or any other types of negative reinforcement), know and trust that there are better, more effective ways to train your dog! Chances are you just need the write tools and training for YOU to lead your pups on the right path. I highly recommend Bark Busters for all your dog training needs!
Melissa H.
Chapel Hill, NC
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We had a great experience with Jerry and are so glad we called him! He did a fantastic job explaining and teaching us how to ensure our dog sees us as the pack leaders and doesn't have to be anxious, barking, protecting all the time. Jerry's methods were straight forward, natural, and easy to understand. He took time to explain, give examples of behavior, and evaluate our pup's habits so we could correct her and build her confidence. He acted out scenarios with us so we could understand what to do ourselves, before we tested with the dog directly. In just a few hours of training, we saw a noticeable difference in our dog's behavior and anxiety levels. Over the last few days since Jerry was here, we have employed the techniques he taught us for remarkable improvements in behavior. Our pup clearly wants to please us and she is responding to us better, showing less anxiety, improving her door manners, barking WAY less, and more--she knows that we are better pack leaders. I would recommend Jerry's help if you want to learn how to communicate with your dog better, so they feel safe, happy, and healthy in your home and beyond. Thanks, Jerry!
Allison S.
Durham, NC
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We had an amazing experience with Jerry! The skills we learned allowed our pup to fear less/understand that he isn’t responsible for defending everyone/our home and taught us how to be educated pack leaders. All of our lives our going to be so much happier & stress free. If you or anyone you know has ever struggled with a pup who has “aggressive” behavior...before resorting to extreme measures or using bark/choke collars (or any other types of negative reinforcement), know and trust that there are better, more effective ways to train your dog! Chances are you just need the right tools and training for YOU to lead your pups on the right path. I highly recommend Bark Busters for all your dog training needs!
Melissa H.
Chapel Hill, NC
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Jerry helped us understand how to better communicate with our dog. On the first visit, we learned loose-leash walking and good door manners when guests come to visit, among other super helpful techniques. Great experience with a great teacher.
Miriam B.
Durham, NC
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Connect with us Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

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A dog barking upward

Tired of Nonstop Barking? We Can Help.

At Bark Busters Raleigh-Durham and Chapel Hill, excessive barking is one of the top concerns we hear from local dog owners. While barking is a normal form of communication for dogs, it often becomes excessive due to stress, insecurity, or unmet needs—and quickly turns into a daily frustration for you, your neighbors, and your dog.

Our proven, in-home training method teaches you how to communicate with your dog in a way they naturally understand. More importantly, we help you uncover the why behind the barking so you can solve the problem at its source. Dogs bark for many reasons: 

  • When you leave or return home 
  • At guests, deliveries, or unfamiliar sounds 
  • To demand attention, food, or to go outside 
  • Out of fear, play, or territorial behavior 
  • Sometimes for reasons that aren't obvious at all 

The Good News? It’s Never Too Late to Start Training.

Your local Bark Busters dog trainer can help you restore peace and quiet—while building trust and a better relationship with your dog. Let’s turn the barking into calm communication. Reach out today!

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Reactive dog pulling on leash

Understanding Leash Reactivity in Dogs

Leash reactivity is one of the most common challenges dog owners face. It often looks like barking, lunging, or pulling when your dog sees another dog, person, or even a moving vehicle. While it may appear aggressive, leash reactivity usually stems from overstimulation, frustration, or fear—not true aggression.

Why Does Leash Reactivity Happen?

Many reactive dogs struggle with emotional self-control. This can be due to poor socialization as a puppy, previous traumatic experiences, or simply not understanding how to cope with triggers while restrained on a leash. A leash limits a dog’s natural choices, which can heighten their stress response.

How Bark Busters Can Help With Leash Reactivity

At Bark Busters Raleigh-Durham and Chapel Hill we specialize in helping dogs feel calm and confident on the leash. We teach you how to lead in a way your dog understands. We use clear communication and trust—not treats or force. If you're tired of stressful walks and want a dog that can calmly pass by distractions, we’re here to help. Let’s turn those reactive moments into relaxed, enjoyable outings.

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An example of Bark Busters Home Dog Training for aggressive dogs.

Struggling with an Aggressive Dog?

Aggression in dogs is often misunderstood. It’s not something they’re born with, it’s usually a learned behavior that develops over time due to fear, insecurity, frustration, or past trauma. At Bark Busters Raleigh-Durham, we specialize in identifying the root cause of your dog’s aggression and guiding you through safe, effective steps to resolve it. Common triggers for aggression include: 

  • Poor socialization 
  • Fear or anxiety 
  • Frustration or overstimulation 
  • Past trauma or neglect 
  • Possessiveness or resource guarding 
  • Dominance or territorial behavior 
  • Underlying medical issues 

At Bark Busters No Dog is Beyond Help

Unlike many trainers, Bark Busters Raleigh-Durham specializes in complex behavior issues, including aggression toward people, other dogs, food or toy guarding, and territorial behavior. Our humane, in-home training uses no e-collars or harsh methods—just clear communication and leadership your dog can understand and trust. 

If your dog is showing signs of aggression, don’t wait. Contact us today to start building a safer, more peaceful relationship with your dog.

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What Makes Bark Busters Raleigh, Durham, Cary & Chapel Hill 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 Raleigh, Durham, Cary & Chapel Hill, 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.

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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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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.

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Professional Dog Training Near You!

Servicing: Apex, Carrboro, Cary, Chapel Hill, Durham, Hillsborough, Morrisville, New Hill, Pittsboro, Raleigh

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