Expert In-Home Dog Training in Richmond

My husband and I are beyond grateful for Kyle at Bark Busters for not only helping our dog, but for helping us be what we needed to be for our dog, Andy. Our fur baby has been our world, but he has struggled with aggressive behavior for years. Prior to Bark Busters, we spent thousands of dollars on dog trading that relied on a punishment system, but in the end, it only made his aggression to strangers worse. Fast forward, my husband and I started a family, and that’s when the aggression started to increase because he became extremely protective of me during my pregnancy. With this change, ultimately we had to have a hard conversation like most parents would in our situation, but we wanted to give him another shot because he’s our family. We made a commitment to him. Thank god we did! Our sweet boy has made so much progress after just TWO sessions! We did our homework with him and I have never seen a dog so receptive to this form of training. With the use of behavioral therapy with gentle corrections, we were able to see what he was doing and why, in order to help him see he didn’t need to protect and resource guard me from strangers. All in all, I’m beyond grateful Kyle was able to keep our family together.

Kyle has been wonderful to both our Bernedoodle Roman and to us as pet owners. Kyle is very helpful, knowledgeable, patient, and kind to us as we have worked with Kyle to resolve numerous behavioral issues with our smart but stubborn pooch.
Kyle has also been extremely responsive in a timely way whenever we have contacted him about Roman’s specific behavioral issues. Kyle has worked hard with us to successfully manage these issues, and he has always made himself available to us when we have needed his expertise.
We strongly recommend Kyle’s services in order to secure an experienced advocate to help you with your dog’s positive behavioral development.
John Doyle & Anne Field

Kyle is absolutely phenomenal! Takes the time to really get to know not only your pup, but you as well. After one of our sessions, he even took the time outside of work to record a video for me with his own dog to use to train on my own time. I cannot recommend him or this business enough. Thank you for all that you do, Kyle!

I signed up with Bark Busters after I interviewed several dog training companies. What attracted me the most was that they do not use e-collars. They actually give you the non-invasive, natural way to train your dog. When I first signed with Bark Busters, my 5-month-old Rottweiler, with no training, was chewing and urinating in the house. Kyle, the trainer, came in, did a complete assessment of my dog, taught me the right way to leash train him, and taught me how to get him to used the bathroom outside. My dog is now 10 months. He's the best dog I have ever had, thanks to Kyle at Bark Busters. I would recommend them for puppies and older dogs, as he is also training my neighbor's 2-year-old dog. And they are for the life of your dog. Way worth the money.

My husband and I are beyond grateful for Kyle at Bark Busters for helping our dog, and for helping us be what we needed to be for our dog, Andy. Our fur baby has been our world, but he has struggled with aggressive behavior for years. Prior to Bark Busters, we spent thousands of dollars on dog training that relied on a punishment system, but in the end, it only made his aggression to strangers worse. Fast forward, my husband and I started a family, and that’s when the aggression started to increase because he became extremely protective of me during my pregnancy. With this change, ultimately we had to have a hard conversation like most parents would in our situation, but we wanted to give him another shot because he’s our family. We made a commitment to him. Thank god we did! Our sweet boy has made so much progress after just TWO sessions! We did our homework with him and I have never seen a dog so receptive to this form of training. With the use of behavioral therapy with gentle corrections, we were able to see what he was doing and why, in order to help him see he didn’t need to protect and resource guard me from strangers. All in all, I’m beyond grateful Kyle was able to keep our family together.

Kyle has been wonderful to both our Bernedoodle Roman and to us as pet owners. Kyle is very helpful, knowledgeable, patient, and kind to us as we have worked with Kyle to resolve numerous behavioral issues with our smart but stubborn pooch.

Kyle has also been extremely responsive in a timely way whenever we have contacted him about Roman’s specific behavioral issues. Kyle has worked hard with us to successfully manage these issues, and he has always made himself available to us when we have needed his expertise.

We strongly recommend Kyle’s services in order to secure an experienced advocate to help you with your dog’s positive behavioral development.

Kyle is absolutely incredible! We first contacted Kyle a few days before welcoming our first child and he helped our dog, Ginger, through the transition. Kyle was always available when we needed him and really helped Ginger learn her place in the family. Ginger is now her brother’s biggest fan and I feel we have Kyle to thank for this.

Bringing and adopting, rescue Katie, a Rough Collie, age 4.8 years old into my life 2.5 years ago from savecollies.org, has truly been a blessing in so many ways; hiring Kyle a treasured gift to us both!

We bonded from adoption! She is a definite love bug indoors with me and outdoors when on walks, at the Vet or Groomer’s, even Christmas Tree Farms is great with anyone wanting to pet or approach and loves her time at community Bark Park. Kyle noticed these traits and commented on her good girl behavior when we first met.

Enter the frustration and need for Kyle, Owner of Bark Busters Richmond, VA.

However, Katie barked at anyone, and delivery trucks in her home field vision, (from the window) and charged, jumped up and nipped at family & friends with whom she had no familiarity, her protection mode in full effect, negatively affecting our relationships. No one entering escaping her watchful protective gaze. I was at a loss.

Contacting Kyle following our serendipitous meeting at our Veterinary Office, has changed our home! Good Owners, good Dogs! As Kyle showed me and stated “You absolutely can teach an older dog new tricks and behaviors! They love to please!” Katie had been through several trainings in her previous Owner’s care receiving Certificates and Blue Ribbons, prior to being placed up for adoption due to her Owner’s passing.

Kyle began his instruction by stating and demonstrating to me in our home, new skills, behaviors and techniques which have changed Katie’s behavior for the better and for good! Kyle comes to you and your dog for life!

Katie has readily and happily responded to “Bah” looking right at me & “Good Girl” when barking is not needed for protection or redirection is needed, after our initial session!

When walking she is focused on commands from me and no longer lagging and pulling to lead after a few more Alpha techniques Kyle stated, and demonstrated. Taking the burden off of Katie and putting it on me is bringing peace to both of us!
Katie is more relaxed, smiles even more and looks to me to lead in our happier home!

Kyle shares his vast knowledge of dog training, his personal love and anecdotes of his passion for dogs !

Are you in need of a few new tricks and techniques to increase the happy in you and your dog’s home? Contact Kyle today!

Kyle is truly exceptional to work with. His genuine love for dogs and deep passion for helping others shines through in everything he does. My pup is sweet but sensitive, and Kyle has a remarkable ability to connect with both of us, ensuring we always feel safe, comfortable, and supported throughout the training process. He tailors his approach to our unique needs, and it’s clear he truly cares about our progress. The best part is that the techniques Kyle teaches are not only effective—they’re also easy to apply. I’ve even used what I’ve learned from him when watching friends’ dogs, and the results have been nothing short of amazing! It’s like magic every time. Kyle’s expertise and kindness make him a standout trainer, and I’m incredibly grateful for all the guidance he’s given us.

Kyle was outstanding with helping us train our dog, Hanson. He was extremely personable, and took his time making sure we were comfortable with the training process. Kyle gave us the tools and instructions needed to train our puppy and fix some of the behavioral issues we were having. I highly recommend his services to anyone in the area looking for some help training their dog!!

I couldn't imagine one session would make such a huge difference in our puppies behavior. I was at my wits end and now I can relax, work and even eat around her. None of that was possible before unless she was sleeping. Kyle did a great job of teaching us how to speak 'dog' and Loca responded very well. It's a great relief to know that whenever we have an issue with her, Kyle will be available to help. I can't recommend him enough!

If you are looking for help in dealing with a challenging training situation with a puppy or adult dog, Kyle Milwit at Bark Busters should be the first person you call! We have a young puppy & wanted to head off some problems before they became major issues down the road. After just a short period of time with Kyle, utilizing the techniques he taught us, our puppy has done a complete turnaround with painful nipping & biting. It is amazing to see how effective the tools that Kyle gave us are working.
The thing I really appreciate about Kyle’s training approach is that he clearly loves his work, loves dogs, & believes that all dogs just need to be taught what is expected of them. Once they are, & proper techniques are used, (no physical or harmful methods), dogs respond quickly. Kyle taught us that it’s all about “learning to speak dog!”

Kyle was immediately responsive to us when we reached out, & followed up our in-home training session with additional videos & resources. I love that once you become a Bark Busters client, you’re a client for life for no additional cost. It’s also extremely helpful that all training is done in our home, in our puppy’s environment, so Kyle can see & address training issues where they occur, rather than in a class in a different setting. It’s also a huge help to be able to talk & text with Kyle as additional questions come up, to get reassurance & direction to address issues right away.

Kyle is our guy for Richmond and he has changed our lives! My partner and I got our first dog Poppy-a 6 month puppy from the shelter. Within the first week of having her, she ripped out of her crate while we were both at work and chewed anything she could get her paws on. We did a quick google search and found Bark Busters and signed up that night. We are currently on the 3rd visit and our pup is an angel! Kyle has taught us how to effectively communicate with Poppy which has led to a strong puppy human relationship. I can rest well at night knowing that the only thing she will be chewing on will be the Nylabones we give her. Im so happy I will never have to research and pay for any other dog training services ever again!

Kyle did an excellent job of explaining my pet’s behavior to me and also offering techniques for corrective action. Fantastic trainer!

Kyle is amazing and helped us understand how to work with our dog’s natural instincts. They are doing amazingly well since we learned to lead the pack and help them relax. Thanks to Kyle’s teaching we have a much calmer home.

Kyle can help you!
There are many things about working with Kyle that are mentionable. He was always on time and respectful of our role as the pack leaders when he came into our home. He was observant, demonstrated techniques and gave recommendations and suggestions. Barkley LOVED him and Kyle was always willing to get on Barkley’s level for training and giving some pets!
We just had someone to our home that said, ‘Wow! Barkley has come a long way!’ We are fortunate to have such a great-natured dog, but Kyle trained us how to be his leaders and we are all so much better for it.
Kyle is super responsive and available. He cares about what he does and he cares about helping you. Let him!

Where do I even begin - Kyle came into our lives exactly when we needed him. My husband and I found out we were pregnant with our first child in March of this year and were beyond thrilled! However, not long after we found out we were pregnant two of our dogs, Lexi and Lucy (pictured) started exhibiting sibling “rivalry” behavior and were seemly trying to be overly protective of me towards one another. They have always cuddled, played well together, and never had issues, but after 3 incidents in which I had to physically intervene between them, my husband and I decided to seek out some professional help before our baby’s arrival. After meeting Kyle, I knew right away how helpful and supportive he would be throughout this process. In working with each of our dogs individually on their impulse control and, most importantly, training us to teach our dogs that we are the pack leaders, I can confidently say that Lexi and Lucy are slowly gaining confidence around each other again. They cuddle on the couch together (as pictured) and play together again, which we didn’t think would be a possibility after the events that occurred earlier in the year. Kyle gave us the tools, skills, and support to help restore their relationship and we are so thankful. He also gave us helpful tips on how to better prepare our pack for baby’s arrival. He is a stand up guy and exudes passion for what he does. Anytime we need support outside of sessions, Kyle is there. I cannot recommend him enough. Thank you doesn’t do what you did for our family justice, Kyle. We are so so grateful for you!

I am so thankful for Kyle and the entire Bark Busters team. Kyle has truly given me the tools to help both Ozzy and myself have a better, healthier, safer, and more fun time on walks and home alone. I can’t wait to keep doing this work with him and see how much more he continues to progress. Thank you again!

Kyle is an amazing trainer! We are so lucky to have found him. In our first meeting he clearly understood our concerns. We have a Rotty mix, who is sweet, but a strong puller. We went outside (where the squirrels keep taunting our pup!) and Kyle showed us some simple techniques that started working right away. He followed up our first meeting with a detailed email that included notes and videos to refer to when we are unsure, or to show us new techniques. All of his training is based on behavioral techniques that are kind and not punative.

In addition to his training, he provided us with a new collar and some other "tools" to make training Ranger easier.
The techniques he showed us to keep Ranger from pulling, started working immediately. We highly recommend Kyle for training your dog (and yourselves) with easy and practical methods. You'll be happy you did.

Our dogs are Blackjack (9y Rat Terrier mix) and Frenchy (2 1/2y Pitbull mix). We've had Blackjack since she was a puppy. We adopted Frenchy in June 2024. Blackjack has never liked big dogs on sight. When we took Blackjack to RAL to meet Frenchy, she seemed okay with him. Not so when we were home. Blackjack was very aggressive toward Frenchy. She actually bit his lip and broke the skin. Fortunately, Frenchy didn't react. After our first three hours session with Kyle, Blackjack stopped being aggressive toward Frenchy. While they will probably never play together, they do sleep together. Thank you so much Kyle!

We were having aggression, possession, barking, leash manners, table manners, and separation anxiety with our dog, and were losing hope. We got our dog during Covid so he is not well socialized and has anxiety and attachment issues. We had tried the Bark Busters program before when our dog was younger with another trainer in a different area before we moved to Richmond and unfortunately, it didn't go well. But then, along came Kyle. He turned it around for us.

Kyle has been an amazing dog trainer and the best one my husband and I have had. He cares and wants to get to know his clients to build a lasting relationship with them which is something that I personally appreciate. Kyle told us that he wanted to be a part of our dog Wade's success story which was really nice to hear. Our dog is going to turn 5 in December. We have been seeing Kyle once a month for about two months now and we have seen much improvement in our dog. Kyle is very knowledgeable in his work and you can tell that he has a passion for and loves what he does! He always has a positive and can-do attitude and is more than willing to go above and beyond at training. Our dog Wade has already gotten so much better with table manners, door possession, and his separation anxiety. We have even gotten two compliments from the apartment complex we live in saying that our dog has been much better with his barking and separation anxiety which is a HUGE WIN for us!!

I could write so much more, but needless to say, if you are looking for a great dog trainer who knows what he's talking about and is passionate about helping people understand how to speak "dog" look no further. Kyle is the best and we will continue to use him for the lifetime of our dog.

My partner and I were talking about our dog's barking problem as he barks at everything and everyone, even us. The next day we were at our vet's office for an appt when we saw a brochure for Kyle at Bark Busters. Thank God we made that call to Kyle! The cost almost scared us off, but we didn't know what else to do, and felt like Buster was worth it, so we had to give it a try. Kyle came to the house and listened (and made a list) of all of our issues with Buster. Then Kyle started teaching us what to do in each scenario. We listened and began practicing with Buster immediately. He also emailed us helpful short videos demonstrating the techniques. We started seeing a change in Buster within the first few days. It seemed Buster was enjoying not having to be the "head of our pack" and started acting more like the dog we used to know. We became a lot less stressed as he was listening to us and changing right before our eyes. Buster used to go bananas with barking whenever someone knocked on the door or pressed the Ring doorbell. Now he sits away from the door until we tell him it's ok to greet the guest. The best part is that Kyle will come to the house and help us for as long as we need him.... For the rest of our dog’s life. You can't possibly put a price on our peace of mind and getting the calmer side of our dog back. He's a delight now. Thanks Kyle! 🐾

Kyle has been a joy and Blessing to work with. We are so grateful for Kyle’s help with our dog Bear (age 4). With just a couple of sessions, we have already had a positive response with Bear and his interaction with others. He is such a sweet dog, but became anxious and protective when visitors would come over. With Kyle’s teaching, we were able to help Bear know we were in charge and he didn’t have to protect us. This has helped him to calm down with visitors. Specifically, Bear no longer growls when being petted and for the first time, friends and family are able to see the sweet boy we know. Kyle has also helped us with walking Bear, who is 85lbs. He no longer leads us on the walks, but instead is able to walk right next to us. Kyle’s training and techniques have given us the ability to feel more comfortable having company over and knowing they will be able to interact with Bear and enjoy him as much as we do. We are forever grateful for Kyle and highly recommend him!

Kyle is super friendly and very professional! I would highly recommend Kyle! He gave our family a lot of insight in handling our nervous labrador….He is the real deal.

We met with Kyle yesterday for our first day of training with our Mini Golden Doodle Sandy. He was right on time, very polite and energetic. Without having to be asked he removed his shoes as soon as he came in the door. Sandy took to him like an old friend. Before going into training he took an hour to find out what our experience with dogs was, what we were having issues with and what were we doing now training wise. He was non-judgmental and very positive. We like that there is no punishment and no treats. He's teaching us how to communicate with Sandy and be the leader. We would have never figured this out on our own. He left us tools, techniques and some homework. We're looking forward to our next lesson and reaping the rewards of our progress.

Kyle was very informative. He helped us with future training of our puppy