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.

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/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 Jared, Your Local Professional Dog Trainer

Jared Levenson Bark Busters Dog Trainer in San Mateo

Home Dog Training in San Mateo County, CA!

I am Jared Levenson, your Bark Busters Dog Trainer and Dog Behavioral Therapist here in Greater San Mateo. Growing up in a farmhouse in the rolling foothills of Sacramento, my childhood was enveloped in a world where animals were not just pets, but family. From the gentle purrs of our cats to the playful antics of our goats, and even a dog whose memory is as fleeting as the wind—our home was a haven for creatures great and small. This early immersion in the animal kingdom instilled in me a deep respect and love for all living beings, shaping the core of who I am today.

I pursued an education that would allow me to understand behavior not just in animals, but in people too. Earning my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University was a pivotal step in my journey. One of the most transformative experiences came while working as a counselor at a mental health center in Half Moon Bay. Witnessing the sheer joy and healing that 'pet therapy' brought to our clients—be it through horseback riding or a visiting dog—opened my eyes to the powerful role animals play in our lives. 

As I step into the role of a Bark Busters Dog Trainer in San Mateo County, I bring with me not just my professional background in counseling and behavioral training, but a lifelong passion for animals and a genuine desire to make a difference. Whether you're navigating the challenges of severe dog aggression, dealing with separation anxiety, sibling rivalry among pets, or seeking guidance on obedience or puppy training, I'm here for you.

What excites me most about the Bark Busters method is its foundation in natural canine communication. It's not about changing who your dog is, but rather bringing out the best in them by understanding their behaviors, needs, and triggers. By learning how to communicate more effectively, we can ensure that an understood dog is indeed a happy dog.

I've witnessed countless families on the brink of surrendering their dogs find hope and happiness again through our training methods. By employing effective, simple, time-efficient, and cruelty-free techniques, we've been able to address severe dog behaviors, allowing families to keep their beloved pets and live a happier life together.

Seeing aggressive dogs transform into content, well-adjusted family members from the very first lesson has been incredibly fulfilling. Our goal isn't to "fix" dogs but to understand them and improve everyday life for everyone in the household.

Now, calling San Mateo County home, I'm blessed daily with the opportunity to help dogs and their owners discover new levels of companionship, loyalty, respect, fun, and love. My mission is to help you live the life you've always wanted with your best friends. It's an honor and a pleasure to be part of your journey.

Contact me today

Client Reviews

See what our clients in San Mateo County have to say

Jared thoroughly and easily explained their training process and I walked away feeling confident that I want to continue and already feel like my dog is better trained. Thank you so much!
Dakota B.
San Jose, CA
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Let me start by saying I love this training style. It's all about communicating effectively with your dog (no shock collars or prong collars AND no excessive treats). I grew up with chronically misbehaving dogs and had parents default to prong collars, so I was a little uncertain about this training style actually working, but I already notice improvements!
Overall, Jared was helpful, thoughtful, and thorough. We covered a ton of information during the first session. We focused on leashed walks, attentiveness, jumping, barking, personal space, and general manners (not crowding while we eat, stealing shoes, staying away from the door while we enter/ exit, etc.). We even went over diet. We gave us a lot of material to review and ways to track progress over weeks so it wasn't overwhelming and it's easier to stay consistent. He was well-prepared for the session and even brought a stuffed dog!
He helped my two dogs (11 year old rescue and 5 month old German shepherd) as well as my boyfriend's dog (5 year old pitbull mix rescue). There was noticeable improvement with the puppy before the end of the first session. Thank you, Jared!
Gianna A
San Jose, CA
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Jared was amazing in helping my husband and I understand our reactive pit bull’s behavior! Jared has been here the with us every step of the way and we are seeing so much progress with our dog! I cannot recommend Jared enough!
Cristina M.
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Jared has been great to work with! We have a 3-year-old Parson Russell Terrier that is very energetic and very anxious. We did not realize how we were unconsciously rewarding unwanted behavior. Jared provided very helpful advice on what to focus on and management techniques to make the training more effective. Highly recommend working with him!
Melissa M.
Redwood City, CA
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We had a great experience with Jared as our dog trainer. Our dog Ronaldo is a very stubborn and sometimes aggressive Frenchie, and it was really hard to control him. But Jared was really helpful! He found ways to calm Ronaldo down and taught us step by step how to manage him. Jared is very gentle and patient. Highly recommend!!
Sucha N.
San Bruno, CA
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A serious life saver! I really can't recommend Jared enough. We recently got a rescue who had been returned to the shelter multiple times, so safe to say he's got issues. He's super reactive to other dogs, has separation anxiety and had zero basic obedience training. After trying every tiktok and youtube method with zero results, we were really starting to question keeping him if we'd never be able to have a chill walk or be able to leave the house freely. Jared was our last hope and he seriously saved us! After one session we were already able to get him to sit, stay, wait for his food etc. And after 4 sessions, we really have a completely different dog! We can leave him alone and he is able to chill out and sleep. Walks are a lot less stressful now that we have a course of action to take if a dog is coming. He's still reactive but we have major improvement from before! Jared really explains how your dog thinks and why they do what they do, as well as the things we do that help or don't help the situation. We have more work to do but now we have the support we need!
Ari
Daly City, CA
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Jared combined his professionalism with a personable approach during the training. His strength lies in his incredible patience and willingness to attempt to address all your concerns. He truly listens to you and tailors his approach to meet your dog's specific needs.

When my husky Lobo was not behaving in the car, he was willing to ride the car with me to find out what's working and what's not working and told me the things I need to work on after the session. He also is willing to address issues that cannot be accomplished in one lesson and come back to train more. Lobo is still working on his recalls and Jared is willing to continue working on it and I really appreciate the persistence.

His methods are effective, and his calm demeanor helps create a positive learning environment. If you're looking for a dog trainer who genuinely cares about your dog's well-being and your success as a pet owner, Jared is the one to choose!
Clover
San Mateo, CA
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So my fiancé and I rescued a mutt from the shelter who was abandoned 3 times and was sitting in a shelter from February of this year until about May. We were sent photos of the little guy and my fiancés heart immediately melted and a week later he came home with us.

What we didn't take into account was how much of a headache this guy was going to be when we got him, likely due to his trauma and whatever he experienced before us. The little guy, now called Reaper, was barking at every single dog, bird, cat, and any other animal, as well as lunging and pulling like the world was ending. We knew that there would be some adjustment period for Reaper to settle down and get used to us and while he did, he was still a huge headache. We then got him neutered him and hope he would calm down a little and it helped but not much.

We got a little desperate and tried using YouTube to train him but it didn't workout like we hoped. Then we found BarkBusters, specifically Jared for the SMC area. Let me tell you, this little headache of a mutt is a completely different dog than when we first met him. Almost a complete 180.

Reaper still barks and needs work but Jared started with fundamentals and how to "talk" to the dog in ways he understands so he can find his place and his purpose in the household. We've had about 4 sessions so far and each time builds upon the last and Reaper can now sit on command, stay, and knows his boundaries like we didn't think was possible.

Now Reaper is a huge handful and there's still plenty of work to be done, but in comparison to what he was when we got him and what he is now, we can't recommend Jared enough.

He's the real deal. He helps you understand your dog and come up with reasonings as to why your dog does what he does and helps your dog understand you!

One of the best investments you can make if you have a handful of a mutt. Hands down.
Chris M.
San Francisco, CA
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Jared has a very calming presence for both humans and dogs! We met with Jared to work on our dogs reactivity at the park.

He was very good at explaining what we should do, teaching us the timing, and showing us nuances of mechanics that made it more effective to get our dog to refocus on us when he reacted to a trigger.

Jared is also a really great listener and I felt like he was able to take in and cater to our specific dog training needs.

We had very amazing results even after just one session. We were able to take away a lot of new tips to work on at home, and look forward to incorporating it more into our dogs training. Would look forward to working with Jared again!
Merry T.
San Mateo, CA
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Working with Jared is helping us retrain our rat terrier who is experiencing lease reactivity. He has given us new skills and tools to use in our training and is dedicated to helping us - online and in person - with working through this issue. Very encouraging!
Julie
Pacifica, CA
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Jared helped me get adjusted with my new puppy by establishing house rules and understanding how to communicate with her. Thanks so much for all your help!
Erica
San Mateo, CA
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Jared is a great trainer!! He helped me with my dog Domino who is leash reactive and barks at strangers. He was very knowledgeable, analyzed the areas where Domino needed guidance and then and gave me great advice and tips. We practiced different techniques and I was very impressed with how much it helped Domino immediately. He was very friendly and made Domino comfortable. You can tell he has a passion for what he does. I would highly recommend Jared if you live in the Bay Area and have been thinking about training your dog or need help with any specific issues. Thank you so much for your help!!
Yara
Redwood City, CA
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I recently had the pleasure of working with Jared from Bark Buster to help mitigate if not get rid of my dog's bad habits and I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. Jared's expertise and patience were evident from the very first session. He took the time to understand my dog's personality and problems then tailored the training accordingly.

Jared's methods were very effective, ensuring that my fluff ball felt comfortable and supported throughout the entire training process. The improvement in my dog's behavior has been remarkable. Commands that were once a struggle are now followed with ease, and our daily walks have become a joy rather than a challenge.

I highly recommend Jared to anyone in need of professional dog training. His dedication, skill, and genuine love for animals make him an exceptional trainer. Thank you, Jared, for transforming our lives and helping my dog become the best version of himself!
Kurtis
San Carlos, CA
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Jared at Bark Busters did an amazing job working with my dog and keeping her prey drive under control. Watching him in action was amazing, he broke her attention away from a squirrel multiple times and was very quick on rewarding her. He explained everything as he did it, so I could work with her whenever the opportunity arrived in the future. This is the most important part with training from my experience, the knowledge to replicate the training so we as pet parents can reinforce it throughout our dogs lives.
Alexander L.
San Mateo, CA
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My husband and I were looking for some help with our reactive pitbull. We had already had some experience with training her at different places but needed a new trainer after moving. Jared was a perfect fit! He came to our place and helped us learn how to read our dog's behavior in her natural environment. Our dog is making awesome progress! She is less reactive and responds more to our corrections now that we know how to communicate with her! Our dog has a long journey but knowing that Jared is by our side the whole way brings us so much peace. I cannot recommend Jared enough!

Cristina M.
San Mateo, CA
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Jared at Bark Busters did an amazing job working with my dog and keeping her prey drive under control. Watching him in action was amazing, he broke her attention away from a squirrel multiple times and was very quick on rewarding her. He explained everything as he did it, so I could work with her whenever the opportunity arrived in the future. This is the most important part with training from my experience, the knowledge to replicate the training so we as pet parents can reinforce it throughout our dogs lives.
Alexander L.
San Mateo, CA
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My daughter found Bark Busters to help with our 2 family dogs who have anxiety, and some aggressive behaviors. I was a little skeptical with this training, since we have tried other trainers to help our dogs. Meeting Jared was the best things that happened for our dogs. Even though we are not at 100% trained, we have the tools and basic resources to incorporate in our dogs lives. It all started with the “door” training. It makes them both less anxious and they understand that they must wait and be calm before they can come in and out of the house! We still are in the middle of our trainings, but you will be happy with the results, and you will see results on Day 1! If you live in San Mateo, Ca please request Jared! He is the BEST!
Lolita S.
San Mateo, CA
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Our family was desperate to find a company who can assist our 2 English Bulldog’s who suffer from anxiety, aggression with toys and food, and who are very over protective of us. Cody, who is our special Bulldog is a work in progress. He is so loving, but when it comes to meeting new people who always has his guard up and needs to be the protector of the family! After meeting Jared, he shared some quick tips on how to assist him with his aggression. I can easily say that although Cody is not at 100%, he has made significant progress inside the home and outside as well. Jared is so patient and understanding and without his help, I don’t know what we would have done or where we would be! If I could give 10 stars I would! Jared is by far the BEST trainer in San Mateo, Ca!! If you are looking for a trainer, please reach out to Bark Busters if you are in the San Mateo County!
Sofia S.
San Mateo, CA
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Jared is AWESOME! My husband and I have two dogs (7 year old 100lb, and 3 year old 40lb) and a baby, and needed help calming the dogs' energy before going out the back door (along with a couple other things). We tried many training approaches unsuccessfully, which is what eventually led us to seek out a trainer. While at work, both sets of grandparents watch the dogs and baby, so we needed to include them in training. Jared worked with all of us during individual visits, and tailored coaching to all of our unique needs. He was VERY patient and encouraging to all of us. After just one visit we noticed a change in our dogs. I would recommend Jared for anyone needing help to get through to their dogs. Any age. Any breed. Any owner.
Megan R.
San Mateo, CA
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I'm shocked by the effectiveness of some simple concepts applied. I have a lifetime of dog ownership (mostly poodles) and now a 7-month old Yorkshire puppy who was a challenge. I saw the behavioral changes before my eyes in the first training! Let's be clear tho....the training is for the human not the dog. It was what I did (not the dog) that completely reset our relationship and as a result turned a wild puppy into a well obeyed puppy who actually looks at me and listens! Jared is the best! And he came back to check on me (not the dog) to see if I was practicing and was having a good experience. I bought the "for life" package and could not be happier.
Mvm S.
San Mateo, CA
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I've worked with Bark Busters since 2021 when I first adopted my dog, Obi. He had some behavioral and anxiety issues that we needed to get under control. I shopped around for a few different trainers that were a bit cheaper but the training just didn't work well with my dog. I came across Bark Busters and was a little hesitant because of the pricing, but I felt that their methods of communication made so much sense. I first worked with Dalila and was stunned by her passion and commitment to this program. I had such an amazing experience with her and we were able to manage Obi's leash manners and home anxiety. As time went on, we reached back out to Bark Busters since Obi was beginning to act up again around other dogs. Because of that lifetime guarantee, we were able to work with Jared at no additional cost. Jared was very lovely and personable. He gave us great tips and a little refresher course. I would highly recommend working with Bark Busters because you can tell they genuinely care about their clients and want the best for your family!
Tori B.
Pacifica, CA
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These guys are amazing. I got Randy and Jared, and they were both equally as amazing. After the first visit with Randy, 75% of all issues were taken care of. After Jared came a few weeks later the remaining 25% of problems we were dealing with were fixed. Since they left me with all the tools to continue practicing good behavior with my dog, none of the problems have resurfaced. The things they helped fix was: jumping on the people and on or doors, eating our other dog's food, recall, and walks. Getting my dog to go on walks was super important because she was terrified of leaving the driveway and I had no idea what to do about it. On the first visit Randy helped to get her more comfortable with being on the leash and being in front of the house. After the second visit with Jared she venturing out on walks with full confidence. Bark Busters really is incredible and they have amazing being working for them. I do recommend Bark Busters.
Evan B.
Atherton, CA
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Let me start by saying I love this training style. It’s all about communicating effectively with your dog (no shock collars or prong collars AND no excessive treats). I grew up with chronically misbehaving dogs and had parents default to prong collars, so I was a little uncertain about this training style actually working, but I already notice improvements!

Overall, Jared was helpful, thoughtful, and thorough. We covered a ton of information during the first session. We focused on leashed walks, attentiveness, jumping, barking, personal space, and general manners (not crowding while we eat, stealing shoes, staying away from the door while we enter/ exit, etc.). We even went over diet. We gave us a lot of material to review and ways to track progress over weeks so it wasn’t overwhelming and it’s easier to stay consistent. He was well-prepared for the session and even brought a stuffed dog!
He helped my two dogs (11 year old rescue and 5 month old German shepherd) as well as my boyfriend’s dog (5 year old pitbull mix rescue). There was noticeable improvement with the puppy before the end of the first session. Thank you, Jared!
Gianna A.
Burlingame, CA
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From our very first session with Ryan, it was evident that we had found a gem in the world of dog training. Ryan's patience was remarkable, providing a sense of calm that helped both us and our excitable pup feel at ease. His kindness was not just a professional courtesy, but a genuine attribute that resonated in all his interactions with us and our dog.

Ryan's knowledge about dog behavior and training techniques was truly impressive. He seemed to have an endless array of strategies and insights that were perfectly suited to our dog's distinct personality. As an educator, Ryan was exceptional, breaking down complex training methods into simple, digestible lessons. His teaching style was engaging and easy to follow, empowering us to be effective trainers in our own right.

One of the most refreshing aspects of working with Ryan was his non-pushy demeanor. He was completely respectful of our learning curve and was always understanding of our training goals. We never felt judged or discouraged; on the contrary, Ryan's encouragement and positive reinforcement made every training session a joy.
Robbie L.
Burlingame, CA
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Jared is so good with bear he’s very patient when he pulls the leash and barks at dogs and he hardly jumps on me and my parents when we walk through the door his recall has been so much better while working with Jared bear is always excited when he comes a trains him cant wait to continue training with him
Sara P.
San Mateo, CA
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I can't recommend Ryan highly enough. The difference in my dog before and after our session was like night and day. Petie was having a hard time with aggression, both on leash and off. I was afraid I was going to have to give him up, because I had tried other trainers, but the behavior never trained. Treat training, shock collars, you name it. Then Ryan showed me that it was ME. The way I was not stepping up to the plate as the pack leader. Boy once I did, Petie no longer felt the need to take charge or dominate. Thanks so much Ryan -- your training was life changing.
Greg D.
San Mateo, CA
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Bark Busters has been a major help to us. We rescued 2 puppies and did not know where to begin training. As it turned out we needed to be trained first. The first thing I learned is dogs can pick up on your anxiety. I had to learn to speak calmly so I would not confuse the dogs.
The basic training for the dogs took about a week and now we are moving on to more advanced commands.
Mary Anne W.
San Mateo, CA
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Connect with us Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

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What Makes Bark Busters San Mateo County 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 San Mateo County, 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.

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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

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: Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, Burlingame, Daly City, El Granada, Half Moon Bay, Menlo Park, Millbrae, Montara, Moss Beach, Pacifica, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Francisco, San Mateo, South San Francisco

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