at dogs of the dunes, we provide science-based, fear-free dog training, walking, and in-home boarding. led by a certified professional dog trainer, our approach focuses on communication, confidence, and real-life skills—helping dogs and their people navigate behavior challenges with clarity, compassion, and structure.
In-home dog boarding in Valparaiso, IN that prioritizes routine, enrichment, and emotional well-being over kennels and chaos. Starting at $50/night, our stays include breed-appropriate enrichment, a walk, and thoughtfully managed care in a home environment.
Science-based, fear-free dog training led by certified trainers; offering 1-on-1 sessions, group classes, and custom board & train programs. Our approach focuses on communication, confidence, and real-life skills—helping dogs and their people make meaningful progress without force or unrealistic expectations.
Our dog walks go beyond exercise, offering enrichment, decompression, and connection through the sights, sounds, and smells of Northwest Indiana. Each 30-minute walk is thoughtfully paced and handled with patience, care, and positive reinforcement. Starting at $25.
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Was very nervous to leave my 5 month old pup for a few days, but as soon as I met Theresa, it completely eased my mind. My pup loved being there and getting to make friends with all the other pups. I look forward to future training sessions and so glad I chose dogs of the dunes!
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Catherine Davis
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The most professional and up to date dog training/walking/ boarding service in the region. Force and fear free, my dog absolutely loves the time they get with Theresa!! I wouldn’t trust any other trainers in this area like I do dogs of the dunes. Not only does she get results but I know she is responsible, gentle, and loving with mine and all pups she works with. Hands down, the BEST
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Kelly Vickers
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I can’t brag about Theresa enough. She makes boarding and drop in visits feel like it’s coming from a friend which makes for no stress especially for someone who has a hard time trusting anyone to take care of their fur babies. She takes care of our Marsh on regular drop in visits and is our go to for boarding. Shes even great to give some love to our older dog when she drops by to take out the puppy. I had no idea what having a regular dog boarder or someone to drop in entailed and she was great to stop by and meet Marshmallow before her visits even started happening to make sure we were comfortable.
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Maria Falese
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We recently boarded our dog with Scarlet, and WOW we could not have had a better experience! Our dog is our first baby, and in the past we’ve always had such worry about leaving him at other boarding facilities. This was the first time we were actually able to enjoy our vacation knowing our baby was in great hands. Scarlet made sure to meet Oliver in our home ahead of time, which eased the transition for everyone. She sent multiple daily updates while we were gone, and even went above and beyond to help sustain Oliver’s comfort level in her care when he got nervous or stressed. I hate to use the word “boarding” with Dogs of the Dunes, because in our experience, it’s like your baby just becomes part of another family while you’re away! Would rate them 10 stars if I could! Scarlet, thank you again! We plan to use this service every time we travel from now on. And look forward to exploring their training services when we get another dog in the future!
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Sean & Melissa Healy
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We've worked with Dogs of the Dunes for their drop-in visit and walks services for our 90+ lb Golden Retriever and we couldn't be happier. Before we started with them, two of the ladies came to the house to meet us and our dog and make sure everyone was comfortable. They are very communicative and let us know when they've come over and how he was and often provide pictures so we can his happy face. We love being able to allow him to stay in his house and have visitors and activity without having to be boarded. We're very happy we found Dogs of the Dunes.
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Scarlet Cisneros
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I’ve had nothing but great experiences while working with Theresa. She’s very patient when it comes to giving directions & giving feedback with each session. I’m so pleased, she is my #1 referral to anyone needing a little extra help when it comes to their dogs too.
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Lisa McCabe
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Theresa has taken care of of our 5 1/2-year-old golden, and our second one when she came along. The dogs are so well cared for and happy after their walks with her. I feel so much more comfortable boarding with her than a facility.
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Aidan Lineberry
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michael toigo
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Took a class with Theresa at portage woodland park very polite and informative. I have a large breed dog (great dane)and she helped tremendously with my girl. Highly recommended her and all her services.
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Dylan Rongers
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Theresa knows what she’s doing, highly recommend her!!
meet the team
Hey! I’m Theresa, a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and proud owner of dogs of the dunes. Since 2019, I’ve been dedicated to helping dogs and their humans build stronger bonds through clear communication, positive reinforcement, and emotionally intelligent coaching.
I believe in fostering an environment where dogs can thrive and pet parents feel empowered to understand their companions better. I focus on function over perfection, helping dogs succeed in the real-world.
I am… 🏋🏽 Member, Pet Professional Guild, where ethical training methods are key 🏅 Fear Free certified, prioritizing your pet’s well-being during training 🐶 Pet CPR certified, because safety always comes first.
I’m also actively involved with local rescue organizations, including Hobart Humane Society and Big Dogs Don’t Cry, offering consulting and training services for fosters and new pet parents across the region. When I’m not working with dogs, you’ll find me at the gym or on the pitch coaching Duneland Boys Soccer (Let’s go Trojans!). I’m here to help you navigate the journey whether you need guidance for a new puppy or are working through behavior challenges. No pressure, just progress!
Hi there! I’m Cadie, professional dog trainer with 7 years of experience training dogs in The Region and well over 10 years of experience working in the pet world. I have a passion for building strong, lasting bonds between dogs and their pet parents.
I believe the key to effective, ethical training lies in creating a deep connection of trust and respect between you and your dog. When this bond is the foundation of your training, it leads to lasting results with a happy, fulfilled dog and an even happier human! My approach is rooted in positive reinforcement and kindness, ensuring that every training session is both effective and compassionate. I focus on practical methods that work for both you and your dog, tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle.
I am currently finalizing my… 🏋🏽 Certified Training Technician, Pet Professional Guild 🏅 Fear Free certification
Let’s get you confident leading with love and create a harmonious environment where your dog thrives!
Hi, I’m Scarlet! A dedicated dog enthusiast who leads with ethics and strives to enhance the physical and emotional health of your furry family members. My goal is to keep your dog happy & confident while fostering the first steps of healthy communication. I’m here to resolve miscommunication and correct unwanted behaviors.
I’ve been making an impact on pet parents’ lives for the last 4 years; first as a dog training mentor with Petco and now here with you at dotd!
I am… 🏋🏽 Certified Training Technician, Pet Professional Guild 🏅 Fear Free certified, prioritizing your pet’s well-being during training 🐶 American Kennel Club Evaluator
My goal is to continue my education and become certified in animal behavior in order to provide further help for aggressive and extreme behavior cases.
Hi, I’m Amanda! I bring over eight years of experience in the pet industry to the dogs of the dunes team.
With a background in pet nutrition, retail, and brand education — plus experience as a registered behavioral therapist trained in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) — I offer calm, observant, and compassionate care for every dog I work with.
I am a… 🏋🏽 Member, Pet Professional Guild 🐶 Pet CPR Certified
My priority is emotional well-being and physical safety during walks and check-ins. My thoughtful, structured approach helps dogs feel secure, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way. Book a walk or drop-in care with me today!
Hey! I’m Theresa, a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and proud owner of dogs of the dunes. Since 2019, I’ve been dedicated to helping dogs and their humans build stronger bonds through clear communication, positive reinforcement, and emotionally intelligent coaching.
I believe in fostering an environment where dogs can thrive and pet parents feel empowered to understand their companions better. I focus on function over perfection, helping dogs succeed in the real-world.
I am… 🏋🏽 Member, Pet Professional Guild, where ethical training methods are key 🏅 Fear Free certified, prioritizing your pet’s well-being during training 🐶 Pet CPR certified, because safety always comes first.
I’m also actively involved with local rescue organizations, including Hobart Humane Society and Big Dogs Don’t Cry, offering consulting and training services for fosters and new pet parents across the region. When I’m not working with dogs, you’ll find me at the gym or on the pitch coaching Duneland Boys Soccer (Let’s go Trojans!). I’m here to help you navigate the journey whether you need guidance for a new puppy or are working through behavior challenges. No pressure, just progress!
Hi there! I’m Cadie, professional dog trainer with 7 years of experience training dogs in The Region and well over 10 years of experience working in the pet world. I have a passion for building strong, lasting bonds between dogs and their pet parents.
I believe the key to effective, ethical training lies in creating a deep connection of trust and respect between you and your dog. When this bond is the foundation of your training, it leads to lasting results with a happy, fulfilled dog and an even happier human! My approach is rooted in positive reinforcement and kindness, ensuring that every training session is both effective and compassionate. I focus on practical methods that work for both you and your dog, tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle.
I am currently finalizing my… 🏋🏽 Certified Training Technician, Pet Professional Guild 🏅 Fear Free certification
Let’s get you confident leading with love and create a harmonious environment where your dog thrives!
Hi, I’m Scarlet! A dedicated dog enthusiast who leads with ethics and strives to enhance the physical and emotional health of your furry family members. My goal is to keep your dog happy & confident while fostering the first steps of healthy communication. I’m here to resolve miscommunication and correct unwanted behaviors.
I’ve been making an impact on pet parents’ lives for the last 4 years; first as a dog training mentor with Petco and now here with you at dotd!
I am… 🏋🏽 Certified Training Technician, Pet Professional Guild 🏅 Fear Free certified, prioritizing your pet’s well-being during training 🐶 American Kennel Club Evaluator
My goal is to continue my education and become certified in animal behavior in order to provide further help for aggressive and extreme behavior cases.
Hi, I’m Amanda! I bring over eight years of experience in the pet industry to the dogs of the dunes team.
With a background in pet nutrition, retail, and brand education — plus experience as a registered behavioral therapist trained in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) — I offer calm, observant, and compassionate care for every dog I work with.
I am a… 🏋🏽 Member, Pet Professional Guild 🐶 Pet CPR Certified
My priority is emotional well-being and physical safety during walks and check-ins. My thoughtful, structured approach helps dogs feel secure, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way. Book a walk or drop-in care with me today!
upcoming classes (limited spots, act now!)
real results from real clients
Theresa is essentially a dog whisperer. She was essential in helping train my very energetic yellow lab pup and a very anxious adult black lab. Her approach not only sets up the dogs for future success but also gives the owners (me) the tools to continue working with my pups on my own, to make sure the training sticks.
Christopher “Big City Chicken” ZibutisMichigan City, IN
There are not adequate words to express my high esteem and gratefulness for Cadie. My dog was a rescue and badly abused…she is very knowledgeable about training and incorporates it into their walks. He is more confident and less fearful. I recommend without reservation. Thank you, Cadie!
Lisa BryantValparaiso, IN
We’ve worked with Dogs of the Dunes for their drop-in visit and walks services for our 90+ lb Golden Retriever and we couldn’t be happier. Before we started with them, two of the ladies came to the house to meet us and our dog and make sure everyone was comfortable. They are very communicative and provide pictures so we can see his happy face. We love being able to allow him to stay in his house and have visitors and activity without having to be boarded. We’re very happy we found Dogs of the Dunes.
Sean & Melissa HealyChesterton, IN
FAQ
What training methods do you use?
We use science-based, fear-free, positive reinforcement training rooted in modern learning theory and LIFE (Least Inhibitive, Functionally Effective) principles. We do not use aversive tools or methods, including shock, prong, or choke collars.
What is CPDT-KA certified?
CPDT-KA stands for Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed. This certification is awarded by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and recognizes trainers who have demonstrated advanced knowledge of learning theory, behavior science, humane training practices, and professional ethics. To earn and maintain CPDT-KA certification, trainers must meet experience requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, follow a strict code of ethics, and complete continuing education. It’s a credential that reflects a commitment to science-based, fear-free, and professional dog training.
What is CTT-A certified?
CTT-A stands for Certified Training Partner – Advanced, a credential awarded by the Pet Professional Guild (PPG). This certification recognizes trainers who are committed to force-free, humane training practices and who demonstrate advanced knowledge of learning theory, behavior, and ethical client support. Trainers certified through the Pet Professional Guild agree to a strict code of conduct that prohibits the use of aversive tools and methods and prioritizes the emotional and physical well-being of animals. CTT-A certification reflects a commitment to professionalism, continuing education, and training that is both compassionate and effective.
What does Fear Free certified mean?
Fear Free certification means that a trainer has completed specialized education focused on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in pets during training, handling, and care. Fear Free professionals learn how to recognize stress signals, adjust environments and expectations, and support animals in a way that helps them feel safe and successful. Fear Free practices emphasize emotional safety alongside skill-building—because dogs learn best when they feel secure, understood, and supported.
Do you offer in-home training?
Yes! Depending on your preference, training happens in your home or in real-world environments where behavior naturally occurs. This leads to faster, more lasting results. We are happy to work around you (and your pet’s) schedule.
What kind of dogs do you work with?
We work with puppies (8 weeks and older), adolescent dogs, and adult dogs of all breeds and backgrounds, including rescue dogs and dogs navigating life transitions or behavior challenges. Every dog is evaluated as an individual to ensure the best possible fit.
Do you work with fearful or reactive dogs?
Yes! Our approach prioritizes emotional regulation, confidence-building, and management rather than suppression. We’ll always have an honest conversation to ensure our services are appropriate for your dog’s needs.
Do you guarantee results or timelines?
No. Ethical dog training does not come with guarantees. Progress depends on many factors, including history, environment, consistency, and emotional state. Training is a process, not a quick fix.
Will my dog be safe to be off-leash after training?
We do not promise off-leash reliability nor do we encourage pet parents to have their pets off leash, so our answer is no. Safety, management, and realistic expectations are core to our training philosophy. But overall, maybe. This is a personal choice — not one we recommend.
What’s the difference between boarding and board + train?
Boarding provides care, enrichment, and routine while you’re away but does not include dedicated training time. Board & Train programs include structured training built into your dog’s daily routine, along with enrichment, rest, and transition support.
How do I know which training option is right for my dog?
We’ll help you decide. After learning more about your dog, goals, and schedule, we’ll recommend 1-on-1 coaching, group classes, or a Board & Train program—or let you know if another resource may be a better fit.
Do you offer virtual training?
Yes! Virtual sessions are available for families who prefer remote support or need flexibility. These sessions focus on coaching, problem-solving, and practical strategies you can implement at home.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes! Call or text 219-246-9084 or submit an inquiry through our website. We want to learn more about you and your dog and determine the best next steps.
Still have questions? We’re always happy to talk things through—because informed pet parents make the best training partners.
We proudly offer free consultations to help determine whether our services are the right fit for you and your dog. Click Contact Us to schedule a 30-minute initial service assessment, or book a service online at a time that works best for your schedule.
You can also reach out by completing our contact form, emailing us, or giving us a call. If your request is urgent, please TEXT 219-246-9084.
![[read it all here] ⤵️"This business deserves 10000 stars. 5 doesn't even touch the service and patience Theresa has given our family. Most of all she has loved our babies as much as we have. From sharing tears and being there on our girls last days. To training our big guy and walking him weekly. There is no one I would trust more with my animals than her. Fear tactics are not a thing. She takes pride in training with technique, skill, and consistency. I'm pretty sure our dog loves her more than us at this point. Thank you SO much for everything, Theresa!"
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theresa here 👋 : theodoreeeee.
my sweet angel. my first bite. ☯️what a journey i've been allowed to join you on.what started off as a dog walking consult turned into an incredibly rewarding experience spanning 2 years now; arguably the most impactful to date in regards to personal + professional growth. i will admit that i doubted myself at first. i didn't want to let him, his family down. but theo's case solidified for me what i continue to know to be true -- no breed needs a heavy hand. and what we do, how we do it matters.
since our first meet in January 2024, I've witnessed such LIFE with this family. yes, with theodore. but also a big brother emerge when baby girl was born. and a period of slow grieving together as we all said goodbye to nala at the end of 2025.the work we do at dotd is deeper than just "hanging out with dogs all day". and that's the way we like it.🌈🐾 nala forever 🕊✨️
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@_sarah_criswell_ i am crying again. ilyou guys.
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#dunedog #dunedogs #dotd #petconcierge #dogwalkerlife](https://dogsofthedunes.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png "home")