dogs of the dunes is the most affordable and ethical dog training, boarding, and walking service in indiana and chicago, illinois. our certified dog trainers focus on communication, confidence, and real-life skills—correcting behaviors in dogs with clarity, compassion, and structure. we are proud to be fear-free.
Affordable in-home dog boarding in Valparaiso, IN that prioritizes routine, enrichment, and emotional well-being. Just $50/night, our doggy daycare stays include breed-appropriate enrichment, walks, and thoughtfully managed care in a home environment. Trusted dog sitting.
Science-based, fear-free dog training led by certified trainers; offering 1-on-1 sessions, group classes, and custom board & train programs near you. We focus on communication, confidence, and real-life skills. Our obedience training for puppies and dogs gives owners tools to correct behaviors without relying on force.
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. Consider booking a training session with me today!
I’m also actively involved with local rescue organizations, including Hobart Humane Society and Giant Paw Prints Rescues, 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, I’m Marisa, your new pet care extraordinaire! I’m excited to incorporate my love of animals and years of experience with creatures of all kinds to the dogs of the dunes team.
I bring a background of caring for a range of rescue pets, including special needs friends; some of whom live with blindness, full or partial hearing loss, tri-paws, and even neuro conditions. I’m prepared to adapt my personalized care to any of your pet needs!
Booking with me means you and your pets can be at ease — no matter the plans!
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. Consider booking a training session with me today!
I’m also actively involved with local rescue organizations, including Hobart Humane Society and Giant Paw Prints Rescue, 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, I’m Marisa, your new pet care extraordinaire! I’m excited to incorporate my love of animals and years of experience with creatures of all kinds to the dogs of the dunes team.
I bring a background of caring for a range of rescue pets, including special needs friends; some of whom live with blindness, full or partial hearing loss, tri-paws, and even neuro conditions. I’m prepared to adapt my personalized care to any of your pet needs!
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.
Theresa is 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.
We use science-based, fear-free, positive reinforcement training rooted in modern learning theory and LIFE (Least Inhibitive, Functionally Effective) principles. We never use aversive tools or methods, including shock, prong, or choke collars.
Do you offer in-home training?
Yes! Based on your preference, training happens in your home or in real-world environments where behavior naturally occurs. This leads to faster, longer lasting results. We are praised as the most affordable and flexible dog trainers in Michigan City, Valparaiso, and Portage, IN. We are happy to work around you (and your pet’s) schedule!
What kind of dogs do you work with?
We work with all types of dogs. We work with puppies, adolescent dogs, and adult dogs of all breeds and backgrounds, including rescue dogs and dogs navigating life transitions or behavior challenges. Moreover, dogs of the dunes is consistently rated as the best choice for obedience and reactivity training in Valparaiso and Portage, IN, and the surrounding area. Every dog is evaluated as an individual to ensure the best possible fit.
Do you work with fearful or reactive dogs?
Yes! We have experience correcting behavioral issues in dogs, such as reactivity, leash pulling, and destruction. We teach emotional regulation, confidence-building, and management rather than suppression. We promise to have an honest conversation to ensure our services, including dog sitting, training, and walking are a good fit.
Do you guarantee results or timelines?
No. Ethical dog training does not come with guarantees and progress requires consistency. Training is a process, not a quick fix, so contact us to start today!
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. Dogs of the dunes’ top-rated Board & Train program includes structured training built into your dog’s daily routine, plus enrichment, rest, and transition support! Our Board & Train program is personalized to your needs and we are currently accepting new clients!
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.
Do you offer virtual training?
Yes! Virtual sessions are available for families who prefer remote support or need additional flexibility. Dogs of the dunes prides itself in best-in-the-industry affordability and flexibility; this program is no different. 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.
Is Chicago within your service area?
Yes! Our service area includes Chicago, IL. dogs of the dunes is an excellent choice for dog boarding, doggie hotel, and pet services in Chicago, IL.
![two new dune dogs just dropped ↘️
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meet gus and nox — two of my favorite kinds of cases: real dogs, real challenges, real families who are already showing up for their pups.both of these fellas have done group sessions elsewhere in our area, but didn't glean as much as their humans had hoped.
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💚 gus is a doodle with a heart the size of the dunes. his mom and dad are ready to graduate him off his gentle leader, work through the full-body meltdown that happens every time he spots another dog on a walk, and get a handle on his manners when other people come over.gus has big feelings and that's ok!
but his people are ready to actually enjoy going on walks and feel calm + confident on the other end of the leash, no matter where they are.this dood loves everyone. just a little too much 💚
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🖤 nox came into this world with the odds stacked against him — rescued as a stray, battling giardia, a bone disease that deteriorated part of his femur and required surgery, and a socialization window that closed before it ever really opened.he functions as a tripod (although all 4 paws are there), he's mouthy, he's overstimulated, and he's never really understood what calm feels like.but his mom never gave up on him through any of it — and that matters more than a perfect puppyhood ever could!i even met grandma in session today, and she gives all the snaps to mama for hanging in there and remaining dedicated to this tiny one's well-being.[let's hear it for supportive family members yeah?! 🤏🤏🤏]so we're hitting reset and starting from the ground up together 🖤
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six sessions each. we are just getting started 🐾
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#dunedog #dunedogs #dotd #doodlesofthedunes #rescuedogsrock](https://dogsofthedunes.com/wp-content/plugins/instagram-feed/img/placeholder.png)
