Modern Full-Service Dog Training. Serving all VA - MD - DC - WVA (and other locations nation wide) Boarding, Training, Importing, Sales
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04/25/2025
Alfie Finds His Groove: From Reactive to Relaxed Around Other Dogs
Alfie, the sweetest little Dachshund, joined us to work through some reactivity and socialization challenges. Walks were stressful, and interactions with other dogs left his family unsure how to help him feel more confident and in control.
Throughout his time in training, Alfie learned how to replace those reactive behaviors with calm, focused alternatives. With structure, consistency, and positive communication, he began to understand that other dogs do not have to be a trigger; they can be fun!
Supervised play and clear boundaries helped Alfie discover his love for social time, and by the end of his stay, he was happily and safely interacting with every dog he met. We are proud of this little guy and all the progress he’s made.
🐾 Trainer: RSK9 Gina
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Ready to turn stressful walks into calm, enjoyable experiences? Reach out today and let’s get your dog on the right path.
04/24/2025
From Bouncy Puppy to Polite Companion: Ainsley’s Training Journey Begins
This lovable Golden Retriever puppy was the perfect mix of sweet, smart, and spirited. Ainsley arrived ready to take on the world, curious about everything, full of playful energy, and bringing all that signature Golden charm with her.
Our focus during our puppy training program was building a solid foundation that would set her up for success long-term. That meant developing patience, sharpening her focus, and helping her manage her excitement, all while making sure her joyful personality could still shine through.
Ainsley took to training like a pro. With consistent structure, lots of engagement, and some tasty mealtime motivation, she made incredible progress. Now, she is well on her way to becoming a confident, well-mannered companion her family can rely on, whether it is at home, on a walk, or out in the world.
📍 Location: Reston, VA
🐾 Trainer: Ridgeside K9 Erin
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Do you have a dog that could use a little guidance or a full training transformation? Reach out to us today and let’s talk about how we can help your dog thrive. 🐾💬
04/24/2025
Tired of your dog turning walks into a battle of strength? 🐾😵 Leash pulling isn’t just frustrating — it’s exhausting, embarrassing, and even dangerous.
Good news: it doesn’t have to be that way.
Our Board & Train Program is designed to eliminate leash pulling, improve focus, and make walks enjoyable again. Imagine your dog walking calmly by your side — no more tug-of-war.
✅ Lasting results
✅ Real-world training
✅ Professional guidance every step of the way
Let’s fix the pulling and bring the joy back to your walks!
From Fearful to Fearless: Phoebe’s Journey to Confidence and Connection
This sweet Border Collie mix had a tough start, found as a stray and placed in foster care before finally landing in the loving arms of her forever family. Having already seen amazing results with their other dog, Bella, her family knew exactly where to turn when Phoebe began showing signs of deep-rooted anxiety and insecurity. They enrolled her in our three-week board and train program, committed to giving her the tools she needed to thrive.
Early on, Phoebe displayed extreme submission, often rolling over and offering her belly anytime someone walked by or reached out to her. Whether it was due to past mistreatment or a learned coping mechanism, our focus was clear: help Phoebe build genuine confidence and show her that she no longer needed to rely on fear to feel safe or get attention.
Through patience, structured training, and consistent guidance, Phoebe’s mindset began to shift. She learned that calm, confident behavior, not submission, earned her the affection she craved. Over time, she blossomed into a more playful, trusting, and balanced companion. She is now not only more secure in herself but also enjoys car rides, outings, and life’s everyday adventures with a whole new outlook.
📍 Location: Chantilly, VA
🐾 Trainer: Ridgeside K9 Dianna Weeks
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
We are so proud of Phoebe’s progress and honored to be a part of her journey. Watching her transformation has been nothing short of inspiring. Do you have a rescue dog that you would like to train and integrate into your family? Contact us today!
04/23/2025
Max Returns for More: Building on a Strong Start with Clear Obedience and Confidence 🐾
Say hello to Max, a 6-month-old Mini Bernedoodle, who returned for Phase 2 of our Puppy All-Inclusive Program, and he did not miss a beat. This happy, energetic puppy quickly slipped back into the routine we established during Phase 1, showing just how effective early structure can be.
During this round of training, we focused on sharpening Max’s general obedience, tightening up his recall, and improving his leash manners in new and distracting environments. His focus and enthusiasm made him a joy to work with, and he impressed us with how much he retained from his earlier sessions.
Max is now back home with his dedicated family, equipped with a strong foundation and the tools to keep progressing. We are excited to watch him continue growing into a well-rounded companion.
📍 Location: Great Falls, VA
🐾 Trainer: RSK9 Perry & Brandi
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Thinking about long-term success for your puppy? Our phased puppy training programs set the tone early, so you can enjoy a calm, confident dog for years to come. Let’s talk about how we can help!
04/23/2025
From Stressful Walks to Calm Confidence — Chewie’s Big Comeback
Chewie is a 4-year-old Boxer who came to us struggling with reactivity toward other dogs and people, especially during walks. What should have been relaxing outings had become frustrating and unpredictable. His family knew something had to change, so they reached out to us for help.
Throughout our three-week board and train program, we focused on building trust, consistency, and structure. By creating clear expectations and helping Chewie build confidence, we guided him toward more neutral behavior in the presence of distractions. The reactivity began to fade, and in its place, Chewie found calm, focus, and control.
Now, walks are enjoyable again for both Chewie and his family. We could not be prouder of how far Chewie has come, and we know his best days are just ahead.
📍 Location: Arlington, VA
🐾 Trainer: RSK9 Bernie
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Need help turning chaos into calm? Let’s talk about how training can make life easier for you and your dog.
04/22/2025
Luna Levels Up: Confidence, Control, and a Strong Foundation
Luna, a 6-month-old Boerboel, returned for Phase 2 of our Puppy All-Inclusive Program, and this girl came ready to work!
Building on the foundation we established during her first phase, Luna picked up right where she left off. This time around, we focused on refining her obedience, polishing her recall, and dialing in leash manners. She also worked through some initial nervousness in new environments, learning to trust direction and stay grounded even with distractions around.
With consistency and clear communication, Luna’s confidence grew, and so did her ability to navigate the world with ease. She is now back home with her amazing family, who are fully committed to reinforcing the structure and skills she’s developed.
🐾 Trainer: RSK9 Perry & Brandi
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
If you are looking to set your puppy up for long-term success, our all-inclusive programs are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s get started.
04/22/2025
April is Canine Fitness Month! 🐶💪
Is your dog getting the right amount of exercise? Whether you’ve got a trail-blazing adventure pup or a couch-loving cuddlebug, every dog benefits from staying active — physically and mentally.
According to the Purina Institute, over 59% of dogs worldwide were overweight as of 2020. Let’s change that stat — one happy, healthy dog at a time. At Ridgeside K9, we’re here to help your dog thrive with training, enrichment, and plenty of tail-wagging movement.
From Puppy to Pro: Dolly Levels Up Her Obedience Game
At just 7 months old, Dolly, a spirited and intelligent Lancashire Heeler, recently completed our two-week board and train program. With a strong puppy foundation already in place, this bright girl came in eager to learn, grow, and fine-tune her skills. We focused on sharpening her obedience, increasing the reliability of her commands, and introducing off-leash recall with confidence.
Dolly’s energy and willingness to work made her an absolute joy to train. She is now stepping into the next chapter of life with greater structure, more freedom, and a family ready to support her continued success.
📍 Location: Aldie, VA
🐾 Trainer: RSK9 Ariel
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Way to go, Dolly! We cannot wait to see all the adventures you will take on with your amazing family.
04/21/2025
Harley’s Training Journey Unlocks Freedom and Focus
Please help us welcome Harley and her amazing family to the Ridgeside K9 family!
This spirited and determined girl completed our two-week adult training program, and we could not be more proud of her progress. Thanks to a strong foundation from her early puppy training, led by her committed mom, Harley came in already set up for success. But like many young, high-drive dogs, she was still learning how to handle boundaries, impulse control, and that little word… “no.”
Once Harley realized that structure gave her more freedom, especially with all the space she had to explore, she leaned into training in a big way. We focused heavily on reliable off-leash recall, clear communication, and reinforcing calm behavior. Her drive and intelligence became assets with the right guidance, and now she is ready to enjoy life safely and confidently by her family’s side.
📍 Location: Berryville, VA
🐾 Trainer: Ridgeside K9 Rachel
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
We are so excited to see what adventures come next for this awesome duo! Great work, Harley! Ready to take your dog’s obedience skills to the next level? Let’s get started!
04/21/2025
"If you're going my way......" all the way to Ridgeside K9! 🐾❤️🐾
04/21/2025
"You don’t really own a dog… you rent them—and hope for a long lease."
Dogs come into our lives and leave paw prints on our hearts that last forever. Whether you’ve got a pup by your side now or you’re missing one who’s moved on, this is your reminder to cherish every moment.
🐾 Love deeply
🕰️ Be present
❤️ And be grateful for the time you get
Here’s to the dogs who make our lives whole—one wag, one lick, one adventure at a time.
04/20/2025
Turning Training Into Real-World Results: Outdoor Place Command in Action
Today’s training session with RSK9 EJ's crew brought the place command outdoors, where the real world adds a whole new level of distraction and opportunity! From fluttering birds and passing cars to distant voices and sidewalk chatter, our dogs were exposed to the everyday sights and sounds that challenge focus and self-control.
But with structured guidance and consistent practice, each pup held their position with calm confidence. Training outside the home is key to building reliable obedience, and it teaches dogs how to stay relaxed and responsive no matter the environment.
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Ready to take your dog’s obedience skills beyond the backyard? Let’s get started!
04/19/2025
Building Confidence, One Pack Walk at a Time
Welcome Evie to the crew! Today, RSK9 trainer Danny and his team—Denali, Evie, Thor, and Zion focused on calm, structured walking in a group environment.
Denali and Zion, two playful sisters, are learning how to maintain composure and focus even with all the excitement around them. Thor, who came to us for dog reactivity, is gaining exposure and confidence by walking alongside new canine companions and learning that not every dog is a threat.
These controlled pack walks help build trust, improve social skills, and reinforce solid obedience. Whether your dog struggles with leash reactivity, confidence, or overexcitement, we create real-world scenarios that lead to real-life results.
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Ready for your dog to join a confident, well-mannered pack? Message us today to learn how training with Ridgeside K9 can transform your dog’s behavior! 🐾
04/19/2025
THINGS MY DOG SAID…
“I hid a few surprises around the house… and nope, they’re not Easter eggs.”
Spring fun looks a little different when you have a dog!
Need help with potty training, indoor manners, or teaching your pup where not to leave "gifts"? We’ve got you covered—because eggs aren’t the only thing that should stay outside this Easter.
🐶 Professional dog training for real-life results
📞 Call/Text: 571-271-5595
🌐 ridgesidek9.com
📧 [email protected]
04/19/2025
Big Dog, Big Heart, Even Bigger Transformation
Meet Jethro, a stunning European Great Dane who recently completed our board and train program. With his impressive size and loving personality, Jethro’s family knew that building strong obedience and impulse control was essential for a balanced and happy life together.
Throughout his training, we focused on structure, communication, and consistency to help Jethro channel his energy productively. He learned how to stay engaged with his handler, walk politely on leash, and follow commands even in high-distraction environments.
Now, Jethro turns heads for more than just his looks, his manners speak volumes. We could not be prouder of the progress he has made and the dedication shown by his amazing family.
📍 Location: Warrenton, VA
🐾 Trainer: Ridgeside K9 Erin
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
Ready to bring out the best in your dog, no matter their size? Let’s talk training.
04/19/2025
Calm, Confident, and In Control—Even in the Chaos
Training in real-world environments is a game changer, and today’s crew took on a big challenge: navigating automatic doors like pros. The constant motion, noises, and distractions of a busy space can be overwhelming for most dogs, but that is exactly why we train there.
We focused on controlled heeling through high-distraction zones, helping each dog stay calm and close even with carts rolling by and doors opening suddenly. They also practiced short-distance sit and down stays, building trust and reliability in a fast-paced setting.
📞 Call or Text: 571-271-5595
💰 Financing Available for All Training Programs!
🌐 Visit: www.RidgesideK9.com
👨✈️ Veteran & Police Owned
These are the moments that create confident dogs and empowered owners. Looking to build structure and focus into your dog’s everyday routine? Let’s get started!
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Aaron (Owner of Ridgeside K9, LLC) served six years in the Marine Corps in both the Infantry and Diplomatic Security; transitioning out of the Marines and directly into Law Enforcement in the Northern Virginia region where he served for 15 years with the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office. Aaron started in patrol and quickly moved into specialty units with community policing, narcotics, full-time SWAT, Patrol K9 and SWAT K9. During his tenure in law enforcement, Aaron went back to school full-time at night and earned a bachelor’s degree in security studies from The George Washington University.
In 2013 Aaron began transitioning his hobby and lifelong passion of dog training into a small side business, all through word of mouth. In 2016 Aaron made it official and started his veteran owned business “Ridgeside K9, LLC” while still working as a patrol K9 on the midnight shift. Ridgeside K9 started as a small, family-based operation focusing on rehabilitating dogs with behavior problems. Ridgeside K9 literally started with one wire crate. Ridgeside K9 is now represented in 7 states, employs multiple trainers and routinely picks up and trains dogs all up and down the east coast. Ridgeside K9 grew expeditiously in the DC metro area during 2016 and 2017 due to word of mouth. Within 18 months Ridgeside K9 grew to boarding, board and trains, dog sales, private lessons, and coast to coast transports. Within two years Ridgeside K9, LLC bypassed its 20-year goal of growth and revenue. In August 2018 Aaron retired from law enforcement and now focuses solely on Ridgeside K9 and its continued growth. Ridgeside K9 now has locations in MO, IL, (3) in VA, WVA, MD, NC and OH. All locations are owned by Military Veterans and Police K9 Handlers.
Ridgeside K9 brings a realism to the pet dog training world that is unmatched in the industry. Prior to coming to Ridgeside K9 as a location owner or trainer, individuals must already be heavily established in the dog training world with hundreds of dogs under their belt. Ridgeside K9 employs numerous active and retired police K9 trainers and military veterans that now specialize in amazing obedience and control on household pets.
Ridgeside K9 believes there is no “one size fits all” approach to dog training. Each dog is and owner are evaluated for issues, goals and wants. We customize each training package using a mix of marker training, free shaping, classical and operant conditioning to establish real world, measurable and reliable obedience and control. We always push for the dog to achieve clarity of task. Showing a dog, a new way of “being” and the owners a new way of communicating.
Education – The George Washington University (Bachelor's Degree in security studies)