Serving Central Virginia and the DMV including Culpeper, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg & the Washington DC area
Dog Training & Boarding on a 30-acre farm near Culpeper, VA
Dog Training & Boarding on a 30-acre farm near Culpeper, VA
A Thoughtful Approach to Dog Care
Space, Structure, & Consistent Care for Every Dog
Dogwood Hill Training Kennels is located on a quiet 30-acre farm midway between Charlottesville, VA and Washington, DC, and regularly works with dog owners both locally and regionally. Dogs here have room to move, follow clear daily routines, and receive consistent, hands-on care in our heated and air conditioned kennels on our beautiful farm.
For more than 20 years, we have worked with dog owners across Central Virginia and the Washington, DC area who value reliability, responsibility, and straightforward communication. Our approach has always been simple: take good care of the dogs and make sure owners feel informed throughout their time with us.
Certified
Professional Trainer
All Breeds &
Temperaments
Clear
Communication
Our Farm-Based Approach
An Open Environment for Dogs
Dogwood Hill Training Kennels is not a typical boarding facility. Dogs live and train on a working farm with large indoor/outdoor runs, predictable routines, and hands-on care throughout the day.
Many owners searching for dog boarding in Central Virginia and the DMV feel uneasy about places where dogs spend long hours confined to cages or small enclosures. We offer a different option that prioritizes space, structure, and consistency.
Dogs in our care benefit from:
- Predictable daily routines that help promote calm behavior
- Outdoor time in open play areas
- Consistent handling by experienced staff
- Daily, hands-on care that includes supervised nature walks across the 30-acre farm
- Every dog is known by name and closely observed, including changes in behaviour, appetite, or energy
- Individual preferences are respected, from activity levels to comfort routines at night
- Small details are noticed and followed through, whether a dog loves fetch or prefers quiet time
- Care is adjusted to meet each dog where they are, so dogs feel settled and relaxed while owners are away
Experience That Matters
Training Built on Experience & Consistency
Good dog training relies on consistency, clear communication, and real-world experience. Dogwood Hill Training Kennels was founded by Guy Kovner, a certified professional dog trainer with decades of hands-on work behind him.
We work with dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments, focusing on clear obedience and reliable everyday behaviour. Our programs are designed to support steady, long-term progress rather than quick fixes.
DDog owners across Central Virginia, including Charlottesville, Culpeper, Fredericksburg, and Washington, DC choose us because we:
- Set realistic expectations from the start
- Communicate clearly and honestly
- Focus on results that continue after the program ends
Structured Training Programs
Board-and-Train Programs That Fit Everyday Life
Our board-and-train programs allow dogs to stay on-site while receiving daily, structured training in a consistent environment. Both programs include regular updates and guidance so owners feel confident continuing training at home.
Adult Dog Training Program (3 Weeks)
This three-week program focuses on building reliable obedience and reinforcing steady routines. Dogs receive daily training sessions along with structured outdoor time on the farm.
Puppy Training Program (2 Weeks)
Our puppy program focuses on building strong foundations early. We work on confidence, manners, and healthy habits that help puppies settle into family life more easily.
Dog Boarding
We also offer dog boarding near Culpeper, VA for owners across Central Virginia, including Charlottesville and Fredericksburg, who want a safe, well-run environment for their dogs.
One of the things that sets us apart is having Christy Kovner, a Licensed Veterinary Technician with Board certifications in emergency and critical care. This allows us to closely monitor dogs and provide medical awareness and first aid when needed.
This added level of care is especially reassuring for:
- Senior dogs
- Dogs with medical conditions
- Owners who want extra peace of mind while they are away
Other Services
Pet Pickup & Delivery Services
To support dog owners with busy schedules or travel needs, Dogwood Hill Training Kennels offers pet pickup and delivery services throughout Central Virginia, including Culpeper & Reva, and Washington, DC
This option is commonly used for:
- Board-and-train programs
- Longer boarding stays
- Owners who prefer coordinated transport
Pickup and delivery arrangements are discussed in advance to ensure clear planning and expectations.
Grooming Services
Grooming services are available for dogs staying with us for training or boarding. These services are provided as an added convenience and scheduled based on availability.
Grooming options may include:
- Basic grooming
- Nail trims
- Hourly grooming services
Grooming is discussed in advance to ensure it fits the dog’s needs and stay.
Who We Serve
Serving Dog Owners Across Central Virginia & Washington, DC
Our farm is based near Charlottesville and we work with dog owners from across Central Virginia and surrounding areas, including:
Washington, DC
- Washington, DC
- Fairfax County
- Loudoun County
- Prince William County
- Arlington
- Alexandria
Central Virginia
- Charlottesville City
- Albemarle County
- Greene County
- Culpeper County
Maryland (DC Metro Area)
- Bethesda
- Silver Spring
Many of our clients are happy to travel because they value the space, experience, and structured care we provide.
Why Dogwood Hill
Why Dog Owners Choose Dogwood Hill
Dogwood Hill Training Kennels is built around consistency, accountability, and long-term care.
Open Farm
Dogs live and train in an open, structured environment rather than rotating through cage schedules.
Experienced
Programs are led by a certified professional trainer with decades of hands-on experience.
Extra Care
A trained veterinary technician is on staff, providing closer monitoring and added peace of mind.
Structured
Clear routines and regular owner communication support long-term success beyond the stay.
Reviews From Our Clients
What Dog Owners Are Saying
Get in Touch
Talk With Our Professional Staff About Your Dog’s Needs
If you are looking for dog training or boarding in Charlottesville or Central Virginia, we would be happy to talk with you.
Ask questions, learn more about our programs, and see if Dogwood Hill feels like the right fit for you and your dog.
*we do not yet offer transportation to/from other areas.
Boarding Requirements
To protect the health of all dogs in our care, we require proof of the following vaccinations:
- Rabies
- Distemper
- Bordetella
- Canine Influenza
Vaccinations must be administered at least 2 weeks prior to the boarding date. Dogs vaccinated within 14 days of arrival cannot be accepted.