Serving Central Virginia, including Charlottesville, Culpeper, Reva & Washington, DC
Dog Training & Boarding on a 30-Acre Farm
Near Charlottesville
Dog Training & Boarding on a
30-Acre Farm Near Charlottesville
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 just outside Charlottesville, Virginia, and regularly works with dog owners from nearby areas such as Culpeper and Reva. Dogs here have room to move, follow clear daily routines, and receive consistent, hands-on care in an open farm setting rather than cage-style kennels.
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 outdoor runs, predictable routines, and hands-on care throughout the day.
Many owners searching for dog boarding near Charlottesville 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
- Supervised outdoor time in open 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 is led by Guy, 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.
Dog owners across Central Virginia, including Charlottesville, Culpeper, Reva, 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 Charlottesville, VA for owners across Central Virginia, including Culpeper and Reva, who want a safe, well-run environment for their dogs.
One of the things that sets us apart is having Christy, a trained veterinary technician, on staff. 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, Virginia, and we work with dog owners from across the region, including:
Central Virginia
- Charlottesville City
- Albemarle County
- Greene County
- Fluvanna County
- Louisa County
- Nelson County
- Culpeper County
- Reva
Washington, DC
- Washington, DC
- Fairfax County
- Loudoun County
- Prince William County
- Arlington
- Alexandria
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
EXCELLENT Based on 14 reviews Posted on Tatyana BoltonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Really amazing dog trainers - got my dog to calm down and be a great listener. Very good.Posted on Dianne CTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Christi and Guy are very committed to the animals in their care. Quick, responsive email communication and no question is too silly. Clean, organized indoor and outdoor facility. Our 4 year old male Labrador eagerly entered with no apparent signs of stress and was greeted joyfully by Guy, petting and scratching the perfect spots. Easy pick up, Tail wagging and smiling at pick up. Will definitely return and highly recommend Dogwood Hill Kennels!Posted on Marianne RTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Guy and Christy have been nothing but amazing ! From dog training to extra care and advice to kennel and attention, we have relied on them for our dog's well being. Hence our dog Bruno knows these are his people and loves coming here multiple times a year for kennel, care, and dog walks.Posted on Dan B.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Guy and Kristy are incredibly professional, kind, and excellent communicators. I almost hesitate to share just how wonderful this place is because it's truly a hidden gem. My dog absolutely loves coming here!Posted on Lauren YeskoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can't say enough great things about this facility. Our dogs have been going here for over 9 years and are treated like family when boarding. We have recommended the puppy training to 2 of our neighbors who have also had exceptional experiences. Such a great resource and so convenient with transportation for boarding.Posted on Art RabinowitzTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service, great training. Our 1 1/2 year old English Springer Spaniel was a changed pup after spending 3 weeks training with Guy. Come, sit, stay, place, no pull, etc.. I would highly recommend Dogwood Hill kennel.Posted on Josh AmosTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Took my dog here and immediately noticed a difference from Guy training him. He looked well loved and happy there. Christy and Guy are wonderful and I would gladly recommend them.Posted on Connie Nicholson-priceTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Christy is a great groomer. Patient and kind. Facility was emaculant.
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.