Gary Maria

The trusted name in dog training for over 45 years

Puppy development

Training puppies early (10-20 weeks of age), helps your puppy adjust to its environment and ensures your puppy pays attention and engages with you.

Basic dog obedience

Teaches your dog the fundamentals of manners and control. It opens healthy communication and a positive relationship with your dog.

Advanced off-leash dog obedience

Gives your dog the off-leash exercise it needs and enables the dog owner to control the dog while it's off-leash.

Behavior modification

Addresses unwanted behavior. For example, aggression towards people, separation anxiety, and resource guarding, require behavior modifcation.

Gary Maria

The trusted name in dog training for over 45 years

Over 15,000

Dogs successfully trained and temperament tested

250 Reviews

Over 250 5-star reviews

Winner of Best Bay Area Dog Trainer for 3 years.

Best dog trainer for Bay Area, Walnut Creek, and Livermore.

Gary’s philosophy

I have successfully trained and temperament tested over 20,000 dogs. My consistent success is built on my system of dog-friendly training techniques. In addition to using positive-reinforcement training techniques, I also understand the critical role of the owner and I work with each dog owner to ensure the owner understands what triggers negative behaviors in dogs.

Given that each owner-dog relationship is unique, I customize my programs to ensure that each owner-dog relationship is built using clear and consistent communication techniques. Essentially, I train each owner in how to demonstrate that he or she is pack leader.

As a result, my clients experience an immediate and positive change in eliminating negative behaviors. Whether the need is to train a new dog or address an existing behavior with a current dog, I’ll work with you to develop a customized program that will eliminate unwanted or negative behavior.

Winner of Best Bay Area Dog Trainer Award for Three Years

About these Awards

Gary Maria Professional Dog Training has been selected three years in a row as best dog trainer for the Bay Area, Walnut Creek, and Livermore.

The Best of Bay Area, Walnut Creek, and Livermore Business Awards Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses. Recognition is given to those businesses that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

Hear from our clients

Ensuring your dog is a loved member of your family

Gary Maria is one of the most sought after and experienced dog behavior specialists in the Bay Area and is recognized as an expert in the field.

Since 1977, Gary has improved the behavior of thousands of dogs using his combination of proven techniques.

Our service areas:

Please select one of the service areas to get started:

Service Booking & Inquiry

Winner of the best Bay Area dog trainer for 3 years
Talk with Gary: