At Howies Happy Dog Training and Development, I don’t train dogs just to follow commands. I train them to listen, think, and trust you. That’s what leads to real behavior change, not tricks, not shortcuts. I’ve worked with hundreds of dogs over the years. Some were reactive. Some were anxious. Some were sweet but completely out of control. The one thing they had in common? Their owners wanted a calmer, more respectful relationship. That’s what I help build. I am based right here in Central Missouri. If you're looking for service dog training in Columbia, MO, or just want your dog to stop tearing up your shoes and jumping on guests, Howies is the place to call.

The Certified Master Trainer You Can Rely On

I’ve been doing this for over 50 years. Not just reading books or following trends, I’ve studied at West Virginia Canine College, the St. Louis College of Animal Science, and the Tom Rose School. I’m also certified by Cornell University for resolving canine behavior problems. That experience matters. Because here’s the thing: there isn’t one right way to train every dog. That idea sounds good on paper, but it falls apart the second you try to train a German Shepherd the same way you’d train a Pug. Different breeds are wired differently. Sight hounds chase. Terriers dig. Working breeds need jobs. Even two dogs of the same breed can have completely different personalities. Anyone who says otherwise hasn’t worked with enough dogs. I always start with positive methods. But I adjust based on what your dog responds to. That’s not guesswork. That’s 50 years of learning how to read dogs, and results that speak for themselves.

What I Offer

I cover everything from puppy basics to advanced behavior issues. If your dog has aggression problems, I can handle that. If you’re prepping for competition, I’ve got you. Therapy dogs? Service dogs? Yes, I do that too. Here’s a snapshot of what I offer:
  • Basic obedience
  • Behavior modification
  • Aggression rehab
  • Schutzhund training
  • Tracking and scent detection
  • Service dog training in Columbia, MO
  • Private one-on-one sessions tailored to your dog
I also work with tough, high-drive breeds. The ones that other trainers may not want to deal with. Those dogs usually just need someone who understands them.

Let’s Talk About Barking

If your dog barks all the time, it’s not just annoying; it’s a sign that something’s off. Boredom, anxiety, excitement, frustration... barking always has a cause. You don’t fix it by yelling “quiet” over and over. You fix it by understanding what’s behind it. I help with training dogs not to bark by getting to the root of the problem. No gimmicks. No pointless drills. Just clear communication and strategies that work. A quiet dog isn’t a silenced dog. It’s a dog that feels safe, confident, and knows when it needs to speak, and when it doesn’t.  

For Working Breeds, Family Dogs, and Every Dog in Between

Some dogs need purpose. Others just need boundaries. Either way, your dog wants to understand the rules of your household, and they want to do the right thing. That’s where Howies comes in. I teach dogs to focus, to be calm around distractions, and to respond when it matters. That kind of training makes everything easier, walks, visitors, travel, and daily routines. If you’re looking for real progress, not a cookie-cutter program, we’ll make a plan that fits your dog and your goals. Whether it’s service dog training in Columbia, MO, or training dogs not to bark, we’ll help you get where you want to be.

Let’s Get Started

If your dog is out of control, if you’re stressed out, or if you’re just ready for things to be better, we can help.

   Choose the Trainer Your Dog Would Choose

FAQs

1. How does your training help dogs stop excessive barking?

Our training dogs not to bark program focuses on identifying the cause of barking—such as anxiety, boredom, or reactivity—and correcting it through positive reinforcement, clear commands, and consistency for long-term results.

2. Do you offer service dog training in Columbia, MO?

Yes, we provide professional service dog training in Columbia, MO, helping dogs develop reliable task performance, calm public behavior, and obedience needed to support individuals with specific needs.

3. How long does it take to see results with barking control training?

Many dogs show noticeable improvement within the first few sessions. Long-lasting success in training dogs not to bark depends on your dog’s behavior history and consistent follow-through at home.

4. What types of dogs qualify for service dog training?

We evaluate each dog individually based on temperament, focus, and trainability. Our service dog training in Columbia, MO is suitable for dogs that demonstrate calm behavior and a strong willingness to learn.

5. Can barking issues be addressed during service dog training?

Absolutely. Bark control is a critical part of service dog training in Columbia, MO. We ensure dogs remain quiet, focused, and responsive in public and high-distraction environments.