Situated in between Baltimore and Washington DC, our 20-acre wooded campus features six fenced-in fields, one mile of trails, an indoor classroom for dogs and handlers to learn, and a large weather-protected yard for training or play. You won’t find another training environment like this in the area!
Our expert trainers are ready to work with your dog, no matter its challenges. From behavioral issues, to competitive obedience, if you can name it, we’ve trained it. Our founder, Carter Wilde’s unique methods have led to literally thousands of raving clients over two decades.
Our training philosophy is complete dog training. We believe dogs need clear boundaries, and that it’s our job to let the dog know when they’ve reached the boundary’s edge. We use a combination of reinforcement types like food and toys, as well as other tools–like slip leads pinch collars, and remote training collars – to help your dog be their best.
We believe that the foundation of all good dog training is just like the foundation of any other relationship–clear communication and a common goal. You’ll find lots of other resources on our blog, Instagram profile, and YouTube channel for dog owners like you. With the proper training, you can have the dog you want!
Wilde Acres trainers are industry experts invested in the field. They have gained their experience attending animal behavior programs as well as working in the highest levels of service dog training, scent detection, protection training, and dog sport competitions. After dropping off your pup at Wilde Acres, you can rest assured that your dog is in capable hands.
Carter Wilde is a professional dog trainer born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. Carter had two challenging experiences as a child with family dogs that sparked his interest in dog training. After attending a 16-week training course with his dog, Spike, Carter decided to become a trainer himself.
Carter apprenticed locally for two years and then completed several courses with Michael Ellis, a nationally-renowned dog trainer in California. Carter’s passion for the field, coupled with these intensive courses and subsequent certifications, launched his professional dog training career in 2005. He has fine-tuned his skills and created a unique training approach that delivers optimal results to happy clients. In 2017, Carter built Wilde Acres Boarding & Training. What started as a hobby has evolved into a true passion, a thriving business, and a vibrant community.
Carter has logged more than 30,000 hours training over 1000 dogs—and their owners! He also trains service dogs for veterans with PTSD and clients with mobility challenges. He has consulted for a national non-profit to develop service dog travel, training, and testing standards. Carter currently serves on the Board of Directors at The Odyssey School in Baltimore, where he attended elementary school.
When Carter’s not training dogs, he enjoys spending time with his wife and son most of all, as well as fitness, cooking, and tending to the Wilde Acres grounds and facility.
Carter has logged more than 30,000 hours training over 1000 dogs—and their owners! He also trains service dogs for veterans with PTSD and clients with mobility challenges. He has consulted for a national non-profit to develop service dog travel, training, and testing standards. Carter currently serves on the Board of Directors at The Odyssey School in Baltimore, where he attended elementary school.
When Carter’s not training dogs, he enjoys spending time with his wife and son most of all, as well as fitness, cooking, and tending to the Wilde Acres grounds and facility.
For those considering a career as a dog trainer, check out the Master Trainer Development Program at Wilde Acres. Under the supervision of Carter Wilde, Owner and Head Trainer, you’ll learn the foundational skills needed to become an experienced and in-demand dog trainer. This program helps guide apprentices from trainers to senior trainers. Attendees will complete the requirements and tasks necessary to become a master dog trainer, get valuable hands-on experience, and glean comprehensive knowledge from Carter and other senior trainers.
Angie has been a part of the Wilde Acres team since Day One. A veteran boarding technician and motorcycle-riding badass, Angie ensures that Wilde Acres is always in tip-top shape. Continually fixing anything broken, reorganizing to streamline and simplify processes, as well as adding details to make the kennels and grounds more appealing, Angie is an invaluable part of Wilde Acres.
Nick, another long-time Wilde Acres team member, ensures your dogs are well-groomed, well-fed, walked, played with, and that their kennels are clean and inviting. If anything at Wilde Acres needs to be repaired, Nick is on top of it. When Nick’s not working, you’ll find him four-wheeling or fishing.
Brianna Harrison has been working with Wilde Acres since early 2023. No stranger to animal husbandry, Brianna previously worked as a hunter, jumper, and show barns with horses. She also worked professionally as a dog walker. Throughout her entire career, taking care of horses and dogs has been her passion. There’s no doubt, she’s here for the dogs! In Brianna‘s free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their two dogs.
Stephanie Cortez is the resident groomer at Wilde Acres. She attended Paragon School of Pet Grooming in Michigan and has been an Accredited Professional Groomer since 2000. Being a dog groomer has allowed her to combine two of her passions: art and dogs. Stephanie loves to connect with owners and groom their pets in the most comfortable, precise, and loving way possible. Your dog will love Stephanie’s “spaw” treatments!
Dani is the newest member in our grooming department, bringing her expertise for pet care to every session. After completing her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science at the University of Maryland, Dani embarked on an apprenticeship that ignited her love for grooming. She takes pride in crafting tailored grooming experiences that prioritize comfort and cater to the unique needs of each breed. Drawing from her knowledge of animal behavior, Dani incorporates gentle handling and positive reinforcement techniques to ensure a stress-free grooming experience for furry clients. Trust Dani to transform your pet’s grooming routine into a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both you and your best friend.
Love dogs?
Want to work with an awesome group of people?
Wilde Acres is hiring!
If you’re ready to join the team, check out our available positions.
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