Meet Our Lead Dog Trainer

Hi! My name is Blake.

Blake is the Owner and Lead Trainer of the Prodigal Pooch in Defuniak Springs, Florida (previously in Atlanta, GA). He grew up with a strong love of animals. His mom said that in their house every family dog would quickly favor Blake. He would in turn care for, train and have a special bond with each dog that came through their doors. Because of this, Blake pursued a career as a veterinarian. He worked as a kennel assistant and a veterinary technician in many veterinary hospitals, and everywhere he went he saw anxious, stressed out dogs with unwanted behaviors and owners at the end of their rope.
Blake saw just how many dogs struggled with their behaviors and the impact it had on the dog’s quality of life and their owners. This deepened Blake’s passion for dog training and enhancing the relationship between owner and dog. His focus turned from Vet School to dog training. After turning to books, educational videos, and several dog-training seminars he was still missing pieces of the training puzzle.
After much research, Blake applied and was accepted to the renowned National K-9 School for Dog Trainers in Columbus, Ohio (we like to call it the Harvard of dog schools). He graduated from the Master Trainers course and became certified as a Professional Dog Trainer. Blake founded The Prodigal Pooch in 2018 and has since gone on to train hundreds of dogs and their families at The Prodigal Pooch in Atlants GA. In 2024, The Prodigal Pooch relocated from Georgia to Florida, but we are proud to train dogs from all areas and states! Blake runs The Prodigal Pooch with his wife Kelly and their two dogs Swell (pictured) and Woods.
Book a session with Blake ➝

Why Should You Trust the Prodigal Pooch? As One of Atlanta’s Leading Dog Trainers, We’re All About Building a Strong, Positive Relationship With Your Dog.

Here in Atlanta we know everyone loves their dogs, but we also know that some of you struggle with your dog’s unwanted or poor behavior. The Prodigal Pooch is here to help those who are interested in becoming strong leaders for their dogs and take their relationship to the next level! Our dog trainers have the experience and knowledge to help you, your family, and your pooch from puppyhood all the way through to adulthood.

It Starts with a Consultation

Regardless of which program you choose for you and your dog, our goal is for you to develop an improved life with a wonderful pet who understands what behavior is acceptable and unacceptable. We also expect there to be an improved relationship filled with mutual trust, respect, and love. Dog training isn’t just about teaching your dog a few commands. We want to have fun while also building a foundation of loyalty and respect. This will help you develop a lifelong positive relationship with your dog.

Not sure what program best fits your needs? Our staff will arrange a dog training consultation with you. Scheduling a consultation with a certified trainer is a great way for you and your dog(s) to meet a trainer and customize a solution that best meets your needs and gets you to your goals. This is an opportunity for you to discuss behavior issues and personality traits your dog may be exhibiting and we’ll prescribe what needs to be done to correct or manage your issues. Some of our programs involve multiple hour long training sessions, while other include a few weeks of overnight stay for your dog at our facility in Atlanta.

All consultations are $100. We will work on a plan based on your specific needs and you will start to learn more about your dog’s specific needs. You will want to budget 1-2 hours to meet with your trainer. During the session your trainer will ask you a lot of questions about your situation and allow you to ask your questions as well. We’ll give you feedback as to why your dog is doing what they do and advice on changes to make at home before formal training even starts. It will then end with a recommendation from your trainer on which of our programs are appropriate for your situation.

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