10 years+ Experience
4 Different Schools
Registered with the State of North Carolina and Insured
Women-Veteran Owned and Operated Business
AKC Farm Dog Judge and Certified AKC Evaluator
Certified IGP Helper with very good rating at multiple trials
Multiple dogs trialed and titled in IGP, Agility, and AKC
Associated with International Association of Canine Professionals and United Schutzhund Clubs of America
Our history…
Our training journey began in 2013, stemming from a deep-rooted love for animals and their intricate learning processes. Our introduction into dog psychology involved working with untamed canines like foxes and wolves, catalyzed by our very own wolfdog, Waya, who embodies the essence of Wild Child. Over the years, we have collaborated with trainers, rescues, and pet parents nationwide, and globally, working especially with challenging breeds such as Caucasian Shepherds, Wolfdogs, Belgian Malinois, and German Shepherds. With a continuous pursuit of knowledge through diverse canine programs and academic pursuits in animal behavior, coupled with active involvement in competitive dog sports, we strive to not be limited by a specific training method or style but rather do what’s best for the dog in front of us.
Our approach…
We firmly believe that the cornerstone of effective dog training lies in the bond between the handler and the dog. Like any relationship, it requires communication, trust, and security; without these, it will not succeed. Once a bond is formed, we can begin to address specific issues in a manner that is enjoyable and clear for your dog, leveraging their natural instincts and past experiences. This approach helps us steer your dog away from undesirable behaviors and instill new commands using positive reinforcement. Creating lasting results throughout your dog's life.
Equally important is training the other end of the leash – that's you! Throughout your dog's training, you will engage in weekly private lessons, providing you with hands-on experience, video access for review, and constructive feedback to foster your mutual growth. This ensures a lifetime of happiness for you and your dog and a wealth of opportunities to relish life together (hello, beach time!).
Our location…
We are centrally located between Jacksonville, Swansboro, and New Bern North Carolina on a 10-acre doggy-oasis. Our property consists of a farm for distraction training, a swimming pond, a large grassy field, a covered area with turf, and an indoor training building. We offer a variety of equipment for agility, obedience, and different sport training. Creating the ultimate environment for dogs to learn and to be their self. Everything at our Wild Child property has been created with canines in mind and we’re happy to serve the surrounding military bases and towns such as Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, Swansboro, Morehead City, and Emerald Isle.
Our address is 491 Smith Rd, Maysville NC
Meet the Team
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Sydney Marshall
Owner and Head Trainer
Sydney's journey into dog training began with her wolfdog, Waya. Initially a pet sitter, she sent Waya to a local trainer due to the dog's fearful behavior. After six months with little progress, Sydney's curiosity about Waya's challenges grew. This led her to pursue a college education in animal behavior and secure an internship at Wolf Park for hands-on experience with wild canines.
Following her internship, Sydney became a board and train trainer, mastering obedience training and behavior modification. During this period, she explored dog sports like agility, dock diving, and IGP with her mixed-breed dog, CJ, igniting a passion that continues to burn brightly.
With credentials from two Canine Dog Training Schools, certification as a K9 Trainer, experience as an IGP Helper for USCA, and international work with dogs exhibiting severe aggression and anxiety, Sydney delights in unlocking what drives dogs and facilitating breakthrough moments for their owners.
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Maleiyah Houghtaling
Dog Trainer & Office Manager
In January 2019, Maleiyah joined the Wild Child Dog Training team after relocating from upstate New York to North Carolina in 2018. She has since established a home in Jacksonville, NC with her husband, two kids, six dogs, and four cats... her home is constantly lively.
Although she started off in the veterinary field, Maleiyah discovered her true calling in dog training. Seeing these four-legged friends develop new abilities and independence fills her with joy and satisfaction. She appreciates the opportunity to assist pet owners in strengthening their bond with their animals through effective training methods.
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Kara Jordan
Dog Trainer
Since May 2020, Kara has been honing her skills with Wild Child Dog Training. Her most cherished moments during training are when the dogs start to relax and truly relish the sessions. Kara is the proud owner of two beloved pups. Pork, her German Shepherd, is a star performer in their unique circus routine. Meanwhile, Beans, her lovable hound mix, takes on the role of protector on the farm and squirrel chaser extraordinaire.
Before delving into the world of dog training, Kara's career path led her through the realms of professional pet grooming and veterinary assistance. Interestingly, she also boasts over two decades of experience in training horses before transitioning her expertise to canines.
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Lindsey Rice
Kennel Assistant
Lindsey became a member of the Wild Child team in February of 2024, delving into the world of dogs since April of 2021 as a kennel technician and dog groomer. Her furry companion, Tito, an Australian cattle dog, ignited her passion for dog training and activities such as agility and rally.
Witnessing the transformation of dogs as their confidence flourishes is what Lindsey finds most fulfilling in the training process.
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The Family
In Every Role
Wild Child has been a family affair from the start. Each member has contributed in various ways, from construction and office tasks to cleaning, working out, and providing unwavering support as I navigate the journey of owning a business. Without their involvement, Wild Child wouldn't be where it is today. They graciously lend a hand when needed, offer fresh perspectives, and, most importantly, prioritize the well-being of your pets. I am forever grateful for their continuous support and contributions to this dream. It takes a team and I have the best one around, thank you to David, Jane & Jerry (the Gs), and Jamie (my mother).
