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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!).

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.
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.
EXCELLENT Based on 184 reviews Posted on Joann MaguireTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Correction to my original review Sydney teaches how to guide your pup for their needs and makes sure your not reinforcing bad behaviors.Posted on Joann MaguireTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My Jackson is a work in progress. To see how far he has come makes my heart smile. Sydney and her crew are amazing and totally trustworthy of caring and training your pup. They also work with training you so not reinforce good handling skills. I am truly confident in Wild Child. Best money spent and best decision I’ve madePosted on Melissa UrquhartTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wild Child Dog training has worked with all 3 of my dogs and there is no where else I would send them! Sydney is fantastic with them and all 3 enjoyed their stay. They received plenty of 1 on 1 time, exercise, outings in town and lots of love and affection. I love the fact that she posts pictures and videos everyday so you can see what your pup is up to and you get to visit and receive human training to help your pup succeed. Definitely call Wild Child for all your dog training needs!Posted on RBTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We decided to try dog training for the first time to help our 3 year old Aussie with anxious and avoidance behaviors. In just 3 sessions with Sydney, our dog has learned so much!! During our training sessions, we have learned strategies to help him have better manners which will allow us to take him on walks and not be as stressed with visitors coming to our house. Sydney is very thorough, knowledgeable and her strategies are humane and effective. We highly recommend Wild Child Training and plan to continue with further obedience training in the future.Posted on Melissa SueTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I joined with WCDT for puppy training with my little guy Odin. I wanted a trainer specifically that didn't soley rely on shock collar training due to the small size of my dog (as well as I knew I would not be comfortable following through with that type of training at home). From my first conversation, this decision was never met with an issue in our communications which was my reason for moving forward with training my pup with this fabulous duo. There was great communication, and lots of post regarding my Odin's progress between in person visits. My wants in training were clearly defined, discussed and implemented over his in-stay with the facility. I had some reservations with my tiny 3lb spoiled puppy with his paw lotion, eye wipes and holiday themed attire amongst giant working dogs at first; but it was shortly deemed irrelevant as he decided he was just a big dog in disguise disputing my attempts otherwise lol! I am very grateful for the leadership, knowledge and help WCDT has given myself and my pup. Taking on a new puppy was not part of my 2025, and I am very appreciative of the advice and knowledge extended with the program offered. (As well as the minor therapist sessions in listening to me talk about my dog that had recently passed; I appreciate that more than I can express.) I would 100% recommend!Posted on Phillip EdwardsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great training and a great facility!! I highly recommend them. Their processes and their caring attitude makes for an excellent outcome. Kara is the best!!Posted on Lindsay HortonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We did the board and train with our puppy last year, and this year, he’s still the greatest dog. He remembers most of his training - doesn’t run out the door, doesn’t jump on people, waits until we say “okay” to take his food, comes when we call him, etc. Training with Wild Child was some of the best money we ever spent! Highly recommend!Posted on Dawn FreseTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everyone at Wild Child is great and their program is amazing! Harper, my sweet, impulsive and overly energetic girl has so many new skills and is well on her way to being a well behaved pup! She has her moments (she’s still a puppy, after all!) but WildChild has given us both the tools to learn and grow! Harper and I both enthusiastically recommend Wild Child!!Posted on Ms. WilliamsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wild Child trainers helped us and our pup Gracie so much with the board and train! She was wild and would not listen to any of our commands. She returned a totally different pup who now gets along with our other dog, and listens to our commands! Highly recommend WC!Posted on Chip KingTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Kara and Wild Child Dog Training. Our dog, Grady, who is a really big Golden Retriever puppy spent 4 weeks in their care learning manners, recall, walking on a leash calmly, being in public, etc and he seemed to love every minute. We just got him home this week and he is a different dog. The love and passion Kara clearly has for dogs were evident the moment we met her. And their consistent communication and video uploads provided our family with a transparent and fun way to watch Grady’s progress. We could not recommend Wild Child any higher and will gladly pass on our highest recommendation to anyone who asks. Thank you guys for a top notch experience.
Providing expert dog training that builds obedience, confidence, and a strong bond between you and your dog.
© 2026 Wild Child Dog Training. Professional Dog Training Services.
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 a Bachelor’s of Science in Animal Behavior and Health as well as 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.
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.
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.
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).