Get to the Heart of
Who We Are!
Treats and Triumphs Dog Training: Providing Dog and Puppy Training for Central Fairfax County Pets and Their People.
Meet Kathleen: The Cheese Lady
Hey there!
I’m Kathleen Alvania (she/her), owner and head trainer of Treats and Triumphs Dog Training in Springfield, VA.
Basically any trainer can teach your dog obedience behaviors like “stay” or “come” – let’s get to the important stuff!
Here’s What I’m Great At
- Being there for clients (and dogs) when feelings get BIG
- Creating fun exercises that teach class students invaluable real-life skills
- Waiting patiently while dogs think (it’s the coolest!)
- Helping clients set attainable goals and celebrate their wins
- Giving puppies and fearful dogs time – to explore, to trust, to learn
- Saying utter nonsense in the happiest voice – and your dog will LOVE IT
Here’s What I Want For You
- More fun moments with your dog
- Less guilt over what you haven’t gotten done
- More brags to your friends about your genius dog
- Less stress about guests coming over
- Less time chanting “No, off, stop, ah-ah”
- More peaceful strolls together
- More lazy lounging together
- More loving life together
“Kathleen took the time to explain each concept clearly and always made space for questions… It’s clear she’s ‘in it’ with you and wants you to succeed.”
– Kate F.
Here’s What My Credentials Mean
CTC (Certified in Training & Counseling):
I graduated with honors from the Academy for Dog Trainers, a rigorous 2-year training program where I learned how to train obedience skills efficiently, modify challenging behavior responsibly, and counsel clients compassionately.
Strict aversive-free code of ethics for graduates
CCE (Carefree Companion Educator):
I completed a year-long certification program on how to reduce stress and improve well-being for companion animals and their people.
I emphasize emotional regulation skills in my training plans and incorporate a fun, choice-rich activity into each training session.
Program for practitioners committed to science-based care, ethical decision-making, and supporting both animals and their people
PCT-A (Professional Canine Trainer - Accredited):
I passed a proctored standardized test, logged 130+ hours of training time and 20+ hours of continuing education, and submitted video evidence of my training and client coaching skills.
All PPG members and PPAB-accredited professionals adhere to a strict force-free code of conduct.
FFCP (Fear Free Certified Professional):
I completed a certification program aimed at reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in pets.
I respect dogs’ space and choices, and I can help make trips to the vet easier on you and your dog.
Certificants pledge to recommend against the use of fear- or force-based tools
FPPE (Family Paws Parent Educator):
I completed the 13-week Family Paws Educator course on dog and baby/toddler dynamics.
While I don’t specialize in dog and child cases, I do have the training and resources to support clients who have (or will soon have) children and dogs.
Only force-free applicants considered for program
“We loved working with Kathleen! She is personable and made training fun, approachable, and fear-free. She met us where we were (literally!) and gave us thoughtful and practical strategies we could use right away with our puppy. We would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable dog trainer!”
– Grace & Cody L.
Here’s Why I Do What I Do
My absolute favorite part of being a trainer is helping people feel less alone and find the joy in dog parenthood.
I know what it’s like to struggle through life with a challenging dog. I remember being 8 years old, afraid that our family dog would be taken away because he’d bitten my friend. As an adult raising my first puppy, I was so on edge that my only memories from that time are of panic and exhaustion. I’m intimately familiar with the pressure to do everything “right,” and the guilt when everything goes wrong anyway.
Now I get to help people do things differently. I get to see how a shift in perspective or a change to the routine can make room for a tiny light to slice through the darkness. I get to hear “There is hope for him” and “I’m so proud of her” and “We’re having so much fun!” I get to help people find their way to loving life with their dog.
I know exactly how hard it can be to find a light in the darkness. I’m here with a flashlight when you’re ready.
“Kathleen is a wonderful trainer and person. She is kind, caring and well-educated on behavior… She helped me and my puppy mill puppy with so much helpful info and training, tips and for me, encouragement in my puppy raising journey. We loved her. Worth every penny.”
– Shannon R.
Ready for your flashlight?
Who are you lighting the way for?
Mission Statement
At Treats and Triumphs Dog Training, our mission is to create a safe and fun environment where puppies thrive, dogs build confidence and skills, and humans find relief and compassion. Through positive methods and competent counseling, we aim to empower both dogs and their people, setting them up to succeed for life.
Why We Use Positive Reinforcement
Scientifically Proven
Positive reinforcement is effective in promoting long-lasting behavior change
Engaging and Enjoyable
Food, toys, and real-life rewards make learning fun for both dogs and humans
No Harm, All Gain
Avoiding aversive techniques means no added stress to the training experience and no ugly side-effects
Straightforward
Rewarding dogs for doing things we like makes it easy for them to understand what we want
Trust Building
Positive reinforcement fosters a strong bond of trust between dogs and their people
Are you ready to love life with your dog?
Explore a service page to start finding your joy!
I have a puppy
< 4 months
“Rover-Achiever” Puppy Play & Learns
< 5 months
Private Puppy Training
3 – 8 months
“Puppy Dream Team” Class
< 2 years
Success Socials
I have a “teen”
3 – 8 months
“Puppy Dream Team” Class
5 months +
Private Dog Training
< 2 years
Success Socials
I have an adult
5 months +
Private Dog Training
I have kids too
All ages
Dogs + Kids Training
“Uhhh… my brain isn’t braining right now.”
Too overwhelmed to think clearly? Schedule your free 15-minute call with Kathleen to find a way forward.