Rated on Google

Aggressive Dog Training in Rhode Island

Our aggressive dog training in Rhode Island turns aggressive dogs into calm companions you can trust.

  • An obedient dog you can handle
  • No more guarding food, toys or couch
  • Calm around guests, kids and dogs
  • Safety-first, even with a bite history

Click the button below and fill out a quick form to get started with a free consultation.

Bobby Bartolomeo of Grey Standard Canine Training walking a German Shepherd on a loose slip lead along an autumn country road, from aggressive dog training in Rhode Island
🛡️A Safer Home for Your Family
🎯Training Built Around Your Dog
🏆Hundreds of Dogs Trained
🤝Lifetime Support & Guidance

Check Out Our Reviews

★★★★★
Rated 5.0 on Google
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Dianne D.September 2026
★★★★★

Bobby helped us with our three year old Bernadoodle Shelby. He was wonderful and helped to calm Shelby down. We also boarded Shelby with Bobby. I love the relationship he has with her.

R
Rachel H.September 2026
★★★★★

Bobby is truly the dog whisperer, and we highly recommend Grey Standard Canine Training. When we reached out to him, we were completely at a loss. We adopted Gogo as a 10-week-old Yorkie puppy, and he had always been joyful and energetic. Then, at 17 months old, he suddenly became aggressive. He fixated on our older dog, Lulu, and snapped without warning. I was bitten twice, and my husband was bitten once. These were not minor bites; Gogo would latch on and refuse to let go. Our vet ruled out any physical problems and said he was in perfect health. The hardest part was that our granddaughter, Alice, loved Gogo, but once his behavior changed, we could no longer allow her to be around him.
Gogo’s behavior became so serious that our vet said she would support euthanasia if it came to that. We considered every option—rehoming him, returning him to the breeder, or euthanasia. The final straw came when Gogo lunged at our daughter and her boyfriend, forcing them to jump onto the couch to get away. I immediately searched for trainers who boarded and worked with aggressive dogs. Bobby responded that same night, and I felt immediate relief.
After speaking with Bobby by phone the next day, I knew he was the right trainer for Gogo. Other trainers were not a good fit, but Bobby listened, explained that Gogo needed to learn how to be calm, and clearly cared about both dogs and their owners. He drove to our house to pick up Gogo, reassured us, and agreed to train and board him for three weeks while we were away. During Gogo’s stay, Bobby stayed in constant communication, and we knew we had made the right decision.
When Bobby brought Gogo home, he spent two hours teaching us how to continue the training. He walked with us and showed us what Gogo had learned. Before training, Gogo would often become scared on Thames Street, stop, and refuse to move. That day, he walked with confidence. Bobby also gave us practical suggestions for creating calm areas in our home, checked in the next day, answered every question, and even stopped by when he was in Newport. His support did not end when training ended.
Gogo has now been home for 12 days, and I recently realized that I am no longer afraid. Our house is calmer than it has ever been. When Alice visited, Gogo was calm and simply wanted to be by her side. Alice was thrilled to spend time with her dog again after more than three months apart.
The changes in Gogo have been remarkable. Before training, he did not eat consistently, pulled and stopped on walks, obeyed only when treats were offered, reacted to Lulu daily, and needed a Baskerville muzzle. Now he eats regularly, walks calmly, responds to verbal commands without treats, and settles quickly when redirected. Since coming home, he has only become upset three times, and each incident was brief because he responded to the tools Bobby taught us. I can now leave him home safely for longer periods without arranging my entire schedule around him.
While Gogo was training with Bobby, a close friend asked whether I thought I would ever trust Gogo again. At the time, I was not sure. Now my answer is yes. Bobby created an individualized training program that gave Gogo—and us—the skills we needed. The results have gone beyond our expectations. Whatever your dog’s training needs may be, look no further than Grey Standard Canine Training.

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Emily K.August 2026
★★★★★

I can’t even begin to express how thankful I am for Bobby and Grey Standard Canine Training! I’ve been training and breeding dogs for years, but I was completely stumped when it came to my dog’s herding drive around my horses. It was getting dangerous, she was constantly getting underfoot, and the confrontational behavior toward my horses was becoming a serious problem. Some horses could tolerate it, but others were more reactive, and honestly, it was a ticking time bomb. I couldn’t address it while on horseback myself, and it felt like a challenge I would never be able to overcome.

In just a few sessions, Bobby completely transformed the dynamic between my dog and horses. I never thought it was possible, but now my dog runs alongside me on horseback, and she doesn’t try to herd or nip at my horse’s legs. She’s calm, focused, and I can’t believe how smooth and natural everything feels now. The behavior that once felt uncontrollable and dangerous is gone.

What stands out most is Bobby’s intuitive understanding of both the dog’s natural instincts and the challenges I was facing with my horses. Bobby didn’t just apply basic training techniques; he tailored everything to fit my specific needs and the environment I was working in. It was clear that Bobby had a deep understanding of not just canine behavior, but how to adapt that understanding to real-life situations, like riding alongside horses.

I can finally ride with my dog by my side in a way I always dreamed of but thought was impossible. It’s such a relief to know that I can trust my dog around my horses, and the bond we’ve formed from this training is stronger than ever. I’m amazed by how quickly Bobby was able to address a situation that seemed so complicated. I never thought it would be possible to have a harmonious relationship between my dog and my horses, but Bobby proved me wrong.

If you're facing any kind of behavioral issues with your dog, I highly recommend Grey Standard Canine Training. Bobby is an expert, and the results speak for themselves. My heart is so full to be living this dream, and I can’t thank Bobby enough for making it a reality!

J
Joanne D.June 2026
★★★★★

Bobby trained both of our dogs, Skye and Luna, and we’re really happy with how they came home. They’re calmer, listening better, and just easier to manage day to day.

What we liked most was that Bobby didn’t just train them to follow commands. He helped us understand them better too, which made a big difference once they were back home.

Skye and Luna are still themselves, just with more structure and a lot more confidence. We’re really grateful for the work Bobby put into them and would definitely recommend Grey Standard.

M
Mickeal P.June 2026
★★★★★

Before taking him to Bobby, snoopy would be hyper and unable to relax. You take him for a walk and he’s walking you. Now after his training I can tell he’s learned a lot. He’s much easier to walk with and now can sit in a room without needing constant attention. He’s done a wonderful job with my dog and I would definitely recommend him to anyone else looking for a trainer!

C
Cristina M.May 2026
★★★★★

Where do I begin…I can’t thank Bobby enough. Since the first phone call I knew that he was the one for my Chuckie! The attention to detail, the knowledge, his personality, he made me feel comfortable and the worry and pressure came off my shoulders instantly!!! Pit bulls definitely get judged fast, and when you have one that has shown some aggression, it is really not easy finding a trainer who will even take that on. Most won’t. Bobby seriously blew us away with how good he was with my Chuckie. Honestly I didn’t know what we were going to do at that point. He stepped in, kept in touch with us the whole way through, and did everything he could to help. He ended up taking our dog for a board and train and the difference has been huge! He is doing so much better now. I really can’t recommend Bobby enough! He is not just a trainer, he’s family. He just has a natural feel for dogs and that is honestly rare. Bobby said that a piece of him stays with all the dogs he trains and I truly feel that…Thank you

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Emily H.May 2026
★★★★★

I can’t say enough good things about our experience with Bobby. We brought him a very challenging situation—a 3-year-old male Great Dane rescue with a traumatic past who was showing serious aggression toward our other dog and had begun resource guarding me. He came to us with no basic training or structure and with his intimidating size, and a young child in our home, we were facing the heartbreaking possibility of having to rehome him if things didn’t improve.
From the very beginning, Bobby approached the situation with confidence, honesty, and a level of realism that we truly appreciated. He didn’t sugarcoat anything, but instead gave us a clear understanding of what needed to be done and what to expect. His approach is unlike anything we’ve seen before—he takes the time to truly read each dog and works at a pace that’s appropriate for them, especially in high-stress, behavioral cases like ours.
We enrolled our dog in a two-week board and train program, and the transformation has been incredible. Bobby not only worked through the aggression issues, but also helped build a foundation of structure, communication, and trust that our dog had clearly never experienced before. Not to mention the additional tricks he learned along the way; sit, place, stay, heel. We are so impressed. The progress we’ve seen has given us real hope!

There is still work ahead, but thanks to Bobby, we now have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to continue moving forward safely and successfully as a family. Quite honestly, we believe he saved our dog’s life, without this intervention, he would not have been able to thrive in a home environment.

What sets Bobby apart is the support he provides even after the training is complete. He takes the time to work closely with you to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and fully prepared to maintain the progress at home. He genuinely cares about both the dogs and their families!!

We feel incredibly lucky to have found Bobby. For anyone dealing with a difficult or aggressive dog, especially in a high-stakes situation, we cannot recommend him highly enough!!

N
Natasha S.May 2026
★★★★★

We got our Golden Retriever puppy and reached out to Bobby early on to help get him on the right track. We started with puppy lessons and later did a board and train, and it made such a difference. Our dog is calmer, more confident, listens really well, and is not jumping all over us like he used to. We’re super happy with how it all went and really glad we found Bobby. Would definitely recommend him.

L
Lynn F.April 2026
★★★★★

Bobby did a great job with our dog. The board and train program was tailored to our dog’s specific needs, and it was clear from the start how much thought and care went into everything. He was professional, thorough, and focused on getting real results. We saw a big improvement in behavior, and he made everything easy for us to understand on our end too. Highly recommend.

What Your Family Gets Back

Ask most families what they want and it isn’t fancy obedience. It’s a dog the whole household can live with safely.

Guests you can invite in

When the doorbell goes, your dog heads to its bed instead of charging the door. Family, friends and the plumber walk in without a standoff in the hallway.

Walks without a fight

No more scanning every street for trouble. Your dog walks at your side and passes the neighbor’s dog without starting something.

Peace at the food bowl

Meals, chews and toys stop being things to defend. Your family moves through the kitchen without watching for a hard stare or a growl.

Dogs who share one home

Fewer baby gates, fewer closed doors and no more feeding in separate rooms on a rotation schedule. Clear house rules keep the peace between your dogs.

An owner in control

You know the warning signs, how to use the tools and what to do if something flares up, so you handle your dog with confidence instead of fear.

A Tense House vs. a Calm One

Aggression shows up differently in every home. These are the situations Rhode Island families describe most when they first call Bobby.

Life right now

  • A bite, and the dread of the next one
  • Lunging and snapping at dogs on walks
  • Your dog is locked away when guests come
  • Visiting kids make everyone nervous
  • Fights between the dogs you live with
  • A growl if anyone walks near the bowl
  • Snapping when moved off the couch or bed

After aggressive dog training

  • A calmer dog and the tools to stay in control
  • Passing other dogs without a fight
  • Guests come in while your dog stays calm
  • A clear plan that keeps visits safe
  • Two dogs living calmly under one roof
  • The family walks past the bowl safely
  • Safe to touch, move and cuddle again

Aggressive Dog Training, Step by Step

1

Free Consultation

Bobby meets you and your dog, shares a few training tips you can use right away and designs a custom training plan built around your dog and your goals.

2

A settled dog first

Pickup happens at your front door. In Bobby’s care, your dog calms down, learns to trust him and picks up basic obedience, the shared language that makes every harder step possible.

3

Calm around the old flashpoints

One step at a time, Bobby brings your dog closer to what used to start trouble, such as other dogs, visitors or a hand near the bowl. Your dog learns a calmer answer to each one, with safety built in.

4

A session in your home, then lifetime support

Bobby brings your dog home and finishes with a session in your house with the whole family. After that, you have support and guidance from Bobby for the life of your dog.

Programs Built for Aggressive Dogs

There’s no package to squeeze into. At your free consultation, Bobby builds your custom plan around the option that fits your dog, your household and your goals.

Two-Week Board and Train

Your dog moves in with Bobby for two weeks of structure around the clock. It delivers the biggest change with the least work for you, which makes it the usual pick for serious aggression and bite histories. Programs run longer when a dog needs it.

One-Week Board and Train + in-home lessons

Your dog spends one intensive week with Bobby. Afterward, in-home lessons put the leash in your hands and walk you through his system. A strong fit for owners who want to be hands-on and are ready to practice every day.

In-home lessons near East Greenwich

One-on-one sessions in your home and neighborhood for families near our East Greenwich base, from Warwick to North Kingstown. Best for milder cases and owners who will practice between visits. Ask on your call whether your town falls inside that area.

A Personal Plan That Ends at Home

The plan for a dog who guards a chew bone looks nothing like the plan for a dog who charges the front door. So Bobby starts by watching and listening, not by running a fixed protocol. Your dog sets the pace, and the structure is adjusted to the dog in front of him.

Equipment is chosen for your dog, not out of habit. It might be a slip lead, a long line or a prong collar, whichever suits the dog in front of him, and Bobby teaches you to use it fairly. Muzzle conditioning is part of the plan where safety calls for it.

Most aggression shows up at home, because that’s where the triggers live, so the program doesn’t stop at drop-off. Bobby trains inside your house with your family beside him and walks through the moments that used to go wrong, at the door, near the bowl or between your dogs. When an old reaction shows up, he handles it right there and shows you how to do the same.

Want the tension at home to end? Use the button below and answer a few quick questions to book your free consultation. Bobby will hear what’s been happening, give you an honest read on your dog and build a safe plan for your family.

  • Trigger work at a distance your dog can handle
  • Fair, clear tools and coaching on how to use them
  • Big, powerful breeds and rescues with an unknown past welcome
Small dog on a leash in a family living room during the final home session of aggressive dog training in Rhode Island

Aggression Doesn’t Make You a Bad Owner

Maybe your dog spends every holiday shut in the bedroom. Maybe you walk at midnight so you won’t meet anyone, or you’ve stopped having friends over altogether. Maybe there’s already been a bite, and you replay it every time someone reaches for your dog.

Living with an aggressive dog is exhausting, and it’s lonely. Friends tell you to give up on the dog. Some trainers won’t take the case. Please know that aggression is common, it has causes, and it is very often workable. It is not proof that you failed your dog.

The dogs other trainers gave up on are exactly the ones Bobby wants to hear about. Aggression is one of his specialties, and you won’t be judged on the call, or sold a fairy tale. You’ll get a straight answer and a plan that puts your family’s safety first.

German Shepherd lying behind a baby gate in the hallway while the family sits together in the next room, a common life with an aggressive dog before training in Rhode Island

Why Dogs Turn Aggressive

Aggression is communication. It’s a dog’s way of saying “back off” to something it sees as a threat to itself, its food, its space or its people. The usual drivers are fear, guarding, frustration, pain and a lack of clear structure. Genetics and history play a part too. A rescue may have learned that snapping is the only thing that works.

Most dogs give plenty of warning before a bite. They stiffen, stare hard, lift a lip and growl, and only then snap. That ladder matters. Punishing a growl can teach a dog to skip the warning and go straight to the bite, which is why good training changes how the dog feels and what it chooses, rather than just silencing the signals.

Aggression is also different from reactivity. A reactive dog barks and lunges because it’s overwhelmed, frustrated or scared, and many have never bitten anyone. An aggressive dog is willing to growl, snap or bite to make something go away. The two often overlap, so neither is worth waiting on.

Dog guarding a chew bone on the kitchen floor with a stiff side-eye, an early warning sign covered in aggressive dog training in Rhode Island

When to Call About Aggression

If any of these sound like your dog, talk to Bobby now rather than waiting for it to get worse.

✓ Growling when someone nears food or toys
✓ Snapping when touched, moved or woken
✓ Lunging to fight other dogs on the leash
✓ Scuffles between dogs in your own home
✓ Charging the door when guests arrive
✓ A bite, or a near miss that scared you
✓ Warnings that are getting shorter
✓ Keeping your dog away from all visitors
✓ Another trainer turned your dog away

If this sounds like your dog, you’re in the right place. Bobby has helped hundreds of dogs with problems just like these. Click the button below and fill out a quick form to get started with a free consultation.

Aggressive Dog Training Questions

Can you train the aggression out of my dog?

In many cases Bobby can reduce the behavior a great deal, but no honest trainer promises a cure. How far a dog comes depends on what drives the aggression, how long it has gone on and how consistently the plan is kept up at home.

Do you work with dogs that have bitten someone?

Yes. Dogs with a bite history are part of Bobby’s specialty. Be completely open on your call about what happened and how serious it was, and you’ll get a straight answer on whether and how Bobby can take your dog on, with safety first.

How long does aggressive dog training take with you?

Most dogs start with the two-week board and train, Bobby’s sweet spot, since two weeks of daily structure changes a great deal. Some aggressive dogs need longer, and Bobby will tell you so at your free consultation rather than rush your dog. Keeping the house rules going afterward is what makes the change last.

Will my dog have to wear a muzzle?

Only where safety calls for it. Taught calmly, a muzzle becomes just another piece of everyday gear, which makes vet visits, grooming and training safer for everyone, your dog included.

Can you pick up my aggressive dog anywhere in RI?

Yes, you never have to load a difficult dog into your car. Bobby collects your dog at your home and brings it back at the end, anywhere in Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts, from Warwick and Cranston to Newport, Bristol and Coventry. Mention any handling concerns on your call so pickup is planned safely.

How much do you charge for aggressive dog training?

It comes down to your dog, how serious the situation is and what you want your dog to do. Bobby tailors every aggression program to the individual dog, so a dog who guards a chew and a dog with a bite history aren’t charged one flat rate. Your free consultation is where Bobby hears your dog’s story, builds a custom training plan around your goals and gives you an exact quote, and there’s no pressure to sign up.

Why choose Grey Standard Canine Training for aggressive dog training?

Bobby asks a lot of questions before suggesting anything, explains clearly how he trains, is honest about what’s realistic and teaches you to handle your own dog at the end. He is the only trainer your dog works with, every program starts with “what do you want your dog to do?” and it ends in your home, with support for the life of your dog.

Get Started Today

Book your free consultation for aggressive dog training anywhere in Rhode Island. Tell Bobby what’s been happening at home, get an honest answer about your dog and leave the call with a safe plan.