About Erin Petrie
Certified dog trainer, coastal Delaware local, and lifelong advocate for the bond between dogs and their humans.
Certified Dog Trainer
Animal Behavior College
Certified since 2012
More than a trainer —
a true coastal local
Erin Petrie is the owner of Coastal Dog Training LLC and has over 10 years of experience in basic obedience, puppy training, and behavior modification. She works with dogs and their owners not just to solve problems, but to build lasting, healthy relationships long after the training ends.
A Silver Spring, Maryland native, Erin spent summers at her grandmother's beach cottage in Bethany Beach from childhood — and permanently made the coast her home in 2002. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Delaware, before following her true calling and becoming a certified dog trainer through Animal Behavior College in 2012.
Erin works with all breeds — large and small — and has a particular passion for bully breeds, who are so often misunderstood. Her approach is rooted in positive reinforcement, dog psychology, and the powerful bond between dogs and the people who love them.
A philosophy built
on trust, not fear
At the heart of my training philosophy is a commitment to the overall well-being of every dog. I believe that lasting results come from creating a calm, positive, low-stress learning environment where dogs feel safe, understood, and motivated. Using proven positive reinforcement training techniques, I focus on building trust and clear communication rather than fear or force.
Dog training is never just about the dog — it's about the relationship between the dog and their owner. My role is to guide and empower you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to create lasting change. When owners learn to adjust their approach, provide consistency, and understand their dog's needs, the result is a more balanced and fulfilled companion.
Every dog is an individual, and I tailor my methods to suit each dog's personality while always prioritizing humane, thoughtful training practices. My goal is not just obedience, but a deeper connection — helping you and your dog live a more balanced, happy life that you both truly enjoy!
Positive reinforcement (R+)
Reward-based methods that motivate without fear or punishment — science-backed and lasting.
Dog psychology
Understanding why dogs behave the way they do — addressing root causes, not just surface symptoms.
The owner relationship
Training the human is just as important as training the dog. Lasting change requires both.
Tailored to every dog
Every dog is an individual. Erin's methods adapt to suit each dog's unique personality and needs.
An advocate for bully breeds
Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, Bull Terriers and their cousins are among the most misunderstood dogs in the world — and some of the most loyal, loving, and trainable. Erin has devoted a significant part of her career to working with these breeds and the families who love them.
Every dog deserves a chance to be understood — and every owner deserves to know how incredible their dog truly is.
Let's find the right training plan for your dog
Every dog is different. Book a session and Erin will build a plan tailored to your dog's needs and your family's goals.