Laughing Dog Academy

Laughing Dog Academy is a dog training business in Rockville, Maryland, run by Sarah Stoycos. Sarah holds Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) certification. They are a member of the Pet Professional Guild, whose members commit to training without shock, prong or choke collars. Services listed include puppy training, manners and basic skills, private lessons, in-home training, group classes and reactivity and aggression.

At a glance

• Trainer: Sarah Stoycos
• Credentials: KPA CTP · PPG member
• Approach: Positive reinforcement (reward-based)
• Services: Puppy training, manners and basic skills, private lessons, in-home training, group classes, reactivity and aggression, fear and anxiety
• Location: Rockville, Maryland

Why it matters for French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs can be vocal and pushy with other dogs, and corrections tend to make reactivity worse, not better. A behavior consultant who uses rewards and gradual exposure can change how your dog feels about triggers, not just suppress the barking. Read our force-free French Bulldog training guide.

Sources: the Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner directory and the Pet Professional Guild member directory, checked October 2026. Services and prices change, so confirm directly with the trainer before you book.