Transform your dog's behavior with Blount County's premier NePoPo® certified training program
Whether you're in Townsend at the edge of the Smokies, out in Friendsville, up in Louisville, or anywhere across Blount County — our board and train programs are designed for the drop-off-and-go lifestyle. Your dog stays with us for the full 2, 4, or 6-week program, so the drive is a one-time trip each way.
We're centrally located on Tomotley Road in Maryville, easily accessible from US-321, US-411, and Alcoa Highway. Blount County families from Eagleton Village, Wildwood, Alcoa, and Walland all trust us with their dogs. As the only NePoPo® Graduate in Blount County, we offer training methods you won't find at any other local facility.
Serving all of Blount County including Maryville, Alcoa, Louisville, Friendsville, Rockford, Townsend, and Walland. Our intensive board and train programs use the scientifically-proven NePoPo® methodology to create lasting behavioral changes. Your dog stays with our certified trainer for immersive, round-the-clock training that delivers real results.
At Paws & Applause, your dog doesn't go to a large boarding kennel — they move into our trainer's home right here in Maryville. We accept only 2-3 dogs at a time, which means your dog gets personal, one-on-one attention every day from David Van Fleet, Blount County's only NePoPo® Graduate trainer. Every program is custom-designed around your dog's specific behavior challenges, temperament, and your family's goals.
With 197 five-star reviews across Google, Facebook, and Rover, Blount County families trust us with their dogs because we deliver real, lasting results — not just temporary fixes. Whether your dog needs basic obedience, behavior modification for aggression or anxiety, or advanced off-leash training, our board and train programs give you back the well-behaved companion you've always wanted.
Advanced training system that creates clear communication and willing cooperation from your dog.
Video progress reports and training sessions shared via ProPet throughout the program.
Comprehensive handoff sessions ensure you can maintain and build upon your dog's new skills.
We stand behind our training with follow-up support and refresher sessions as needed.
"We live in Alcoa and our Rottweiler had serious leash aggression. David worked with him for 4 weeks and the change was night and day. Now we actually enjoy our walks. Best decision we ever made."
- Chris & Amanda K., Alcoa"After just 4 weeks, our dog is like a completely different animal! The go-home training session made sure we could keep up with everything David taught her. Highly recommend to anyone in Blount County."
- Sarah M., MaryvilleIf any of these sound familiar, our board and train programs can help:
Located on Tomotley Road in Maryville, we're centrally located and easy to reach from anywhere in Blount County. Here's how close we are to your community:
Our home base — convenient drop-off and pick-up at our Tomotley Road facility. Just minutes away.
Western Blount County residents — just 15-20 minutes to our training facility via US-321.
Gateway to the Smokies — about 25 minutes away. We're your local professional training solution.
Southern Blount County — a quick 10-15 minute drive to our facility.
Pet Taxi Available: Can't make the drive? We offer pickup and delivery service within Blount County!
7337 Tomotley Road, Maryville, TN 37801 — Centrally located for all of Blount County
Free consultation to assess your dog's needs and create a customized training plan.
Bring your dog with food, medications, and comfort items. We handle the rest!
Multiple training sessions daily with video updates showing your dog's progress.
Comprehensive handoff session where you learn to maintain your dog's new skills.
We're at 7337 Tomotley Road in Maryville — centrally located for all of Blount County including Alcoa, Louisville, Friendsville, Rockford, Townsend, and Walland.
Only 2-3 dogs at a time. Unlike large kennel facilities, your dog receives personalized, one-on-one attention every single day.
We use the NePoPo® method — a balanced, science-based approach developed by Bart Bellon. Our trainer David Van Fleet is a NePoPo® Graduate, ensuring world-class training.
Yes. David has extensive experience rehabilitating dogs with aggression, reactivity, and fear-based behavior issues using NePoPo® methods. Many Blount County dogs have been successfully transformed.
Everything: daily training sessions, boarding, all equipment, weekly video updates, go-home owner lessons, a written training plan, and lifetime support.
Join hundreds of satisfied Blount County families who've experienced the NePoPo® difference
David Van Fleet - NePoPo® Graduate | AKC Evaluator | IACP Professional Member