Jillian did an amazing job with our Shiloh Shepherd puppy! He did a 2 week board and train program…read moreand came back a new pup. Jillian made sure to focus on our pain points, practiced both on and off leash training, and gave us regular updates on his progress. The best part was she spent 2 hours with us when we got back to get us comfortable with the commands and what to do in certain situations. Would highly recommend her!

This place is special for my dogs (Hammie and Nilla) and it brings our family so much peace of mind…read moreto know that Megan is caring for them. We met Megan before the pandemic when searching for an off leash trainer for our older corgi. After a 2 week boot camp with Megan, Nilla was a different dog (in all the right ways). She was still loyal, loving, and attached to her family, but she was also obedient and finally a pleasure to walk and take to busy places like parks and shopping centers. When we got our second dog it wasn't even a question.. He went for training as soon as he was past puppyhood. Beyond training, Megan has cared for our dog while traveling for many weeks. Even though she lives well over an hour away from my home, I gladly make the drive - Because she put in the time to build a relationship with my dogs. They love her and I know they are safe and happy with her. They always come back a little more well behaved too :) Thanks K9 Approach - so happy we found you! Hammie and Nilla await the next adventure with you Megan! PS - all photos were sent by Megan during various trips and adventures with K9 Approach

A very cool place. They train dogs here. Lots of them. In German. It is a sight to see on a…read moreSaturday morning. Even if you don't have a dog you can come to watch how they train, and pick up great tips for when you do get a dog. Located in Corralitos, it is a bit of a haul to get here. Probably 30-40 from Santa Cruz and 15 or so from Aptos. The training is done on a large field that has a full obstacle course. Plenty of room for 70-100 dogs at a time. There is a lot of repetition in the training which is just what you would expect. We don't take our dog here, our parents do and they love it. We go to watch and see the dogs. It is a great experience. The trainers are competent and humorous and engaging. They care about you and your pet. One final note, we saw some puppy magic last time here. A dog who just was freakin out about laying down. Yelping and nippy and upset. Willful...not willing. The trainer stopped the class and worked gently and patiently with the dog to finally get it to lay. It was amazing to see it. I didn't think it would happen. After another short walk, the puppy was laying on its own. My wife was in tears. This is the place to get your puppy acclimated to other dogs and a bit of structure in its life.

Eight months ago, when I saw behavioral changes in my dog Scout I felt hopeless. Thank goodness I…read morefound The K9 Clinic. From the first evaluation I knew I had not only found the perfect solution for my dog but a kinship with the trainers as well. The Bootcamp was the best decision I've ever made. Not only did it re-set the mind/behavior of my dog but they also taught me the appropriate skills to be a handler for my specific dog. Before I started with The K9 Clinic Scout was unable to be off leash, around other dogs and her "naughty" behaviors felt unmanageable. Happy to report none of that applies today! Group classes, private lessons; we do them all! Thanks to The K9 Clinic I have the dog I always dreamed of!! Monique Cook Santa Cruz, CA

Woof Works is the place to take your dog for training and playtime. As we approach Bonny Doon Road…read moreoff highway one our puppy Golden Retriever gets excited as she knows where we are going. When we pull into the drive she is waiting to go. We open the door she first runs for Emily and then looks for her playmates. She is just 6 months and has already learned quite a lot of obedience plus she has started on Search and Rescue. We didn't send her for that but she is a quick learner with loads of energy. This search and rescue training is good for her and she loves the exercises she has to do. Emily is unbelievable to watch. When we first took our dog Emily took the leash of us and very gently taught our dog to sit on command. Our dog was just 8 weeks old when she did this. Emily never shows anything but love and praise to the dogs she understands them and when working with the dogs she constantly praises them. She also trains us so we can continue training at home. Boarding the dog with Emily is like a vacation for the dog. When you get back your dog is happy to see you. You can tell they have enjoyed their stay. I think Emily is the female dog whisperer because she just talks in a quiet voice and the dogs obey. Our puppy is still a puppy with loads of energy her personality has not changed.l because of training. She is a fun loving dog with loads of energy that is under control. If you are interested in taking your dog to Woof Works and want a reference ask Emily for my phone number I will answer all your questions honestly

Wow, Emily is a spectacular trainer. I learned so much about my dog's (Heeler/ Shepard mix)…read moretemperament and behavior and was blown away by all the exercises and recommendations I received from Emily. After one session I was able to completely eliminate pulling on the leash and I have a much more focused connection with my pup when we go out on walks. I'm looking forward to coming back every few weeks for more exercises and feel so good knowing I have a trusted kennel to care for and train my little guy when I am gone on trips. Emily's property is spacious and tranquil with acres of wild land behind it for the doggies to roam. Emily is very confident with the dogs, speaking their language and teaching people how to understand their dog companions.

A few months ago, we hired OffLeash K9 through their "Board and Train" program, for our Cane Corso…read morepuppy. At that time, he was around 7 months old. At the time I signed the training services agreement, there was zero mention of the use of an electronic training collar as part of the program. Additionally, it is not clearly described or disclosed on the OffLeash K9 website that they utilize these collars as a part of the training-- they use vague language to refer to their practices, including the use of "safe and effective methods", but no concrete examples or definitions. I did not discover that they were planning to use an electronic (shock) collar until well after I paid the $2790 for the training program, I should add. Learning this information gave me pause, and I considered cancelling the training, as I had learned through my own professional experience that positive reinforcement training is more effective to achieve results for dogs than punishment-based training. Nonetheless, I was told and encouraged by the trainer (Izzy) that this method was safe, and would not cause injury. Upon return to me after the 2 weeks, my puppy had injuries around his neck which the trainer referred to as "hot spots". The trainer informed me that it was simply due to "irritation" from the collar. The trainer stated at the time of return that our dog was "stubborn", and "slow to learn". Being a Registered Veterinary Technician, I took him home, and I shaved and cleaned the wounds around his neck, in order to better visualize the area. It was immediately clear that he had painful, necrotic pressure wounds around his neck (see photos). I administered first aid, and consulted a veterinarian colleague for further instruction. I am relieved to report that his injuries healed without the need for more invasive treatment--however, those pressure wounds are not a "normal" result of the use of electronic collars. That occurs when the collar is left in place for too long, and is fitted too tightly. This was a direct result of the misuse of the training collar by the trainer. Subsequently, our dog was fearful of the collar, and, understandably, would refuse to allow us to place it on him. He demonstrated very little obedience as a result of his training, despite our attempts to follow up with his training as directed, and he appeared more anxious than he was prior to the program. Both personally and professionally, I was left disappointed and concerned by this program, and certainly would not recommend it to any of my friends or associates. I question its validity, if management is using and supporting dubious communications, and condoning harmful practices. I have extensive connections in the veterinary medical community of the Central Coast and Bay Area, after an almost 20-year career as a senior veterinary nurse, and I have been vehemently opposing and advocating against this he use of OffLeash K9. I have dissuaded clients from acquiring their services. Furthermore, I strongly suggest that trainer Izzy of Salinas be investigated for misconduct, and potentially animal neglect. My intention in sharing this feedback is to make the community of pet owners, whom I love and humbly serve, aware of the adverse effects of this training program.

Having had previous success for dog training it was without a doubt to choose Central Coast: Off…read moreLeash K9 train to train our young dog. Miguel was very patient and skillful in handling our Maltese. Mugi returned to us confident and receptive to basic commands. We were amazed that Mugi walked off leash so obediently! We recommend CC OLK9 and Miguel and found the two week board and train program a great way to train and expand socialization to our dog.

Great start to my puppy Wally's training . Loved the secure yard at the SPCA. Gina was very…read moreaccommodating and flexible with all of us .

Our Behavioral Team leading our SPCA Puppy Training 3 "virtual classes" are wonderful. My husband…read moreand I were both originally very skeptical about how these zoom (RingCentral) virtual classes could even help us and our new family member, Parker, or our general needs but I am sold. Understanding in today's environment the need for social distancing and virtual everything. Your team - Bonnie and Wendi are incredible. Presenting us with our weekly course work, videos, and the virtual calls reviewing our progress or pending needs with a group session. Therefore, Wendi and Bonnie, We cannot thank you enough for your guidiance in Parker's future progress. Granted there are still some days for us, it was 2 steps forward and 1 step backwards at times. Parker's and us are still a work in progress. It's just been 2 months since we adopted our wonderful pup and we are looking forward to seeing his & our growth in the future. A question - resetting Parker's DOG CLOCK to greater than 5:45am or teach him how to start the coffee, please? Best of luck to team.

We were recently in dire straights to find someone to care for our dog after our regular sitter was…read moreunavailable. We are extremely lucky to have someone refer Lori to us. Lori understands the need to stay connected, she sent daily photos. All the bases were covered...regular and emergency vet, our dog's needs, wants, sleeping arrangements, where she liked walking....grooming! She was impressive in every aspect. For instance, I had bagged the dog food, morning and night, placing a pill in each. Stupid me, I left two bags without drugs. Lori noticed immediately, knew what the drug was, advised me, then drove over to our vet and picked up the drug. Who does that? Who is that aware? She let's nothing get past her. Our dog met her once. When she was dropped off, she went nuts trying to see Lori before even leaving the truck. That tells me everything I need to know about Lori. Lori and Jorge, thank you for your care and love.

I would give zero stars if it was possible. This place is not worth your time or money. I was told…read moremy dog was untrainable. And my do is a 2 year old lab mix. I'm not these people know anything about dogs. She even says often. Positive reinforcement and fun games always work. Lazy. I would not recommend.

I have tried other dog training services, and I prefer this clubs approach. My poodles are doing…read morevery well, and I am learning how to train them better. I have been training my dogs for years, but I always like to get pointers and tips for my education as well. Liked this club so much that I joined a couple of years after attending classes. I hope to improve my technique and eventually do some competition trials. The Conformation class is very helpful for getting dogs ready for the show ring. You don't need to commit to a session, you just show up on the designated day and time and pay $15. Really helped to get my dog ready for conformation competition. MBDTC was the only club around that offered these classes. The teacher is a breeder and shower herself, and she was very helpful and supportive.

This was the first time I used Monterey Bay Dog Training Club. The 2 classes that I have taken,…read morealong with my cockapoo, Jolene, has been taught by Luane and several support staff. Luane and staff and great. Luane clearly has tons of experience and she shares it generously. She explains what, why and how to train your dog. It's pretty clear that dog training is really people training. If I haven't figured out how to get my dog to accomplish a task properly, Luane knows all the subtle corrections to use to end up with the behavior that's required. Plus it's fun!

Where do I start... I contacted Steve to inquire about training. This took place in mid-summer,…read moremid-Covid pandemic. He was very thorough from the initial contact, all the way through training and post training contacts. I enrolled my 2yr old JRT, Olive in Steve's 4-week Bootcamp Training Program. Olive was separated fro her mom a bit too early and she has had issues with fear-aggression. To make matters a bit more challenging in her young life, I went thru the death of my husband and 4 foot surgeries in her young 2-year life, during a crucial development and training time for a rambunctious JRT pup, (which is normal for the breed). My training with her was inconsistent and ineffective. The last straw was when I couldn't get a recall for her to come in from outside in the boiling Palm Desert heat. Steve treats his students with the love and care as he would his own pup. His training methods are very positive and reward based. He teaches the human the crucial components of training to help keep the pup safe and out of mischief. He makes the training fun and introduces tricks that aid in behaviors for the dog to have successful interventions for vet treatments and the like. Steve is also published and has a great book that I reference frequently, "Dog Bites". It contains training basics, addressing problem behaviors, and some great recipes for dog & human "bites". For me, it serves as a reference textbook, to supplement our training. Toward the end of her 3-week Bootcamp, I had my last foot surgery scheduled a few days after she was scheduled to come home. With more understanding how prepared I needed to be to have an effective transition home, Steve was agreeable (as his schedule would allow), to board Olive for an additional 10 days & her training would continue. It was so important and helpful to have that extra time to recover and be the best for my girl. With the challenges of Covid and the heat of the summer, Steve's training was very effective. When Olive struggles with success, I look at MY behaviors on how I'm continuing to manage her training. Steve is very generous with his time in follow-up FaceTime & Zoom follow-ups when issues arise or I feel the need for support. Besides the progressional integrity, Steve is a great human being who absolutely loves dogs! I give Steve Brown K-9U 10 stars out of 5!

Look, guys. I can't not give five stars to K9U. I mean look at this:…read morehttp://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/steve-brooks-k9u-los-angeles?select=zMg3CkIksC7xGRv8wBwRQw#zMg3CkIksC7xGRv8wBwRQw I'm a little embarrassed to call Duke a college graduate when he is such a goof, but I know he got a great education with Steve Brooks. Duke is my son, and he is a basset hound. Matt B. and I first got him around ten months ago, when he was about a year old. Like many bassets, he suffered from a pretty persistent strain of separation anxiety, and for a while before we came to see Steve, he was going potty on the floor every time we left him home alone. That was our main issue with him, but I'll also admit that he wasn't the best trained dog in the world. He only knew "sit" and "down," and would only really do either if he thought he could get food out of the bargain. He was also a nightmare to walk because he would pull constantly and he is very strong. (All this said - he is and always has been a delightful boy, who is just full of love and without a mean bone in his wiggly basset body.) We got K9U's card at Duke's vet when we mentioned his separation issues. A couple months ago, we called Steve and set up our first meeting. We were a little stunned by the prices (I think they go $175 for the first session, $150, $125, and $100 for the second, third, and fourth sessions, and $100 for any additional sessions after that), but decided to give it a shot. We did four lessons, which were supposed to add up to five hours. We probably got closer to eight hours of training. Steve is not stingy with his time, and we got the most out of our lessons. Over the last two months, I have seen a marked improvement in Duke's behavior and general demeanor. He is more relaxed than he was before we met Steve, and though he still gives us problems, we are better equipped to address these now that we're a bit more educated. Steve's methods are based in positive reinforcement, and he taught us how to train Duke using a variety of rewards. He talked us through some of Duke's behavioral issues, and suggested a crate training regimen to help his separation anxiety, which has been largely successful. Duke learned to stay, and to come, and to walk better on a leash. The four sessions were very comprehensive, and pretty enjoyable, too. All three of us like Steve, who is a warm, friendly man who clearly loves animals. On the last day, Steve put Duke in a cap and gown and took pictures and printed out a diploma. This was wonderful. Going forward, we have the option to take more private lessons, and Steve also leads a monthly group class that is free to K9U graduates. We will most certainly be attending those. Matt jokes that our basset has been socially promoted - Duke still counter surfs and jumps on people, and is not quite a dog show quality dog. Even so, he is better behaved, and we know how to reinforce good habits. I'm happy we took him to K9U, and I'd recommend Steve Brooks to anyone.