Pat is fantastic! I…read moreenrolled Harley, my very reactive doxie puppy, in one-on-one sessions followed by a 2-week board and train program and it was the best decision I've ever made. Pat uses these awesome analogies to help you understand the way dogs think and react. You can tell he is extremely knowledgeable and breaks down the training process in a way where it's straightforward for both you and your pup. I can see how it may be awkward to meet a total stranger who is then teaching you how to train your "child", but it never felt that way with Pat. He is super down to earth, hilarious and extremeley personable. I continue to use his dog sitting services until this day and I can tell my Harley girl adores him!

Great improvement with Patrick's help!!…read more I have a 3 year old very reactive Maltese dog named Charlie & we did 3 sessions with Patrick and he is very knowledgeable in the dog world. Seen a great improvement after the 1st session as Patrick gives us homework's to help practice with our dog. Patrick makes training enjoyable & comfortable for both the pet and the owners. Would highly recommend training your pups with Patrick! Thank you!

Pamela is exceptional in understanding a dog's character, energy level, and body language. She…read morehelped us with several issues over the last two weeks and we continue our sessions to reinforce learned behaviors. We met with Pamela while discussing the possibilities of socialization for our 9-month-old puppy. She asked more questions, quickly understood the things we wanted to work on, and suggested the best plan that fitted the needs of our puppy and our lifestyle. Over the last two weeks, she met with the puppy, took him to different places, assessed his reaction to people and other dogs, and build fundamentals of better reactions. After two training sessions, I noticed how much more responsive my puppy is and how less he is nervous about distractions on walks. She also gave us a lot of advice regarding jumping (before that we tried multiple methods and those have not been as effective), counter surfing, how to redirect out puppy energy into useful work, so on. Pamela is a very experienced trainer and we are looking forward to learning more from her and our collaboration.

Pamela has been SO incredible at getting our lovely but very active and somewhat addictive (to…read moreballs, sticks, anything she can put in her mouth) golden retriever puppy to learn to let go, to calm down, and to behave. She has also helped us to be better at understanding Darby's motivations and emotions. Fun and effective training for everybody!

I cannot recommend Kathy at Cause and Effect Dog Training enough! When we first reached out, our…read moreSpringer Spaniel, Checkers, was fearful, anxious, and often growled at my spouse and sometimes even at our kids. We had already tried multiple trainers, different techniques, and even followed our vet's suggestion to try antidepressants--but nothing was helping (in fact, the medication only made things worse). The moment I spoke to Kathy on the phone, I felt confident she truly understood the problem and could guide us in the right direction. And she absolutely has. Over the past year, Checkers has made tremendous progress thanks to Kathy's knowledge, patience, and the clear guidance she gave us. We followed her suggestions carefully--even switching vets based on her recommendation--and the results have been life-changing. Earlier this year, we had to travel out of the country and trusted Kathy to board Checkers. During that time, he developed a beautiful bond with her partner Dan. This was nothing short of amazing, as Checkers has always been fearful of men. Watching their relationship grow has been such a gift. With Kathy's help (and the influence of her own two balanced dogs), Checkers has learned how to be a dog--something I once thought might never happen. He now participates in pack walks and can even run off-leash in the fields, something I couldn't have imagined a year ago. If you're struggling with your dog's behavior and feel like nothing is working, do yourself and your dog a favor and call Kathy. She and Dan have changed our lives, and I am endlessly grateful for the care and dedication they've shown to Checkers and to us.

Kathy had great techniques and homework for me and my husband. She was punctual in every session…read moreand gave us constructive feedback. I really think having the training sessions with Kathy helped us bond with our dog more. It was a really rewarding experience. I absolutely feel more confident about my communication skills towards our girl Cub. Thank you for helping us work with her Kathy!!

Shame on you Wag Hotel!…read more I scheduled boarding for my dog Hans at your facility back on 1/28 in preparation for a trip to Japan on May 3 - 8, which you accepted on 1/31. However, when we arrived at your facility on May 2nd, the day before my flight to Japan, your front desk staff informed me that Hans' 5/2 - 5/8 boarding was being denied due to him having a heart murmur condition. Even though I've been a loyal customer to you for over 10 years; and that Hans' heart murmur condition had already been noted in your system since 2024; and given that my flight to Japan was less than 24 hours away; and given the fact that your facility waited until I was at the checkin desk in order to inform me of Hans' boarding denial; I was still told that there was nothing that your facility could do and that it was simply following company policy. Luckily for me, I demanded to speak with a manager who then took it upon himself to assist me in finding another facility that would board Hans at the very last minute. So kudos to that manager. However, you should know that he had to make several calls going down your "other recommended facilities" list in order to find a facility that was willing to board Hans on such short notice even with him having a preexisting heart murmur condition. So again, kudos to that manager. So unfortunately, this is how our relationship ends after I've been a loyal customer to you for over 10 years. Policy aside, not only should I have been notified far in advance to my May 2nd boarding schedule, but that I should have also been given an accommodation due to the last minute nature of your notification. It was simply amazing to me to hear both your Manager, and your front desk staff all admit that a notification error had, in fact, been made by your boarding authorization unit, but due to company policy there was nothing that could be done and that Hans would simply have to boarded elsewhere. Obviously, both my years of customer loyalty and the fact that your authorization unit had made a horrendous mistake, made absolutely no difference whatsoever in my situation. So goodbye, and again shame on you Wag Hotel!

When I first adopted a shelter dog at 7 yo, he stayed here and was overwhelmed and had anxiety from…read morehis past. The staff here was able to accommodate him and updated me. I trusted that he would be safe with them. I took him to boarding school for two months to fix his past traumas and let him do a one month daycare here afterwards. He seemed a lot better with more socialization. Thank you to wag hotel Oakland for being patient and letting my dog thrive. I would recommend the 30 day daycare if pet parents are busy with their day or want socialization for their dogs

Their 'training' is entirely anchored on fear-inducing techniques. We were given a contraption that…read moregenerates a harsh noise, and my dog was visibly terrified every time the trainer used it on her. All this while they constantly reassured us all their techniques are based on positive reinforcement - what kind of positive reinforcement is centered around fear?! It gnaws at us that we ever decided to go with this service. My dog - and every dog - deserves better.

We are so incredibly grateful for Gusty and the help she gave our family. We have two miniature…read moreAustralian Shepherds, one of whom is just over a year old and had recently developed reactive aggression. Over the last few weeks, things escalated to the point where she began attacking our other dog whenever someone came to the door or a package was delivered. During one of these incidents, my husband was accidentally bitten while trying to break up a fight. That's when we realized we needed professional help -- fast. It had gotten so serious that we had even begun discussing the heartbreaking possibility of rehoming her, simply for the safety of everyone involved. That fear, and the emotional pain that came with it, weighed heavily on our hearts. But after just one session with Gusty, that painful thought is now firmly in the past. Enter Gusty. In just one session, our lives changed. The nuisance barking stopped entirely. Our dog no longer jumps up on us when we walk through the door, even when she's excited. Her nipping and playfully aggressive behavior has been replaced by belly-up submissiveness and endless kisses. She's calmer, more docile, and truly feels like a different dog. What impressed me most was that all of this happened while my four-year-old son was in the background, constantly needing my attention. Gusty was incredibly patient, understanding, and focused throughout. She clearly cares deeply about what she does and wants nothing more than to help dogs and their human family. During our next sessions, we'll work on leash training and eventually help our dog learn that she doesn't need to be so protective of our son. Based on what we've already seen, I have no doubt that training will go just as smoothly. I can't recommend Gusty enough. She's a life-changer -- compassionate, professional, and absolutely amazing at what she does.

We recently used Restful Pets for our beloved boy, and I truly can't recommend them enough…read more We called several other places first, and many were far out in places like Fresno or Gilroy. It was really important to us to be able to bring him ourselves and have that sense of control. I had also heard too many stories of larger operations misplacing pets or losing ashes during transport, which felt unimaginable. Some of the places we spoke to also felt very transactional. It didn't feel like they were meeting us in what was a very real, emotional moment. Restful Pets was completely different from the first call. They were genuinely compassionate. Being local made everything easier, and their turnaround was much faster than what we were quoted elsewhere. It's definitely no-frills, with no big packages or upsells, but that ended up being exactly what we needed. What mattered most was knowing he was close and that we were in control of the process, with someone who treated us with care. That made all the difference.

Lost my beloved fur baby almost 2 months ago and while in a state of shock (it was completely…read moreunexpected) I had to search for someone to help me take care of my baby and make proper arrangements for her.. After some searching online I came across Restful Pets and after reading a few reviews - I knew this was my best option. I immediately called and Mark, the owner answered. His tone was perfect given the setting/circumstances. He came within 1.5 hours to my home, allowed me to say my goodbyes, explained the process to me, and took her in a larger size "suitcase" which was hard to see but I understand that's how the process works. Within 2 weeks I received a text message from "Justine" letting us know Princess was ready for me to pick her up; throughout this entire process my only complaint or complaint would be the message when notifying the family that their fur baby is ready for pick up, it stated "good news, Princess is ready for pick up" which in one way, I understand how it can be perceived as good news - I've been without her for 2 weeks and receiving her remains should feel like "good news" but for me, it wasn't good news. It was confirmation I'd never see her face again so I felt the choice of words weren't the best. Besides that - they did such a good job and made an already painful process less stressful. Cost - it was as pricey as anywhere else you're looking. As a stay at home mom, I can't afford much and had to research quite a few places and the price is about the same everywhere $20-30 difference max and again, they came to my home and took care of the arrangements. The only thing I felt was overly priced was the clay paw print, I paid $100 for her print and it was gorgeous - don't get me wrong. But the clay molding can be purchased for $20 so $80 for the labor of doing it seemed a bit unreasonable but I wanted a final paw print so I paid it. The box I received with her ashes was also gorgeous. Again, great services and owner was a great person. I hope to not need to use their services anytime soon but would if needed and I do highly recommend if searching for someone.

Hands down, Christi is the best dog walker in the East Bay. She is a first a dog lover, who is…read moreconscientious, organized, and thoughtful. Her pack walks exhaust the dogs while being safe and exciting for them. Her dog sitting sets my mind at ease as she knows dogs, her level head and knowledge ensure peace of mind while we are away.

this is also a long overdue review, I have used BARK AROUND THE BLOCK for many years. and…read more her staff are excellent. my dog; Rommel, a French bulldog he absolutely loves walking with her. She socializes the dogs with the group walks offered in the afternoons or morning walk. during the ongoing months The scheduling and communication is excellent ! My dog has improved greatly in all aspects of his socialization as well as his obedienc. Believe it or not for his breed he is so chill now. He loves his group walks! The trails are varied which is fabulous and keeps it interesting for the dogs. I have been extremely pleased with the excellent level of service provided by Bark Around the Block She is deserving of the Best Dog Walker of Alameda for the consecutive years, it has been awarded to her Company!

I have brought my dog to Happy Hound for over twelve years, after we tried another doggie day care…read more The staff at Happy Hound knows and cares about all the dogs, they have a thoughtful system for placing every dog in the appropriate group based on the dogs' energy level and temperament (mine is cranky with other dogs and wary of people), and the staff (all great) really understand how to accommodate different dogs -- no matter the size, breed or personality. For years my dog was there five days a week as I commuted into the City, and I always knew she was safe and happy there. Really the best facility for boarding dogs. M.A.B.

We have been a part of the Happy Hound community for over 12 years. This is the most amazing…read moreplace. The management is exemplary and the staff takes care of your dog like you are family. The facilities are state of the art in cleanliness, training and day care. You will not be disappointed and the training programs are customized to you and your dog. We cannot say enough wonderful things about this place and I hope you try them out. They are worth every penny for the love and welfare of your dog.

We cannot recommend Mutt and Tumble Dog Training enough. Bryan helped transform our two doodles…read morefrom reactive, poorly behaved dogs into calm, obedient companions who are now a pleasure to walk and have around others. Before training, we struggled with leash pulling, barking, lunging at other dogs, and nonstop chaos whenever someone came through the door. We were honestly at our wits' end. Everything changed after I saw Bryan in Jackson Square walking a calm, perfectly behaved pack of dogs. We started weekly family lessons in January 2026 with our dogs and our two 12-year-old daughters, and progress began almost immediately. Bryan quickly helped us realize the humans needed training too. With consistent coaching, support, and a board-and-train program, the transformation has been incredible. Our dogs are now well-behaved both at home and in public. We can comfortably walk them, take them to parks and outdoor restaurants, and genuinely enjoy being with them. Friends and family who knew our dogs before cannot believe the difference in their behavior. Thank you, Bryan. You really can teach old dogs new tricks.

Our dog, Maggie (2yrs - Cockapoo), is coming home tomorrow after a 2 week board and train and I…read morecouldn't wait until then to write a review for Bryan. Bit of background: Maggie has done 12 weekly group training sessions with another trainer and is generally well-behaved. However, she doesn't read the social signals from other dogs well (ex: when they want to be left alone), tends to jump on everyone at all times, doesn't respond to commands unless there's a treat involved, and lacks confidence. What I enjoyed about the program is that it includes several in person training sessions during the B&T. We got to see Maggie's progress as time went on and most importantly, we were trained on their behavior psychology and how to become the leaders of our pack. I will say I was nervous about implenting the ecollar but Bryan has demonstrated that it is a safe and effective training tool-- I got to see it used as a tool for correction that Maggie actually responded well to. Maggie is coming home tomorrow and hand-off includes an in-home training sessions to ensure her progress doesn't regress which I appreciate. From what I've seen, Maggie has become more confident, responds to recalls in distracting places (no treats involved), learned to self-soothe, and plays/greets other dogs/people with manners. Truly the best investment I've made in my dog and I'd highly recommend Mutt and Tumble to all dog parents!

We had a great experience working with Mitch on basic manners for our German shepherd mix puppy,…read moreLeo! Our puppy was a rescue and has a lot of anxiety. Mitch was very patient and has helped us work through it. Leo made a ton of progress from his first lesson. Mitch explains things very well, and is willing to go the extra mile to ensure we are set up for success. Highly recommend training at Athens, and working with Mitch.

Mitch and Patrick are amazing! We had 5 home sessions with our two Havanese dogs. We worked on…read moretraining them to be better at greeting people and on how to get them to not make at the door when the doorbell goes off. We also worked on walking and now they don't pull! So nice to be able to go on a walk without being pulled. We then did dog greeting and reactivity and got a lot of tips on what to do to help the dogs feel more comfortable. Mitch and Patrick really went above and beyond to help us!