My husband and I were privileged to be able to send our dog, Simba, to a 15 day board and training program at Sit Means Sit. Simba has severe anxiety, which triggers extreme aggressive behavior with men, children, and other animals. We tried a different training program with group classes and private lessons that used only positive reinforcement (treats) as a method of control, but we quickly found out that it didn't work when high distractions were present (children, strangers, dogs). It got so bad that we couldn't have people over in fear that he would attack or hurt someone. We also couldn't allow him to play with other dogs, because he would randomly attack them with little warning. Our Sit Means Sit Trainer, Colby, graciously took our highly anxious/aggressive dog and worked through a lot of these issues in the short amount of time he had him. When he returned with Simba we saw a drastic change in his behavior. We were able to have him around strangers and children and he behaved nicely with other dogs. Colby, however, warned us that our dog had not completely changed, he was under his control. He was right, our dog did not change, and Colby just had a control over him that we had never been able to achieve. Colby then explained to us that we had to learn to take control of him so we could maintain this behavior and gain the trust of our dog. We were told change would come over a very long period of time, and only after trust had been established. Colby gave us the tools to learn to build Simba's confidence and his trust in us. He also came to our house for multiple one-on-one sessions to help us learn how to control our dog. If that wasn't enough, Sit Means Sit also offers weekly group classes so we can practice with our dog on a weekly basis with trainers and other dogs that have been through the program. I cannot lie and tell you it has been an easy journey, but we were told our dog was a very difficult case, (which we already knew) and it takes daily practice and dedication (whoops). The hardest part is training ourselves!! We have moved forward and slipped backwards, but Colby and Sit Means Sit have been with us every step of the way. The level of care and attention that Colby and his trainers have paid to me and my dog is mind-blowing. I call and text him with issues I am having and I always receive a response and an offer to help. I don't even receive the level of care and attention from my veterinary office that I receive from Sit Means Sit for this dog. With this program, I feel that my dog and I are not just a number. I know my dog will never be perfect, and I'm sure I will probably lose control a time or two, but I know that Sit Means Sit will be there to help me and Simba get back on track. Without this program, I can honestly say, this dog would not be with us today, because his behavior was getting unmanageable. I cannot thank Colby and his group enough for all the hard work and dedication that they have put into helping me and Simba. read more

Deciding to send our puppy through a board and train program was not taken lightly. We went through their puppy kindergarden program which was so great for establishing some ground rules for training and bonding. It also allowed us to see how the trainers interacted with all different breeds/personalities, their philosophy on training as well as to get a good look at the facilities. From that point we knew that if we were going to go through any board and train program, it would be theirs. It was surprisingly difficult the day we dropped off our puppy, but we were so comforted by the thorough explanations of what to expect and the high degree of compassion and customer service from every employee we interacted with in the process. We received regular (honest) updates and photos to alleviate the separation anxiety (on my part, ha) and inform us of his progress. We saw our puppy transformed! Don't get me wrong, our pup didn't have any behaviors that were of immediate concern (aggression, anxiety, etc.), but his intelligence gave way to him being significantly willful and not listening as well as he should (in some cases at all). When we picked him up he was the same happy-go-lucky boy, but was completely understanding of the new concept of leading a "permission" based lifestyle. The boundaries and control their trainers helped him to establish made him so confident and eliminated our fear there would be scenarios in which we couldn't handle. We had our own "training" session to help us implement all he learned and another in our own home to continue the success he found during his time spent in their care. This, along with the weekly group classes, all but guaranteed we'd have a happy and well behaved dog for life. What a relief to know we can take this boy anywhere with confidence. I highly recommend Sit Means Sit Raleigh and have recommended to several friends and acquaintances without hesitation who were unsure if it would be the right next step in their dog's life. read more

We have known Colby and Andy for about 6 years going back to when we hired Colby to help manage our 2 dogs, Roscoe and Shadow. Shadow was frantic whenever we took him for a walk and he saw another person walking towards us. It was particularly bad if the person was walking a dog. Shadow made such a scene, it became increasingly embarrassing to take him out. Our other rescue dog, Roscoe, sensing Shadow's anxiety, would also get hyped up and nippy around other walkers or joggers. Colby, in his calm but commanding demeanor, was able to get our two dogs to walk past his incredible dog, Ranger, without so much as a peep or nip, within minutes. He then explained why dogs react certain ways in certain situations and how taking charge of them is not in any way demeaning or dis-empowering them. By instilling in them a sense of order and stability with us in charge, they wouldn't have to feel like they had to be the ones in "control mode" at all times and could just relax and be dogs. Dogs need and thrive on structure and boundaries just like our children do. We now have our third rescue, a little pint-sized miniature wire-haired dachshund, Dory, who came into our house and took over total control. The thing is she's an anxious, fear-driven mess and won't go near my husband or most other men. We went to Colby's class on Dog Anxiety and it was outstanding. Colby's insight into how dogs think and behave is nothing short of amazing. We went home and started using some of the techniques we learned on Dory and, even though it was the first day of her 'training' we were surprised and encouraged by her reaction to it. She actually scratched my husband's leg wanting up on his lap! Simply astonishing! I know I've used a lot of superlatives within my review but Colby and Andy truly deserve the accolades. Needless to say, I highly recommend Sit means Sit for all of your doggy issues. Cindy & Tom Rossetti read more

Sit Means Sit has been an amazing experience for our pup - Luna Leigh. Drew was a fantastic first contact with Sit Means Sit as he came out to our home to explain the whole program. My boyfriend was not familiar with board & stay training programs or as familiar with dogs. Drew went over the different options, was sweet to our Luna Leigh and even talked about accommodating some of the programs to adjust to our concerns. We boarded Luna about 3 weeks after adopting her from the Wake County SPCA. She walked in on day 1, tail wagging, loved the staff and received all the belly rubs she could ever want. After 10 days at Sit Means Sit we got a private lesson with Lead Trainer Hannah and she was amazing. She gave us the tools and explanation we needed to bring the training home. Hannah came out for a follow up in our home with Luna and got to see how she was adjusting. About a month later we still were having some struggles with Luna, she is a very smart and sweet girl, but her sass makes her stubborn sometimes, and Hannah took another trip out to work on how to address this with Luna so that she was receptive to the training. Hannah has shown so much love and structure to our pup and is very sweet and personable to work with! Our favorite part about Sit Means Sit is definitely the lifetime group classes. These weekly classes allow us face to face time with trainers and a controlled environment of distractions, which is great for building confidence in our pup. Sit Means Sit went above and beyond in their care, teaching and accommodations for our pup and I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for this style training program. read more

We adopted a dog for our first time being dog owners. Turned out he had some issues with being dominant/aggressive toward other dogs--where he almost bit/injured other dogs when we were out on walks (we had no idea when adopting, he loves all people and is a yellow lab!). We brought him to Sit Means Sit for a 10 day board and train package, which came with some private follow up lessons and free weekly group classes afterward. The staff has been INCREDIBLY helpful and supportive as we work with our dog to help him change. When we needed supplemental mini lessons with other dogs on our own they accommodated us and gave us the extra lessons beyond the package when needed; gave us individual attention at group classes; answered my many anxious questions by phone and email; and more! When we asked to integrate more positive reinforcement with his training they showed us how as well. While we weren't sure if we picked the right place at first, their absolute willingness to help us help our new doggo get to be a good member of doggy society has been above and beyond! From every single trainer there--especially the owner Colby, Olivia, and the group class leader. Adopting a dog was WAY more challenging than we expected, and Sit Means Sit and staff have helped us work with a dog that otherwise would have been returned to the shelter by many other owners. I have my confidence back that I started to lose when we encountered trouble with our dog--and our dog has a new confidence now, too!! I absolutely recommend Sit Means Sit for all training needs. read more

I adopted my dog about 4 months prior to reaching out to Sit Means Sit. He was so loving and wanted to cuddle ALL the time however he was not good on walks or with commands. He would barely even sit when I asked him too, not to mention he would lay down on walks when he didn't want to go the way I was walking. He also lacked the socialization and confidence around other dogs that is needed when on walks in an apartment complex full of other dogs! I submitted my request to Sit Means Sit and I was contacted the following day by Ashley to set up a consultation! They were 100% willing to work with my schedule and understood my need! Drew came out to our home to do the consultation and within 10 min of our walk around the apartment complex he explained what needed to be done. We came to to decision of the 15 day Transformation University. Throughout the 15 days I received photos and updates from trainer Hannah, which gave me piece of mind knowing my boy was in good hands and they were really working with him daily! From the moment I went to pick him up, Buddy has been a better version of the Buddy I dropped off! He is getting better daily too! He listens to commands and has the confidence he needs on walks! He has been home a month now and I am just so amazed at how incredible the trainers at Sit Means Sit are! We have had our two follow up listens and we are doing our homework to make him even better! I really do have a GOOD BOY now, so when I say "who's a good boy!" It really is Buddy! I highly highly highly recommend! read more

I absolutely recommend Sit Means Sit Raleigh. Colby was fantastic from the beginning and incredibly accommodating. He was also a fabulous listener to really fully understand my concerns with our maltese-yorkie. We sent both our 5yo morkie and 1year old cattle dog mix together for immersion training and have been thrilled with our results. Our morkie has a great deal of anxiety and aggression issues with new people and dogs. We still have some work to do with meeting new dogs but overall feel like we finally have control over her which we haven't before. We love that they can participate in free group classes following training and plan to do that as much as possible. Olivia was EXCEPTIONAL to work with during our 3 private lessons and went out of her way to accommodate our distance from Raleigh. It was so evident to see how passionate she is about working with dogs and how skilled she is! We were able to go on field trips since going in public/on walks with our morkie was a big concern for me. We had previously spent thousands on our morkie with little results. We feel that Sit Means Sit was the best training we've participated in so far and would recommend them to anyone. Although we still have some work to do with her, we know that they're aware of our continued concerns and plan to work side by side with us to get her through it. Thank you to all of you at Sit Means Sit for caring for our girls as if they were your own! We love working with you. read more

I was recommended by a local German Shepherd rescue to look into obedience training through Colby and Andrea Self with Sit Means Sit dog training in the Raleigh area. So I scheduled an appt with Colby for a demonstration, I was shocked! He showed me how he has trained Ranger and I was sold! We immediately went into training my 1 year old German Shepherd Adrix. When I say Colby is good, he is GOOD!!! In the first lesson he taught my dog how to sit and place all within the first 15-20 minutes of his first session, I was extremely impressed! We continued training for the next couple months and my dog transformed from a super high energy dog to a fully trained GSD. My dog is constantly getting attention for how well behaved he is everywhere from our neighborhood to the dog park, I recommend Sit Means Sit everywhere I go! The tools Colby gave me and his expert instruction shows in my dog everywhere we go. I now have no reservations on bringing my dog anywhere because I am confident that he has been trained by the best, his high energy and drive can now be focused on tasks around the house as he helps in making my life a little easier with the training and retrieve that was taught in my lessons. We continue to schedule from time to time just to refresh his training, the lessons are worth every penny! Do yourself and your dog a favor and look into training through Colby and Andrea, you won't be disappointed. Thank you again Colby and Andrea! read more

Sit Means Sit was the last resort for my dog Dozer (pit mix). He had chewed a hole through his cage and destroyed my bedroom 3 separate times, and each time was worse than the last. (pillows, pictures, make-up, clothes, everything - destroyed) He had a problem with jumping, scratching, and had a tendency to bully my mother-in-law. He never listened and would chew up anything he could get his paws on. With a baby on the way my husband and I were desperate. As we were driving around doing errands my husband and I heard a radio ad for Sit Means Sit and had to find out more. And I am so glad we did. After the free consultation we felt extremely hopeful. We opted for the 3 private lessons, and our trainer Josh was beyond fantastic! After the first class we could see a complete change in Dozer. He was listening better, he was calmer, and he was willing to learn. Josh was patient with us and showed the same admiration towards Dozer as my husband and I do. He answered all of our questions and showed us different ways to handle situations. Our last private session was yesterday, and I can confidently say that Dozer is brand new dog. He is still the crazy, silly, energetic dog that he has always been, but just better trained. I feel completely confident in Dozer and have absolutely no worries about him being around a newborn. And we owe all of that to Josh and Sit Means Sit. Thank you!! read more

Sit Means Sit did an amazing job with our pup! I wouldn't say our dog was too unruly but his high energy and love for fetch would often outweigh his manners when we were in distracting situations. I highly recommend their in-house (leave your pet with them for a week) training sessions as they were able to consistently work with Rocky and lay down a strong foundation for him/me when I came in to learn how to do the same things with him. Ultimately, the trainers and staff were able to teach me how to curve his attention and make him alert/looking at me for every command I asked of my dog (alongside many other skills!). Seriously, Rocky becoming the well-trained attentive dog I always knew he could be has been a lifesaver when friends come over or just when we are outside and he is off leash playing. For our 3 transition-home sessions, Olivia (one of the trainers) is the absolute best!!! She is extremely professional and helpful. She stayed a little bit later when Rocky needed to brush-up on some skills and then readily answered any concerns I had. The Sit Means Sit staff is truly there to help you achieve all of your goals and wants you to get the most out of your training for the wellbeing of your dog. At first I was a little worried about the pricing but after seeing the results, you simply can't put a price on this kind of successful training. Would do again!! read more

I was lucky to find sit means sit for my 8 month old pup Rogue. Rogue is a Pitt/ Siberian Husky mix, which basically means he's a hyperactive attention deficit dog. The initial  consult was an hour and a half long. They answered all my questions and helped me feel comfortable with leaving my dog in their care. I was shown how the program worked and realized how much the staff understood my dog's individual needs. This is not a one-size-fits-all. They assess the dog's specific areas that need the to be addressed and 'tweak'the program accordingly.  After going thru the program. they offer continuing training sessions (that is included with the cost)and  guarantee they will continue to work with you as long as needed.  The results I have seen in a short peroid of time is well worth the cost, esp  the guarentee of continued support there after. They become very familiar with your dog and work on the areas of need along with basic training.  I was beyond impressed how much they took the time to get to know Rogue's personality. Granted you still have to continue to work with your dog, but they give you the tools & guaranteed continued support to accomplish a successful goal. I loved the updates and pics they sent  of Rogue's as he was making his way through the program. I highly recommend them.  Thank you Sit Means Sit!!!! read more

I have a rescue dog named Peaches that had a number of issues including separation anxiety, jumping on counters, leash aggression, etc. I had tried several training sessions and some things on my own, but nothing seemed to help. So I sent Peaches to Sit Means Sit for a 10 day board and train program. While she was there, I received daily updates on her progress with photos. It was very clear that she was in good hands and was being cared for by people who loved her. When I returned, I met Drew, one of the trainers who had worked with her. He was fantastic. He was very fond of Peaches. He showed me how to use the collar and how to apply the training. He took the time to go on a walk with me so that we could practice using the collar around other dogs. He was very committed to making sure the training took hold. Peaches' training with Sit Means sit has made all the difference in the world. I take a run or a walk with her every day. I am comfortable having other dogs visit at the house. I am comfortable putting food out. Although some of her instincts still remain, I can use the collar in the way that she has been trained to stop any bad behavior. I have also gone back to Sit Means Sit several times for the free follow up training sessions, which are very helpful. In sum, I highly recommend Sit Means Sit. read more

Sit Means Sit changed our puppy for life. As all puppies are, our sweet puppy rescue Bosley was wild, playful and did not listen all the time. I enrolled him into puppy classes in February at 10 weeks. I could tell a difference in his demeanor as we worked each week on new things, After 4 weeks of puppy class I decided, with the help of Colby and Hannah, to go ahead with the 15 day board and train. Two weeks is a long time to be away from our puppy, but is was WELL worth it. I could not believe how well behaved he had become. With the help from Sit Means Sit I can take Bosley anywhere and feel confident he will listen to me. He is still the most playful puppy now at 5 months. The big difference is that he is a very smart 5 month old. We can play in the yard with not having a leach and he will come to me when I call him. He can have a better life now with freedom. With Hannahs help we are now working on off leash training away from home. I would HIGHLY recommend Sit Means Sit to anyone with a dog or puppy. They have made a difference with our family!!!!!! People can not believe how well behaved Bosley is for 5 months old - or, that matter for any age. It's an investment that will pay off for many, many years to come, and we are very grateful to and thankful for Sit Means Sit. read more

Olivia and all the other trainers at Sit Means Sit did an amazing job with our two crazy labs! They loved to jump, be in our space (with a baby around), nip new people in excitement, defiantly ignore any command we gave and bark in their crates. Colby came to our home to assess our pups and show off what they could learn with one of his own trained dogs. It was so convenient to have him come to our home, especially having a little one. After the 15 day board and train program and 2 of our 3 lessons, our dogs are doing great! Yesterday we had 2 guests come over and they stayed in the hallway while we all sat on the floor and played with the baby for 20+ minutes. Then, when they were released from the hallway they calmly greeted our guests and then went on their way! I was worried they may lose some of their fun personality, but they love to do the trainings that we practice with them and they are still as fun as ever. There is always sticker shock when you see prices of any similar program to this, but I would say it was well worth every penny to know that they will live a happy life and we will be less stressed and happier too because we know our dogs will listen to us! I would highly recommend Sit Means Sit of Raleigh! read more

Our bulldog Ulyssess was rehomed to us and had a series of issues including aggression, resource guarding and anxiety. We had a consultation with other companies but they told us we would never be able to "fix" his bite history or aggression. I was heartbroken. We didn't want to stop trying. We completed a free consultation with Drew and fell in love with their concept. We did 3 personal training lessons with Hannah and have seem such a great improvement. Hannah was even kind enough to allow us to bring in our other Bulldog/Boxer mix and work with both dogs together. You have to be dedicated to working with your dog at home if you do the personal lessons but, we are looking forward to going back to all the free classes and utilizing the boarding which includes continuous training. Hannah was always available quickly to answer our questions and has been a huge asset. I was terrified of using the collar with Uly but, he has adapted to this approach amazingly. I never thought I'd see such a drastic difference. I would HIGHLY recommend Sit Means Sit and have recommended to other already! Worth every single penny. Looking forward to working with them more in the future. read more

Sit Means Sit changed our puppy for life. As all puppies are, Bosley was wild, playful, and did not listen all the time. We enrolled him into puppy classes in February at 10 weeks. We could tell a difference in his demeanor as we worked each week on new things, After 4 weeks of puppy class I decided, with the help of Colby and Hannah, to go ahead with the 15 day board and train. Two weeks is a long time to be away from our puppy, but is was WELL worth it. I could not believe how well behaved he had become. With the help from Sit Means Sit, I can take Bosley anywhere and feel confident he will listen to me. He is still the most playful puppy now at 5 months. The big difference is that he is a very smart 5 month old. We can play in the yard with not having a leash and he will come to me when I call him. He can have a better life now with freedom. With Hannah's help we are now working on off-leash training away from home. I would highly recommend Sit Means Sit to anyone with a dog or puppy. They have made a difference with our family!!!!!! People can not believe how well behaved Bosley is for 5 months old. read more

Colby, Olivia, Drew, and everyone else at SMS is absolutely wonderful. It's been a couple months since I picked Houdini up from her 21 day board and train for extreme fear aggression that she would turn onto humans, and she had made so much progress! Houdini did not have a very bright past and she used to bite anyone that moved (oh how I wish I was exaggerating!), including almost everyone at SMS in the beginning. Now, she allows people to pet her that she has met before and is more comfortable coexisting with new people. She loves her new found freedom her e-collar gives her (she gets SO excited whenever I pull the collar/femote out), especially with the recent snow, and it gives me such a peace of mind knowing that she won't bolt off and ignore commands anymore. Houdini bonded with everyone at SMS and was always so excited to see Olivia at her follow up lessons. I am very happy with my decision to have Houdini trained by SMS-they love her almost as much as I do. She can't wait to see you guys in a month or so for board and review. read more

My husband and I have a yellow lab that was having a hard time grasping walking on a leash and not BITING everything (including hands and faces) in sight. We did a lot of research, finding different methods of training, when our vet recommended 'Sit Means Sit'. We are certainly glad that he did. After our free consultation with Colby, it was pretty obvious that we found the right place to send out slightly out of control puppy. After the pups initial 15 day training, my husband and I had to be trained as well. Olivia, one of the trainers, did an exceptional job teaching us how to work with our dog. She didn't rush, she answered our questions and was very easy to work with (even after leaving the facility). Now we have a puppy that has progressed leaps and bounds with this training. He now longer bites everything in sight and walks nicely on a leash. My husband and I HIGHLY recommend 'Sit Means Sit' to anyone that wants to have a well mannered dog or to simply kick up their training up a bit. read more

Wasn't real sure we could tame the puppy but Sit Means Sit did an amazing job! I remember doing the evaluation and our dog was whining, barking, running all over the place, jumping, tugging on the leash, pulling us down the stairs, etc. Afterwards we got to see a dog that had been trained and I thought no way my dog will be that good....WELL...he still isn't that good, but he is pretty close! I cannot believe the amazing job Sit Means Sit did. He does so well at listening now that it's hard to think of how crazy he was when he did the evaluation. He is still jovial and fun but also obedient. The trainers did a fantastic job, know all the dogs by name, and do a great job at explaining the training so when at home the training will continue. Maybe the best part has been the lifetime group classes that help socialize the dogs. This has immensely helped with our dog being obedient around distractions (i.e. people and other dogs). 100% recommend Sit Means Sit to anyone looking to train their dog. read more