Cooper had another fun weekend being boarded at Smart K9! We are so grateful to all of the staff. They not only take great care of Cooper but I also learn new tips to make Cooper a better behaved dog. We have been going to Smart K9 since May 2019. As new puppy owners, we were struggling with training a new puppy. Copper was very rambunctious, biting on everything, any soft toys were destroyed, he would bite through his leash, pull when I took him for walks, he was not a typical cuddly puppy. I took him to puppy classes and all he wanted to do was bark at the other dogs. There was a lot of instruction but not a lot of doing. After 3 times, I stopped going. After 2 months of trying to figure him out, we were stressed. We were questioning our decision about getting a dog. It was not what we expected. A friend of mine, who has had dogs before and just got two new puppies 6months before we did, told me about a place, Smart K9, that she took her dogs to for 1:1 training session for basic obedience and really liked the results. We met with Lucas and Emily for an evaluation. The amount of knowledge they have and how they explained Cooper's behavior was very eye-opening for us. We felt confident in their training style and decided to do a 2-week board and train along with some 1:1 sessions. Cooper learned some basic obedience during his board and train. He could sit, down, stay, learned how to heal so going for walks was enjoyable and he learned what "climb" was. The climb has been a blessing. It is a place he goes to relax when he gets overwhelmed or just to nap. Over the past 3 years we have continued to take Cooper to Smart K9 for boarding when we are out of town. We know that he is well taken care of, gets refresher obedience skills and is in a safe environment. He also goes there periodically for Daycare. When I mention any of the dog handlers' names, his tail starts wagging and he goes to the door. Our life with a dog still has challenges but 95% of the time, he is an enjoyable addition to our family. We still have a few things to work on, like barking at rabbits in the backyard or people walking by our house but overall he is a relaxed dog. We thank Smart K9 for what they have did and continue to do with Cooper as well as make us better dog owners. read more

I recently had the pleasure of working with Smart K9 and I can't recommend them enough. From the moment I stepped through their doors, I knew I was in good hands. The trainers at Smart K9 are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about dogs. They took the time to understand my dog's unique needs and temperament. Their patience and dedication were evident in every session. My dog, Walter, is a bundle of energy. The trainers recognized this and customized a training plan specifically for him. They focused on positive reinforcement techniques, which worked wonders. Walter responded well to their guidance. It wasn't just about training the dog; it was about educating me as well. I learned effective communication techniques, how to reinforce good behavior, and how to manage Walter's energy levels. The trainers empowered me to be a better dog owner. Since starting the training program, I've noticed a remarkable change in Walter. His hyperactivity has decreased, and he now listens to commands promptly. The combination of what he learned during sessions and our daily practice has been transformative. If you have a young, high-energy dog, I wholeheartedly recommend Smart K9. Their positive reinforcement methods yield results, and the supportive environment makes the training process enjoyable. read more

Smart K9 is absolutely amazing! Our dog, Finnleigh, is a large dog and we wanted to learn how to use an e-collar with her, how to be confidently off-leash with her, and also have her be "dog neutral". We did the board and train, where we would drop off on Mondays and then have a class with her and her trainer on Fridays. The concepts that they taught her we have reinforced at home and she is so well-behaved. We get comments frequently about how gentle and friendly she is, as her size is a little intimidating. She is able to run around open fields and recall easily. She is neutral around other dogs. We really like this concept of a "climb", where she has her own safe space in the house that she can stay. The Friday sessions with the trainer are so valuable. Tone of voice and timing are so important to stay consistent with the training, and having that one-on-one time was a great benefit. I highly recommend using Smart K9, whether you have a new puppy that needs to learn some skills, or an older dog that you need to train some manners. the staff truly cares about each dog and will setup a training plan that is personally built for you. read more

Exceptional Training Experience with Smart K9! Trainer Hannah and the entire Smart K9 team were absolutely fantastic when working with our dog, Poppy. Having owned five dogs and tried various training programs, I can confidently say that our experience with Smart K9 was one of the best. One of the things we loved most was the structured approach--they offer a convenient Monday drop-off and Friday pick-up, complete with a personalized lesson to walk us through everything Poppy had worked on that week. When we first brought her in, she knew basic commands but struggled with focus and distractions. By the end of her fourth week, the transformation was incredible! She now walks on a loose leash, confidently holds her "climb" command even with distractions, and stays put when someone comes to the door--all major wins for our high-energy pup. We're excited to continue utilizing Smart K9's board-and-train program and daycare services. Poppy still loves going there, which speaks volumes about the positive environment they create. Thank you, Smart K9! We look forward to working with you for years to come. read more

Smart K9 training changed our lives. Our dog, Zeke, went through a 3 week board and train program due to his fear and growing aggression. In a matter of a few weeks Emilee helped our dog change his state of mind and learn ways to calm himself. We loved the honesty through the experience and that even after our board and train ended she didn't just send us on our way and say "good luck". We had 3 follow up one on one classes and we get awesome perks for going through board and train. Our dog attends daycare weekly where she works with him while he's there and he loves it. We will also have a peace of mind boarding him there for longer times knowing he will be well taken care of and get to work on his training when we are gone! We appreciate the continuous suggestions on training and ways to help our dog even more. It's not just a one time and it's over, they're here to help you for the long haul. It's exactly what we needed for our dog and for us! Our life at home has become more calming and less stressful. We couldn't be more thankful! Highly recommend!! read more

We cannot say enough good things about smart K9. Our dog, Blueberry, is an extremely nervous girl. When we went for the evaluation at SK9, she was too nervous to even walk in the door at first. Hannah and the whole team worked extensively with both us and Blueberry to help build her confidence so she can enjoy more of the world. The team at SK9 spent time teaching us how to work with Blueberry on many different engagement and confidence building activities. One of our main goals was to be able to bring Blueberry into a store. After a few weeks of training, she was able to do this and not be nervous about it! Blueberry is a much more confident girl after completing her day training at SK9. Since finishing up with day training, we still enjoy all the other client perks that SK9 offers including sending her to daycare for some more training and socialization as well as participating in pack walks with other dogs and owners! read more

I can't say enough good things about Smart K9! When Ellie my dog first started the 8-week, 3-days-a-week day training program with trainer Hailey, she was nervous and scared, which made it difficult for us to bond and get anywhere with training. However, after completing the program, the transformation has been nothing short of amazing! Ellie has gained so much confidence, and she's learned new commands like heel, duration place which has helped improve both her behavior and our relationship. The program was structured and effective, with clear guidance and support throughout. I can see such a massive improvement in her, and I'm so grateful for everything Smart K9 has done for us. Ellie goes back for daycare weekly and completed another 2 week day training program when I was on a trip, not only did Ellie learn a ton but I know she would be safe and have a great outlet for her active mind and energy. read more

When we rescued Justice, we were very excited to bring the cute little puppy home. Justice quickly became a bully and despite going to a doggy school was becoming more than we could handle. She would lunge at my daughter and we couldn't get her to stop. I was told I had a bored puppy, but I knew it was more than that. Someone I knew had just used Smart K9 with great luck and I figured I had nothing to lose. After a one-on-one virtual session, they confirmed what I knew. Justice needed some redirection for what could have become a serious issue. So I signed her up for the board and train, and that was the best decision I've made. We didn't have to rehome her, and we now have a sassy, sweet dog who still LOVES going to Smart K9. Oh, and they almost have us trained too. LOL They are the best in town. I highly recommend them. read more

I've had such a great experience with Smart K9! The entire staff has been friendly, supportive, and clearly passionate about what they do. I loved viewing the daily photos and videos of my dog--seeing how they work with each dog really shows their deep understanding of dog behavior. Madison was amazing to work with. She's patient, genuine, and always took the time to answer my questions. Her detailed notes after each session made it so easy to keep up with training at home. My dog trusted her right away and was excited for day training every morning. Over the program, she learned proper leash manners and became noticeably calmer and more confident. I'd absolutely work with Madison again and highly recommend Smart K9 Training to anyone looking for knowledgeable, caring, and effective trainers. read more

When we sent Presley to Smart K9, we were expecting a more obedient dog and that was about it; however, what we got was above and beyond our expectations. Presley is not only more obedient, but she is now equipped to handle situations that make her anxious and nervous. Presley went to the 2 Week Day Training and now continues to go for daycare and boarding for continued training. Emilee and the staff at Smart K9 are easy to work with, patient, and personalize training to specific needs for each dog and family. The one-on-one attention was just what our family needed to ensure Presley was getting what she needed for her best life. We have learned so much from Smart K9 and are excited to continue working with them. Thank you so much, Smart K9. read more

Emilee, Maddi and Alyssa are absolutely AMAZING at what they do! Our anxious and reactive German shepherd struggled in unfamiliar situations and meeting new people and other dogs. Smart k9 spent five weeks of day training focusing on a calm mental space and neutrality around unfamiliar people and other dogs. The guidance we have received in our one on one training classes have been immeasurably helpful in teaching us as owners how to navigate tricky situations, advocate for our dog's space and needs, and making him feel comfortable and confident in us as leaders. We are beyond grateful for smart k9 leading us in our journey with a reactive dog and we cannot wait to see his continued progress in daycare! read more

Wonderful experiences with Smart K9 both virtually and in person. Emilee has a gift in understanding dog behaviour and formulating her training plans to suit the needs of each individual dog, and is then able to clearly and simply communicate concepts to owners in ways they can also understand, ultimately building better relationships between owners and their dogs! Additionally, their top tier facility has a unique setup allowing them to train in situational environments, not just an obedience room, further solidifying behaviours they are working on! Highly recommend for everyone from pet owners to experienced trainers, I guarantee you'll learn something new! read more

Smart K9 has been a life saver with our Koda! I was so impressed with how obedient she was after her board and train. About 8 months later and she is doing so great! We go to Smart K9 frequently for daycare and she is SO excited when we pull in. We work with Gen on any questions that come up and how to overcome them with Koda. I like they they teach the dog, but they also teach me how to properly work with Koda. Our vet commented on how well behaved Koda was and how nicely she walks on a leash. I wish I would have found them sooner! read more

Smart K9 is the best!! They have awesome, knowledgeable and experienced trainers who care so much for all the doggos! Benny did the day training program with Hailey and he has shown growth with his confidence, problem solving and engagement with us! We also were able to learn so many things in order to be the leader our highly energetic, busy boy needs in order to be successful in all environments! Benny will definitely be sticking with the SK9 pack for other services! Would highly recommend this facility!! read more

Wow the difference is night and day. Our pitbull mix had some issues with dog reactivity and he often got into his own head with emotions and thoughts that would cause a snowball effect which brought out some undesired behaviors. Not only did Gen help the pup with these issues, she provided us the reasons why so we could better understand why he felt this way. He is now a happy, obidient dog that can successfully coexist with the Siberian husky. 10/10 read more

We were experiencing dog reactivity and difficulties enjoying a relaxing walk. Smart K9 identified the underlying issues immediately and went to work with both our dog and us humans! They are consistent in their approach and that makes a huge difference as we work on the issues both while our dog is at training and at home. They are awesome to work with and do amazing work! read more