I have been training at Tecla's for about 2 years now. I originally took the intermediate obedience a year ago. Since covid, they launched an online training platform and reformatted the classes. I heard very good things so I decided to take the class again. This is my second review of the place. The online platform is though zoom and google classroom. I feel like the time spent in class was much more productive and valuable time vs. the inperson class I took the year before. Communication- my hearing isn't the best. Taking these class in person in room full of people with lots of barking dogs I don't always hear the instruction or the complete instructions. With the online platform it was much easier to hear and understand. Also it allowed for greater cross participant communication to ask questions and engage. We did progress much further in our skills with the pups as well as in our knowledge of the science and theory behind what we do. I would put this on par with some of the college classes I took in undergrad. The homework isn't easy but your better for it. There is individual grading by the instructor as well as the instructor having student cross critique to help develop you eye for what is correct and what is wrong. The pace is intense. Maybe it's because I have a giant schnauzer and I have a crazy work schedule. But the weekly classes and the homework was very hard to get in, in time. The pace might be easier for others but it was a tough challenge for me. I'd really have like the class schedule to be twice as long, but then again that likely means twice the price. I felt both my puppy and I could have used an extra week practicing with mid-two week feedback. I am sad that the class videos will only be available for six months. Each class had valuable instruction and discussion and I know I haven't internalized it all and will be going back to watch them as remind of all the things I am trying to incorporate. While there are printable handouts, its really not as great as the discussion. I remember thinking about my own past and how my parents had been as consistent as we are being taught to be. I likely would have save me many childhood scars. Downside, in person the trainer gets to see you make mistakes. With video review the struggle not to post yourself doing everything correctly is very hard. It also means you handicaps your learning process. This facility is a balanced training facility. If you are looking for a purply positive training this isn't it. The owner is tough and frankly intimidatingly, but I think she is because she cares so much. She is there because she wants to do the right thing for the dogs and that sometimes means you the training are going to get very blunt feedback on what you are doing wrong. So be fully aware of what you are signing up for. If you can do it, you will be a much better trainer and a positive relationship with your dog. read more

I HIGHLY recommend Tecla's K-9 Academy, specifically the live online training classes they are offering right now. I signed up for the Purely Positive Puppy class back when they were offering "normal" in-person training classes - before COVID-19 changed life as we knew it. After everything shut down, Tecla still wanted to be able to offer the class so she gave those interested the option to join her for a live, interactive weekly class on ZOOM. I initially decided to hold off and wait until the COVID-19 madness passed so that we could do it in person; I was hesitant about what an online class would look like and whether it would be effective. An hour before the first class was scheduled to begin, I changed my mind on a whim because I was desperate to start getting some structure into my pup's life. He's a sweet-as-a-button golden retriever puppy, but he was starting to settle into some very undesirable behaviors and habits that I just couldn't take anymore. I needed help. I am so thankful I decided to do it! Tecla is incredible and had such an amazing curriculum set up for the course. Not to mention it was so convenient to be able to do it from home. Each week when we met, she would introduce a few new training activities for us to practice with our puppies until we met the following week. In addition to going over the new training exercises during the ZOOM call, she would provide example videos and supplementary written instructions for each exercise that we could refer back to during the week. She made it foolproof and so easy to follow. After just eight weeks, my puppy has become so much more well-behaved and obedient. It was so rewarding to see his progress and I could tell he loved learning new things as much as I loved seeing him do them. It was funny too how all of his bothersome behaviors and tendencies just "happened" to start fading away. I'm going to be signing up for Tecla's Basic Obedience class next - and yes, I will definitely be doing the online version even though they have in-person classes now too. The couple photos I've included are my puppy and I at the park working on his loose leash walking and the "puppy version" of a down-stay. read more

We were in search of a daycare and training for our 10 week old puppy when stumbled upon Tecla's from a co-worker who could not stop raving about them. We were so happy they would take our puppy for day care so we could start the socialization process early. We have been nothing but happy with the staff and experience. The staff greeted our dog, Zoltar, by name from the second visit and always say good things about her. They even post pictures of your puppy on their facebook page so you can see what they are up to. The staff does a good job of reinforcing training by making sure that the puppies are in a separate environment and are socializing positively. We can tell Zoltar loves going there because she tries to race out of the car when we pull up. She is great with other dogs and we know that having her in daycare from such a young age played a huge role in that. We decided to sign Zoltar up for Purely Positive Puppy with Mary and we are completely blown away by the results. They focus on building a strong relationship with your dog and every single second we have put into training has paid off. She looks to us for directions and knows "who the boss is" and we got to this point through only positive training. Mary takes the time to help each person and their dog individually every class and will also work with you regarding other outside of the class issues that may arise. We will definitely be continuing training in other classes from Tecla's. Lastly, you know that they care about us and our puppy because when Zoltar was in the hospital, everyone was asking how she was and we received phone calls and emails of support. It is clear that they are in the business of being a great business filled with loving and caring people. Thank you Tecla's :) read more

I have been a long time client of Tecla's. This is now my third dog - two shepherds and one Sheltie. We just returned from a trip and had our shepherd Gabriel boarded at Tecla's K-9 Academy. Upon our return, we picked up our shepherd along with our daughter/son-in-law's two dogs. What a pleasure to see each dog healthy and happy. The system was flawless - directions for proper feedings and administering allergy meds. The staff was friendly and professional when responding to my inquiries when reserving. Our flight was delayed and I called from the airport (out-of-state) to let them know of the airline announced 40 minutes delay. The response was cordial and understanding with the pick-up time adjusted accordingly. It is reassuring to know that this facility is also a training facility with professional trainers on-site. Thanks much for the photos posted each day on FB! :-) BTW, Tecla is an amazingly insightful, competent, professional trainer. Thank you to Tecla and your staff for keeping my dog happy & healthy while we were away from home. Joanne D. read more

The folks at TK9 have truly changed our lives. We have had private training, attended Basic Obedience, Pack to Basics socialization, and Rally, and we have used daycare. Tecla is a brilliant trainer and passionate about her work - who doesn't use a one-size-fits-all approach and trains the dog (and the people) in front of her. The skills we have learned will be forever useful and most importantly Tecla has revitalized my relationship with my dog Qalbi! The staff is wonderful, professional, kind, and caring about every person/dog that walks through their doors. During the COVID-19 crisis they were adaptable and found ways to continue to connect with clients safely. If you need ANY kind of training, daycare, or boarding - consider TK9 first! You won't regret it. *Note - we live in Madison, WI now but worked with Tecla while based in Baltimore!* read more

This place abuses your dog. Stay Away. After I picked up my puppy, she wreaked of vinegar. I was told that the dogs are sprayed so they submit. Their Neanderthal practices are out of date. The owner, who endorses this abuse, is a HACK as illustrated by any verifiable research that encourages humane treatment of animals. Obviously, the owner lacks Certification for Professional Dog Trainers. I am so sorry that I did not read the reviews on this place. They practice punishment and torment. The smell of vinegar still permeates my dog and truck after a Thursday torture session. Keep in mind: I had to bathe her immediately. As dog owners, we want to do the best for our pups. TRUST ME. Staying away from Teclas's K-9 Academy is the best thing people can possible do for their pup. Please read other reviews. This place is poison. read more

Just picked up my 4 yr old German shepherd from a week a boarding at Tecla's and they were wonderful to her! Unfortunately she had a urinary tract infection, unknown to me, when I dropped her off. They discovered it, took her to an emergency vet clinic on a Sunday, started her medication and kept me updated while we were away! They were awesome!! The staff is great and they treat their "guests" like family!! Would never leave Hope anywhere else! I started Hope at the Ellicott City location for puppy training when she was 6 months old, have done day care at both locations, and boarding in Elkridge, we are fortunate to have a place like this in our area!! Check it out! You won't be disappointed and your dog will love it!! read more

Within just a few hours of returning home after our first Purely Positive Puppy class with Tecla, and putting into practice what she taught, our Lexi was absolutely transformed! I had shared with Tecla that our 3-month-old lab mix had been terrorizing our whole family with her painful biting and jumping up, tearing our skin and clothing. Ever since we got home from our first class, she has been well-behaved; she gets down and sits on command, even when she's excited. Even her mouthing is now gentle, and much reduced overall. She is so pleasant to be with now, and we all have a renewed sense of hope that we can raise a "good" dog with the skills learned in Tecla's class. read more

I have known Tecla for many years. She is an excellent dog trainer. Her ability to teach her clients the training skills needed to help them and their dog is outstanding. Her staff is well trained and competent. The mention of vinegar spray can be off putting to some but it is an excellent way to correct and deter undesirable behaviors that can put a dogs safety in jeopardy. Social settings with dogs can often escalate quickly so a simple squirt is all it takes to stop an issue that could result in an unsafe environment for all the dogs. Tecla's K9 is a safe and well run facility for dogs. I would give it 10 stars if I could. read more

Just finished boot camp for my 3 year old boxer who has people and car aggression , I am amazed ! We are going for walks , he is calm and not aggressive. Sure we are a work in progress , but now I have confidence in my dog and building confidence in myself as a handler thanks to the skills learned at Tecla's. We had our first Vet visit that went so well I wished I had taken a video so his handler could have seen. My dog laid on the floor relaxed and allowed a full exam to be performed ( first time ever ) . I was impressed that training is customized and revised whenever needed. My dog loves all the staff at Tecla's . read more

I first came to Teclas's K-9 Academy for Puppy Class, but I soon found myself becoming a Doggie Day Care customer as well! My puppy Lily, who is currently recovering from her spay and CANNOT wait to go back, is very clearly cared for and loved there. Whenever we go in, Lily is always recognized by name by the workers (which is impressive, seeing as there are a lot of dogs that attend!) Tecla herself took the time to help Lily become a better socialized puppy and for that we are very grateful! We cannot wait to attend more classes and continue with day care. Highly recommended! read more

Do NOT bring your pet here!! I used to work here, & quit only after 3 months. They spray your dogs with vinegar, whip them with horse whips, & waterboard them if they bark too much! This place traumatized me so bad I can no longer work with animals. They will put 50+ dogs in one big room and not even let them play or sniff one another without whipping them or spraying them. Lots of dog fights happen as well, & they will not call the owner right away but instead try to hide anything happened then lie to the owners. Please be careful bringing your pet here! read more

I can't say enough about how kind and professional Tecla and her staff are. We have been going to Tecla's for training, daycare, nosework and boarding. I wouldn't trust any other training center. My dog is a GSD and many places wouldn't even consider taking him into their centers. Tecla and her staff didn't blink an eye. Preston goes to daycare at least once a week for socialization and he gets very excited when we pull up to the center. We feel fortunate to have found Tecla's and will continue to go to her center for any of our dogs. read more

We previously had our "dog reactive" German Shepherd at 2 other training facilities- each used different training techniques, with no success. Since consistently practicing the techniques and procedures we've learned at Tecla's K9 Academy, our GSD is incredibly easier to handle around other dogs. We're delighted, and feel that Tecla's classes and her canine insight are absolutely worth our 50 mile round trip from Olney! BTW- we've also had excellent dog boarding experience at T-K9. read more

My dog is 14, and I board her at Tecla's because of the care and attention to detail that she receives. I learned a great deal on how to handle my dog's separation anxiety when she went through training there at a younger age, and being a rescue she needed crate-trained. Tecla was so helpful with her recommendations and guidance to ensure my dog's stability and happiness. Whether it's diet or training or expertise, Tecla has been the most reliable source for my dog's well-being. read more

I have two furbabies. I am a bit over the top with them. Oreo complete a 3 week board and train package. I was impressed with her progress. I was also impressed with the communication from the trainers and staff. I plan to board Oreo and Razzles for the holiday. They attended a full day of daycare so they can be group appropriately. I know they enjoyed themselves because the slept all evening. I highly recommend TK-9. read more

We have been customers of TK-9 since our dog was a puppy. Oakley went through boot camp and we have boarded her there several times a year when we are out of town. She also occasionally attends daycare. Oakley is always excited to go and eagerly goes with the staff. The staff is professional and friendly and always greet Oakley with warmth I never have to worry about her while we are away since I know she is well cared for read more

Always a great experience at Teclas. My dog has been coming here since she was a puppy a few years ago and can't wait to get inside to play with the other dogs each and every time we go. Staff is great with dogs and polite and helpful. Love that they post pics everyday so you can check on them while you are out of town. Pick up was easy and she was happy and clean :) Will be back read more

I can't say enough good things about Tecla's K-9 Academy. My dog goes to daycare and boards too. It is his second home. The staff are awesome and truly have a special bond with my dog. I think he's the most excited dog to arrive and I know he's disappointed when he leaves. It's worth the 45 minute drive and tunnel toll fees for us to get there. Please keep up the good work! read more