Don is a really gifted trainer that takes his craft seriously and it shows! Both of my dogs were true rescues. One of them showed up at my boss's house off the streets of Stockton, and my other was pulled out of a dumpster. They clearly had lots of trauma responses for Don to get through. He was so patient with them and was able to teach them that they were safe which corrected all the problem behaviors. They had absolutely no knowledge of commands when they came to us, and now they walk on a leash, behave themselves, and listen like a dream. Don't even bother looking at other options, Don is simply fantastic and gifted at what he does! read more

Our 7 month old golden retriever lab mix was completely out of control. Barking, nipping, jumping and leash pulling. We tried everything we could and all we heard was "she's a lab she'll misbehave until she's 2 years old". We weren't willing to wait that long so we reached out to Don at Wag Time. Within 5 minutes of his first interaction with her she was walking for him without pulling. She would walk, heal, sit and lay down calmly. Don is a genius and a super nice guy that truly cares about working with us and our dog to reach our desired outcome. He's flexible and checks in often offering suggestions and encouragement. We highly recommend Don and Wag Time. read more

We reached out to Wag Time ( Don) as we needed our Husky trained ~ We feel very lucky that we found Don as he has a very wonderful way with dogs. Our girl Luna is on the stubborn side and Don always was very Patient with her. Luna learned a lot from Don & he is very caring to the doggies that he is working with. We highly Recommend Wag Time Dog Training .... should you need A fantastic dog trainer read more

I emailed Don to get some information on dog training, I wanted to get some advice on my dog who is about 10 years old, I was wondering if maybe it was a little to late (with him being 10 years old and all) I thought maybe he was set in his own ways. Don responded very fast and he asked me a few questions about the issues we were having. After about 10-15 minutes not only did he understand but was able to give me a stratigect plan that work for us. I knew I called the right guy right away, when he arrived the day of our appointment, he was everything and more than we expected. To sum it up, Don has knowledge and skills that other dog trainers could only wish they had, and I've seen a few...there are good ones out there, but by far Don is the Best!!! Thanks Don Mike, Dawn and Bre read more

Don is excellent!! He is very patient with your baby and definitely knows his stuff. I liked that he isn't into any type of 'negative or 'electronic training'.... I would refer him read more

Don is excellent at what he does, he understands animals on a different level. He is also is just a good man all around, very flexible and professional. Highly recommend using him for your training needs. read more

Don is the best in the business!!! He is patient, communicative and professional throughout the process. We love Don's approach to leash training vs treat training in addition to the love he has for our dogs. We have a 2.5 year old mini golden doodle and a 1 year old aussie doodle. Both trained by Don. I have no idea why we would try to train our aussie doodle by ourselves and at Petsmart. Our failures led us back to Don and we are so thankful for him. One of the best parts about training with Don is that we can always go back if and when needed. We travel a lot and Don has taught us that the dogs never unlearn what they've been taught. Sometimes, they simply need a refresher to dial them back in. Thanks Don for everything! Cali and Blue miss you. read more

Don is a fantastic dog trainer. Professional, patient with dogs and their parents, generous with his time, and flexible. Our Airedale had major behavioral problems - barking when anyone knocked at the door, pulling on leash, etc. He helped to solve those problems for us with techniques that are firm, but gentle with our dog. Would highly recommend to anyone. read more

My experience with Don helping me with my 10 year old miniature Cockapoo and newly rescued 2 year old Havenese has been excellent! The two pups got along great but the new one was very nervous on walks and barked and chased anything which caused my little one to want to do the same. Walks became a choir and no fun. Don came in and immediately got them under control, but Lulu (Havenese) was stubborn. Don made the suggestions that helped me become a better leader for my girls and now the walks are like night and day. Now I enjoy the walks instead of dreading it. These pups are just as much of a joy outside as they are inside. Don did a great job not only training the dogs, but teaching me how to keep the trading going. Thank you so much Don for all the help and showing my girls so such love and support as well. read more

We have been working with Don the last few months and it has been truly amazing. Our 1 1/2 year old Labradoodle was very excitable and Don has helped us to get him to calm down when greeting people and all of the basic commands that are necessary to make a well mannered dog. Don is very flexible and he always makes sure that we understand what he is doing so that we can help our dog be a good citizen. I can't recommend his services enough. Thank you Don! read more

Roxy is a 8.5 year old Pom-Chi mix. You would think that after all that time of her being the only child, she would be set in her ways....but Don proved us wrong! We can now successfully take her for (ENJOYABLE) walks on the leash with the stroller, her sit, stay and heel commands are almost spot on, and she's overall become a much better member of our family. Don is incredibly patient, kind, and loves what he does. He came to our home for a handful of the sessions while we worked on some basics, and then we ventured to the park where she learned to listen even with distractions, and other dogs (10 times her size-no exaggeration)! I highly recommend Don and Wagtime training. He communicated and confirmed appointments, was professional, and has become a friend of our little family. He gave me my dog back, and an even better version! It's Don's hard work with our family that made it possible for us to keep Roxy as a part of our family. Try him out---you'll be convinced after your first appointment, you'll see what he can do, and stick it out through the lessons, you'll be glad you did. read more

I absolutely give Don a 5 star - his training is so good and we have definitely seen a change in Sophia - we saw it after the 1st training and it only gets better. I am also learning more about her - I didn't realize that she is the dominant one! So if a dog tries to display dominance - there is a hassle - this is so important when I am around other dogs with her. read more

Wag Time Dog Training - This is Sophia after her training with Don - she was one pooped out puppy! - Pet Training Near Me - Antelope, California

We have been working with Don for several months with our German Shepherd puppy and we are gaining new skills and confidence with each training session. Don is very professional and insightful and gives important feedback to me and my husband to help us reach our dog owner goals. I highly recommend Don and consider this an investment that will last a lifetime. Liz Coveau read more

"Your dog is so sweet!" We hear this compliment so often. Every time we do, I tell people it is because we have an amazing dog trainer! Don worked with us from the moment we brought our energetic puppy home and helped us train him into the sweet 1 yr old he is today. It's not by accident that our lab that doesn't jump, bite or destroy things. His good behavior is thanks to the valuable training by Don. He invests himself in his clients and makes himself available for quick help between appointments. He truly loves the dogs ( and they love him). And he is the kind of guy you feel totally comfortable inviting into your home and family! Thanks Don! read more

You can't find a better dog trainer than Don! He takes the time to understand your fur babies and address your questions or problems. We felt like we had known him for years the first day he came to our home. We tried a previous dog trainer, well known on television, prior to Don but didn't feel the love that Don shared with our dogs. Also, he makes sure you are comfortable moving on with him after a few visits. He won't take your money and run! I recommend Don and wouldn't look any further. Don't waste your money on high advertised pet training when you have all the love and care you need with Don! Debbie N. read more

Don was a lifesaver, helping us with our very strong and energetic lab-mix "Bo". He would pull so hard on the leash that I was afraid to let my petite wife walk him. What a difference Don's training made! We can both enjoyably walk "Bo", and we now have the knowledge and tools to deal with his occasional excitement with new dogs/cats/people. We found Don to be friendly, accommodating, and respectful. Thanks Don, it was money well spent! We love our well behaved dog! read more

Wag Time Dog Training - Our dog "Bo" - Pet Training Near Me - Antelope, California

Don at Wag Time Dog Training did an excellent job with my dog. We were having problems with Murphy being aggressive with other dogs and barking. After a few sessions with Don, we are seeing some great changes. My wife and I are having a much easier time with him and are actually enjoying taking him for walks around the neighborhood. If you are having problems with your dog, I would recommend giving Don a call. read more

Wag Time Dog Training - Wag Time Dog Training, Don Kirkish - Pet Training Near Me - Antelope, California

Don K., owner and trainer of Wag Time is the real deal. We started using Don to help us train our then 1 year old Great Dane (Bentley) 1 1/2 years ago. Over that period of time Don has been thoughtful, responsive and unbelievably talented in training not only Bentley, but us, as well. Don met us at our home in Sacramento repeatedly as well as at restaurants, parks and even in San Francisco to allow for more social experiences for Bentley. I have recommended Wag Time to multiple friends and will continue to do so. We got more than our money's worth in hiring Don from Wag Time Dog Training. read more

We trained with Don from July through October 2018. Just needed to give him another shout out for the tremendous difference he has made in the life of our pup and us! She's not perfect, but neither are we! But we have the tools to help her on walks around other dogs, to reduce barking and coming when called, and she is happier and so are we! Don is patient and consistent. His techniques are winners! Wish we'd found him sooner!! read more

I felt that it was a terrible choice to hire this trainer. He did not do much but walk the dog with the leash around and talk to her in a stern voice. He also did not help me very much. He kind of disappeared after 8 to 9 sessions. we had to pay up front for the whole well over one grand That was a bad investment. I am not sure all the positive reviews are true on here-maybe I just had a bad experience with him. read more

Great place to bring your dog for training,very helpful and skilled people .They gave me some advices how to take care and train my poppy. Very pleased with service and recommend to everyone! read more

I have had the pleasure of working with Don to train my young cockapoo. His work with my dog (and I) has made a huge difference in my ability to manage my dog. As other reviewers have said, he teaches you the basics and more importantly gives you the tools to continue to teach your dog yourself. Don is very flexible with scheduling, and overall just really great to work with. I highly recommend Wag Time! read more

My wife has already posted how good Don is with our little Peanut, but I just wanted to add that I think it is above and beyond the call of duty, that he follows up with us to make sure all is well, and says to call him any time if we have an issue. Exceptional caring! read more

He came to our home for a intro. He was so helpful he wasn't pushy to make a sale, he has a genuine passion for dogs and helping people. He made us feel very calm about the training process.i gave only 5 starts only because I can't give any more ! read more

Don is fantastic! He has a Caesar Milan aura about him that is soothing yet direct. Dogs love him and so do their owners! I would highly recommend Wag Time to anyone who has even the slightest issue or quirkiness with their dogs. Small issue become big ones quickly and Don even points out the small issues that you may not even catch. read more

Don is a great trainer! I called him when my puppy was 4 months old because I knew I didn't want to have to break any bad habits I may create! Don is patient and kind with my little Olive. And she loves him to see him. She is picking up the commands quickly and the best part is that it is all done without using treats! So glad I found him! read more

Where to begin...The first lesson was so impressive we knew we had found the right trainer. Don worked great with us and our little Watson. He's easy to communicate with, flexible and very helpful. You'll be glad you made the investment. Hire Don. Just do it. You'll be glad you did. read more

Even before the consultation, Don took time to speak with me over the phone getting to know my dog's problems and needs. He was able to have her follow his commands after just a brief introduction and took his time doing a thorough consultation. Thank you Don! read more

Don is amazing! I had an 8 month old pit bull/husky mix that was CRAZY. She was a rescue and never really got any attention or training at the shelter, not even house broken-- she'd also bite when she got really happy. After lessons with don she can sit, stay, come, lay down, and heel. He also gives you lots of tools to continue teaching, I used those to teach her up (like into the car), shake, and beg. She is much better behaved now in public and in the car, she no longer pulls on her leash while walking at all. 100% would recommend to everyone with an untrained dog read more

We have a dog that was out of control and had even bitten people. She was the type who is scared and over-protective of us. We couldn't even walk her by other dogs without her lunging. She would try to chase bikers and scooters. Don has come in, and in a matter of 6 weeks has turned her around! We feel his help has been nothing short of miraculous! We've gotten the tools and techniques we need to manage her and provide a safe environment. She is so much happier and so are we! Don is the BEST. Look NO FURTHER!!! Debi D read more

Wag Time Dog Training provides excellent dog training services in the Sacramento and Roseville areas. Don is a great dog trainer and is someone you can trust and rely on to teach you and your dog how to work together. He makes it fun and enjoyable. read more

Don went out of his way to offer his services to my family before we moved abroad. He was very good with our 4 month old mini Aussie and you can tell that he genuinely loves dogs and wants to help them/us. It was very easy to make appointments and its very nice that he comes right to your house! Our pup does very well walking now! read more

I highly recommend Don as a dog trainer! We are so happy with the results. We adopted a 3 month old lab mix from the SPCA back in September. For 2 weeks I was ready to give him back because of his biting behavior. Luckily a friend recommended Don, and I am so happy she did! In our first consultation I could see that our puppy wanted to please and had so much potential with the right training. We've been working with Don for over 3 months now, and our puppy is doing so well! Don has been very flexible in scheduling training sessions, and I love that he comes to our house so our kids are involved in the training as needed. He's also willing to meet at other locations to introduce the dog to new environments. I will always be grateful that we found Don, and now we have a well behaved dog who is a great addition to our family! read more

Our pit/lab pulled like a tractor when leashed for a walk and would take us for a walk. We called Wag Time and within minutes Don showed us how to work with and walk our dog. It was amazing how fast Don was able to transform our dog walks from an arduous task to a pleasant activity. Later, we decided to add another pit mix to our family but were unsure if it was possible because our dog was aggressive to all others. We called Don and he worked with us on how to introduce the dogs. We followed Don's regimen and three days later the dogs are inseparable. Don is a natural with dogs and will teach you how to make you and your pet a better combination. Highly recommended. D & B, Granite Bay read more

my wife and i were going to get rid of are new pit bull pup but don came and saved the day now are puppy is house trained walks and heals like a good girl she still a puppy but a good puppy cona and her family thanks don for saving her a trip to the pound read more

Me wife, three dogs and I just met Don yesterday. Within minutes Don had control of our two German shepherds and 12 y/o Boston terrier. Don puts both dogs and owners at ease and without the use of prong collars and/or shock "e" collars. After just the introduction I can now walk my German shepherds without constant pulling, it was like walking a different dog. We plan to start Don's program within the week and in fact cancelled all the other consultations after meeting him. I will update our progress! read more

We just signed up and I love that Don comes to the house so the whole family learns AND it is not treat or clicker motivated. The verbal commands make so much more sense and we have already seen an improvement with our dog. read more

Don is an excellent trainer for dogs of all ages. We hired him to train our yorkie/maltese puppy. He was extremely gentle with her and very efficient at what he does. We were shown a new way of dog training that is very positive and enjoyable. I have seen dog trainers in the past that I felt were negative and inappropriate. Thank you Don for what you do and teaching us your positive training method. read more

I worked with Don for a year opting for beginner and advanced training of our Aussie-Doodle, and we saw immediate improvement in our puppy's behavior from the very first session. There are not enough words to describe how wonderful our experience with Don has been. Don is an advocate for and trains utilizing positive reinforcement methods. Don is down-to-earth, extremely professional, and has a kind and gentle disposition with my baby puppy. We opted for Don's extended package because of the unique traits of our breed and it has been an awesome and wonderful experience. I highly recommend Don, he clearly loves what he does and is the best in his profession! read more

Our family had an exceptionally wonderful experience with Don. We learned as much as our little Snoopy did! Don is patient, kind, friendly and very professional. He came to our home and made dog training an enjoyable activity for all of us. His love of dogs is clear in his demeanor and instruction. Snoopy is so much more manageable now and he really does respond! This was definitely an excellent investment in our happy lifestyle. We highly recommend Don! read more