About a year ago, we took our puppy Milo in for a consultation. Something happened to him when he was a pup and he did not like people or other dogs. He was only a few months old at the time and he lashed out at anything or anyone besides me an his mom. We were told by someone who worked here (I don't remember his name but remember he had a slice of pizza tattooed on his arm) that if we didn't give them 5k and leave our dog for a few weeks, then our dog would be euthanized within a year. Anything other than the 5k service would "be a waste of his time and ours". We left that day and his mom (my gf) was in tears. We just couldn't afford it and felt completely helpless that day because we just couldn't do the service. Welp, it's been a year since that consultation and happy to say Milo is not only still alive, but has made incredible progress. He has even made a few new friends the last few months (both dog and people). Fear mongering a young couple who just wanted to take in this dog was so wrong. They left us feeling devastated. If we can train our dog ourselves, then most other people can to. Please consider this before giving in to this company. read more

Absolute K-9 - Milo - Pet Training Near Me - San Diego, California

The staff repeatedly told me they gave Mike my information and I'd get a call back regarding Schutzhund training. That was in November. I guess my green isn't as precious as some football star's green. Although, Schutzhund training would probably cost about 20x what basic bootcamp costs. Oh well. You're loss. This kind of brush off doesn't inspire confidence. Seems, actually, pretty arrogant. read more

My dog Oliver just got out of a 4-week training with E-Collar included. I am absolutely blown away. Before he went in for his training on walks he would get very leash aggressive and I had to cross over to the other side of the street or find a way to get away from other dogs, and even still it didn't help all that much... but after training, Oliver has been amazing! Sophira was Oliver's trainer, and now Oliver is walking right on my hip, he ignores other dogs on the road, and has a plethora of other commands that come in super handy! WORTH EVERY PENNY! Thank you so much Sophira! read more

If I could give this place no stars I would. Staff is nice but the trainers never call you back. It's been 2 weeks and I've been constantly calling them to remind them to have Mike call me, but he never does. They would give me a time when he would call me and say they put my on his schedule but that's all BS. I take time out of my day waiting for a call and he never calls. read more

I've been taking my puppy here ever since she was 9ish weeks old. We signed up for the "puppy boot canp" which is a 3 week course and we got puppy classes until she was old enough to go the boot camp ( which is what she is currently doing). When lena and I met up for our first session we learned so much. My puppy was sitting by command the next day! Lena is awesome and I'm so glad that shes the one training our precious puppy! Thank you lena for everything your doing! read more

I have had 3 dogs trained by Absolute K-9 over the last 12 years. Gemma, my 14 month old Doberman was the latest to go through the 8 week in-kennel training. David is her trainer and he is fabulous! When I came to pick Gemma up to go home, the bond they had was so obvious and heartwarming to see. She adored him and vice-versa. She worked well for him and enjoyed every moment. Gemma was in control, had boundaries & manners . She had been taught well which was no surprise since my other 2 Dobies had been trained by Absolute K9 years ago. I knew I was the one at this point who needed a refresher course in handling Gemma and David has been helping me in our follow-up classes. Gemma won't ever forget her training and it's important that I know how to follow through on what she's been taught. David did a home visit to see how things were doing in Gemma's own environment which was very helpful! I am very happy with Gemma's training and where she is today. I couldn't have done it without David & Absolute K9! In addition to the amazing training available, the Snug Pet Resort is gorgeous! Everyone was nice and helpful. Climate controlled and a beautiful new facility with an on staff veterinarian and groomer. All these great things at one place!!! read more

Absolute K-9 - David & Gemma - Pet Training Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

David trained our Goldendoodle, Rocky, in the 2-week camp. David is amazing!! Rocky still has his fun, wild, puppy personality. But he knows his commands now, and he listens. Our house is definitely less chaotic (better overall manners). David's follow-up lessons are helping us be better pet parents. We definitely recommend this program and especially David. read more

See all

If your dog needs training, Absolute K-9 should be your first call. My bull terrier, Morty, was about 5-6 months when he started showing signs of aggression towards other dogs and people other than a handful of people that he likes. I spent so much time, money, and effort searching for dog trainers to help my puppy, but nobody was up to the task. When my puppy's problems escalated, I knew it was time to bring in the big guns. I scheduled an appointment to meet with Toni and she got me in immediately to gauge Morty's issues. We then met with David and Michael briefly - little did we know that David and Michael would become Morty's best friends. We signed Morty up for the 8-10 week bootcamp. It was worth every penny. During the 10 weeks that Morty was with David and Michael, we received pictures of Morty weekly and would receive weekly updates. Finally, Morty was ready to come home. My boyfriend and I waited inside the facility while David did a little demonstration with Morty outside - on/off leash. We were shocked at the progress. We received our first training session that afternoon and took our puppy home where we continued the training. Following the 10 week program, we had private lessons with David and Michael, where we would develop our training skills. As of this review, we have finished out private lessons and regularly keep in touch with David. Our family and friends have even began to sign up their pups for training with Absolute K-9. I cannot say enough positive things about my experience with David, Michael, and the entire Absolute K-9 and SNUG staff. They have absolutely changed our life. As for Morty- he listens to everything we say. If we see that he's about to start barking at another dog, we say "leave it" and he just keeps on walking with us. Like I said before, the training was worth every penny. read more

So my experience wasn't the greatest - but I was refunded. I won't get into details. But the place is clean and most of the staff are willing to help you. Always different faces so they hardly remembered me or got my name correct - including my coach. I recommend going to different places and meet the trainers and owner if they are actually going to be the coach and set expectations. It helps when they go on some kind of drug binge and text you non sense for 4 days. read more

Unprofessional and they don't have any regard for people's time. I made an appointment mid week for 12pm Sunday and confirmed my time twice. I also asked how long the consult would take as I had other things to get to. Upon arrival I was told that my appointment was at 1 so I showed them my confirmation. Someone came out to address the time mix up she told me the trainer was at lunch and she would see IF she could get someone there and to have a seat. She came back out 5 minutes later but didn't acknowledge me, let me know a wait time, or ask if I could wait. I waited for 15 minutes before finally asking if I would be able to get in before 1 as they didn't let me know whether or not the trainer would be back before then. The receptionist said he was "on his way back", didnt give a time estimate or anything. read more

The owners contacted me after I wrote this review and asked if it would be possible to have me train with Mike Stone. Since I wanted what's best for my dog, not a refund, I agreed. My experience with Mike has been exceedingly better than with the previous trainer (who no longer works there). I am seeing the progress I hoped for with both myself and my dog. Mike definitely knows what he's doing and it shows in the types of training he is providing. He has implemented a more advanced training which is what she needed because of her aggressive tendencies. I can see a marked difference in her behavior and I have more confidence and control with her (almost can walk her without a muzzle). We are still working with her but I wanted to update my review accordingly since they have gone out of their way to make things right. read more

We recently had our two girls at Absolute K9/Snug for 8+ weeks of training, what we called "Doggy Boot Camp". And WOW! What a difference! The dogs we dropped off were skittish, incessantly barky, jumped nonstop, and just WILD. After training, not only are our girls more confident and relaxed in public, but they actually LISTEN to us! I read a prior review and was shocked to read that trainers were supposedly violent with the animals; Shannon trained our girls and was incredible. She was gentle but firm with them, and was patient with us when sharing her training techniques with us. Our dogs didn't come back scarred, emotionally or physically; rather, they came back as freaking super-stars! Completely different dogs! Happy and I can actually walk them down the street without them pulling my arm off (not that I'd have to, because they're off-leash trained). I could rave for pages about the training they offer here. We are so glad we decided to have our girls trained here. We are looking forward to our follow-up training sessions. =) read more

We adopted a wonderful dog from the shelter who just needed to work on his leash manners and his attitude towards other dogs. We left him with the boarding training while we were on vacation and when we picked him up he was perfectly trained. He is so much better with other dogs now and a perfect gentleman when we take him anywhere. Our trainer Dave was amazing with our follow up and had the best relationship with hoku. He really helped us figure out what was best for our pup. Thank you Dave & absolute k9!! read more

Absolute K-9 - Pet Training Near Me - San Diego, California

We recently had our standard poodle trained by Mason at Snug/Absolute K-9, and he came home a wonderfully trained, in-control, and respectful dog. Thank you, Mason! He stayed 2.5 weeks while we were on vacation, and when we picked him up, Mason took us through the training protocols and expectations. We've had a few follow-ups that are included in the training fees. Toby can sit, stay, lay down and go to "bed" at command. We now have these options for us instead of the the obnoxious jumping/excited peeing that used to occur whenever someone walked through the front door. Of course, this requires some training on the "people" end of things as well! Thanks Snug/Absolute K-9 and Mason for your work and guidance! We appreciate it, and so does Toby (who LOOVVVVES Mason!). read more

We brought two of our dogs to Absolute K9 for training a few years ago. From our first meeting with Toni, we knew we were in good hands. I'll admit that I'm a neurotic dog mom - I worry about my dogs to the point where I'm sure I'm making them neurotic, too. : ) As a result, they were a bit high strung and not as well behaved as they should have been. Toni worked with our dogs as well as with us and taught us how to be the leader of the pack. Once I realized that it was okay for me to be in charge, our life with our dogs became so much more relaxed and enjoyable. We were able to take them out in public and they were so well behaved. It was a complete turnaround from how they had been before. To this day, all of my dogs love to see Toni, and if we ever need a tune-up, we know where to go. read more

Lena was wonderful and helped me out with by bull terrors basic obedience and dog aggression/dominance issues. She continues to be a resource even outside boot camp. Thank you again! read more

First, this "company" is really just Snug Pet Resort's dog training (take a look at their reviews). When you call, they answer the phone saysing "Snug Pet Resort" and when you go there everything says "Snug Pet Resort". Nowhere do you see signs for Absolute K-9". Second, I went for a consultation/evaluation of my dog, which they insisted on before making a recommendation. All Nicole did was talk with me and they said that my dog required one on one training and would work with me. Meanwhile my dog was walking around her office scared to death and then jumped in my lap (for the first time) for security. She proceed to tell me for the training to work I had to blinding following everything they told me and that my issues with her barking at strangers was due to my letting her sleep in my bed. What a crock! If that was the case, every dog in America would be barking at strangers all the time. I go back to my first point, there has to be a reason they are listed on yelp and have a second website with another company name, but no where else. FYI - Take the reviews on Snug Pet Resort's section with a grain of salt. When you walk in, there is a sign offering "Free" services to those that give a good review on yelp. If they were that good, they would not need to ask for reviews and/or barter for them. People would give good reviews on their own. read more

I took my chihuahua here that I rescued from a shelter in LA and I just got him back today and he's doing really well. Indy had trouble people, no confidence, zero socialization skills, was scared of everything and the poor guy would shut down all the time and was absolutely terrified of my husband. He wouldn't even let my husband get within 10 feet of him, nor would he eat if he could see my husband. We sent him to Absolute K-9 for a 21 day bootcamp and I'm very pleased with his progress. My husband can walk him on a leash and Indy seems to have gained some confidence. He still has a long way to go but I took him for a short walk tonight and to my surprise he had no issue going potty on our walk (that was an issue for us, he would only go on a pee pad inside). My little man was actually wagging his tail. I feel like he's made a lot of progress. The fact that my husband can interact with him is a huge improvement. I'm excited to see how he continues to improve. Our trainer was Halle and she's amazing. Indy is extremely sensitive to everything and she was able to work with his issues. Based on his behavior I think he came from an extreme neglect situation and was possibly abused and she tailored his sessions to his needs. He needed a slower and gentle touch and she was able to work with him through his trauma. Also when we got him he was on the thin side and I'm super happy that he was able to put on some weight while he was there. She got him to socialize with people and other animals, and she taught us what to do to help him when he gets overwhelmed and shuts down. I'm confident now that we have the tools to help him. read more

We dropped our Portuguese Water dog off for training, not knowing what results to really expect. Lena worked wonders with our little guy Grant! She helped us in ways I could never imagine! Grant loves to hear he's a good boy, now he has the tools and skills to increase his good boy track record. The best part, Grant is just excited to see her during our post training visits as we are! Thanks Lena! read more

Absolutely horrid experience. We were trying to get in touch with the trainer for a week to get our deaf dog in training. We call leave a message and are told always some one will get back to you asap. This went on for a week. But absolutely no one gets back to you. I understand they have high profile clients, but blowing off potential customers... horrible. read more

Absolute K9 and our trainer David did an exceptional job. If you're not completely satisfied with your dog's behavior do yourself a favor and try one-on-one professional training at Absolute K9. After a few lessons you'll wonder why you hadn't a long time ago. I brought my five year old Belgian Malinois Sasha to David because even after three years together she was still struggling with issues and I felt like I wasn't able to get through to her. I had sent her to boot camp several times and tried teaching her myself, but ultimately the problem was with me - I needed someone to show me exactly what I was doing/not doing that was leading to her behavior issues. David did exactly that. We worked through basic obedience commands and David fine tuned me so that Sasha and I were working together. Through that process I learned not just the specific obedience skills, but also a much broader understanding of how to interact with my dog and teach her anything. Training sessions are short, simple, and efficient. If you take the things you work on in class and practice for a half hour a day with your dog you will see a huge change in behavior. In the past it took Sasha a few days to understand what I wanted from her, but now I can teach her a new skill in under an hour. She understands what I'm asking and she's more in tune with me and ready to please. I no longer have to plot ways to tire Sasha out so that she'll behave - she's just as satisfied with a half hour of mental stimulation as she ever was with an hour of running. I just completed my 8th and final one-on-one lesson with David, and I couldn't be happier with Sasha and our newfound relationship. I would be happy if thats all I got for my money BUT I still get a bonus 10 group lessons on top of that. I'm excited to see continued development, and I'm sure I'll come back to David in the future if I ever need additional help training Sasha. read more

It's absolutely disheartening to see how Absolute K9 has prospered over the years after grabbing onto some celebrity coat tails and that the same complaints still surface. In my opinion they don't care about animals and don't know the meaning of "pet." Don't EVER leave your pet for in-kennel training there. In fact, I would never leave my pet alone with them period! Any reputable kennel makes you send proof of up-to-date vaccinations before even attempting to walk your pet through the door, it's all about the money. I know this is long, but if you have a pet that you love and that is a member of your family think twice about subjecting your pet to this place. Here's an excerpt from a letter threatening legal action that prompted a refund. I was promised help with socializing my German Shepherd who had already been obedience trained but what I think they did was let him 'stew' alone in a kennel for over a week, then let him out and showed him who was "boss." "Dear Mike: ... I expressed concern when you still suggested in-kennel training stating that I needed just as much training as the dog and I didn't "believe" in in-kennel training. You assured me that in-kennel training was the best thing for him and that it would save me money by helping you and the other trainers get familiar with the dog. You assured me that when he came back you would assist me at public places with other dogs for "as long as it takes". To date I have just been invited to attend group obedience classes with your other clients where socialization is not permitted. On two occasions when I expressed concern over progress, you came to my house and spent not more than 15 minutes during each visit watching me work the dog at obedience. Not only have I acquired a negative and uncomfortable feeling about the whole situation, I have very serious concerns about the safety and humane treatment of my dog at Absolute K9 considering: * I was not allowed to check on him during in-kennel training. * He came back with what looked like nickel-sized shaved spots in the exact same place on both legs. The hair is still in the process of growing back.. Was he forced to stay in a cage that was too small? Or worse, was that the result of a cruel training method? * You pounded him on the head when he didn't respond quickly enough and encouraged me to do the same. * I watched you swing a small dog around in circles, hung by the neck for misbehaving. There must be a more humane method than that. * My dog is the only one that you greet cautiously with "you be nice to me and I'll be nice to you". I'm not sure what that means exactly, but it sounds as if there was some type of altercation. * He was attacked without provocation by one of your dogs at class, which easily could have been my leg the dog sunk his teeth into. In fact I question why you would sell an aggressive Rottweiler to an older couple. The dog had an electronic collar on him but the owner abandoned the remote. * After the attack, no one returned my phone call for advice on what to do for the wound. Only after I called again a week later did Toni express concern after finding out it was one of your dogs that attacked him. * A dog that is extremely comfortable around and undaunted by humans is noticeably uncomfortable and tense with your presence. I have had my dog for 3 years and my opinion and assumed ability to read and understand my dog should have some merit. If you were not going to provide the exact services that I requested, whether it be because you don't offer those particular services or your philosophy didn't agree with my request, you should not have taken my money and worked with my dog. I also made it clear during the first interview that I do not hit or yell at my dog, nor did I ever play tug of war or other acts that might promote aggressive behavior. If your training consisted of other means, then I should have been told up front. From the evidence that has surfaced over the last couple months, it is obvious that the only thing my dog was taught was strict obedience by avoiding pain. " read more

Where to even start. I brought my dog Boo Radley here truly out of desperation. I adopted a sweet silly puppy who one day decided that all people were evil. He became increasingly aggressive to most strangers; lunging, barking, trying to bite. I tried pretty much every thing to help him control his fear and anxiety and nothing was working. It was like I was a hostage in my own home. Even short walks around the neighborhood became hard to do. I was so anxious and afraid he was gonna attack someone. I even thought about re homing Boo. Well I sent him to absolute k9 for their 21 day boot camp, when all was said and done I got a COMPLETELY different dog back. He is so much calmer and easier to manage. He can be around strangers without trying to attack. While he was away he worked with a variety of trainers, but fell in love with Amanda. Absolute K9 sets your dog up for success and then they train you. I've learned so much since getting Boo back home. Amanda has continued to work with me and Boo so that he can continue to be the best dog. When things were really bad with Boo Radley I would often wish I could just start over with a new dog, a clean slate. That's exactly what Amanda and absolute K9 gave me; a fresh start with my dog. Our owner/ pet relationship improved. Best money I've spent on my dog so far. So thankful I made this commitment! read more

I have been training with David for about a year now and every class there is something new to learn. My 2 year old German Shepard was very aggressive when he first came to snug. We got 10 private lessons with David and each class we worked on something different. He will teach you how to be the leader of your dog. If you need guidance then David is definitely the trainer for you. He also does all the group classes!! read more

David was our trainer for Zeus and WHAT A DIFFERENCE. Zeus was the dog from Marley and me.... I was at the end of my patience with him. David did such a great job training him. He actually listens now! What was really nice was after we got home with him, David was readily available to answer any questions we had. If you can ask specifically for him, you won't be disappointed! read more

I brought my German Shepherd puppy to Absolute K-9 because he was showing signs of being timid and lacking self confidence. They recommended the 21 day camp and I have to admit I wasn't sure it would benefit my 5 month old puppy. I met with the trainer David Culp a couple of times for evaluation and some training before the 21 day camp. David was very helpful in educating me on what my puppy would need to improve his behavior. After the 21 day camp, I was very pleased at what David and the Absolute K-9 team had accomplished. My dog returned home with a new confidence along with basic training commands. I'm very satisfied with the training they provided. Thank you David Culp and Absolute K-9!! read more

I adopted a 90lb German Shepard, a sweet girl, yet very protective over me. I signed up for there 3 week training. I had a hard time leaving her, but my trainer Braelyn was absolutely wonderful. She would call me every week and answered my emails if I had any questions. My dog now is now doing wonderful, she loves other people and has stopped many of her bad behaviors. I never new how anxious she was before I took her. Braelyn did miracles with Samantha and with me. Braelyn took the time to train me as well. I can't say enough good things about Braelyn and the great care Samantha received while staying at Absolute K9. If you are looking for an excellent trainer call and ask for Braelyn. read more