From "Cujo Junior" to "Polite Gentleman" -- Thanks to Mike! If you've ever adopted a 4-month-old Schnauzer who treats every living being like a personal insult, you know our pain. Our pup, Diego, didn't just bark; he acted like he was auditioning for a lead role in a horror movie. Walks? Impossible. Visitors? Forget about it. Even our long-time pet sitter--a woman who has survived literal wolves--couldn't go near him without fear. . Our first trainer took one look at him and basically told us we'd adopted a tiny, bearded landmine. She called him "one of the most reactive dogs she'd ever met" and gave us the kind of "good luck" that usually precedes a disaster movie. Enter Mike Hatjes from Bay Area Dog Training. We found Mike on Yelp, and honestly, we were just looking for a miracle. Mike is a unique breed himself: he's incredibly direct (no sugar-coating the fact that your dog thinks he's the CEO of Chaos) but also hilarious. He balances that "tell-it-like-it-is" energy with a sense of humor that kept us from losing our minds. The Transformation Timeline: * The Private Lesson Phase (8 Sessions): We went from "we can't leave the house" to "wait, is he actually sitting on command?" By the end of our eight private lessons, we were taking regular walks. My blood pressure dropped, and Diego actually started building confidence instead of seeing every mailbox as a mortal enemy. * The Group Lesson Phase (The Real Magic): If you told me six months ago my dog would be in a group with 10 other dogs, I would have assumed there'd be a SWAT team involved. But Mike's group lessons are shockingly amazing. Seeing my dog hold a "down" in a row of 10 dogs while each one weaves through the line? It's practically a glitch in the Matrix. The Verdict: Mike didn't just train our dog; he gave us our lives back. We can do family trips, have friends over, and walk down the street without looking like we're wrestling a caffeinated alligator. If you have a dog that makes other trainers cry, call Mike. He'll tell you the truth, make you laugh, and turn your "unbelievable" nightmare into a well-behaved companion. read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Look at them! It's a peaceful stroll through the park. Mike didn't just help us train Diego; he made it so our kids could handle him. - Pet Training Near Me

When we first got our dog, a 4-year-old Jindo from Korea, he had a stubborn prey drive and would pull on the leash hard enough to drag me to the ground. He was also very reactive to other people and dogs. Mike taught me to watch my dog for cues and to communicate with him. After 7 private lessons and two months of weekly group classes, my dog is now a well-behaved walking buddy (most of the time). Thanks, Mike! read more

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My husband and I adopted a 9-month old small mixed breed. We named him "Mani", which means "Gem".  He was a gem of a guy the first week after which he tore his veil of innocence. He was stubborn, very high energy, ate stones and bird poop, anxious, wasn't confident around dogs, resource guarded and barked constantly when there were people at the door. That's when our neighbor casually paid a visit and showed us "bayareadogtraining.com". She vouched for Mike and said that he was a dog whisperer. I filled out the form in their website and Barbara immediately reached out to schedule our first meeting with Mike. We did 8 private sessions and have been continuing with group lessons after that. He taught us and Mani how to fix all our issues. We can't express in words how Mike has helped us in developing a beautiful relationship with Mani.  Mike is an astute observer and tries to develop techniques that are specific to the dog. He is extremely patient in guiding us through the nuances of leash handling and never lets us give up. His magic touch not only makes every dog behave at their best with him but also love him so dearly. He would reiterate the importance of perfect practices. He was and still is a constant pillar of support to us with every new problem that we have gone to him over the past year. In our group classes, Mike handles all complex situations with a great presence of mind. His methods and solutions come from a place of profound understanding of the situation, the dog's persona, our dynamics with the dog and his years of experience with a lot of self-introspection. He would never sugarcoat anything or make false promises. We owe Mike the joys of having a well-behaved and an adorable dog-son. read more

I've been working with Mike since the early 90's! I've trained four dogs, and one in particular was as difficult as they come. Without failure, we've had fantastic outcomes. Pro tip: Try a mix of group and private classes. We've had very high goals, in particular, solid off-leash control and the ability to take the dog virtually everywhere. We constantly receive praise for our dog's behavior and leash work. Mike is a unicorn. read more

Mike is the dog whisperer! My dog showed such a huge change after our first training. I highly recommend this business. read more

I wish that we had found this training service when our Labrador, Soju, was about one year old. Soju is a highly reactive Lab, and he is a muscular 100 pounds. We tried two other training services and achieved nothing. We finally got a business card for Bay Area Dog Training from our veterinarian's office. At three years old he went from extremely aggressive behavior to other dogs and people to obeying commands and behaving even when his coat is bristling. Mike Hatjes is an excellent trainer who also has a strong background in psychology. read more

I was looking around for a good dog trainer and I'm so glad that I found Mike at Bay Area Dog Training. From all the raving reviews, I decided to take Mike's personal sessions for my golden retriever puppy Waffle. Having a well behave dog makes me enjoy my dog even more and I could experience all the fun adventures instead of stressing about my dogs behavior. When we first started, Waffle was going bathroom in the house, bark excessively in the play pen, jumping on people, don't know how to walk on leash, and chasing the house cats. From Mike's training Waffle learned how to behave in a house and he get to roam around freely at just 3-4 months old without having accidents or chewing anything in the house. He also taught us how to walk on loose leash and heel, not jumping, and just overall behavior obedience based on what you want and he can give expert advice on how to correct the behaviors. From correcting Waffle behaviors, he trust me a lot more and is more receptive to other training and just overall became a good boy! He does not use treat for obedience training and is a fair trainer, you get to pick what methods and tools options you want for your dog and Mike will make it happen. I would recommend Mike to anyone that ask me where I get my dog training from and Waffle behaves really well after the trainings. read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me

I would like to start off by saying that I have had two dog trainers try to help my aggressive dog with zero success, and it was not until I worked with Mike, at Bay Area Dog Training, that I finally started to believe he could be helped and progress in the right direction. I have a 150lb Leonberger that was so reactive with other dogs, on or off his leash, that I did not want to take him out of the house. He would bark, pull, and lunge, so much so that I was worried that I would not be able to control him. I went out of my way to try and avoid all dogs, even resorting to hiding behind large trees and bushes, until the other dogs had passed out of our view. That all changed when I started the training sessions with Mike. He came highly recommended by a friend, and I am so thankful that I took the leap to start the training process. Adjustments in behavior take time and effort. I have worked with Mike since 2021 and the techniques that he used with my dog have worked and continue to work. The combination of discipline and praise go a long way in creating a bond with your pet. I think most owners will agree that once the training sessions end, we must continue to work with our pets to reinforce everything that was learned. I now feel confident that when I leave my home with my pup on the leash, that I will be able to have an enjoyable walk rather than a terrible experience. Mike, I cannot thank you enough!! read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me

We had a Bay Area, dog, training to help us with our dog and after after five sessions our dog was cured of her behavioral problem. Mike is wonderful. Patient has a sense of humor and is extremely kind to animals and very loving towards them while he is training them. We would recommend Mike to anyone. read more

We had a wonderful experience with Mike as he helped us to train our Lab Retriever puppy through his 8-course program. We had looked into several dog training companies and professionals, and Mike stood out among them all for his extensive experience, compassion and his true love for dogs that was so evident from the moment we met him. We have a toddler and knowing that our lab puppy would be a big dog and a very energetic one, we needed to make sure they can coexist well and have our puppy be fully acclimated to our family. What a miracle that Mike performed!!! When we first started, our puppy and our toddler could not even be in the same area without my toddler crying or us freaking out. The puppy was so jumpy and way too friendly and energetic. We were worried she could jump on people and unintentionally hurt them so it was important to train her well. By the time we finished his program, not only can our toddler and our puppy coexist, but they also can safely play with one another AND the puppy is well behaved!!! She listens to the commands and knows when not to jump and when to sit and be still. Mike taught us all the right commands and he showed us really great tricks and shared excellent tips as to what we can do in various situations. He is great to work with (plus a good sense of humor!) and he made each training session memorable and fun for us. He was super patient with myself and my wife and answered all of our questions well AND showed us everything we needed to know about our new furry baby. We highly recommend Mike to other fellow dog owners who are looking to train their dogs! We couldn't be happier, and we are thankful for bringing peace and love to our family with this training!!! read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me

We have a new puppy -- Nado, a chocolate lab. Not having grown up with dogs, I did not know how to handle puppy biting, aggressive behavior during walks etc. Also, different members of the family had different ideas on how to train Nado, which made things worse! Just as we were getting to our wits end, we met w Mike. The transformation has been spectacular. We are so grateful. Mike comes across as super strict at the start; and Nado was quite fearful at the start too. But one very quickly learns that his affection for dogs runs deep and his style is very effective. He patiently trained each member of the family; answered endless questions; was available over text / phone for crisis between sessions and so much more. My walks w Nado are now full of joy (vs fear / anxiety); his "sit" and "stay" are beautiful; and he is slowly and surely learning his "down"s, how to be gently with other dogs and on track to be a loving, curious and well behaved adult. Mike comes with our strongest recommendation!! read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me

I can't believe how Michael changed a lot of things in my puppy's behavior in only five private session, I'm super happy with the whole thing and the way he never used any treat or force or starvation technics towards my dog. Seems like this guy can talk with dogs and tell them what to do. Definitely worth the money and the work. Looking forward for more classes for future read more

We've had a great experience with Mike Hatjes of Bay Area Dog Training and highly recommend him. We've been working with Mike for almost fifteen years, starting with two puppies who chewed up furniture and shoes until Mike gave us the tools to teach them not to, and now a trained German Shepherd, who pulled me over on walks until Mike gave me the techniques to work with him. Our dog adores Mike and can't wait to go out for the lessons. It's been transformative. I now feel confident going running with our 85-pound dog and walk him anywhere. Thank you, Mike! read more

Mike Hatjes with Bay Area Dog Training did an excellent job with my rescue dog Ringo's nipping, barking and generally terrible leash walking. He worked with Ringo and also trained me on what to do with him, so I was able to apply it to my other dog as well. I appreciated that the training was conducted without treats or force, using love. I was impressed with how quickly things turned around for Ringo and other people have noticed the difference. I highly recommend Mike and would use him again in a heartbeat. read more

She jumped around like she was from a family of frogs. I was dazzled and happy to be with the class. Our pup was cute and liked to cuddle; but this followed a very independent energetic day. Now 75 lbs. I am grateful for Mike and BADT. His insight and precision are examples of a skilled educator. The lessons we are given are well planned, followed with reinforcement and encouragement from Mike and Emily. It is apparent that Mike has a deep understanding love of dogs with sensitivity for the success of their "people". We have been rewarded with fulfillment and a special bond. read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Now loving bond with energetic independent pup bouncing like frog. Mike's a skilled educator with precision, praise, reinforcement THE BEST - Pet Training Near Me

We are now working with Mike of BADT to train a third dog - going back about 20 years. We even consulted with Mike before adopting a rescue several years ago so we would be aware of the challenges that rescues can have. Not only do we learn to train our dogs well, we love the community of other dogs and dog owners with whom we work each week. Dog class had become a highlight of the week. read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Dogs awaiting commands from their owners. - Pet Training Near Me

Mike is amazing! He changed my life by training me, and my male Havanese, Mojo. Mojo just turned 5 years old and I never left him alone. I only went out when I had a dog sitter. I believe that I had more anxiety about leaving Mojo than Mojo had about being left alone. I highly recommend Mike as a dog trainer. Mike is the Best of the Best!!! read more

I read a review and had to respond I have greyhounds that have been rescued or adopted from a breeder. My aggressive greyhound was transformed from a dog who wanted to attack other dogs or friends that came over to visit, to a loving dog who was able to play with other dogs and be loved by family and friends. All by training coming from Mike. I also have a young greyhound who was scared of everything. I couldn't walk him more than two feet from home before he started shaking and getting diarrhea. Now thanks to Mike, he walks great, we go's downtown Campbell and to other places where he sees lots of people or to the vet and he is fine. My dogs have never been scared of Mike they adore him. When they see him, they can't wait to get his attention. I use the tools he taught me, and my young one gets better and better Thanks, Mike, for everything you do to make our babies better citizens and making us better dog owners. read more

Mike teaches the expectations for good manners without breaking the good-natured spirits all of our dogs have. ------------------------------------------------------------ So...I dropped the ball. This is a long-overdue review, but the proof is in the pudding. Mike's training drastically positively improved our German Shepherd's behavior trajectory. Our family dog is now 4 years of age, and is a joy. But it didn't start out that way until Mike helped our family. The biggest concern we had with Max was that he might hurt our senior dachshunds. Especially as a puppy, everything is a plaything. Mike did an INCREDIBLE job with teaching Max the rules, and as a result, he made the lives of our dachshunds, Hercules and Willie, pleasant through their sunset years until they passed. There is no price for that. I truly believe Mike taught Max how to respect his dachshund elders, and even care and watch out for them. Hercules in his later years got stuck in a ditch in our backyard. Hercle was blind and 16 years of age at the time, and it was raining quite badly. It was a horrible situation for him to be stuck in. When my mom came home, she found Max in that ditch, standing over Hercules as if he were watching over him (literally). Thinking about that situation still brings tears to my eyes. Mike teaches the ropes of good manners without breaking the good-natured spirits all of our dogs have. I am truly grateful for the training we got from Mike, and we know he does a really good job with a structured, knowledgeable, and clear curriculum for your pup. read more

We just finished our 4 session private lessons with Mike (BADT). Our puppy, Stella now 6 months old is very well behaved at her young age. She very often gets praises from other people that she's amazingly calm, gentle & very well trained. Within minutes on the first session, he fixed various annoying behaviors in our puppy immediately. It was almost like magic. He then taught us how to do the same after he leaves. It's amazing how you can ask him any odd question about puppy behavior and he has an incredibly insightful answer that is always accurate. We have signed up for more lessons now, we want to keep going. We are truly impressed with his style of training & know that he sincerely cares about our puppy. Thank you Mike for partnering with us, not only that we enjoy having Stella so much, other people she encounters do as well. read more

A friend of mine recommended Mike as he also helped with her adopted yorkie. I have a 12 year old yorkie myself who wasn't adopted but is very anxious and is quite a barker. I set up a home assessment through the online form and quickly heard back via email to get a date and time setup. Mike showed up on time, and from the second he exited his car (my) training started. We worked through a few of the issues I was having with my little one and maybe 30 min later already had a whole new dog. Mike didn't try to push any further training as he noticed how well my little guy had responded and left me with some tips and tricks that would take only a few days to change our lives. He let us know he was a call away if anything else was needed and went on his merry way. read more

Michael Hatjes DEFINES "dog whisperer." We are so grateful for his assistance with our pride and joy, Sampson, especially now as we welcome our first human child into our home at any moment! Our fur baby was a rescue (4 years ago now!), and although always a wonderful dog, showed minor signs of aggression toward people taunting him with food, strangers and children who moved awkwardly, and things he associated with being a weapon (broomsticks, vacuums, gardening tools, etc.; probably due to abuse before we adopted him). Within a few sessions - which were worth every penny! - Michael had him (and us!) calmer, under control, and behaving like a true gentleman. He even introduced us to the Dogtra 1900s e-collar, which has been a miracle. Sampson walks better off leash now than on leash! :-) When I garden outside (we live on a busy street), he stays right by my side, watches all the passerbys, and greets those who want a little dog love - especially our mailman, James, who brings treats in his satchel just for him! We recently did a phone consult with Michael to talk us through a proper dog/baby introduction when our daughter comes home from the hospital, and we are so thankful for his wisdom! Don't go to anyone else, folks! He's your guy, and certainly will be ours whenever we need him again! read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Mr. Sampson - Pet Training Near Me

Full disclosure: This review is from my experiences a few years ago, but it's worth the read. I took my dog to two levels of BADT's courses, and will admit that the obedience training from the first level did in fact work for my dog's obedience. BUT, and this is a big but, the methods they use are questionable at best. The trainers consistently recommend punishment-oriented and negative reinforcement methods to adjust your dog's behavior. Best example: Should you be concerned if, during your first session, the trainers tell the entire group to go out and buy a lightweight chain to throw at your dog every time they do something bad? Yes, you should be. Ironically, the trainer later, and correctly, told me my dog had low confidence, which was causing aggressive behavior with other dogs. Should you be throwing things at dogs with confidence issues to correct them? No, you shouldn't be. Writing this, I feel rightfully stupid and horrible for what I subjected my dog to. I have absolutely no idea what I was thinking by going along with these trainers' methods, except for that I thought it was advice from a professional. It's done damage that I've since spent thousands of dollars on additional dog training to correct. I wish I were kidding about or exaggerating any of this. Long story short: Call your vet and get recommendations for certified trainers who will have more effective and humane methods for training your dog. If you've read this far, you clearly care about your pet and doing your research, so PLEASE don't make my mistakes and do the damage I did to my pet. read more

We adopted our second dog, a doberman puppy, in March and quickly learned that he was nearly impossible to walk. My wife and I would try to walk both dogs together and found the experience exhausting, constantly getting dragged along by Frank. We tried some techniques we learned while raising our older pup, but nothing seemed to get through Frank's thick noggin. We reached out to Mike and during his evaluation, it was immediately apparent he knew how to manage Frank. We knew that Mike's approach was not treat-based, but neither is it punishment. If you watch dogs interact they have clear methods of communication, and Mike's snap of a leash or toss of a few links of chain (or rattle of chain in a can) are no different. It's guidance, correction, and surprise, not punishment. Mike worked closely with us over 4 sessions. He showed us how to get Frank to walk with us rather than trying to drag us down the street, and we praised the eager little dummy when he did it right. We also worked on indoor behavior, teaching Frank how to alarm us about people at the door and how to properly greet visitors when they're welcomed in. Frank still has a lot of work and growing up to do, but he's much more manageable than before and has been a good companion on wilderness hikes and walks around San Jose. read more

We have worked with Mike and Emily with a few of our dogs. Nothing less that spectacular each and every time. We have done both private and group lessons. They teach you how to work with your dog to have proper manners. We have had German Shepherds so it is important to us for them to behave well in public since they are assumed to be police dogs and usually big. We are not fond of dogs who cannot act appropriately and believe Mike and Emily are the best at what they do. You have to be willing to put in the work they teach you daily in order to be successful. Out current dog has come so far with them to being able to be off leash for our walks and swims. Highly recommend them and will always go back when we get other dogs. read more

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Mike is a dog whisperer. Period. Not sure what sort of magic he has but he has digs at attention within minutes. It's truly remarkable. He is strict (mostly with owners) but very loving as well. Best dog trainer around. read more

Best dog trainer in the Bay Area! Mike is extremely knowledgeable, patient and personable. He has trained 4 of our dogs over the years and we are so thankful for his expertise. read more

Mike is incredible!! He is so great with the dogs, and I now can walk them together and not be pulled or jarred as Dusty would react to almost anything before. It is truly a complete change in Dusty's behavior.I am so glad my daughters told me to contact Mike, he has made such a difference in a large part of our daily routine,I don't dread the walks now . That is BIG!!! Thank you Mike!!! read more

Mike is Truly one of a kind! He had our strong headed puppy walking -- not pulling her leash within the 1st 15 mins!!! I am not kidding. We purchased a package training course to extend our training sessions. It was such a great investment to have our dog under control. Mike is amazing with dogs and loved by his clients. Often during our training sessions, other former clients were eager to say hello. I will miss my Tuesday morning walks with Mike. Look no further for your next dog whisperer!!!!! read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me

Mike is amazing. My doggie, Miles, used to bark at the gardeners and Mike taught me how to stop it. Miles was also an erratic walker and Mike taught me how to walk him correctly. I highly recommend Mike :) read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me

Mike is outstanding at what he does! You might think that is being a dog trainer. Yes, he is an excellent dog trainer. Additionally, and of critical importance, he is a great human educator. Mike can get a dog to do anything, but he will only be with your dog for a few hours. What _you_ can do with your dog is much more important, and Mike will help you get there. Mike is what we call in my family "tough but fair". He'll tell you you are doing a good job when it is true, but he'll also let you know where you need to improve. All done with a sardonic sense of humor and fun! All day long, I get compliments about how cute my dog is (and of course she is the cutest). But, what really puts a smile on my face is when someone notes how well behaved she is. She went from a rascally 8 week old puppy to a dog we can take anywhere, on or off leash, with confidence. Thanks Mike! read more

I was looking for a dog trainer who strong enough to deal with several behavior issues with my 6 month old rescue pit bull. Since he was a rescue from an unknown owner, he came with a lot of baggage. Mike is welcoming to new clients and puts you at ease with he knowledge. Within 1 visit he was able to eliminate a nipping issue with my dog. I purchased his private training package along with the group class which was well worth the expense. He not only trains the dogs, but he also is training the owners. I am currently still attending his classes, and I have seen a huge improved in my Pitty. I have also seen a huge improvement in the other dogs, both large and small. As a side note my dog absolutely loves mike, and I'm pretty sure loves him more than me. If you are looking for great dog trainer I highly recommend Mike, and his other trainer Emily is also fantastic. read more

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Highly Recommended: Both private lessons with Emily and group classes (Level II) with Mike & Emily. My 14 yo son & I adopted a Siberian Husky puppy and immediately looked into dog training. I am new to dog parenting and knew huskys can be a handful. We needed training as much as the puppy. BADT received great reviews on Nextdoor, so I gave Mike a call. He came for an evaluation and matched us with Emily for the private lessons we wanted. Working with Emily has been great. She gave us good advice early on about puppy issues, but more importantly, she has helped my son and I learn the skills (and patience) we need to help our puppy understand what is expected and how to behave and relax. She was very open to working with both my son & I, which I really appreciated. In the beginning, it was hard to imagine our husky puppy not going crazy every time we passed someone on a walk, pulling, mouthing everything. When she was 10 weeks old, I hired a dog walker for a few walks and a neighbor commented that she'd seen my puppy walking the the dog walker (the dog walker didn't complain, she was happy to take out the puppy). But just last week (7 mos), the dog walker left me this text after her visit, "She is amazingly good, very patient and mindful. She really connects. Not all dogs do." and the next time "Rigel is AMAZING. She is sooo good on leash..." I'm the dog's parent - I love her and know she is super smart and amazing - but I knew basically NOTHING about how to train a dog and I was dreaming of having a great hiking buddy and companion for my son and myself. Emily is helping us realize that dream. And BADT group lessons have been fun and educational for the dog and us. My son was completely welcome to join in and handle the leash whenever he wanted. We just completed Level II and have signed up for a Level III class. I've found the training has been a great bonding experience for my puppy, son and I. I'd recommend BADT to anyone looking for dog training in the Bay Area. read more

Bay Area Dog Training - Rigel hikes Almaden Quick Silver Trail (at 7 months - she's gonna be a great trail companion, thanks BADT!) - Pet Training Near Me

So after 6 sessions, my dog is a complete 180*. She used to pull so hard on her leash she would choke herself when we'd go for walks! So much so, that I dreaded taking her out on a stroll. She now knows how to walk directly at my side and loose leash. She also used to dart out of our front door any time it is left open! Now, she waits in the hallway for us to enter the home. She also is trustworthy enough to take her in the front yard without a leash for a quick potty break! Whoohoo! I never though my crazy little munchkin would ever be able to go out in public, but Mike taught me how to walk her, and we were able to walk in downtown Los Gatos and Willow Glen without a dog fight or ankle bite! This process has also changed my dog's demeanor overall. She now knows I'm in charge, and isn't as "alpha-assertive" as she used to me. Thanks Mike and BADT for letting me love my dog again!!!! read more

Originally, our German Shepherd King did not allow us to walk around our house without wearing socks and shoes, as he was addicted to toe biting. After a few months with Mike and Emily, King has become one of the best dogs we know. Mike is not militaristic, he just has a good sense of humor. coming to the 8:30 Saturday group class is always the highlight of my day. read more

Bay Area Dog Training - 8:30 Saturday group class - Pet Training Near Me

My vet highly recommended Mike and from the first session I could understand why. He is extremely knowledgeable, and I could immediately see his how his training was going to help my new rescue pup. As an example, she was tugging and biting the leash on walks and constantly trying to pick things up off the ground, which made our walks stressful and difficult. Once Mike showed me what I needed to do with her and how to better control her behavior, she improved significantly and our walks are now much more relaxing. His techniques have also helped with correcting a number of behaviors at home, such as jumping up on the counter and on people and getting into things that she's not supposed to. I am also now able to take her out in public and feel comfortable that she will behave and that I can control her as needed. I would highly recommended Mike if you are in need of an excellent dog trainer. read more

I wished for a Golden Retriever pup that was energetic, bright and aware...an energetic pup! And then..I wished for a guide..that is an accomplished trainer. We found the best! Mike is a superb communicator. He loves what he does. It shows! He has a deep and genuine respect for dogs. He has keen observation skills and is patient with those owners that learn at different paces. Our Golden, Treasure, has learned following commands with consistency and is rewarded with enthusiasm, physical affection and praise. I catch her looking up at me during an exercise as if to ask: "Momma did I do good..?" Mike pays close attention to our interaction with our pet and is always attentive to listen to our concerns. His perception and quick wit keep us focused. We have learned to anticipate our dog's reaction walking in a public setting surrounded with sudden sounds and motion. We have learned in-depth skills through detailed exercises. These specialized exercises have yielded the opportunity to observe and reinforce memory. Mike is an accomplished leader wanting us to know how to do well. Treasure has become accustomed to following commands. She, too, has had the opportunity of being around other animals. Our bond has deepened through her entire experience...and she adores Mike's partner! read more

I highly highly recommend Mike's trainings. We've taken our Lab/German Shepherd (now a 1 year old) to Mike for the group Level 1 and Level 2/3 classes over the course of the last 3 months with the hopes of getting her to not pull us down the street for every walk and to get her closer to being trained to be off leash and obedient. We saw immediate results within the first 3 weeks where my triceps weren't insanely sore from her pulling on our walks. We're now working on long leash commands from 10 feet away and are seeing improvements here too. We're getting much more confident in handling our new fur child thanks to the focused and fantastic training from Mike and Emily. They really know their stuff and take the time to make sure all of us owners are doing the right things in each exercise. They even take the time after class to answer any specific questions about your dog to help you with any other issues you may be trying to work through. My mom also did private lessons with Mike to help train her Wiener dog/chihuahua mix since she had some anxiety/fear issues that led to her nipping. Mike also worked with her dog and mine to figure out how to get them to get along since my mom's dog was afraid of mine (I mean she's only triple the size of her). We're already seeing that they'll coexist just fine (maybe not playing but we'll take coexisting!) and are on the right track to get them to be happy together. read more

We had private lessons with mike and it was wonderful! We adopted a dog in May and we were having some trouble with her because of the kids and also because she was a very scared puppy. Mike was really patient and did an amazing job. Today, our dog loves our toddlers and she is getting super confident and she is not so scared of strangers anymore. She became a happy and playful dog. We were so happy with the results! We went from having to return her to the shelter to having a wonderful dog! I strongly recommend Bay Area dog training! Thank you Mike for your work, I'm so happy with the results! read more

We used Mike for private lessons with our very rambunctious Golden Retriever back in 2008/2009. The results and difference in his behavior was nothing short of miraculous. He went from being a nuisance and running the house to a wonderful companion for us and our small children. I have photos of my 2 year old walking with Bear down the street. Flash forward to now... we found an adorable rescue puppy out in front of Petsmart last year and couldn't resist taking him home. He was estimated to be a mid-sized dog (stated cattle dog/shepherd mix) and just kept growing and growing. He's currently a 70 pound ball of energy who digs in the flower beds, chews everything in sight, jumps on people, etc. We are desperately looking forward to our first appointment with Mike and Fisher today. read more