If you're a DINKWAD (double income, no kids, and a dog) millennial, crazy dog parent like I am, this is the only review you need to read. As an overly protective (psychotic) dog parent, I really did a lot of homework before enrolling our (at the time) 5 month old Bernedoodle Cooper in day school. I read a lot of positive reviews and few that were concerning to me. I requested a call with one of the owners to give them a chance to speak to the negative reviews before I made a decision. Hannalore answered all of my questions (primarily regarding "disliking doodles" and use of tools) and I felt very comfortable with her responses. Following that conversation we enrolled Cooper in day school and immediately saw improvement in his attention span, ability to understand commands, and leash manners. The staff was always super friendly, sent report cards with photos and videos, and always offered me advice and info on what he worked on. I was (and still am) over the moon with how much my little guy enjoys his time there. To be fully transparent, like any good relationship, we did hit a snag. A tool was used on Cooper that I did not consent to and like the Papa Bear I am, I was furious. I requested to speak with the owner who used the tool (Corey), and I expressed my displeasure. Now, I'm not an experienced dog trainer, so I don't think I know more than these amazing professionals, I do however believe in consent. When I spoke with Corey, I told him that a tool should never be used on a dog without consent from the owner and if Cooper was to come back, I would need to see a change in their policy to ensure that consent would ALWAYS be given before a tool was used. Corey completely understood and (as a small business) was open to suggestions for improvement - no excuses, no backpedaling, and full accountability. With that response, and the implementation of consent for tools, I was completely satisfied sending Cooper back to day school. It's now been over a month since that snag and I can confidently say I am beyond thrilled with how this was handled and the care and training my Coop is receiving at BFTD. Mistakes happen, but the fact that this amazing place was honest and open to a change in their policies is something that really sets BFTD apart from other places. I can 100% say if you're crazy like me, stop your search - you've found the place for your pup. All of the staff are amazing, but I would like to give a special shout-out to Becka and Thaloa who go above and beyond the call of duty and send me videos and VERY detailed report cards so I can continue the work at home. I can officially say my 7 month old pup is better behaved, knows more commands, and has better social skills than most dogs twice his age. I'm writing this review because finding a place to trust with your fur baby is scary, and you never know what you're going to get. But BFTD has done an amazing job with Cooper and I hope my experiences make you feel comfortable with them being a part of your fur baby's life too! read more

Boston for the Dogs - Dog Walkers Near Me

I'd advise against this organization. I attempted to work with them awhile back and was put off by the rude, arrogant owner of the place I also did further research on the owner and my gut instinct was right. My interaction with the owner after discussing my dog's needs was such a negative experience that I was surprised she was actually in this business. I guess being kind is not a requirement to "train" dogs. read more

They are always so sweet and caring with our dog Charley on her walks. We have been with them for 8 years

Bftd gives balanced training a bad name. There's no balance in training. It's all compulsion training and you have so say or understanding in why. Tools are put on your dog, and that's the way it is. You can't question anything or your met with hostility. If you even think something the owner doesn't like. You're deleted from everything and the "fam" comes after you. Employ turn over is high and as they leave, it's never disclosed to the "fam". employees have minimal to no training and are asked to walk dogs way beyond their skill level For the mental and physical Saftey of you and your pups, try out one of the many other trainers in the area. read more

We worked with Hannelore to help our 3-year-old rescue chiweenie, Luffy, who had some aggression and reactivity issues. She showed us how to handle him on walks and crate train him. Luffy picked up crate training super fast, and we even enjoyed a group class! Hannelore is awesome, and we can't recommend her enough for anyone looking for a skilled and friendly dog trainer! read more

Boston for the Dogs - Dog Walkers Near Me

I have a one and half year old Shiba - he has typical Shiba traits! We had a welcome call with the owner and she GOT us immediately!!! She understood what we needed and what can benefit our dog. We had a 1:1 training with Corey and he was AMAZING! he taught us so much we weren't seeing. He had his first day at day school - he did the full day. i was nervous but he LOVED it!! They sent me pictures and a report card at the end of his day. The place is very clean and they truly care about each dog in their care! Nicole - the shiba whisperer! She understands the Shiba quirks and truly enjoys helping shibas be the best they can be! highly recommend BFTD!!!!! read more

Boston for the Dogs - Dog Walkers Near Me

See all

I got my adopted dog, M'Barku, Feb 2019. I made an appointment with BFTD and was immediately blown away by the service. I thought I was getting a dog walker but instead I got a community/family that has been so invested in the success of my dog and myself. Since joining the BFTD family, they have expanded their services to include training and dog school! Their services are so comprehensive, I get recommendations on anything from best food to how best manage separation anxiety. Also a HUGE plus is that this company is Woman owned and founded (Go Hannalore) and she strives for an inclusive culture being mindful of personal pronouns and inequities. Like I said, I thought I was getting a dog walker but instead I found a community that is genuinely invested in my success as a dog owner and as a whole person. Thank you BFTD for your exceptional service and your investment in me and M'Barku. read more

Boston for the Dogs - M'Barku enjoying life and feeling confident. - Dog Walkers Near Me

Boston for the Dogs is a locally run business with a team of people (like a family, but less complicated ) who will work with you and your dog(s). They invite us/all to participate actively in creating a fabulous, fit, fun, and focused world for our canine babies. A very active group/family have been working very successfully with Ejay(trainer), Hannalore and Corey and an incredible team (check out their Facebook page and you will get a feel for the group). My favorite aspect is how hard they work to help us understand our dogs and to use what we know regularly. Maximum Stars PLUS! read more

Our pup went to BFTD for structured day school for a couple months in summer 2020 and just started again in spring 2021 with hikes and day school. Going to BFTD makes a HUGE difference in our dogs happiness level and behavior. She's always been anxious in general, and didn't engage much with other dogs. The isolation of pandemic was compounding that, but when she goes to day school or hikes she approaches dogs and humans totally different. She LOVES the trainers and staff there, and we love how responsive they are - and how much information they give us about our own dog that we never knew. We're so glad we found BFTD and only hope we can take advantage of more and more of what they offer. read more

Boston for the Dogs - Bernadoodle dog in the front, her tongue out, happy and panting. Three bigger dogs in the background a little blurry - Dog Walkers Near Me

Our 2 year old lab has made huge strides since starting with BFTD. Walking with him has become so much more pleasant and his manors are improving. More importantly, we are learning how to reinforce good behaviors and direct him out of bad behaviors. read more

Your dog and your mental health are not to be trusted with this company. It's been years since I've had any interaction with this company or it's owner but it's finally time that I do SOMETHING to help even just one person decide against trusting their animal in Hannalore's care. My husband and I took our reactive pitbull rescue to day school here for 8 months, he would go to school 3 days a week. They knew he was reactive and that he could potentially be a bite risk. The first day we picked him up, we came back to a massive prong collar strapped to his neck without our permission. We were then charged for the collar that we never wanted. The prong turned into an ecollar, and the low "working" level on the ecollar quicky escalated higher and higher. He became more fearful, reactive and aggressive as time went on, but we didn't know to pay attention to the signs since learning to read a dogs body language is (strangely) never something they cared about, taught, or even paid attention to themselves. Now looking back, it's probably because they had no idea what to even look for. Only now thinking back do I realize just how successful Hannalore was at manipulating us both to trust everything she told us. We believed every word that came out of her mouth, including what food we should be feeding him (she has no vet related training mind you), which tools and how to use them (poorly and aggressively), and who we should and shouldn't be interacting with (she talked shit about other clients to us when we were invited to her house one day). Our use of these tools escalated to a point where it was borderline abuse. We were told to "snap" the prong "like a wet towel". THIS PRONG IS ATTACHED TO AN ANIMAL'S NECK. I finally snapped out of whatever sick twisted trance she had set on me when I went to a "practice in the park" one day. These were sessions where you would pay to go to a public park and Hannalore would just tell you to do whatever she felt like that day. If there were benches or some other structure, she would want ALL dogs to jump up on it. And when your dog didn't cooperate, she would make you force them to cooperate. It was during one of these where I took my dog and I knew he was uncomfortable that day since he hadn't followed his routine potty schedule so he already wasn't in a great state. She was scolding me about how I needed to pop the prong harder and how my dog needs to listen. While she was scolding me, my dog (who was completely under my control) reached his nose out to sniff her dog (who was directly in front of us and his leash was NOT in her hand, he was attached to her favorite 8:1 tool). She reached down and hit my dog in the face because he was to "never to sniff her dog". I was horrified. Hannalore manipulated us for far too long. Our relationship with our dog broke down and he was completely uninterested in training. Walks were a disaster. We couldn't let people into our home. She even had a way of convincing us the entire time that not following her methods would result in some sort of shameful status where you would not be accepted into her world. Well it's not a world I want to be a part of. The experience my husband and I had with our dog doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of the extent that is the rot underlying this company. And if you're wondering about all the glowing reviews on here, it's because at first when you're welcomed into the "fam" ( read: CULT) you feel like you're part of something. And your dog's obedience might improve at first (ours did too!). But that quickly breaks down because that obedience is built on fear and on relying on the fact that these dogs are slowly being broken down and forced into learned helplessness. Please do your research. There are plenty of other INCREDIBLE reputable dog trainers in the Boston area. read more

I do not recommend Boston for the Dogs. My dog Josie and I used their services for under a year to find out their training facility was extremely unorganized -- it was impossible to get any updates on what my dog was doing in school (I have emails and messages to prove this), the owners + staff consumed alcohol on the job (we witnessed this at a chiropractic visit at the owners house where Hannalore was slurring her speech), the facility continuously had giardia and kennel cough outbreaks, we had an unpleasant 1:1 lesson with Corey where he told me to correct my dog for avoidance behaviors on an ecollar. Don't be fooled by the many positive reviews as the owner gives out free group classes for writing one. Do your research when looking for a reputable dog training facility. I really regret coming here. Stay far far away from BFTD. read more

We have been working with BFTD for several years now and have had great experiences. Part of why we've continued to come back is not only the progress our dog has made, but also the unique community feeling the team works hard to create. It is clear that our dog is not just a number and it's great to connect with staff and other clients in classes and the very active Facebook group. read more

Hannalore is nothing short of amazing . She not only responded promptly to all my emails she also talked me through things until we were able to meet and set up a plan . My family suffered a tragedy which left us with a 75 dog to take care of that we weren't prepared for . She jumped right in and was immediately invested in not only the dogs success but our success ! I can't say enough about her and her team . We definitely couldn't have made it through that difficult time without her Boston for the dogs is now part of our family! read more

I continue to learn and grow with my pups on our training journey. Amazing group of knowledgeable trainers- welcoming and inclusive, my dogs love them & their day school, training and fun classes have been life saving. read more

See all

AVOID! Aversive/punitive techniques from the 70's (antiquated and uninformed) have long been disproven by experts as not only ineffectual, but harmful. Pain-based 'approaches' create fear-based, new aggressive behaviors in dogs, and erode trust between dog and guardian. AVOID THIS PLACE at all costs. Choose qualified, and educated, positive/humane trainers who will work with your pup without resorting to violence, and traumatizing them. We are better than this. Do not support businesses like this. Here is a description in their company's job post looking for a trainer, to get an idea of the pain-based, barbaric approaches that they use: ..."Is willing to use corrective communication tools as part of their training methods. This includes but is not limited to: slip leads, martingale collars, e-collars, prong/star mark collars, clickers, aerosol pet correctors, crates etc." AVOID. Save your dog from completely unregulated, self-named 'trainers', such as this. The state of MA has no regulations on dog trainers, and ANY one can decide to call themselves a dog trainer. This opens the door to animal abusers of all shades. Be AWARE, and do your research. Choose positive/humane trainers who won't abuse your dog for $. read more

Our relationship with our dog Harmony has become so much better after training with BFTD! The intro session alone taught us so many important things, and we love that we can continue the training at home and in group classes! The community is also so supportive! Harmony gets so excited anytime we walk into the lab for class or day school! read more

Boston for the Dogs - Harmony excited for class at BFTD! - Dog Walkers Near Me

We were referred to BFTD two years ago when we first adopted our dog, Max, and I couldn't be more thankful that we found them. Not only are they great dog trainers, but it's one of the most welcoming, accepting, and supportive group of people I've met. Max is much happier and more relaxed now than he was before we started working with BFTD and I've found a new community of people that I didn't know was missing in my life. One of the things I like most about BFTD is the range of training styles and the range of dogs they train. Do you have a new puppy? Great! Do you have an older dog with anxiety? Also great! Is your dog reactive with a bite history? Welcome! I never knew that I could have a bond this special with my dog, until we found BFTD. I've learned more about dogs than I ever thought I needed to know from both the training team and from the "family" (other clients). The trainers really see us (humans and dog alike), so we can build training around our individual needs. BFTD has a number of different trainers with various backgrounds, so you can also find the trainer that has the best style for your specific dog. The team also does a lot of continuing education so their repertoire is constantly expanding. They also offer a number of services so you can really customize your training to your dog and schedule. Some of the clients use only one or two services, while others utilize many more. We have Max on a regular hike schedule where one of the team members comes to our house in the afternoons, picks him up, and takes him for a hike with a number of different dogs so he gets structured socialization. The nice part about this is that the people walking your dog are also aware of the training your dog has or needs, so they reinforce training on walks. They also strategically group dogs together by personality and abilities of the walkers, to keep the dogs safe. BFTD runs group weekend and evening classes where clients can practice working with their dogs in a real-world environment. A lot of the skills practiced are on the Canine Good Citizen test and Hannalore can administer the CGC test if that's something you're interested in doing. In addition to the regular classes, BFTD runs specialty classes with guest trainers, so you can explore different fields of dog training and maybe find a new area of interest for your dog, if you're into that. Some of the recent guest classes have included Canine Resistance Training and nosework. Another program we've used occasionally is BFTD's day school. Unlike most daycares, the program is structured so Max gets active training and then gets to relax and decompress in between training sessions. He dog gets one-on-one attention and personalized training/activities, without ending up frantic, overstimulated, or fearful of other dogs. All this to say that BFTD has been great for us. They're great trainers and offer a wide array of services to really help you grow your bond with your dog. I couldn't imagine a better training group. read more

BFTD has been one of the most integral parts of my first attempt at dog ownership being successful. My little guy is only 6 months old and we've already used all of their services. Training with Ejay has been so amazing, and every time I come away a better dog-dad and my boy a better dog. Corey + HL boarded our little guy while we went to Disney for my birthday and he had the time of his life, and you know what? He came back even better behaved than when we left! I can't sing their praises more. They have molded me into a more responsible dog owner and I can not imagine going at this whole thing without them. read more

If anything sticks with you from my review below, please let it be this: your dogs are not safe at Boston for the Dogs. I've put off writing this review for a few months; out of a combination of fear of retaliation and self preservation of unpleasant memories. I decided to finally write it in hopes that dogs and humans can be saved from the emotional distress and physical abuse caused to many by this facility. We were clients at Boston for the Dogs from early August to late September of 2020. It took only two months for things to go disastrously south for my puppy. I will outline below my experiences: Physical Abuse. My puppy was placed on training tools against my knowledge and consent. She was photographed wearing both a prong collar and an e-collar when only 3 months old at this facility. The next time both a prong and an e-collar were introduced to her in a neutral environment, she showed a sign of abuse (tucking of tail and running from the device). It is the professional opinion of two separate trainers that she was abused on these tools. Lack of communication. Most communication from this facility is done via social media. I was never given written feedback of my dog's progress, what she was doing in classes or at school, and what we needed to be reinforcing at home. Unsafe Environment: My 4 month old puppy was attacked by a reactive adult male dog during a group class that was being supervised by the owner of the program. She walked by the other dog and sniffed (not the most polite puppy behavior, but common among young dogs and not aggressive) and the dog turned around, grabbed onto her face with his teeth, shook her and wouldn't let go. My puppy sustained serious wounds that were dismissed by the owner of the facility. Our veterinarian was shocked to see her swollen face, puncture wounds, and rips in her ears the next morning. She was on antibiotics for a week after the attack. Following the attack, I was not responded to by the facility and decided to make a public request for them to cover her medical fees via Better Business Bureau. This complaint is still active and published on their business page. Unprofessional Environment: Individuals were seen drinking alcohol during group classes as well as testing and certifying dogs while drinking alcohol. It's possible that my review will be responded to or taken down. The last time I posted a review on Facebook, the owner threatened to bring legal action against me even though all of these events are well documented by myself and several other individuals. If it is removed, so be it. If it's responded to please remember this: we are allowed to have our own opinions, but not our own facts. I strongly discourage anyone who is seeking a dog training facility to use Boston for the Dogs. There are many other facilities in the Boston area who are ethical, safe, and professional. If you are reading this review and it feels eerily similar to what you are experiencing at BFTD: leave. It will only get worse, not better. read more

Adopted a dog via Boston for the dogs and had severe food aggression issues. Has had (some severe) bites of several family members. For an org that's specializes in training of dogs expected to have more guidance. Was only told that dog takes treats roughly not that has severe food aggression issues. Also overall rude interactions on social media post regarding e-dollars with dismissive and rude interactions. Very we know it all and anyone who says otherwise is wrong attitude. Recommend steering clear of this org read more

Highly recommend BFTD!! We have a highly energetic 10 month old Labrador retriever. Along with Amari we have learned so much from the excellent and knowledgeable trainers. Amari loves going to day school. We look forward to reading the report card about what he worked on that day, so we can continue reinforcing his training at home. Thank you BFTD!!! read more

UPDATE: I posted the same review (below) on Boston For The Dogs' Facebook and Google review pages and they mysteriously disappeared. I think it's really telling of how this company, especially the owner, operates. Be very careful of all the positive reviews on their Facebook and Google review pages. --------- I first joined BFTD in October 2018 with my leash reactive pitbull. Their Practice In the Park offering was what intrigued me because it involved structured dog walking practice with a group of other dogs in public locations near my home. When you first join BFTD, you're immediately welcomed into the "fam" and invited to join their exclusive "Boston for the Dogs Family" Facebook page where staff and clients post daily on everything that's dog and non-dog related. It felt like a community until you realize you've actually joined a cult. Hannalore, the owner, has a very strong personality - a quality in which you think a solid dog trainer should have. However, that unyielding personality translated to either it's her way or the highway. She had a requirement on every aspect of the dog training process (type of collar, type of leash, diet, etc.). Any opposing view is met with criticism. Practice In the Park sessions eventually became repetitive and pointless. The sessions were rarely pre-planned and Hannalore had admitted several times during the sessions that she's just "winging it". In addition to Practice In the Park, I've also utilized their hiking services and this is when you start realizing what the core issues are - disorganized scheduling structure, terrible flow of communication, and lack of accountability. The co-owner came on the wrong day for a hike and called me to let me know he couldn't access my garage door to get into the house. I told him that I had booked a hike for the next day and he proceeded to tell me I would get charged since he was already there. Scheduling is always stressful - they don't respond in time, they don't confirm the correct date, they don't inform you which handler is coming, etc. There were several occasions where handlers would set off the alarm in my house even though I explicitly wrote in my notes and emails of where these alarm triggers were. On another hike, the handler left my garage door completely wide open after she had left. I texted Hannalore about this issue and instead of immediately apologizing, she responded that I should be emailing this issue instead of texting. This is not the proper way to respond to a client after your employee has made a mistake. I should note though that the handler reached out to me personally to explain the situation and to apologize. No genuine apology was ever received from Hannalore for this situation, or for any issues I've had with them. The biggest problem with BFTD and why I ultimately chose to leave (actually, I got 'fired' as a client and was booted off the exclusive Facebook page without notice), is their inability to realize they have a faulty infrastructure that needed to be strengthened before they could expand. BFTD opened a training lab and had an influx of new handlers at one point. I recently learned from a few ex-employees that BFTD does not perform a background check, ask for driving records, or have a formal onboarding process. These are people who have access to your home, drive and walk your dog(s) for hours at a time, and the company that you've hired for this task did not perform their due diligence in making sure this person is safe?! Their practice is an endangerment to the dogs under their care, their handlers are not properly vetted, and they have countless scheduling issues. read more

It's taken me a while to get this review together because there are just so many things I want to say about Boston for the Dogs, it was hard to remember it all. First of all, the owner Hannalore is a force of nature. I have never seen someone dedicate SO MUCH of themselves to their work and passion the way she does. She lives and breathes for these dogs and their families. She is an activist, a strong supporter of her community, and she KNOWS her business. What she has built is truly remarkable. If she or any of the trainers tell you something about your dog or the way you handle them, LISTEN. The trainers are also educated, driven, and they make it a priority to build a relationship with your dog to help them be their best selves. Our girl worked with John for e-collar conditioning and we've also had lessons with Corey, who seems to have a gift at bringing out the best parts of your dogs personality and putting them at ease. Our favorite thing to participate in was the group classes! The school doesn't help train your dog. They train YOU as a dog owner. I have learned SO MUCH. I've learned how to communicate with my dog. How to pay attention to what she needs and where she was struggling. BFTD taught me the difference between what I wanted to think my dog wanted/needed, and what my dog ACTUALLY needed. They WILL call you out when you are doing something that isn't healthy for your dog. LISTEN TO THEM. Do not get defensive. They know what they are talking about and your dog will THRIVE. I am continually amazed at every little step my dog (a reactive and anxious mess of a pittie) makes in progress. And it's all thanks to this school. We came to BFTD after our dog had a run in with another family dog. We were only a couple months away from having a baby and we knew we needed to build in some structure but we had no idea how to start. BFTD was that start. We would have been lost without them. Finally I have to speak about the community within the school. When you get involved with this school in any way, you become part of a FAMILY. And they are THERE for you. They exchange advice on all things dogs, life, and everything else. They arrange get togethers. They celebrate each other's lives. It's AMAZING. When my family and I hit a crisis, the fam responded with love and support and resources. I will forever be grateful for them. If you are looking for a place to help you and your dog thrive, this is it. read more

Boston for the Dogs is so much more than a dog walking service. The team works hard to meet all of my crazy scheduling needs and to help me learn about what I need to progress my training by follow up with the daily handlers. Communication happens daiLy via a private Facebook group where I can see what adventures my dogs has for the day as well as tap into the resources of the group I have questions or concerns. Plus - who doesn't need daily dog pics in their news feed! The mission of the company is also reason enough to support them and they love my dogs like family. read more

BFTD was recommend by a friend when we got our puppy Daisy in 2020, and as all pandemic puppies, she was very scared of all noises and things on the outside, the team was super welcoming and patient, training the Daisy and us on how to handle all the new situations we had with her, and she has grown to be an incredible dog, a lot more confident and still as sassy and lovable! The team is also great at training the humans to advocate for their dog, which in my case, was more than necessary.. I owe them my amazing Dog, would recommend to anyone at any stage of their dogs life! read more

We brought our dogs here per recommendation of a friend and extensive research. Hannalore, Corey and Danielle were super patient in answering all my questions and dealing with my dog mom insanity. We first did a one on one with Corey and our two dogs. He was professional, informative and friendly, he speaks to you like a friend and never got annoyed with our lack of knowledge. We dropped off our dogs today for half day of daycare and as you can see in the picture, Hugo was having a great time with Hannahlore! They work on training, keeping the dogs busy and safe. When we picked up the dogs they looked happy as can be and were tuckered out. I can't wait to go back. read more

Boston for the Dogs - Dog Walkers Near Me

Hannalore and her team are AMAZING! They are all so impressive handling many different types of dogs simultaneously, reading body language, advocating for their dogs. They also have a really cool indoor training facility and teach great classes! They all seem to truly put their heart into their work and I've always been a huge fan! read more

They are amazing! Would highly recommend the puppy class. Gave us such good information and training/structure to use as new puppy owners.

There are so many great things about BFTD that it's hard to figure out where to start. When I first joined BFTD, I was at my whits' end and did not know what to do with my reactive dog. After just my first lesson, I already felt more confident that I could walk my dog and knew that I had chosen the right company to work with. BFTD does a great job of communicating with their clients. I trust all of their walkers coming into my home and taking care of my dog. While BFTD has recently undergone some personnel changes, I can honestly say that I think these changes are great, and I am excited to continue to train with them and use their hiking services. I love that BFTD is open to different styles of training. It's exciting to be able to learn different methods and techniques to establish and strengthen my relationship with my dog. BFTD is so much more than just dog walking and training, they are a community. I have met so many new friends with different backgrounds and different careers that I never thought I would. I don't know what I would have done if I had not found BFTD. They have changed my life in more ways than one. read more

I could write a novel about the positive impact that Boston for the Dogs has had on my life, but I will try to keep it short! Boston for the Dogs has taught me so much about what it means to be a responsible dog owner, helped me work through challenges (big and small), and provided the appropriate tools that allow me and my dogs to be safe and foster an even stronger relationship. More importantly, Hannalore and Corey have created one of the strongest communities of which I've ever been a part. I would recommend Boston for the Dogs to anyone - it will be well worth it! read more

We have had an amazing experience with the Boston for the Dogs team. A fantastic one on one training lesson set us up for the basics, and when some new issues popped up later, we got back on the schedule for a second lesson to tighten up our training. Our giant dog is happy, calmer, and more fun to have around guests because of it! read more

Hanalore is a wonderful responsible dog lover who goes above and beyond with each. She is very organized, sends regular updates, takes cute pictures, my dog loves her and always has a great time/comes home tired! Couldn't ask for more! read more

Boston for the Dogs - Merlin during one of his walks having a great time - Dog Walkers Near Me

This review has been a long time coming and I've put off writing it because the experience at BFTD was so disappointing and upsetting to me. But, now that we've started with a new training group, I have realized how wrong things were at BFTD. Our dog went to day school at BFTD for a number of months in 2020. I should have caught on sooner that this place should be avoided, but this review may help others from experiencing what we went through. Things started off rocky when on the second day at school, when our dog was sent home with a prong collar, that we were charged for, but never told about in any capacity. When I reached out to inquire, I was met with hostility from the owner about this being "necessary" and that I should understand that. Well maybe I could, if I had been told before it was slapped on my dog's neck and I was trained in using it.... The next "issue" we encountered was that there was absolutely no feedback of any kind about how dogs are doing, learning, progressing, etc. and unless you're part of the cultish "clique" of folks who are liked by the owners (they hang out with these people at the lab drinking beers during lessons which was extremely awkward for those of us taking the lesson), you have essentially no information. You might happen to see your dog on instagram but that's it. When spending $75 a day, you deserve more than "he had a good day today." Finally, the last straw came when the owner posted something in the Facebook group about how gross doodles are. I totally understand that people have blunders (and this was clearly the case as the comment was quickly deleted), but this is quite ironic given the fact that she herself advertises BFTD in the Boston Doodles group. Convenient, huh? After expressing my upset by her comment (I actually told her that her hurtful comment made me cry and asked to speak with her), the only response I received was "we can talk but you won't change my mind about doodle breeding." I wasn't trying to, I wanted the opportunity to explain that broad, overreaching statements, like that she made, are hurtful. Do you think I ever received a call or message to chat? Nope. Shouldn't any good business owner talk to upset customers? Evidently, it wasn't worth her time, and this spoke volumes about the business she runs. It's sad to think because my dog is a doodle, she looked less favorably on him than another dog trusted in her care. This "my way or the highway" attitude was so distasteful to me that we opted not to return to BFTD. Upon quietly leaving the Facebook group etc, I received messages from former clients who experienced similar issues at BFTD and recommended other trainers to us. All in all, our experience was really disappointing. When you're spending hundreds or thousands on dog training, you expect (and deserve) better. read more

Boston for the Dogs is a true asset to the community! Hannalorre is extremely knowledgable about all things dogs and will tailor her training to your dog's specific needs and your goals. We love her affordable "practice in the park" training sessions where dogs and owners working on different things can come together for practice time and guidance from Hannalore in a semi-private environment. read more

Boston for the Dogs - Maggie learning the "place" command. - Dog Walkers Near Me

What isn't there to say about this company and Hannalore, the owner. It was practically impossible to get a lesson scheduled. If I needed to see the head trainer in 6 weeks- I could only get in contact with them by week 4. Extremely disorganized and inefficient ways of communication. Takes WEEKS to get an email back from them. Very unprofessional- always posting pictures of her (the owner) drinking on the job. Makes herself and her business look amazing on social media, but CANNOT separate business from personal. Day school has become over-glorified clicker training since the trainers have left. They are no longer well equipped to handle tougher cases & reactive dogs as their former head trainer was the one who specialized in that and has left the company. That being said, they are not transparent with their clients. Once the head trainer left and the other employees left with him, she did not communicate to her clients about this and let them believe their dog was still doing the work that the previous trainers were doing with them at day school. I had come to BFTD to work with Ejay - their former head trainer, on training my service dog for medical alert. He has an extensive background of working with all types of dogs, and training service animals (which is extremely hard to come by). Now that he has left, and the other employees have followed, there continues to be a highlight on their Instagram page showing of their service dog training. But be warned, that trainer is no longer there (although I do still continue to work with him) and they are NOT well equipped to train a service animal. So please, to any disabled handler and their prospect SD, do not go to them for training. It is false advertisement. I have heard of multiple cases where dogs were hurt during hikes in one way or another because they do not properly train their walkers to be well equipped in handling every type of dog. Rather than communicating with owners about the accident- she just covers it up and it's up to the owners to find out for themselves. On top of it all, Hannalore has been known to be condescending to her employees and to make racist remarks about her employees & clients. It has been revealed and there is proof of her doing such things and making fun of people's dogs behind the clients back. And if you complain or have any concerns? She says you are simply not a good match with bftd and kicks you out of the "fam" page. So for those of you with complex cases, reactive dogs, or service dog prospects. I beg you. Do not trust your dog's life in these people's hands. read more

We joined BFTD two years ago looking for help with our nervous and reactive rescue dog, Sawyer. We originally started with BFTD to join their Practice in the Park (PITP) weekend sessions and to get Sawyer out on pack hikes to help with his fear of strangers. PITP was great at first, and allowed a structured place for us to practice ignoring other dogs and staying calm in public. Over time as Sawyer progressed it felt like we had graduated from PITP being beneficial, and that the pack walks we do on the weekends with friends had just as much value to his training (without the $20 price tag). There were rarely opportunities for more advanced PITP sessions, and it often felt like the lesson plans for classes were made up on the spot. While Sawyer enjoyed the hikes, due to high staff turnover, I did not know who would be walking my dog on a specific day until photos were posted that night in the client Facebook group. While changing handlers sometimes is beneficial to my dog, he thrives on consistency and structure and having a new person every time was stressful for him. Unfortunately my dog needed major surgery in October 2019, forcing us to stop using their services for a few months. While he was still out on medical leave and without any notice, warning, or explanation, I was removed from the private client Facebook group, unfriended on Facebook by the owner Hannalore, and my dog's instagram account was blocked by the company. It was a shock because, even though my dog was recovering from surgery, I was still an active participant in the client facebook group, shadowing group classes, and even helped handle a friend's dog for their trick class. Hannalore and I had even recently discussed me teaching trick classes with them. I had given no indication to the company that we would not be returning to services when my dog was healed. I have yet to receive any communication about why I was fired as a client a month later. I attempted to contact them for a refund on the 4 prepaid classes I am no longer able to use and have yet to receive a response two weeks later. It seems like I will have to issue a chargeback through my credit card to get a refund. I made some really great friends through BFTD, I learned a lot, and I found a passion in dog training. Unfortunately, their lack of communication and tact and a 'my way or the highway' approach to dealing with clients leaves a sour taste in my mouth. I can no longer recommend their services, either for training or walks, and urge you to look elsewhere. read more

I've been with the BFTD team since the beginning, and have nothing but good things to say. They are timely, have NEVER missed a walk, are very flexible and have bailed me out with last minute dog sitting on short notice. Their walkers are good with my reactive and distrustful mutt, and have alerted me to issues like injuries and arthritis. They have constructive suggestions about PT/diet/chondroitin without bullying me like some other walking/pet sitting services. I felt like they had useful suggestions but in now way was there a "my way or the highway" mentality that others have mentioned in reviews. On the contrary, they have suggestions but always respect that I'm the dog's owner and make the ultimate decisions regarding training, leashes, etc. They even let me into my house when I texted in an emergency after locking myself out! read more

Hannalore, Corey, Melissa, Jason and the other dog walkers are just fabulous! They take my nervous, shy dog out for hikes that make her so happy and much calmer. They post pictures on their Facebook page of happy dogs on walks. She is becoming more social with other dogs thanks to these group hikes. I know that I can request an extra hike during the week even when it's not on her schedule. Melissa has boarded Mia at her home on weekends or vacations and it's been the best boarding situation ever! You folks are so accommodating and wonderful to the dogs! Thank you! read more

We have two shepherds and have been through two dog walkers before we landed on the right one - Boston For The Dogs. Our previous walkers, were lovely and loving people, but we needed our walkers to understand that our shepherds needed to have structure - not just willy-nilly outside time during the day. We found that they weren't reinforcing our training and then that would cause the dogs to be anxious and act out... BUT! No more! Hannalore, Corey and the BFTD team give our girls, consistent, structured and rewarding walks and play groups twice a week now. They are happy and healthy and anxiety is to a minimum at our house now. I have also had a few training sessions with Hannalore and she helped us tremendously in our training journey. Not to mention when you join BFTD you can take part in "Practice in the Park." Where we meet as a group at the Arboretum for a pack walk and group training session to practice our real-world manners...so we can "do more with our dogs." It's not just a dog walker/trainer, it's a community and we are all obsessed with having healthy and happy dogs. TL;DR - if you are serious about being a good dog owner and want a company that is serious about how serious you are about being a good dog owner - join the BFTD family. read more