The husband and I fostered and adopted our dog Johnny -- a Black Lab/Great Dane mix -- from the KC Pet Project back in December. Now, we've never had such a big dog, and it was clear from the start that Johnny had a great temperament. But, he's big, eager, and was on track to accidentally hurt us or someone else, and we definitely had some moments of "Are we sure about this?". After another frustrating morning, our dog walker told us that we really, really needed to invest in some dog training, so I pulled out the pamphlet our vet had given us and made the call. Ken was very reassuring on the phone and described the program as being all about leadership. We opted for private training, which, not gonna lie, is pricey -- $1,000. But, that comes with all the private lessons you need (we only needed four), a year's worth of follow-up (we can call any time with questions), and an initial package of materials including the training book, Gentle Leader head collar, leash, beanbags, etc. To be honest, it's not so much about training the dog as it is about training the people! Once we started consistently using the tools Ken taught us, Johnny became a happy, well-behaved dog who everyone loves. He is still excited to see people, but he doesn't jump (and on the rare occasion that he does, we have a method to quickly correct him). He knows where he belongs in the "pack" (aka us) and doesn't try to take charge. He walks nicely on a leash. We're able to take him to daycare, where he socializes well with other dogs, and doesn't go crazy when he sees other dogs on his walks. And we easily trained him out of "nuisance barking" at things like the mail delivery. Most importantly, Ken taught us a "magic word" that helps us bring Johnny back if he gets out, which, let me tell you, has come in handy. If you amortize the cost of the training over a ten-year life, that's $100 a year for a dog who is a pleasure to be around and everyone is happy to see. That seems cheap! Given where we started -- incredibly frustrated and stressed out -- and where we are now -- everybody's happy -- I can't recommend GentleDogTraining.com highly enough. Spend the money, put in the time, and get the results! read more

We highly recommend this training program. We had a dog that we adopted and unfortunately she was a runner, was very aggressive towards people, and would not walk on a leash. Lisa and Mike completely changed Stella and our lives for the better. I can now walk her in my neighborhood without a leash and if by chance she gets out or runs away she will come back just by calling. She is the sweetest thing and their training program is worth every penny. I highly recommend them to anyone. Plus Lisa and Mike are just wonderful people and huge dog lovers read more

Gentle Dog Training - Our sweet funny Stella! - Pet Training Near Me - Pensacola, Florida

We brought our rescue mini Australian shepherd to Ken and Lisa for help with her severe anxiety and tendency to have aggressive reactions when under stress. Her anxiety was so severe that we were having to carry her outside to go to the bathroom because she was so afraid. After working with Ken and Lisa over about 4 sessions, we now have a completely different dog. She enjoys going outside on walks, plays outside, is clearly happier and less anxious, much less reactive, and much better behaved. She is even less scared and anxious with loud noises and storms. We have been blown away by the difference their program and changes were able to make for our dog and for us. Highly recommend for any of your dog training needs! read more

Gentle Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Pensacola, Florida

Ken and Lisa were absolutely amazing! They went above and beyond to make sure we felt comfortable with our dog and that we were satisfied. I will say for the peace of mind it is worth the cost! We love our dog and are finally able to really enjoy her. The training videos are a must watch - she knows "her place" and that alone has been a game changer at our house. She is still a golden puppy but now manageable. Thanks for a great experience. read more

Gentle Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Pensacola, Florida

Spoke with the (supposed) owner. She came off aggressive and rude. Criticizing other training programs & referred to the dog as "a jerk". Immediately recommended shock collar before meeting the dog. She didn't ask for the dogs breed, age, temperament nor his bite history. Said they do not do consults you just pay or not? I would seriously read ALL the reviews before you choose this facility. read more

I was at a loss with my little ball of insecurity, Zeus. He feared anyone other than his family and that often led to constant barking and unnecessary bites. I finally decided I needed professional help--and it doesn't get more pro than Gentle Dog Training. Ken has dedicated his life to easy guidance: efficient modes of communication to let your pet know there is nothing to fear, that (with a little work) the world is a good place for them and us. It took Zeus only three roughly hour-long lessons to get the message, though Ken obliges enough of his time for as long as it takes (my initial inspiration for my choice in trainer). I can't thank Gentle Dog Training enough for giving Zeus a new leash on life (if you're still reading by now you deserve that pun)--go forth with confidence in your choice of Gentle Dog Training my friends. read more

I was so reluctant to send my guy to training because I was afraid I would spend the money and it wouldn't work, or it would wear off, etc. this was hands down the best money I have ever spent!! HANDS DOWN. I live in St. Louis and road tripped to bring my guy here and I would do it again a hundred times over. I have a 2 year old visually impaired Great Dane. We found out we had a baby coming. In the past months, after moving back from Hawaii, became possessive of us, was severely invading space, wouldn't just go lay down and relax. He also "barrels" from room to room, or the door and would sometimes knock me over, being as big as he is. I couldn't get him to relax. I was afraid he would hurt me while I was pregnant, or be too hyper and hurt the baby when she was born. I also wanted him to be able to walk on the leash while I pushed the stroller and me be able to handle him. He previously got too excited upon smelling/seeing other dogs and people. I explained what I wanted to Ken and Lisa. Halfway through his training there, i told them I would also like to be able to direct him to stay in a designated place until released. They met every single need I had without hesitation. I picked Kieser up and went through a short training session (for me) on Kiesers key words and how he had been trained. Kieser was still my goofy boy, but had such manner and was much calmer. I left confident. Additionally, they include free "refresher" courses. Although I don't live in the area, I know when I go to Overland Park to visit my family, I will absolutely drop Kieser off there. My entire family and friends are so impressed with Kieser. The day after I brought him home, we had movers bringing in furniture. I told Kieser to go to his "place" and he did not move until I released him 2 hours later- even with people in and out of the house and all the doors open. Thanksgiving went wonderfully for us as well. Most importantly, our baby girl was born and Kieser is not a danger to her. He sat in his "Place" as directed so I could bring her to meet him. He loves to watch her in the swing, but I can easily direct him "away" if we need some space. Ken and Lisa truly are the best there is! They offer so much and can work with anything you ask of them. I cannot recommend them enough. read more

Gentle Dog Training - Kieser went to training to prepare for a new addition to the family. Best decision we ever made! - Pet Training Near Me - Pensacola, Florida

Ken and Lisa + crew are amazing. And crew = both people and their pack of dogs! We first brought our 2 german shepard puppies to Gentle Dog Training for classroom training- which is really owner training. The dogs learn so quickly. We then waited a few months to work on advanced training. Ken's vision was that our dogs could learn a vocabulary of 5000 words! While we did not reach that goal, they definetly have an extended vocabulary. In addition, the techniques that Gentle Dog Training.com uses is non-invasive and positive in nature. They are simply amazing. Highly recommend, for whatever dog type/age you may have. THE BEST! read more

My parents recently sent our golden retriever to be trained here. I hope that nobody has had an experience as horrible as ours. When we picked up our dog, she was in awful condition. Her entire belly was covered in scabs and matted fur (even though we were told she was bathed right before our arrival). We were clearly appalled, and the employees told us they "didn't notice" anything was wrong. My parents said they were obviously headed straight to the vet. The employee handed them a $100 bill (while the vet bill ended up being over $300), and offered no other reimbursement for keeping our dog in filth for 3 weeks. It also should be noted that the dog had a staph infection. Horrible. I'll add that on top of the health concerns, our dog came back hardly trained at all. She is slightly more subdued, but nowhere near what we expected after paying $1,700. There are dozens of dog training companies in town. Don't make the same mistake we did by taking your dog to Gentle Dog Training. read more

Gentle dog training is a great option to get dog behaviors under control. You should enjoy your pet, right? They helped us get our rescue dog headed in the right direction with voice commands to help with counter jumping, destruction of shoes & coming on demand. Gentle dog partners train both you & your dog to make it a great relationship. The key is to follow through when training is complete. It works!! read more

Gentle Dog Training was an amazing experience for both of our pups and my husband and I. Ken and Lisa were there whenever we needed with direction, guidance, and support. We are thrilled to have found them and would recommend them to anyone that asks. read more

I always think reviews are most helpful when you find one that aligns with your needs so here are my key words: #first dog for a family of 6; #4 - 6 month old puppy; cavapoo breed (Cavalier Spaniel and Poodle mix); #female; #superenergetic; #veryfriendly; primary issue = pooping in the house. While the primary issue is what brought me to Ken and Lisa, under their training and expert guidance, not only do we have potty training under control, we have a dog who better knows her place. Just like a cute toddler who you can't imagine ever doing wrong or saying "no" to, puppies need to know that they are not the most important living being in the house. In fact, they should be trained to understand that they are least important living being in the house if you want to have a management relationship with your pet. I never recognized the relationship between Bella pooping wherever she wanted to and our constant doting on her and allowing her sit next to us on the couch. But, it is all part and parcel of the message that Ken and Lisa teach the dogs and the owners. Given our hectic, chaotic and busy lives, we opted to board Bella for 3 weeks over the Christmas holiday. While it was pricey, there is honestly no way that we could have replicated the consistent messaging that she needed to assimilate into a household. But, once trained, it was up to us to assimilate Bella back into the house so she didn't fall back on old habits. The boys and I received extensive training at their facility on the day we picked her up and Lisa made a follow-up visit to the house so that the entire family understood the protocol. Aside from a few desperate phone calls or texts since then, all has been blissful with Bella. Here are a few things that she knows to do: 1) She does not eat until we have eaten 2) She does not go in or out of a door until she is invited to do so 3) She comes when called or she gets in trouble, which hardly ever happens anymore 4) She is so quiet. No incessant yapping or growling. 5) She is still as cute and cuddly and super social as ever, but she knows her limits. 6) She is not allowed on any furniture except an ottoman in the boys' loft where she keeps them company while they do their homework. 7) She walks next to me or within a few feet and always stops to make sure she is not too far ahead or behind me -- no more yanking on the leash! 8) She obeys when told to stay out of a particular room and will lie at the threshold There is still work to be done when it comes to jumping up on new houseguests and visitors so we will definitely use Ken and Lisa again when we go out of town to refine some of those areas, but for now, we are so pleased with all the services they provided! Thank you, Lisa and Ken!!! read more

We were told by another reputable trainer that our 11-year-old rescue was a lost cause. That his fear aggression would end up harming one of us or our other dogs, and we should get rid of him immediately. Thank goodness I stuck to my instinct and made another call. The call was to Gentle Dog Training. Long story short, after only 2-3 sessions, our household was completely at ease as the techniques taught us how to be the boss. Our new family member gained a new level of respect for us and our other dogs (and cat). It was well worth the time, effort, and money. We are now better dog parents (bosses) because of it and will carry what we have learned on. Thank you, Ken and Lisa! read more

No no no. Save yourself the money and just buy a shock collar. That's what they used on my dog. I would not recommend to anyone.

I am completely amazed with the transformation of my weimaraner. She would pull me everywhere, jump on everyone including my small children. I had to either get rid of her or get her some discipline. I was very skeptical that my dog could change. She is 100% different and better. I would recommend them to anyone with any dog issues. Thank you!!! read more

ken is fantastic and everything you hear about how good he is is true. Remember ken is not training your dog...he is training YOU in how to train your dog. If you have the discipline to work at it ..this system works. Our dog stopped the barking and crashing the front door after one day! It works and the dog is actually happier now..and so are we! But remember you have to keep it up. Dogs are smart and learn quickly if taught properly. read more

Gentle Dog Training is hands down the best dog training I have found! I currently work as a veterinary technician and have worked in the dog rescue community for several years and have yet to find training that comes close. Ken and Lisa set their clients up to win and follow through with positive reinforcement that does not include feeding your pet dozens of treats. I have a rottweiler mix and needed training that was solid and reliable and that is what Ken and Lisa have provided time after time. My dog is a rescue and had issues with resource guarding, dog reactivity, and was next to impossible to take on walks. I enrolled her in the basics class and followed up with an individual lesson. My dog is now able to successfully go to dog parks and play with other dogs without the worry of her getting aggressive. She walks beautifully on a leash and even takes high value treats nicely. I no longer live in the KC area but still call Ken and Lisa when I am visiting to do individualized training with my dog. They also trained my dog to be reliable off leash, this is a must have in a dog focused community! Not only do they train your dog, but they train you, the human, to help your dog and set your dog up to win! If you're looking to actually teach your dog and allow your dog to learn, this is the place. read more

Our 7 month old puppy went through Gentle Dog Training's board/train program for 3 1/2 weeks and came home with a new attitude!! Before, his impulsiveness and barking had gotten so difficult to manage that I refused to walk him in our neighborhood. He had regressed in potty training and wouldn't focus in the yard so went in the house, barked and barked at quests in our home, and had regressed in following simple commands we had taught him. After Gentle Dog Training, he is a pleasure to walk in our neighborhood, has self control, is a much calmer dog, he is happy and gentle, and he responds to our requests and cues for good behavior and not barking at anything that moves! Lisa has been to our home and walked him with me in our neighborhood training me how to continue training him. I will now board him there when we are out of town for follow up training for him, and I will use their one year help with continued training in our home/neighborhood. Highly recommend!!! read more