Before working with Makenzie, walking Molly was honestly stressful. She couldn't walk on leash around other dogs without barking, lunging, and completely losing focus. I found myself walking at odd hours and constantly crossing the street to avoid other dogs -- it created major walk anxiety for both of us. Before finding Makenzie, I actually tried a board-and-train program at a more corporate facility. Unfortunately, it made little to no difference and ended up being a waste of a couple thousand dollars. Looking back, I really wish I had found Makenzie sooner -- but better late than never. After training with Makenzie, the difference was truly night and day. We can now go on walks without fear, and I've learned the skills and tools to confidently handle situations that used to feel overwhelming. Makenzie also trained Molly for off-leash freedom using an e-collar in a thoughtful, clear, and responsible way. Because of that training, I can safely give Molly more freedom while still knowing she's fully under control -- and she absolutely loves it. Another huge benefit is being able to board Molly with Makenzie when I'm out of town. Knowing she's staying in a home environment with someone I completely trust -- instead of a crowded boarding facility -- gives me so much peace of mind. The ongoing Saturday group classes are another big highlight. They make it clear this isn't just a one-time training -- it's continued support. We're always brushing up on skills, and it's been great connecting with other people who've gone through her program. It truly feels like a supportive community. Training with Makenzie has completely changed my life with Molly. I'm so grateful for the progress she's made and couldn't recommend her more. read more

See all

As a first-time German Shepherd mom, I truly had no idea how much there was to learn--but working with Makenzie at Peak Performance Dog Training has been one of the best decisions I've made. [[HIGHLIGHT]]From the very beginning, she took us in and made us feel so comfortable being part of her program, which meant so much as someone new to all of this.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] She took the time to understand both me and my dog, and her knowledge and guidance have made such a difference in our journey. She helped me recognize what my dog truly needs, not just in training, but in having safe and healthy outlets for his energy and instincts. She also helped me adjust my dog's training in a way that he responds so much better, which has been a huge breakthrough for us. We also joined her group classes, which are really fun and interactive. They've helped us gain a better understanding of what we need to continue learning and growing so we can become the best version of ourselves for our dog. [[HIGHLIGHT]]What stands out the most is how much she genuinely cares. She treats my dog like her own, and that kind of dedication is something you don't find everywhere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] She is incredibly kind and loving, and she's always available to answer any questions I have no matter how small while always making me feel comfortable reaching out. I'm beyond grateful for her support, patience, and passion. She's not just a trainer--she's been a huge part of helping me become the dog owner I hoped to be. I highly recommend Makenzie at Peak Performance Dog Training to anyone looking for someone who truly cares and knows what they're doing. read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Santa visit - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

We had reactivity issues with our malinois/shepherd rescue. We chose to do board and train with Makenzie and couldn't be happier with the result. His behavior and attention during neighborhood walks has dramatically improved, we are actually able to take him on walks without stress and fear of lunging and barking at every dog! I can't recommend her enough. read more

We cannot say enough good things about Peak Performance Dog Training and Makenzie. [[HIGHLIGHT]]From day one, Makenzie has been incredibly organized, knowledgeable, and genuinely kind--not just to us, but especially to our dog.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our golden doodle, Finn, is absolutely in love with her, and it shows in how excited and engaged he is during training. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Makenzie doesn't just train dogs--she builds confident dog owners. She explains everything clearly, meets you exactly where you are, and gives you the tools and reassurance you need to be consistent and successful.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Because of her guidance, I truly feel like a better, more confident dog owner. The e-collar training was a game changer for us. It is not mean or harsh in any way--it's a communication tool that actually strengthens the relationship between dog and owner. It gave Finn clarity, freedom, and trust, and it gave us peace of mind. Thanks to this training, Finn can enjoy more freedom while still being safe and responsive. Because of Makenzie and Peak Performance Dog Training, I can take Finn anywhere and everywhere with complete confidence. Walks, outings, busy environments--it all feels manageable now. If you're looking for a trainer who is professional, compassionate, effective, and truly invested in both you and your dog, Peak Performance Dog Training is worth every penny. read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - My dog at group training! - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Where do I even begin with how happy I am that I sent my at the time 7m old Pitty mix to Peak![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] When my boy Ranger got to her he was so shy and timid in so many different scenarios and lacked so much confidence. After her 4 week board and train he was like a new man! He was confident and loved going out in public. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I get compliments all the time about how well behaved he is.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]He is my go anywhere dog and it is amazing to have that kind of dog in your life.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Also, my favorite part is the weekly group classes and that she offers boarding for past trainees. (Always nice for them to get a little tune up here and there) read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Life changing! Can't recommend her enough. I have a whole new life with my dog and am able to bring him along. We love group class after board and train and no longer struggle with reactivity with our dog. read more

Makenzie, owner of Peak Performance came highly recommended by our vet, Dr Mauna. Several of the staff there at Sendero Pet Hospital also sang Makenzie's praises and the work she'd done with many of their patients that had wonderful results. This being our 1st German Shepherd puppy I knew we needed a trainer with knowledge and experience with this breed as our goal was for our pup to ultimately be a registered service animal. Makenzie is a true professional and has both a shepherd and a Belgium Malinois that are trained at a competitive level in the sport of IGP which requires not only superior obedience from the dog but a truly knowledgable and experienced handler/trainer dedicated to their craft. So I reached out to Makenzie to learn more. By this time I was becoming overwhelmed with the daunting task of finding the right fit as we sat through multiple presentations by trainers and I spent countless hours on the phone searching for that perfect fit. [[HIGHLIGHT]]My interaction with Makenzie was different than the others. She really understood these dogs and how their brains work. I found her to be very genuine and passionate in her work and not transactional.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I really appreciated her structured approach utilizing positive reinforcement with a focus on building a trust-based bond between dog and owner. I also appreciated Makenzie not imposing a one size fits all approach. She understands that every dog is an individual and concentrated on tailoring a program specific to our pups individual needs with our training goals, philosophy and lifestyle in mind. We decided the 4 week board and train was best suited for us and I can honestly say it was the best decision we could've made. Our boy, Saint left a wild and crazy puppy that was starting to exhibit some behavioral issues and he came home a completely transformed little gentleman. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Makenzie communicated regularly throughout the 4 weeks sending cute photos of Saint being loved on, and even making friends with her little Corgi, Billie. We also consistently received videos of his progress that were absolutely jaw-dropping (in a good way) but I don't think any of us could've been prepared for the transformation in his behavior after training - No more biting, leash pulling, or shenanigans.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] When Makenzie brought him home to us she spent a considerable amount of time walking us through Saint's new repertoire of skills. We all went on our very first loose leash walk together (which was HUGE!) Saint knew all the basic commands - heel, sit, down, come, place, holding place (with distractions), free, as well as he was completely crate trained. For a 6 month old GSD puppy that was pretty crazy and unruly before Makenzie it was impressive to say the least. She had him on a daily schedule that fit our lives and accomplished every single training goal we had discussed prior to training and then some bonus stuff as well. It was truly an unbelievable transformation far surpassing our expectations, which is no easy task I might add. Almost 6 months later we continue to train with Makenzie. Saint loves to work with her and is excelling in his obedience as well as learning tracking and developing some other specialized skills along side her colleague Austin (who's also fantastic) We're having so much fun together, and looking forward to the future. I can finally say I have the dog I dreamed of. [[HIGHLIGHT]]We've made friends within the Peak Performance family and love Saturday group training (which is free of charge after the PP training program) It's great to see all the different pups that've gone through her program and how happy and well balanced they are.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Every breed, size and age, so well behaved and beaming with pride as passerbyers take notice. It's truly been an incredible experience and we are forever grateful to "Auntie Makenzie" for all her love and dedication to our boy. We would recommend her to anyone who's looking for an exceptional, no nonsense dog trainer regardless of the size, breed or age of their pup. From basic obedience all the way up to specialized skills. She's hands down the best out there! read more

See all

When we adopted our pit-mix 2 years ago, she had many behavioral issues. We dropped her off with Peak Performance for the one-month period and she came back a different dog (behavior-wise, she still had her sweet personality). We have also loved how Peak Performance offers free on-going group lessons once you've done the boot camp drop-off training with Peak. This has only improved our dog's behavior and made us stay on top of training and socialization. We also use Peak for boarding -- always a great experience. read more

I think there are more effective ways to trainn dogs than using an e collar. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I am sorry I spent the time and money to bring my dog to Mackenzie....I would never do it with another dog.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I am getting a second dog and will spend more time finding someone that trains faster and with total positive reinforcement and not the need to use an e collar, E collars are great for rattlesnake traiing or dogs with violent behavior but not commds ike stay , come, sit etc. I now have other resources that have reinforced that this is not the way to go. I should have trusted my insticts when I spoke to Mackenzie who I found to be super rigid. read more

New puppy or just need to curb some bad habits? Look no further than Peak Performance! Our new puppy was quite the challenge for us- we sent her to McKenzie (owner) and she came back the best possible version of herself. This team works off positive reinforcement and our dog flourished. It is worth every penny they charge. Because of their top notch training- I feel confident knowing our dog is actually much safer listening to all commands. Our home is no longer a power struggle between our pup and us. Do NOT give it another thought and sign your doggo up today! She also offers lifetime/ongoing classes nearly every weekend for no additional charge. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Thank you Peak Performance for all of your help with our VERY good girl, Scout![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

See all

I am beyond glad that I found Makenzie and Peak Performance. My Pomsky was about 5 1/2 months old when I signed up for the 2-week bootcamp. She's a very sweet dog but it was very hard to give her much freedom inside the house and she was all over the place on the leash. I felt like I was managing her all day and unable to focus on work or anything I needed to get done. I was amazed at the pictures Makenzie sent where she not only had her attention outside but had her on long distance "sits". We ended up adding a week to her program so we could get her to a place that Makenzie and I would be more satisfied with. When she came home she was a different dog in that she can now live in the house with us without ever needing to use a pen. Now we can go on a true walk that is not just a constant challenge of fishing her out of the bushes or prying something out of her mouth. We just had a visit from Makenzie this morning where she taught me how to better work with her in the house in terms of "place" and "crate". It's so incredible to have a demonstration of how it should be and the reminder of how to stay consistent and in charge. I wasn't originally planning to do a boot camp but the investment has been very worthwhile in getting my puppy to a place where we can all live in peace together. I was really struggling with her before she left and though it still takes work, now I know exactly how to deal with it. The fact that there are ongoing Saturday classes so we can stay on top of things is really a game changer. This wasn't in my original puppy plan but it was absolutely necessary for my peace and sanity and both of our happiness. Makenzie is truly great at what she does. read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Sitting outside above sports park with lots of activity going on - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

I have a Belgian Malinois that was 16 weeks old when I signed him up with Makenzie for her board and train boot camp...and when I got him back a month later he was a completely different dog in ALL THE BEST ways! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The experience has been amazing all around and the follow-up is incredible.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I just participated in my first post-bootcamp group gathering and seeing my puppy interact in the training session with 8 other dogs of varying breeds and ages was awesome. ALL of the dogs were like eager students...no fights, no problems...there wasn't even any barking!!! It was unreal and makes spending time with my pup so enjoyable! Highest recommendation for Makenzie and Peak Performance Dog Training!! read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Jagger...at training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

Connecting with Makenzie was the single best thing we could have ever done for our pup. When we adopted sweet Charlotte (German Shepard, Aussie Shepard, American Pit, Spaniel mix) we knew it would take a minute to work through her lunging and walking stresses, but it was clear we needed professional help. The impact Makenzie had on Charlotte's comfort level and confidence was immediate. It was clear that Makenzie's positive reinforcement, gentle correction, and consistent messaging made Charlotte feel safe and SO happy. It was remarkable to see Charlotte posted up by the front window, waiting for her training time with Makenzie. Even more valuable than Charlotte's training was ours - Makenzie spent time patiently educating us on how to best work with and care for our strong, energetic girl. I continue to regularly share the Peak Performance Instagram feed with friends and family, as well as strangers who've commented on how polite Charlotte is. I can't imagine a better experience. read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Makenzie is a great trainer.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I have a Belgian Malinois/Dutch Shepherd mix and she's helped me a lot with a variety of behavioral issues. I can't recommend her enough. read more

Thank you for all the hard work that you and your crew have done to make our Buddy conquer some challenges. Him, my wife and myself continue to grow and learn and we appreciate to extra help we have received. If you looking for help with your pup, look no further. Mckenzie will guide you with options based on budget and training needs read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Wow, I don't know where to start because Makenzie has genuinely turned my life around. I got a German shorthaired pointer puppy (Dutton) on my own a year ago, fully knowing what I was in for. I started training him on my own while he was a puppy and it was going well, but as soon as he hit 6 months, it was like living with a terrorist. He was terrible, and was absolutely controlling my life and well being. I became so overwhelmed and realized I needed to either re-home him or put some serious work into training him. I began researching and talking to trainers in my area who all seemed great! But when I came across Makenzie and spoke on the phone with her, her enthusiasm, knowledge, organization and genuine God given gift for working with dogs shined through and brought me so much peace. I decided to go with the 2 week board and train, because I honestly needed a break from Dutton (bad mom). I knew it was very expensive to put a dog through good training where they're not just sitting in a cage all day, but still, the price tag hurt. I kept telling myself that this was an investment in my future happiness and would be well worth it down the line. Dutton went through his 2 week board and train with Makenzie (who so nicely picks up and drops off the dogs!) and I went to a spa to relax lol. She sent me pictures and videos of Dutton and his new friends on amazing field trips like the mall or beach where she trained him in the real world, with real distractions to make sure he really got it. It was so exciting to see these progress videos and also to know that Dutton was having fun and in such good hands. When Dutton returned, he was incredibly more controlled and obedient. He wasn't an INSTANTLY changed dog, and I think that's a misconception a lot of people have about training (especially with a breed like a GSP). Dutton came back knowing all his commands (sit, down, off, free, heel, come, place, etc) and could hold them for a while. He was finally walking without pulling on the leash and had great recall. But, and Makenzie will tell you this, the follow up and consistency is SO important and where I've really noticed the difference. It also takes time to train you, the human, how to work with your dog like Makenzie does. Makenzie came over for serval follow up training sessions (all included in my training package) and made sure both Dutton and I were getting it. We then started to go to her Saturday training classes (which are the best and so worth it!) and this is where we really began to see consistent improvement. Through the combo of board and train, follow up, and group classes, Dutton has become a changed dog. He is polite, he listens, he knows and respects his commands. He is known in my neighborhood as the "most well behaved dog" because he walks off leash every morning with me (YES, a GSP!!), stops and sits at each curb, waits for traffic to go by and for me to tell him we can keep walking. He sits so politely when we go into restaurants or stores and knows how to behave. If he is like this at 1 year old, I can't imagine how great he'll be as he grows out of his wild puppy phase. I'm so grateful for Mackenzie! Dutton and I have been able to bond and connect because I'm not constantly frustrated with him or having to discipline him. I absolutely adore this boy and have been able to see his sweet, goofy side. I just wish he loved me as much as he loves Makenzie.... All bets are off when he sees her at training. She is his favorite person in the world and that makes my heart so warm. If you're on the fence, just hire Makenzie. It's the best decision you'll make for you and your dog! read more

See all

Had my dog Zoro trained at Peak Performance with Makenzie and he has really learned to behave. I chose Peak Performance because of the in house training and their training style. My dog loves the trainers and loves the group classes every Saturday that gives us additional tips and tricks to how to keep developing good behaviors. Worth every penny read more

See all

Last Sunday I walked into Fashion Island Nordstrom to get some products. As I was walking to the beauty counter, the person who helped me asked: "Is your dog a show dog? She walks like a show dog." I was so proud of my pup Lola!!! I texted MaKenzie to share the story and said "This was all YOU!" MaKenzie is a super talented trainer with a beautiful heart. She takes amazing care of the pups she trains and is very committed to ensuring that they succeed and attain their peak performance. And she feels very proud of each and every one. I sometimes think my pup Lola loves MaKenzie more than me! If you are looking for an amazing and caring place to train your dog, Peak Performance is definitely the place for you. read more

I found Makenzie last year. Hank did a trial run of spending the night and doing training with him. The next day, one of his bad habits was almost gone. People have noticed how much calmer Hank is now. He has won over people and children that have been nervous around dogs. We love going to the weekly pack walks that include drills. I couldn't be happier and tell EVERYONE about her! read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Makenzie is on the left! Practicing our down and stays. - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

Mackenzie is literally a dog whisperer! Our pom corgi was starting to act up and be a not-so-trained puppy again, and with a baby on the way, we wanted to correct the behavior ASAP. He was tugging on his leash when being walked, definitely did not walk the way dogs should, would bark at any and all dogs and people that crossed him (whether or not they gave him any attention), only listened to commands at his own convenience, etc. Now, after the 2 week board and train program with Mackenzie and her team, he is a completely changed little man! He walks properly, he doesn't bark as much at strangers or other dogs at all, he almost always listens to his commands, etc. Whenever we leave town, we only trust our little guy with Mackenzie and her team...they are his home away from home! She is SO knowledgeable and very upfront about the process! I could not have asked for a better group of people to trust my pup with!! read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Couldn't ask for a better experience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] My pup Molly was completely transformed. Highly recommend the "boot camp"....yes it is pricey, but when you consider all the years ahead of joyful quality time you'll have with a well trained dog, I don't think you can put a price tag on it. Mackenzie is a magician! read more

Our puppy, Betsy, was 4 months old when we rescued her after some very harsh circumstances. She was legitimately out of control. She nipped us incessantly, did not listen, we could not take her on an effective walk -- she pulled hard and would pick up debris constantly. No matter how forcefully we tried to change her behavior, we could not do so -- extremely frustrating and disappointing. We tried a couple of private treat-based training sessions with Makenzie and it was obvious our girl needed a more focused program. Makenzie had her for the 4 week Platinum Board and train. Betsy came back an entirely different dog! She is obedient!! She is crate-trained. She heel walks. She holds the commands of sit, down and place and will "come" on command! Makenzie is fantastic. She is an extremely diligent coach, a wonderful and skillful (very direct) communicator and is firm, but very compassionate, with the animal. Our puppy loves Auntie Mak. This lady is all business and has the perfect edge to make your dog the companion that you hoped for. Finally, she stays with you after the Board and Train and makes sure that you effectively execute the process. She is committed to making sure that your dog will not regress. We are so happy that we chose Makenzie and we are confident that you will be too. read more

Peak Performance has exceeded my expectations by so so much. I have trained my own dog (Belgian malinois) in the past and thought "why can't i train this new puppy (Belgian malinois/husky mix) but my life is different than it was before. I was referred to Peak Performance and Mackenzie and I couldn't be happier. 'She has not only trained my sweet puppy to be amazing but has helped me regain my confidence as a dog owner. She has been so helpful and even though i was nervous about doing a board and train she reassured me along the whole path. My puppy came home and she is still working with her, with follow up lessons and answering literally EVERY question I have. WELL WORTH THE FINANCIAL INVESTMENT! I have an amazing puppy that will grow into an absolutely fabulous dog! And i can't wait to meet the rest of the family at her pack walks!! read more

Makenzie is a true pro! She returned our dog from a two week board and train with so much improvement and focus! We were blown away. She continues to be there for us for follow up appointments to make sure our boy is keeping up and practicing his skills daily. I highly recommend Peak Performance if you are looking to regain order in your home with a wild dog. Our puppy is 9 months old but weighs around 80 pounds. We need to feel confident that we have control over him and situations we put him in and now we do. Thank you Makenzie! read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

This is my fourth Dobey and previously trained my other three. Unfortunately, with hectic work, and not as much time to dedicate, I decided to find a trainer for RJ. I was very critical in my research and interviewed four trainers. By far Makenzie was the most impressive with her very thorough review of her methodology in which her passion came through just in our conversation. Well, didn't realize it was going to be even more impressive when I got RJ back. First of all, I thought I knew a lot, but I realize now that I know nothing compared to what she does! Not only is she dedicated and passionate about what she does, I was extremely impressed with her overall knowledge, techniques and execution of training. And if that's not enough, if there's any type of follow up or support that's needed when I got him back, she doesn't hesitate to go above and beyond to ensure she meets your goals and expectations. And being a business owner, I have to add it's refreshing to mention she's always very timely in getting back to you! But most of all, she loves what she does, and she loves dogs, and it shows. I'm just glad that RJ wanted to be home with me as I was worried he wanted to stay with her...Lol! If you need a puppy or older dog trained, I highly suggest and recommend you reach out to Makenzie at Peak Performance!! Having a well trained dog is critical to both the dog and owners happiness IMO! Thank you Makenzie! Allen & RJ read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Makenzie worked wonders with my reactive, anxious German Shepherd, and strong-willed Pembroke Welsh Corgi! I wanted to be able to take my dogs with me everywhere and be comfortable and well behaved when traveling. In just a few weeks through a Board and Train program, she returned each dog to me with perfect manners and off leash control. Makenzie is a true professional. Her passion for her work and love for my pups is obvious. She is always available for questions that I have, is always punctual, my dogs love her, and she makes training fun. I've used her Board and Tune services a few times so my dogs' training can be refreshed and they can visit one of their favorite people. I'm getting ready to send my new Swedish Vallhund puppy for training and I'm confident he will be in the best hands! read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Makenzie is the best!! She is awesome she helped out with my pup with his obedience. Which was hard for me to train on my own. But with him training with her for 3 weeks in home training helped alot. She is very helpful and informative and is very willing to answer any questions you may think of. Trust me I had a ton of what I though could be dumb questions for her but I guess they were not lol. She also does group class weekly which is awesome to get you more confident with your training. I've tried going every week and I feel alot more confident on training with my pup. She has also taken care of my dog for an overnight stay and my dog had lots of fun in his mini vacay. Definitely recommend Makenzie with Peak Performance Dog Training. read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

Single-handedly the greatest thing I've ever done for my family! When our family decided to get a Sheepadoodle we really didn't think beyond the "cute-ness" factor. As cute as this (now 70lb) untrained dog was, as he grew he became unmanageable and an extreme liability, jumping up on people, lunging at other dogs and pulling us down the street on walks. I found Peak Performance through word of mouth and MAN oh MAN!!... what a change I saw in WInston with the very first traning session! Really like magic! Makenzie was our trainer and she was absolutely amazing! She's incredibly patient and extremely knowledgeable. I really appreciated her committment to training him well, her great enthusiasm for her craft and her actual genuine love for dogs, which is apparent upon meeting her. She was on time -every time- and often stayed longer to train ME on commands when I wasn't getting them right LOL ("stay" is NOT one of the commands btw :) Truly, what she gave us is the great gift of a pet that is now a companion. One that we can thoroughly enjoy and take with us anywhere and everywhere. Thank you so much Makenzie you are quite honestly, the best (and the reason we now want 75 more dogs :) read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - WInston 3 Makenzie :) - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

My wife and I have a labradoodle who was in need of behavior and calming training. Makenzie was able to completely and expertly address our questions. We saw real results and we know we did the right thing for our dog by choosing Makenzie's Peak Performance Dog Training. read more

Makenzie is so full of information and actions to help a dog owner and their pup to have a more peaceful and pleasant time together. She encourages follow through and continuity. Dogs respond to her and how she holds herself. They know she is the leader and they listen. Makenzie is especially good at training the owners to be with their dogs. Thanks for all the help. I'm sure Fonzie and Sam will be so much better behaved. read more

See all

Called a few times and left messages and never got a reply back. Communication is key and unfortunately the lack of communication is indicative of how the business is ran. I will go elsewhere for my dogs needs. read more

My husband and I bought a puppy completely unplanned and unprepared! All of a sudden we had this wiggly, nutty puppy that was running a muck in our home and biting us nonstop. I have had 4 dogs throughout my life and I have NEVER had a puppy like our crazy Winston who was much more like having an infant than a puppy. I was also nervous about how we would control him when he became a big dog because we knew he would grow to a large size pretty quickly. So on day 2 of having Winston (and minus sleep) I began calling almost every dog trainer in Orange County (not an exaggeration). When I spoke with Makenzie from Peak Performance, she was refreshingly knowledgeable about her trade right out of the gate and she laid out a strong foundation and plan from which she would begin training our very young puppy. I passed Makenzie's information on to my husband and he made the final decision to hire Makenzie, so I gather he came to the same decision in regard to a strong, strategic approach to puppy training. We purchased the puppy package and Makenzie came to our home for the first session, we were so green behind the ears with how to properly care for our puppy that the hour flew by and was so chalked full of information that I felt I needed to take notes, but thankfully Makenzie gave us a handout and highlighted everything she discussed with us. We threw out the puppy pads on day 1 of training and began crate training Winston and within 1 week our little guy was letting us know when he needed to go out and he was 90% there with house training and very few accidents at only 9 weeks! We also learned that his biting was because he needed more sleep then we were allowing for- just like a baby, Winston needed to be down for a nap almost every 2 hours. Makenzie really was a life savor for us when Winston was a baby. The tools she equipped us with allowed for us to care for our puppy on an in-depth level, made having a puppy so much more manageable and gave us deeper empathy and compassion for Winston once we were able to understand the catalyst for various puppy driven behaviors. Further, Makenzie made herself available via text and would schedule 20 minute phone calls when needed to answer questions and give advice. We came to realize that we just did not have the skills to train our dog on that level that we needed and we needed a professional dog behaviorist like Makenzie to do the majority of the training for us. So at 6 months we purchased a more in-depth package to train Winston and Makenzie worked with him for 2 weeks for 1-2 hours every day. What I do really appreciate about Makenzie was her aptitude for organization- she was very organized with her dates, timing and follow trough. Expect Makenzie to consistently be on time, on point, extremely professional and deliver the precise results promised when working with your dog. My husband and I were blown away when Makenzie handed us the leash at the end of the 2 weeks and our puppy was completely leash trained like a pro! Our neighbors even noticed and said "is that Winston?" Like a Boss- Winston will prance by, leash slack, on the left side, and sit at my side when told (no flinching) as another dog is acting like a menace, all over their leash and barking in Winston's face- that's what I call results! If you want to improve your dogs quality of life, enjoy your pet on a deeper level and be a responsible pet own by ensuring your dog is safe for others and properly leash and house trained you need to go with Makenzie from Peak Performance! Not only will you get what you paid for (and it's worth every penny) you get peace of mind, more fun with your dog and weekly follow up us classes for the rest of your pet's life with Peak Performance on Saturdays. Makenzie is one the best out there with a TRUE talent and passion for what she does! read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

See all

Makenzie did a fantastic job with my husky Dakota! Before her help, I could barely walk Dakota without being pulled over but thanks to her help it's now a breeze! She is now a great listener and can even walk off leash! Seriously a great service from a great person and I couldn't be happier read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

I can't say enough about Makenzie's ethics and morals. Yes she is a fabulous dog trainer....but she is also an amazing human. We reached out to her for help with a dog we were attempting to integrate into our home. I had already paid the deposit on her Board and Train program when circumstances out of our control changed our well intended plans. Makenzie was amazing and didn't bat an eye when we had to cancel. I know we will find our right match soon and can't wait to bring Makenzie back to help. read more

choosing peak performance and having Makenzie train my 6 month old Rhodesian ridgeback was the best decision I could have made.. I had an extremely hyper, very large and stubborn puppy tearing up my home for 4 months.. worried If I didn't get the right training soon I would be in big trouble.. I was recommended peak performance and decided to send my pup to their two week boarding class.. my dog came back a different dog..Makenzie was just fantastic and walked me through all the steps to continue to reinforce proper training techniques after the 2 week training.. recommending Peak performance is a no brainer! 10 out of 10!!!! read more

Peak Performance Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

I was struggling to find a reliable trainer for our puppy Daisy and came across Peak Performance Dog Training. Let me start out by saying - I'm definitely a person who does their homework and research, especially when it comes to my pup and McKenzie blew my expectations. Mckenzie did a consultation with me and explained all of her programs and subsequently board and train packages. Our initial phone consultation was over an hour and being a first time pup owner - I had SO many questions. Mind you some of these questions had nothing to do with her programs - just general help as a first time pup owner. McKenzie was so kind and patient, giving me recommendations without charging me a dime. We decided to enroll in both her puppy classes and board and train program. If you're on the fence - trust me, it's SO worth it. Our puppy was actually a bit on the younger side when entering the board and train program, around 4.5 months, so I was a bit worried the training would not transfer over fully at such a young age. Our puppy had zero leash skills and we also didn't have a yard so it was a pretty big nightmare attempting to take our pup out multiple times a day. I was starting to honestly lose my sanity over it. That being said, I was extremely skeptical that after 2 weeks our puppy would not only be able to walk on a leash nicely but also place, recall, and pay attention to me. Boy was I wrong - when our puppy came home... she was absolutely perfect and it was some of the best money spent!!! We still get stopped on the street to this day by people who constantly comment on how well behaved our pup is. McKenzie is so responsible and I'm always stress free knowing that she's in good hands. 10/10 recommend Peak Performance Dog Training - worth every penny and more! read more

See all

I took 2 fairly young Golden Retrievers to Makenzie for her 2-week Board and Train program and as I left I wished her the best of luck. My female is 2 years old, and my male is 6 mos old, both full of puppy energy. I left her with hooligans and in 2 weeks she returned to me the most well-behaved, obedient angels. Makenzie's method of training is so different than any other I've been exposed to in the past. I've worked with several trainers and dog behaviorists with my past dogs, and none of that training has had the immediate response and results compared to what Makenzie and her team were able achieve. Due to distance I am not able to attend her weekly pack walks or follow up visits, but Makenzie has worked out other options should I need anything. I am so happy with the decision to have Makenzie train my dogs; her knowledge and experience in training dogs far exceeds anything I've ever seen. Many thanks to the Peak Performance Team! read more

Husband and I just got our first puppy and really had no idea where to start in terms of training and/or obedience. At the time, our main focus was that our puppy viewed me as a playmate and liked to bite me alot. My husband found and contacted Makenzie and set up three initial training sessions with her to learn some basic training techniques include bite training, potty training, crate training, and simple commands. Makenzie was amazing. In three sessions, she gave us enough information to use as a base for getting our puppy to understand not to bite, how to apply the proper bite correction, how to train him to follow simple commands, including sitting, laying down, and how to get him to come. In addition, she gave us tools that allow us to continue training him as he gets older. At the very least, I encourage frustrated new puppy owners (especially those who have never had a puppy) to have Makenzie come in and show them them the basics of how to train their puppy. It will pay off in the long run. read more