We really enjoyed the experience of working with the Sit Means Sit team! They were all very professional and stood out to us as really loving the animals and what they do. Our pup loved every minute of it and we are extremely grateful for the care they gave him. We did the 20 day program and immediately reaped the benefits of their training and guidance. Our pup is back showing us all his new skills and we are extremely proud of the graduate. Thanks for your wonderful work!! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Colby at home halfway through his program - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

We sent our dog, Duke, to the 10-day board and train program--and while 10 days felt like a long time to be apart from him, the experience was well worth it. He was paired with Andy, and we couldn't have asked for a better trainer. Andy clearly got Duke, and Duke really responded to him. The weekly updates and training videos were a huge comfort while he was away. It was amazing to see Duke's progress in real time--it definitely helped ease our nerves. When we got him back, we were amazed. Duke was still the same lovable, goofy guy, but now with real structure and command responsiveness. He listens, follows direction, and is clearly more confident. Andy laid an incredible foundation, and the follow-up training has made us feel fully supported in continuing Duke's journey. We genuinely can't recommend Sit Means Sit--and especially Andy--enough. It's been a true blessing for our family and for Duke. If you're considering it, do it! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Duke - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Sit means sit has been so amazing! We got a German Shepard puppy and wanted to have him be calm and well trained. Everyone at sit means sit was so helpful and kind to us. They took our puppy and turned him into a whole new dog. Andy was our trainer and he has been the absolute BEST! We can tell he truly cares and loves dogs and takes care of our puppy like it is his own. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Amazing Experience. My dog had evolved so much by coming to Sit means Sit. She is still a puppy but acts like an older dog due to their training. Highly recommend read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Mable graduating - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

We were referred to Sit Means Sit by a friend after I had a confirmed torn rotator cuff from repeated yanking on walks with Barkley. Getting him on leash and walking him was miserable and we were frustrated. We knew he was trainable but he always chose being naughty. While getting his updates during his 20 day stay, we saw immediately he was doing so well and saw what he was capable of! It was truly night and day. Instead of being frustrated and yelling at him, we now play games with him in his continued training and spend more time loving on him and less time being frustrated. Hands down Sit Means Sit gave us confidence and got Barkley on loose leash walks without a pronged collar. The continued relationship and check-ins have helps us trouble shoot as needed and Andy is truly Barkley's buddy. Their bond is so strong and Barkley LOVES to see Andy. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

See all

We were referred to Sit Means Sit by a family member and were so glad we brought our puppy River to them. We sent him away with Andy for 10 days to learn all the basic foundations that a dog should know. He did so well and we're very appreciative to Andy for the consistency and love he gave River. We also love that it's not just the 10 days they work with him. We had follow up training after and now we're joining the group training to make sure he has all his commands down. It's better to put in the time and money now so that they're well behaved. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

See all

Looks like Finley had a great time boarding and training at Sit Means Sit. We appreciated the updates and photos. The trainers are great and took the time to explain the process to us. We are looking forward to transitioning him into our homesetting and reinforcing what he's learned. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Wasn't sure we were going to make it with Indie....WOW! She is awesome now! She is off lead around out property, comes instead of runs away, happy (so are we) and she has turned the corner into an enjoyable member of our family. Sit means Sit team has a star in heaven named after them. Thank you! read more

Wow we are SO happy to be working with Megan Thornton and trainer Andy at Dit Means Sit! In just a month our three big dogs have stopped pulling on the leash. They heel perfectly and Place. They wait at the door instead If jumping on guests. It's a miracle, I wish we had hired Sit Means Sit years ago. 5 stars of gratitude! read more

We sent our doodle Bailey for a week of training and couldn't be happier. We tried other training methods which weren't successful long term. He had issues with incessant barking, recall, counter surfing, jumping on people and chewing. All of these behaviors have been corrected. He is such a joy to take on vacation and to dog-friendly restaurants now. He's also not annoying to anyone coming into our home. We took him back for a single day of training to revisit what he had learned and he was SO excited to be back. I personally observed a lot of positive reinforcement and praise which I feel is very important when training. I highly recommend Sit Means Sit. read more

It's been over a year and my dog needed a refresher lesson. Sit means sit accommodated and came to my home to do a refresh training. Helped 100%! Dont forget once you buy their program it's lifetime support! read more

I want to say a big ""Thank You" to everyone at SMS. From Taytum for listening to me have a melt down and answering all my questions. To Whitney for taking us in on an emergency situation and explaining to me the details of their well established board and train program. To trainers, Kevin and Megan, for rehabilitating and nurturing our 2 boys. Winston is not the reactive corgi anymore but a more confident and happy 4 year old. Ace was given the foundation to being the best version of himself. Also, thank you for giving me and my family the tools to continue their hard work. We just finished our 1st group lesson and it was a success!!! No stress and to see the boys in action around the other dogs was amazing! I appreciate all of you and your dedication to our dogs. read more

See all

Everyone there loves animals especially dogs. They are all so kind, and loving, and sweet. Jack went in a little stubborn but he warmed up nicely to everyone. Our trainer was Kevin and he just loved on our little guy while training him. They are so good at getting back to you, answering questions etc. I really loved everyone here. Joel, Andy. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Little Captain Jack Sparrow. - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

First of all, the staff from Megan, to Taytum, and finally our pups trainer , Andy- were all professional and caring. After the 3-week boarding program, we were updated and given instructions on the function and use of the E-collar. We brought our sweet dog home and I began implementing the collar and commands. He was better at following commands like walking and sit-- however it wasn't until the first follow-up visit with Andy that I realized how to properly apply the collar (user error). It gets his attention quickly which could be life saving. And it is better than jerking the pup around and yelling which I found myself doing way too much. Things are calmer now and I know that my good boy is going to be a great companion! read more

Sit Means Sit completely transformed my puppy, Oliver, in a way I never thought possible. I found them at a point of utter frustration after months of dealing with typical but exhausting puppy behaviors. Oliver did the 10-day board and train program, and even after the first video update (about 3 days in), I could hardly believe the progress. He was like a new dog. The discipline they instilled in him is so impressive. We had been dealing with all the classic issues (pulling on walks, not listening, chewing, digging, and just general disobedience) and now, those problems are a thing of the past. Our whole family is more relaxed and happy because we're no longer constantly worried about what he's getting into, and Oliver is clearly more content too, since he's no longer always in trouble. The ongoing support they offer after the initial training is amazing and lasts for your dog's entire life. They are quick to respond to questions and give advice. Huge thanks to Andy for his incredible work. He's not only a great trainer who my dog adores, but just a great, personable guy. You can really tell that everyone there genuinely cares about your dog and is passionate about helping them thrive. I can't recommend them enough. It's truly life-changing for you and your dog. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Oliver graduating to group class! - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

See all

When our male Doberman Bruno started to get bigger and hit his teenage phase, he was all over the place and out of control, now he is cool calm and relaxed and discipline. He looks great, he listens, he's an even better boy now that he went through sit means sit dog training 22 day board and training program! read more

We have had an excellent experience with Sit Means Sit. Kevin, Joel, and Tristan have all been very attentive and treated our dog like their own. The business practices to ensure that not just our dog but our family understands the training has been exceptional. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Tèa - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

We had both of our old english bulldogs (ages 2 & 3) go through training with Sit Means Sit and cannot recommend it enough! Our dogs were at different levels with their training experience and the trainers were able to bring both dogs & us as owners up to the same level. The trainers at Sit Means Sit recommended the "jump start program" for our 3 yr old and the "day train program" for our 2 yr old & they got our pups on their schedule in a timely manner. They are fantastic with communication & following up regarding how training is going or answering any questions we may have. The trainers at Sit Means Sit are truly invested in helping you & your dog succeed. We are happy we chose to train with them & would highly recommend! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Our well-trained bully girls - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

This location is horrible. The dogs are so supposed to be hyper trained their peed on my new shoes. I find this horrible. This is just outrageous that the owner seems like a nice woman, but don't let that fool you her dogs are not trained like their dog that she trained is a golden retriever. That's the easiest dog train lady you're not showing me anything that's valuable. You know I personally think that you open a dog training establishment. You should at least have train dogs yourself. This is outrageous and it's is horrible to our community. In fact I asked for a manager and they said I was speaking to a manager. Also, they brought out a dog who's there for a week long visit for training and that dog was bruised and battered we asked if it was being abused at home or something and they said no it fell down the stairs. There are no stairs at that location. We walked through the whole location so they openly lied to us and I think they might be hurting dogs . I want to remain anonymous please avoid this location at all costs also the highway it is on is super dangerous as the cherry on top if this Sunday wasn't complete well the cherry on top is the pricing for a week of dog training be prepared to pay $2000. That's if you have a small dog and if you have a dog that's breed is not easily trainable they'll charge upwards of $3000. And is not counting boarding having your dog stay there, which is what they recommend is even more expensive and the whole business just left a really bad taste in my mouth if you are a dog owner, new or old you really should not go here and how could you subject my precious boys to this horrible dog training establishment read more

We had a great experience with training our pup chance. He did the 10 day board and train. Everyone is so sweet with our pups and really helped us with the fundamentals to make sure Chance follows direction and commands can't recommend Sit Means Sit enough! read more

The team at this location has done a great job with our 8 month old golden retriever. We went from pulling our hair out to feeling constantly listened to. Highly recommend for any puppy parents feeling out of their depths and on their last leg. Worth every penny! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Cannot express how grateful I am to Sit Means Sit for helping us with our dog Patches. Patches is a very challenging dog that had a lot of insecurities which made it hard for him to relax and caused a lot of anxiety. We did the 2 week Board and Train for him in April. The training made such a difference in him feeling more comfortable without being in control that he was able to not need anxiety medicine any longer. I can never thank Sit Means Sit trainers and community enough for helping us build a stronger bond with Patches. Today, Patches did something 6 months ago we thought would be impossible, he passed his AKC Canine Good Citizen test. Patches loves his Saturday classes. Cannot recommend this program enough!! read more

See all

Our golden retriever, Audrey, is becoming such a good girl due to us using this awesome training technique from Sit Means Sit in San Juan. Their trainers are all so kind and gentle. They truly love dogs. They are so experienced at all levels of dog obedience training. We took Audrey to them when she was 4 months old and she attended their puppy preschool before her actual training. This was great because she interacted with other dogs and gained confidence and skills prior to her actual one on one training which she just finished. They have trained us now on how to use the e-collar to get her attention and have her follow the commands we give her. This has been such a blessing because Audrey has some work to do on not eating leaves, feathers, dog poop (!), jumping on people, etc. She's now easy to control and learning very quickly how to be a good pup and still have lots of fun! We highly recommend this training with these wonderful, professional people! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Audrey - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

I just picked up my 1 year old black labrador, Luca, from his 10 day training program. He struggled with self control, jumping, pulling, and listening but he is such a good boy now! The trainers were great and very thorough. We can't wait to see how far he comes with the rest of his personal training and group training. It was definitely worth it! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

I want to leave this place 10 stars if I could! Madi the trainer was absolutely wonderful with my doodle. I loved her compassion for doodles. Her patience. Her punctuality. Her professionalism. And most importantly her love for making sure max had some fun too and relaxed during training. Max my dog is almost done with training and I can't wait to put to use what he's learned. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

See all

So great with our puppy, we did the 10 days and I'm so glad we did. She loved it and was a more confident dog after. She was excited to come back for the follow ups and loved everyone she worked with. read more

This place is amazing. My pup and I have had the pleasure of working with Joel, Andy and Tristan. So far my experience has been nothing but amazing from interacting with them to how they've interacted with my Hershey dog. I already had in mind what I wanted to do with my dog just because I was desperate and needed the help where I would be as hands off as possible. I went in with the intention of doing the 2-3 week boarding program and thinking back I let it known too soon which is never a good thing when you're "shopping". However, Joel took the time to explain what each of their programs offered as well as listened to my needs and gave his professional recommendation. Not once did he try to upsell me which I know these days is rare. Everyone wants to make as much money but I really appreciated his honesty, knowledge, how genuine he was and his professionalism. We ended up doing the 10 day boarding program. Andy was Hersheys trainer and he did an amazing job keeping me up to date on how Hershey was progressing and even better job with his training. The following week as part of the program, Tristan came to my home to check in on how our training is going. He was able to close the gaps on what I was missing to make sure training at home was as efficient as possible. Their follow ups with me and communication has been amazing since day 1. These men are 100% an asset to the company and have made a huge difference in my home with our pup. I didn't even shop around but since day 1 I know I made the right decision to work with them and I'm so glad I trusted my instinct. Highly, highly recommend this place!! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

My rescue dog never really received proper training and had a number of annoying and bad behaviors. The staff at Sit Means Sit did an incredible job with him and in particular keeping us updated throughout the process. I would recommend them to anyone whose dog has failed past attempts to train or is very stubborn (like mine). read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - My dog on the first day of training - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Sit Means Sit South Orange County really exceeded our expectations! We have 2 young Shar Pei's that are high energy and stubborn at times, but the team there was definitely up for the challenge. Both our dogs have improved 100 fold, our main concern was walking without being pulled around the block, I can finally say, I can now have an enjoyable walk with both dogs pull-free! A special shout out to Luana who not only showed incredible patience and perseverance with our dogs but was also a wonderful coach to my husband and myself. Looking forward to many group classes to come! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

I was recommended by a couple friends to Sit Means Sit. We did the consultation with our dauchsand mix rescue who has anxiety and some fear. They said he'd do fine with the 10 day boarding. But based on the condition of my dog when we got him, we should have done the dog home visits. His eyes were extremely bloodshot, shaky, and vomited on the way to the car. Slept for most the next two days and he was traumatized being away and with strangers. The shock color also was a problem and gave his neck rashes even though we'd move it. We've since had a mobile trainer from another training service come a couple times with much better results. I think they misjudged the type of plan that would work for our dog and I can't recommend this site. read more

Our Shih Tzu Riley did the 10 day board and train here back in February. He is reactive to both humans and dogs so we felt that training would be great for him. With the help and great training techniques we learned from Jon, Madi and Lukas, Riley is well on his way to becoming a good and better behaved boy. We thoroughly enjoy attending the group classes once or twice a week to continue to reinforce his training and we see improvements every week! It's an every day journey with lots of practice, but we are committed and grateful that the staff at SMS are so knowledgeable and continue to be cheerleaders for our boy! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Our boy Riley! - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

I absolutely was saved by sit means sit. I got my puppy at 8 weeks old and practically right away they got me into the basics of puppy obedience with puppy classes which I totally loved. I had no clue what I was suppose to do without having to watch YouTube videos. Our trainers, Kevin, Joel, and Andy gave me so much information about tips and tricks that made my life with a puppy so much more bearable. When our time was up with the puppy classes drax my puppy did the 5 day training and he transformed to the dog I could only image. He continues to learn more and more from all the trainers every time they see him. I would never regret going to sit means sit. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

We sent our 2 great dane puppies in for the 10 day boarding and training course. I had a lot of extra worries, asked a million questions and they answered them all, not only that- but they calmed my nerves! The owner reached out herself to coordinate the dogs drop off -they stayed at the Zuri pet spa. When we got our dogs back they were our same exact dogs but WELL TRAINED! I was worried their personalities would change- they did not. They listen better to commands and I can walk them without fear of them pulling me! We then had personal training after they came home, with Jayda. She was a HUGE help for me personally because I think I needed more direction than the dogs! I can't recommend her enough. We have now been to several group classes in the park- the trainers make it really fun with dogs drills I could never have imagined my dogs being able to do before training!! Sit means sit is worth every penny!!! Thanks you guys! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Cash and June turned 1! - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

See all

You ready for this? We rescued our Doberman and he had no discipline, major anxiety, high energy, ate his own poop, and had no respect for dogs. Fast forward, we tried 2 different trainers, nothing. Then we went with Sit Means Sit. Now, our Doberman is the most obedient dog we have ever had, people compliment us at the park, dog park, store, he no longer eats his own poop, no anxiety, and loves hanging out with other dogs. From now on, I will take my future dogs to Sit Means Sit and I will always recommend Sit Means Sit to everyone who asks about my dog Teddy. My Doberman defeats the negative reputation they have, and proves people that dogs can completely turn around through time, patience, and Sit Means Sit. read more

See all

I want to begin my review with saying how grateful I am to Stephanie, Nick, and the Sit Means Sit team for training my boy - a now 8 month old labradoodle to follow commands in the home and out in the community. At about three months old, he was disobedient, stubborn, and learned to bite as a way to escape/avoid my commands. His temperament was far from what labradoodles are described as. I made excuses for a while due to him teething and being a puppy! I was told these behaviors would pass with time. Meanwhile, his behavior just escalated - he even drew blood from my hands and arms several times which brought many tears and frustration. I found Sit Means Sit after having two separate negative experiences in which I will provide a little historical background to. Although the focus of this review is on SMS, I think shedding some light on my previous experiences, will allow others to see why the SMS San Juan Capistrano team is such a gem in this field. The FIRST negative experience I had was with a private personal trainer in the home that used treats to train and a split deer antler/bully sticks to keep him entertained/less destructive. As a first-time dog mom, I wasn't aware that a split deer antler was too tough on a puppy's teeth nor that bully sticks can upset a pup's stomach - which resulted in vomiting and diarrhea and a visit to the vet for medication and fluids. I trusted the expert! The trainer apologized and wanted to continue, but trust and confidence in her abilities was broken. I was refunded. The SECOND negative experience was with a popular training and daycare facility that has two locations in OC. I signed up for daycare/puppy raising program in South OC. I should have seen the red flags sooner when I was met with RUDE front office staff, no communication, and my dog hiding in a janitorial cart with cleaning solution to mop urine off the floor during daycare hours. Photos sent of him in this cart were on his puppy report card. This is far from puppy socialization! Not to mention the clicker training/treats method was not an effective approach with my pup! Treats - even those that are highly reinforcing only go so far and can be difficult to fade out. FINALLY - after a little venting and reflection on how far my pup has come, I want to both COMMEND AND THANK specifically Stephanie and Nick for all of their communication, dedication, and hard work during my dog's training. I have witnessed positive outcomes in my pup's confidence, compliance, and socialization. The previous experiences made it beyond difficult to trust anyone with my dog, but Stephanie made it easy. She was beyond patient, empathetic, and kind. Without any hesitation or annoyance, she would answer my text messages and phone calls! Overprotective first-time dog momma, for sure! LOL. We began Jumpstart and I was assigned Nick as our trainer with few others in between to help my pup generalize the skills he was learning across different people and settings. Although the cost of training may be a little expensive, you get what you pay for. It eased my mind to know that it also comes with a lifetime warranty! Nick is knowledgeable and helped our pup acquire a great new skill set! He was thorough in his explanations of the process and the tools used to help train our dog. I was a little skeptical on if the e-collar will be used as a form of punishment or if it will hurt him. He went above and beyond to allow us to feel the e-collar in different settings and educate us in the manner it will be used which is to gain the dog's attention, especially my pup who is highly distracted and self-directed. This was reassuring! At every session - which was typically outside our home, in our community, or on a "field-trip," Nick would begin with the goals he would be targeting for the session and at drop off provide us with a very brief description on how our dog did. Nick is professional and personable. He worked really hard with our pup and showed us how to continue working with our pup to ensure that he maintains his skills. At our last check in, our pup was able to be off leash in a highly distractible area and heel for a few minutes. He is able to comply with all basic commands with minimal prompting/use of e-collar. One of the biggest accomplishments is that my pup is able to be pet by children without jumping on them. He will comply with sit or down and waits to be pet. At our last session, we allowed a 1 1/2 year old little girl with her mom pet him and he lied down with his belly up for cuddles. Made my heart melt! My pup has been transformed from a little T-Rex to a teddy bear! THANK YOU Nick, Stephanie, and SMS Team for this invaluable experience! Our pup is now able to join group classes. We look forward to this upcoming experience and future opportunities that our pup can continue growing with you. For those that are reading reviews for the purpose of making a decision, look no further! You are in good hands!!! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - My pup holding "place" out in the community on a field trip with Nick. - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

working with the trainers at thus location is a pleasure they are all so professionals and helpful they came to my home to work with me and my dog the results are better than I expected there follow-up lets me know it was money well spent I really enjoy the group session as well I highly recommend San Juan Capistrano office read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

Excellent place to train yr doggy, Whitney the owner is a very caring awesome happy person, her staff are amazing. My dog was so happy here. I recommend to train yr best friend, "doggy Woggy" here. read more

Started off rocky when the former employee who did my home consultation guaranteed me that my extremely leash reactive 1 year-old German Shephard/Rottweiler mix, Hank, would show no aggression whatsoever after completing their 20-day board & train program ("BTP"). Words cannot express how disappointed/angry/taken advantage of I felt when Hank's behavior was exactly the same after the 20-day BTP. Giving credit where credit is due, one of the owners reached out to me immediately and apologized for her former employee way over-promising results, which led to me having unrealistic expectations. She handled the situation the way a good business owner should - admitted that a mistake was made, sincerely apologized for it, and was committed to making it right. We started group classes in mid-January. We attended at least one group class every week, sometimes two. Hank was a nightmare at first - to the extent that I dreaded attending. However, each week Hank and I became a little more comfortable and, as that happened, his behavior slowly started to improve. The muzzle came off mid-July. Today (8 months post-BTP) Hank passed the AKC Good Citizen test. I waited a long time to write this review because I wanted to make sure it's fair...and it has been quite a journey - the epitome of "it's a marathon, not a sprint." So, here's my take-away: All dogs do not progress at the exact same rate. At the end of the day, SMS trained ME just as much as they trained Hank, if not more. The support I got from all of the SMS trainers improved MY confidence, which in turn, improved Hank's confidence. Hank is extremely protective of me (always has been, always will be) and he was reacting out of fear. He perceived just about everything as a threat and reacted accordingly. Once he settled into group classes and realized nothing bad was going to happen to us there, his confidence went up. After 3-4 months, he actually started to enjoy going to group classes (to this day he squeals with delight at the mere sight of most of the SMS trainers). Yes, 9 months is a long time (trust me, I know) but one day, probably around the 7 or 8 month mark, a breakthrough happened. Something in Hank just clicked and he turned the corner that I had been hoping for so long that he would turn. Bottom line: Don't expect SMS to push a magic button that will make your dog perfect. Especially with dogs like Hank, owners have to be committed to sticking with the program, even if it takes longer than you expected it to or hoped it would. It took a long time, but I couldn't be happier with the results. read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - September 9, 2023 - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

See all

We are one week out of board and train and the results have been awesome. We have an 11 month old bernedoodle and she is happier than ever. Colton has been amazing to work with, he had patience and works with you and explains things until they make sense. The whole expense thus far has been great!!! read more

Sit Means Sit Dog - Pet Training Near Me - San Juan Capistrano, California

I think the most important part of a business is the people behind the scenes. Sit means sits owner's believe in their product and the services they provide. Thank you Whitney for all your help handling my situation read more