We have an older Boston Terrier "Bruce" that we always felt was skittish around other dogs; thus we always found it challenging boarding him solo. After a Rover appointment canceled our Thanksgiving arrangements, we contacted Ruff Ranch in desperation. Ruff Ranch is located off the 154 just before Los Olivos. It's in a beautiful, ranch setting. While we needed to have a free trial stay first, we took half the day off on a Friday, dropped Bruce off and had a nice lunch in Solvang. The facilities are spacious and perfectly clean with zero odor. All the personnel were happy and friendly, as were the dogs. We were skeptical at first when they said they would put Bruce in a group with older, mellower dogs. When we returned, they said he did great and even made some friends. My wife and I were both shocked and pleased. Ruff Ranch was on our way to a Northern California Thanksgiving stay. He boarded for 3 nights and we included the pre-pickup bath. At pickup, he was happy, squeaky clean, nails trimmed with zero issues reported. We are thankful and relieved to have a place to board Bruce in the future with people that really know and love dogs - and it showed in our dog's demeanor at pickup. They also offer obedience training, which I believe is how they can so quickly tailor an optimal setting and experience for your dog, and get them adjusted and safe. Ruff Ranch even offers a shuttle pickup service from SB. We are very relieved that we have a reliable and comfortable boarding solution for our dog in the future; I can't recommend The Ruff Ranch enough. read more

I would NEVER consider leaving my dog here ever again. I let them know that my dog was allergic to bees, and always gave them Benadryl, just in case. When I picked him up nothing was said to me; however, within an hour I knew something was wrong because of the way he was acting, and he showed the signs of being stung. I took him to an emergency vet, and, as expected, they advised he had an allergic reaction to "something, most likely a bee." He was treated and released the next day. After I took him in, I called Ruff Ranch, and they admittedly said they gave him Benadryl, but again, didn't bother to let me know. Completely negligent operation at Ruff Ranch as our dog could have died had I not been home with him or preoccupied and was not closely monitoring him. read more

We used this place while we were on vacation in Solvang. We were camping in our motorhome at Flying Flags and wanted a dog free day to roam the town! The Ruff Ranch made a day of doggie daycare for out-of-towners so easy. We did have to fill out the forms online and book our day, but it was easy. When our pup arrived, they seemed so excited to have him and he was good and tired when we picked him up. We felt they took great care of our dog and we will be booking them again when we visit this area! read more

The Ruff Ranch provided our beloved bullmastiff with the best care. She has some special medical needs, doesn't have super high energy and is good with 95% of other dogs, but not all, so we determined she'd be best in a solitary run. She still got plenty of attention, but was able to relax more and sleep most of the day away like she does at home. The staff at RR was always super helpful and friendly in finding us the best boarding option for our girl and they even have discounted bundles where you can save on boarding. We highly recommend the Ruff Ranch and will definitely use them again whenever we're in need of pet boarding. read more

The Ruff Ranch - Solitary run - Pet Training Near Me - Santa Ynez, California

Wags, I had such a fun time at The Ruff Ranch a few weeks ago! My mommy said they were really easy to work with and a great value. I "wuved" (loved) playing with the pack and exploring new smells. Thanks Ruff Ranch staff for taking great care of me while my mommy and daddy went to a wedding! Woof, Scallywag read more

I worked with Justin (owner) of Ruff Ranch after getting recommended by friend when he was still at K9 Solutions a few years back. We had just adopted a Siberian Husky male named Arkin who had a number of behavioral problems. With the help of Justin and his team, we were able to get our first husky AKC certified and to become a super well tempered and obedient companion. He was terrified of other humans in our very first training session and after completing some training he is now able to do all the basics: sit, down, stay, paw, place, come, heel and even perform recall off-leash from 100 yds away! Fast forward 3 years and Arkin had gotten kicked out of another daycare in town (Dioji) after he had gotten 3 strikes and showed some aggression towards other dogs and humans. We reached back out to Justin and after enrolling our pup at the Ruff Ranch daycare, they were able to whip him back into shape with proper training and some time in the muzzle after bad behavior. Plus he was pooped and had a blast everytime we took him to Ruff Ranch! Double win. A few months after moving to the Bay Area and out of Santa Barbara, we adopted another girl husky named Ruby. After the first night, we were worried we could not keep her as Arkin had shown some early aggression signs towards her. Justin was willing to hop on a 15 minute call with us on a weekend, long after we had stopped becoming customers in order to give us some sound advice. Fast forward to the present day and now Arkin and Ruby are inseperable and Ruby has picked up on a lot of the training and positive behaviors that Arkin had learned from Justin and the Ruff Ranch team. Thanks for all your help Justin! read more

The Ruff Ranch - Pet Training Near Me - Santa Ynez, California

See all

Let's just say you know your pup is well taken care of when they are literally pouting that they are home! (She lovesss playing with other doggos) We got caught up in the Southwest debacle over Christmas weekend & couldn't get home for an extra 5 days so miss Oakley was with her buddies at the Ruff Ranch for a total of 10 days. Their understanding & willingness to keep her for us was beyond appreciated & took that stress off us knowing she was in great hands. She will be back for some puppy play dates & I know she can't wait! Thank you all again for all you do! read more

Justin and his crew saved my life. At 65, it never occurred to me that I couldn't handle raising an 8 week old puppy! WRONG!! Not only was it tough, but I also got Covid right after I brought my puppy home.. New to the area, I started to call trainers (after I tested negative) Justin came to my house because Indy was too young to start going to daycare. He can flip and convert all negative feelings into positives. It's a serious talent to do that and he truly believes everything can be dealt with a smile. He was exactly what the doctor ordered! Months later, Indy was boarded for 10 days and came home with even more skills!! This place is the best with such great trainers and staff.. Indy now goes to daycare 3x a week and has become a "vineyard snob" only playing with dogs that are owned by the founders of two big vineyards!! It's amazing! Well worth a try!! read more

Our two schnauzers went there for the first time. They were amazing. I'm very picky where I take my dogs and I trust this company ! When we are back in town, we have awesome care for our dogs. read more

I have boarded my dog at the Ruff Ranch for the first time recently. My dog has special needs and needs to be boarded alone without other dogs. The staff were more than accommodating. We were even able to bring her own bed and treats from home. It was an easy pick up and drop off experience! Highly recommend!!! We will be back in the future. I can only imagine if you're dog can play with others how much fun boarding could be for them. I have previously experience of training my dog with Justin a few years ago. It really made a big difference in my dogs behavior. She is much more behaved on the leash and I learned so much. Would also highly recommend training from this crew too! read more

We found this little gem in our recent visit to solvang. Our dog loved it and couldn't wait to go play in their yards. I just wish they were open for day care during the weekends too since that is mostly when we visit. read more

If I could give Justin and his staff 10 stars it wouldn't do you all justice! Amazing service, amazing trainers, amazing facility, you guys literally changed the course of our dog ownership with Yeti. Being that he's a Great Dane and not a particularly small dog! Controlling him had become ridiculous. The daycare/tune ups have been incredible. We can't wait to see how much more he learns at his board and train!! Thank you so much from Annie and I. read more

RUFF RANCH is wonderful! Our german shepherd is learning obedience training and being nurtured. We are so happy we have found them for doggy day care! The communication, program and facility is a 10+ read more

The Ruff Ranch - Pet Training Near Me - Santa Ynez, California

Ruff Ranch refused my dog when she went into heat just before our vacation. It was frustrating, but became extremely frustrating when I called back and spoke with the owner, Justin. I was slightly panicked but calm and polite when I explained that my dog was barely bleeding and that we could provide diapers if they would reconsider. I didn't know why they couldn't take dogs in heat and he didn't explain why they wouldn't take my dog. Instead, in an unapologetic tone, he just kept repeating, "I'm sorry, no." I could hear him smiling through the phone. I'm sure he heard my wife in the background, as she was upset listening to the conversation. The frustration could've been avoided, had he provided an explanation. I told him that I wanted a refund as we spent over $1,000.00 for dog care during our 2 week long vacation. He said, "Of course." When the call was over, we were scrambling to find a dogsitter. Not understanding why Justin refused our dog, my wife went to Yelp and left a negative review. Justin almost immediately responded providing his reasoning for the public to see. Had he given us the customer service that he portrayed to the public, my wife wouldn't have bothered leaving a negative review. After waiting over a month for our refund, my wife called and emailed requesting the refund that Justin told me he would give us. Justin refused to provide the refund, but said we could donate it for someone else's dogs. Overall, I believe that Justin acted very immaturely. At this point, I don't even care. I just hope that anyone thinking of leaving their dog at Ruff Ranch might read this and reconsider. Maybe he's good with dogs, I don't know, but from our experience, he's not good with people. read more

This is the only dog daycare//rattlesnake training//boarding facility we trust It made our antisocial boy Start loving other dogs! We've thought about driving back from la just so they can be there again soon! read more

Justin and his team of trainers and employee's are nothing short of amazing!!!! His knowledge is extremely apparent, but what will really impress you is his character. From the first time meeting him in February to now, I only become more and more impressed. If you are looking for somewhere with security, safety, and results at the forefront of everything they do, Ruff Ranch is the only option! Judy, the operations director, is also so kind, and you can feel that she is truly where she wants to be, and we were so impressed with her and how she runs things! The boarding facility is so clean, and you can tell that the attention to detail is incredible. Compared to other facilities that I have seen, without question, this is the only place for my dogs! I can't imagine having someone train my dogs outside of Justin and his team ever again! Keep up your amazing work! Love y'all-Adam read more

I've been taking my dogs to the ruff ranch for the past 2 years and have had nothing but great experiences. From the training sessions we've done, to boarding and daycare. We have 2 rescued Border Collies who came into our lives with a lot of quirks and baggage to work through and Ruff Ranch was a huge part of getting us all on the right path. Everyone who works there seems happy to be there and loves their job. I've personally had great experiences with Maureen, Israel, Taryn, Danielle and Justin the owner. read more

We love The Ruff Ranch for daycare because the dogs have a great time and the monitor the dogs to maintain positive dog-dog interactions. We are also taking advantage of boarding school for 9 month old pup who needs some work on basic obedience. read more

When I first went to Ruff Ranch it was like walking into a Christmas Village for your pets. No, it was decorated but what I mean is I got that ooo, aaahhh feeling (lol). Ya, I know but if you are a pet lover like me then you know exactly what I mean. I don't think there is a better place anywhere around here. It's awesome. There is so much going on and offers so many options for your pet from training to day care to boarding to little tune-ups. I think the thing that impressed me the most though, was the fact that they are so well-staffed. Your pet isn't just put into a pen and left on its own. There is staff everywhere, monitoring, training, playing, etc... It's so impressive! The dogs in the play areas all look so happy and glad to be there. I brought my boy, Champ, to Ruff Ranch when I went on a long weekend and I was so worried as he has terrible separation anxiety but when I picked him up he was happy as a clam. No stress, just a calm, easy way to his countenance. I really cannot say enough positive things about my experience here and I will be a repeat customer for certain. 100% recommend The Ruff Ranch! read more

If I could give zero stars, I would. I had my two dogs booked for boarding 7 months in advance for an out of state vacation. My female dog got her first heat cycle less than 24 hours before she was supposed to be boarded. Out of courtesy, I contacted Ruff Ranch to notify them and the Ruff Ranch manager refused to let her be boarded. Keep in mind, the boarding and daycare policy says nothing whatsoever about dogs in heat being denied to stay on property. Their policy states in tact dogs are allowed and when she had a trial night in September, staff was aware she was not altered and they never mentioned anything about a dog being in heat not being allowed. I am aware they have yards and areas for dogs who have "social issues" and need to be isolated and when my husband requested that to compromise, we were still refused service. This is incredibly frustrating and disappointing. I expected better customer service for a business with 1) such great reviews and 2) NOTHING in their policy about this. Yes, they refunded my money but now I have nowhere to board my dogs 36 hours before my out of state, non refundable vacation, because Ruff Ranch chose to refuse service for my dog. Consider a potential lifelong customer not only never returning, but taking any and every opportunity to express my distaste with this business to anyone that will listen. UPDATE: It should be noted- the owner responded (conveniently nearly immediately) after my initial review with a very lengthy and professional sounding response. This tells me he was already playing defense and trying to save face for potential clients who will wander to yelp for reviews. Yes Justin, you are correct- neither you nor your staff ever gave any valid reason or justification for refusing my dog and simply kept responding "no, sorry" when my husband continued to plead with you for any sort of compromise. While your response appeared to be an attempt to make me sound like a selfish dog owner who clearly only cares about my dog, that is far from the truth. I respect and care about all dog's safety (including my own) yet when neither you nor your staff explained whatsoever (let some in any detail at all) why it could be potentially dangerous for male dogs boarding if a female in heat were present, we were left with a simple curt, and rude rejection. Lastly, my husband requested our money be refunded as we refuse to give your business another dime but all you did was reimburse boarding passes rather then refund the nearly $1200 I paid in passes (although you advised my husband "of course" in assurance when he advised you that he wanted his money back.) Don't be fooled if you want to go here. After a deep dive, there are a plethora of 1 and 2 star reviews that are conveniently buried on other review platforms (which also revealed Justin conveniently reached out nearly immediately after the negative review) Word of advice to Justin- yes, your contract says you have the right to refuse service to any dog at any time (smart loophole that any businessman would include in a policy) but I HIGHLY recommend you add a "no females in heat allowed" policy before you land yourself in more situations like this that will lead to highly upset customers. read more

I boarded my new adopted dog for a I've night stay at Rough Ranch. The previous owner was so generous in setting it up. It was a great experience as the dog was familiar with the place and the trainers remembered her. We were impressed with the expertise and vibe of the place as well as the location and dedication of the staff that we met. Unfortunately the Covid 19 has put a travel restriction on our visiting our home in the valley at this time but when we can get back up and need some short travel trips Ruff Ranch is the place for our dog. I have been so impressed by the way they have communicated to me during this trying time. I have visited other similar facilities and none are as professional and well appointed. Thanks to all the staff. Stay safe and healthy. read more

The Ruff Ranch - Skittles settles in to her new home - Pet Training Near Me - Santa Ynez, California

This review is long overdue. I can say I've been highly satisfied with the services provided by The Ruff Ranch. We have used the ranch for boarding as well as "day camp" for all three of our furry friends. It's nice to know there's a place for our critters in the valley..staff is warm and friendly as well! Justin has done a great job of creating a facility we can count on for our loved pets. Highly recommend read more

Our Rhodesian Ridgeback, Elsa, has known Justin and some staff for over 4years. Her love for the staff of the Ruff Ranch team is clear. The leadership and support to all the dogs is amazing. We feel very comfortable leaving Elsa when we travel knowing she will be well cared for. Thanks Stan read more

I am so beyond impressed with the Ruff Ranch! I have a four year old lab/chaos/mischief mix who struggled with impulse control and was very fearful of other dogs/strangers. She's very intelligent, but definitely struggled with confidence. I took her to two hour long training sessions at the ranch which were great introductions to training and familiarizing her with the ranch and then she did two weeks in their board/train program. They sent daily video updates to show me her progress (which helped me a lot because it was so hard to be away from her for two whole weeks). I could see her confidence grow in every video. Four training sessions were included with the two week program. When I picked her up, I did an hour long session with the trainer to show me everything she had learned. She was like a different dog! She was so happy to see me and seemed excited to show me all of the things she had learned. She was listening like she never had before. She seemed tired in a good way as if she had been really working her brain. They were able to slowly socialize her with other dogs in a controlled environment. Toward the end of the program, she was capable of getting along with all of the other dogs (big, small, male or female) with absolutely no fear issues. All of the staff were friendly and professional. The facilities are very nice and they have a good amount of space for the dogs to train and play. I am so pleased with our experience at the Ruff Ranch and would highly recommend them for any boarding/training needs! read more

The whole team at the Ruff Ranch are absolutely phenomenal. We did our training with the team when our pup was small and then being able to leave her with such a genuinely caring bunch who all love her as we do is amazing. The peace of mind with her being so well cared for is great. The facilities are kept really clean and there are always team members with the dogs, keeping a close eye on them whilst they're having fun. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Ruff Ranch to anyone who wants their pup to be looked after the way they do themselves. read more

Bindi, my 6 month old Australian cattle puppy loves socializing at the ruff ranch. Bindi has become a better puppy from her 1/2 day visits. The staff is incredible, Bindi is always supervised when playing with her friends. read more

The Ruff Ranch - Love my ruff ranch! - Pet Training Near Me - Santa Ynez, California

Justin and the RR team are amazing. I rescued a dog with extreme separation anxiety who was never properly socialized. They helped rehab him through training and dog socialization and now he's happy to be a frequent boarder. I have complete peace of mind that my dog is having a great time and well cared for each time he spends time at the Ruff Ranch! read more

There is no better place for your dog, whether for boarding, training, or doggie day care, than the Ruff Ranch. The dogs love it there and they get such excellent training and socialization in a healthy environment. Plus, your pooch will come back completely exhausted and happy! read more

I can't express how grateful I am for what Justin, Maureen, and the entire Ruff Ranch team has done for my dog Billie. Billie came to me with zero training and a host of behavioral problems. I did what I could to train her, but didn't have the tools nor skills to adequately give HER the tools necessary to be a happy and balanced dog. I chose the board and train program. Throughout her stay at the Ruff Ranch, I was sent videos and daily updates about her progress, giving me confidence that she was progressing. Additionally, whenever I had questions about the training or how she was doing, the team was happy to answer those questions and kept me up to date with what specifically they were working on with her. I missed her but I knew she was in good hands. When she returned home from her stay, she was more responsive, calmer, more confident, and more willing to listen. I finally felt like I could work with her. It was an incredible experience to see my dog begin to learn and grow!! Another aspect of the board and train program is that depending on the type of program, it comes with several one on one lessons with one of Ruff Ranch's trainers, which gave me the confidence that I could train her correctly. Forever grateful for this place and what they've done for Billie and I. read more

The folks at Ruff Ranch are true, caring professionals. My McNab "Louie" was biting or threatening to bite any stranger he met and we were at our wits end. We left him for training while we went on vacation and he is now a different dog, as though he had a personality transplant. IMHO, they saved Louie and I will be eternally grateful. I can't recommend them highly enough. read more

Amazing training and care for your dog. The level of training and understanding of each individual dog and owners needs is obvious in their efforts - and that you as the owner can continue the hard work they and your dog put in with ease. Ongoing support available as needed as well which we really appreciate if our dogs develop habits that need direction after the bulk of our training is complete. The boarding facility is clean, organized and really well-run. The Ruff Ranch offers Responsive and genuine care. Justin and Maureen are the best! read more

The Ruff Ranch - Two very happy customers. - Pet Training Near Me - Santa Ynez, California

See all

Loved ruff ranch, doggie daycare my 2 dogs while visiting the area, Justin and his staff and the facility was Awesome. Can't wait to come back read more

We are so grateful for the staff at Ruff Ranch! We were visiting family over Thanksgiving week. Sage had a great time. Came home every day, tired and happy! The staff, Justine, Connie and others were super kind, informative, flexible and really listened to my concerns and our pups needs. Sage LOVED it and we can't wait to come back over Christmas. We can't recommend Ruff Ranch enough! Congrats to a great business and for doing a great job!! Staci and Luke read more

This facility is top notch!! The outdoor areas are nice big runs for the dogs staffed by knowledgeable employees. There is plenty of room for them to get their exercise. The indoor barn facility is great!! It is nice and clean. There are spacious stalls for the dogs complete with either cots or crates. They will walk them if you want and I believe they have transportation. (I live close by so don't need it) Good location in Santa Ynez. I highly recommend them! read more

The best dog training, doggy day care and boarding. My dog LOVES going and has come a long way since I got her as a rescue 2 years ago. She used to growl at everyone (dogs and people). Justin and team have helped every step of the way... from her initial training, to taking great care of her for overnights and daycare to recommending e-collar training. My dog loves all the trainers, and we've had a great experience every step of the way... can't recommend their services enough read more

This place is the place if you need help with your dog! I have had dogs all my life, small and big but this new guy.... I needed help with my daschund! Stubborn, sassy, insecure and more. Maureen has been working with him and wow!!! He's a different dog. He actually feels good about himself and I'm so impressed! Maureen and staff, thank you from the bottom of my heart ( and from my other dogs ) read more

Safe, fun, clean, and efficient is how I would describe The Ruff Ranch. Our dog is always so happy to be there and we know that he is in good hands. At this time, no transportation from Santa Barbara to San Ynez, but it's not too bad, you can enjoy a scenic drive (unless you live in the valley) and know that your fur kid(s) are in safe hands whether it is for daycare or boarding. Affordable and reliable. Keep up the great work Justin, you and your staff is needed. read more

Justin helped me book the confidence camp for my puppy. She has learned how to walk better on a loose leash and she has learned "down" and "place". The staff was so caring and I cannot wait to take her for more training! read more

Justin and his team are the absolute best when it comes to taking dogs that may appear to be incorrigible and creating first class canine citizens. Our Siberian husky Ash was always lunging first, thinking second, whether toward another dog, a snake, or who knows what. Justin and crew taught him (and us) how to take that split second to think -- and then to act -- and it's made all the difference in the world. Now we have a wonderful dog who knows when to stop, when to listen, when to come when we need him. It's a life changer. read more

My dog had a great time. It was our first experience with a doggy daycare so I was a little nervous how my dog would take to it but the staff helped put my mind at ease. They explained everything thoroughly and assured me they have everything under control. The facility is really great and they even sent me an update with a video of my dog while she was enjoying her stay. I think this is a wonderful idea especially during this quarantine to make sure dogs spend time with other dogs to stay socialized. Think I will book another stay for my dog even though we have no vacation planned for ourselves. They even do training while they are there if you want. read more