Black Dog Training LLC

I prepaid $285 for a 4-session private behavior package for my fearful German Shepherd puppy. After the first session, I did not feel the training style was the right fit for my dog or what I expected or what was discussed over the phone from behavior-specific private training. As someone who has worked professionally with dogs as a groomer for nearly 10 years, I understand canine body language and my puppy’s behavior was being interpreted more harshly than it should have been. My dog was displaying fear/avoidance behaviors, not active aggression, yet throughout the session the trainer was visibly uncomfortable and anticipating a bite. That energy made the session feel tense instead of productive and confidence-building. I was also told my puppy was “not socialized” despite explaining that she regularly attends my workplace/daycare environment, is around numerous dogs, does well with children, and is exposed to busy settings like stores frequently. While she is fearful of unfamiliar adults, I felt there was a major difference between acknowledging fearfulness and dismissing her overall level of socialization. Even warning me that she could attack my newborn baby when it arrives, and that’s just not the case and can’t be stated after only ten minutes of meeting my dog. A large portion of the session focused on very basic foundation/place work that is more similar to her general puppy class than individualized behavioral guidance, despite paying extra for a private behavior-specific package. When I decided not to continue after the first session, I was given only a $75 partial refund despite having 3 unused sessions remaining. While the contract does state fees are non-refundable once sessions begin, I think future clients should carefully review the refund policy before committing to a package. I appreciate the partial refund I guess, although I do believe the right thing to do would have been a full refund, and I do understand not every trainer is the right fit for every dog, but I personally left feeling disappointed with both the experience and how the unused sessions were handled.

We brought home a 2 year old lab/hound mix that was being rehomed. She did not have leash manners and would show too much excitement when seeing other dogs. We go camping in the summer so we need a dog that is well behaved. We looked into Black Dog Training and decided to do 6 private sessions. What a world of difference this had made! Cindy is a great teacher. We have learned so much from her and she has helped us bond with our new pet. I would highly recommend her. Our dog has come a long way. Be consistent and patient. You will see results. Thank you Cindy! We appreciate everything you have done to help us with our new pet.

Peaches is a rescue pug who we suspect had been abused. She was very shy, skiddish, and under socialized when we got her. We were unsure as to how she we do in training, so we called Cindy. Her transformation has been incredible, and she is a disciplined dog. Cindy is super knowledgeable, and keeps the classes fun for both the pet, and the master! Peaches will continue her training with Cindy, and we would encourage anyone in doubt to give her a try…well worth it!