Duffy's Dog Training Center

The best way to describe my issues are to encourage others to see for themselves. Took my GSD for an evaluation before training. First warning was in the comments about German Sherpherds. I was told most people who own a GSD aren’t able to handle them. Not a positive opening about the opportunity for success. Also told an electric training collar would be a must. Unfortunately this happened to be the most expensive class. Warning sign strike 2. Asked to tour the facility. Saw many items of concern, but most specific to the moment. However, ask to see the training schedule and records. They had over 40 dogs that day. The log shows how many times the dogs are trained that day, for how long and by which trainer. There isn’t an actual schedule to ensure things are on track. Training notes were very short check marks. Middle afternoon, none of the dogs had been trained more than once, some not at all. The longest was 20 minutes. They said they also consider walking for the bathroom as training time too. I asked when dogs are trained. They said between 10:00 to 3:00. Also, told there are usually 5 to 6 trainers each day. I did the math. Five hours times 6 trainers equals 1800 minutes. Divided by say 40 dogs is at most 45 minutes per dog for the day. BUT, the trainers also teach between 2 to 5 lessons per day at a minimum of 1 hour each. 6 trainers at the low 2 lessons equals 720 minutes. Subtract that from the 1800 is 1080 or 27 minutes per dog. If folks are eating lunch or taking breaks, the 20 minutes seems about right for the best case scenario. Look at their Facebook page. It’s loaded with photos of food and “graduations.” Would think the more effective images would be the actual training of dogs I asked what happens if the trainers have more lessons or there are more than 40 dogs. They do “the best they can.” They came well recommended and I’ve known another dog that went through classes and was very nice. BUT! For the money, I’d like to think I’m getting more time for my money directed toward my dog and my dog isn’t spending 80% or more of the training day in a crate. It’s the reason a “see for yourself” approach is encouraged in my review. Visit the operation. Ask for a tour. Look at the logs. Ask questions about shorthand. See how many minutes dogs are being trained between the time they arrive and leave. Count the employees. Watch dogs being trained. Ask questions about the activities observed and their role in the process. Ask how many classes are held and how many dogs are in school and do the math. Our dogs are one of our most treasured family members. If charging hundreds to thousands of dollars for training, I’m certain you will be welcomed to see what is spoken. Judge for yourself. Listen to the words, but ask to see the records and experiences of your dog’s day so there won’t be a let down later.