Focus Dog Training - Obedience Dog Training

Last August, my husband, Larry, and I adopted our dog, Ollie, from a rescue program in Houston. We soon discovered that Ollie exhibited aggressive behavior toward visitors, and we needed professional help. We were reluctant to send him away for a multi-week boarding program with strangers, so we were fortunate to find Rick. In just a few weeks of training, Ollie’s behavior changed drastically. Rick taught us how to work with Ollie consistently every day. I particularly appreciated that the training took place in Ollie's natural environment. Throughout the process, Rick was encouraging and always available to answer our questions. Rick helped us understand that Ollie was not an aggressive dog by nature, but used aggressive behavior because he lacked confidence. Rick made several suggestions on how to build Ollie's confidence. Rick is professional, punctual, and never used high-pressure sales tactics; in fact, he actively looked for ways to help us save money. He also ensures there is plenty of time between sessions to practice what has been learned. I cannot recommend Focus Dog Training highly enough.

Rick has been an incredible resource for our German Shepherd adolescent dog. We had never had a purebred German Shepherd before (only German Shepherd mixed breeds) and we did not fully understand their temperaments. Loyal, highly intelligent, very affectionate —but also prone to intense separation anxiety. We tried basic dog training, calming treats, reward systems, even resorting to prescription medication, but it only got worse, intensifying after our older dog (the puppy’s best buddy) died suddenly and unexpectedly. Scout was completely freaked out the first time he met Rick and even refused treats from him, but within a few short visits Rick was able to walk Scout outside on a leash. Within a few more visits we were able to take Scout to dog friendly restaurants without any barking or anxiety. Now we can walk him in the neighborhood with mo problem (unless another unleashed dog charges him, which has happened several times). Rick has helped us better understand how to handle those situations as well. We contacted several different dog trainers before hiring Rick and this was one if the best decisions we ever made. He gets to know each dog and family individually and really understands how to work around all situations. We are so glad to have found Focus Dog Training.

We researched several training facilities and several trainers, and we are so glad that we chose Rick Walkley at Focus Dog Training. Rick is a true professional and is very considerate, patient and understanding in helping the dog owners. Molly is a very active English Lab with an abundance of energy. Molly is still a work in progress, but Elaine and I are very pleased with the progress she has made so far. We would highly recommend Rick Walkley.

Rick worked with my three dogs, especially addressing one with sensitivity issues to light and noise and running out the front door. His animal science-based methods worked well for us because he created training sessions around each dog's abilities. Not only did Rick improve my dogs' behaviors over time, but he taught me how to be a better dog mom. He pointed out my habit of giving two or more commands at once and showed me how to communicate better with my dogs. His understanding of animal behavior and his flexible methods make him a good choice for anyone looking for an effective dog trainer.