Happy Dog Training

I brought my dream puppy home in November 2022. I did not make the progress I had hoped for on my own. In January 2023 I had an accident that left me in the hospital for a little over 4 weeks and a long recovery from home. It would not have been safe for me to have my puppy at home. Luckily we found Ralf at Happy Dog Training. My crazy little puppy went through his program for 2 months while I was adjusting to being home. When he brought her home to me she was amazing, not the puppy that we took to him. She learned so many commands and mostly he trained her how to keep me safe. I was completely amazed at what he was able to teach her. When we visited her she was so happy and ready to show off her new "tricks". I was fearful that I would not be able to have her living with me as I had, and still have, a long road to recovery. Ralf asked what our goals were and what we thought the challenges that needed to be solved were. He listened and definitely delivered. I highly recommend Ralf for intense training, or weekly sessions, or any other need you have for your puppy or even older dog. You will not be disappointed.

Ralf is truly great with dogs! His long experience working with big and strong dogs and with service dogs, was one of the reasons I chose him in the first place. I went to him because my dog Paris (pit bull) was exhibiting some serious aggression under certain circumstances. I was a bit sceptic initially because I had worked with other trainers unsuccessfully in the past, but the board and train program that Ralf offered and his extensive explanation of the process he was going to follow, convinced me to give it a try. Ralf focuses on building a relationship with the dog based on play, fun, trust and mutual respect. He then teaches the dog owner how to maintain all of the above. That's exactly what happened with Paris and me. The dog I got back was definitely happier, more responsive, less stressed, and much easier to control, given his temper and strength. His aggression is now much more controlled and he gets better by the day. He is still young, so there is plenty of time to build on our relationship, and I truly believe that he is becoming a really fantastic dog. I am very proud of Paris, and thankful to Ralf for laying the groundwork for me to enjoy a playful and easy time with my dog. Highly recommended!

Ralf was a really kind and understanding trainer who was always willing to talk me through his logic and answer all of my questions. It's clear that my dog loves him despite being pretty cautious at first, and I'm hopeful that the skills they worked on together will improve our ability to communicate effectively and create safe and positive spaces. In just the week since he's been home, I've noticed my dog is calmer and generally less anxious, a trend I hope to build upon as we continue in the transition-to-home process. So far, I've been pleased will Ralf's help and appreciate his continued guidance in the transition from board-and-train to training at home!

Ralf worked with our miniature schnauzer pup for two months to correct some naughty behaviors. We are so happy to report that Sunny is doing great and back home without the jumping, biting, and food aggression. He also taught us so much about our dog’s nature and what she needs to not act out. We have learned a lot and recommend his boarding training program to anyone who wants to make a true investment in their dog for a lifetime of happiness for everyone in the home. We will be keeping in touch with Ralf for support as needed with our pup. Thanks again, Ralf. We can’t recommend him enough! Investing in proper dog training is the best thing you can do for yourself and your pet.. pick someone who knows the right way and understands a dog’s nature/needs so you don’t have to keep repeating training and spending more. Do it the right way from the beginning! So happy to have our pup home and thankful for this training that will benefit us for many years to come.

I can't say enough good things about Happy Dog Training and Ralf's expertise. My young german shepherd, Nova, was bright, energetic and friendly but it was becoming very difficult to get her attention during important moments, including public spaces. She would also show aggression towards other dogs specifically on walks which would make things very problematic for me. Ralf was very loving towards Nova and I was impressed by his tailored, analytical approach to our issues. Nothing he implements is "guesswork," and is instead clearly based on decades of experience, review of the most up to date canine literature, and his unique understanding of dog behavior and psychology. Each session was engaging, collaborative, but most importantly so much fun for Nova. By the end of our time together, the word "Ralf" elicited the same excitement in Nova as "walk"! We went through Ralf's training program and I am happy to say the difference is night and day! Nova no longer has any aggression towards dogs, is more engaging, attentive and a an absolute pleasure to be around. I no longer fear taking her to public spaces. Thank you Ralf and Happy Dog Training!