Innovative K9 Academy

We have sent two Rottweilers to Innovative K9 for the puppy to adult training program, 5 years apart. It was very reassuring that the skills and training our first pup received 5 years ago matched what our new puppy learned recently; integrating our new pup into the daily grind at home has been so much easier since both dogs know the same commands, have the same training and same expectations. Innovative's training is consistent over time, so as your fur family grows you can trust that their training processes will remain consistent and familiar. We are grateful for Jake’s expertise! Their facility is clean and spacious with both indoor and outdoor training spaces. We had concerns about them being too hot or cold depending on weather and the seasons, but Innovative assured us that they take those things into consideration and house the dogs appropriately. They really do treat the dogs like their own pets while they are under their care.

This is a mini novel- but if you're considering a training facility for your fur family, please read my review and feel reassured. No coercion or perks- just an honest review from a very grateful pet parent. I have two Rottweilers (Bear and Roxy) that are my babies and have my whole heart, so the idea of sending them away for training (especially as puppies) was challenging. That being said- sending them to Innovative K9 Academy for the Puppy to Adult training program was the absolute BEST thing we could have done for them and our family. Our first pup went down 5 years ago for the 2-part puppy to adult training; it has been relieving to have a place to occasionally board him when necessary where he recognizes the staff, facility, and where I know he isn't just sitting in a kennel but instead being engaged and reinforcing the skills previously learned. In the past year we ran into some challenging behaviors with Bear and I called Innovative for advice. David sat on the phone with me for over an hour as I explained, questioned, and even cried. It was never a sales pitch for more training- only advice, comfort, and caring for us AND Bear. Ultimately we sent him back for behavior modification training and to reinforce his previously learned skills. I'm so grateful that Innovative K9 recognizes that Bear is a great dog regardless of his challenges, and also that they know how to help him and keep him AND their staff safe during that training process. For any pet parents who have reactive pets, please hear me when I say Innovative can help, and they do it with incredible knowledge and compassion. Recently, we sent our girl Roxy for her Puppy to Adult training. During her training Roxy stayed with one of Innovative's trainers, Jake, who upon pickup, Roxy clearly ADORED and respected so much! Jake sent so many update photos and videos, both of her progress/training and some fun ones so we could see sweet personality while away! I told my husband that she looked so happy- I was worried she wouldn't want to come home! (LOL) For the last 5 days of her training we sent Bear down so he and Roxy could receive some training together. It was satisfying to see Roxy's individual growth, and also how well they could work together if given the right skills/time/training. Jake and the IK9 team did such an incredible job with them during their time on campus, and have even continued to check in to see if we have any questions since coming home. The training doesn't stop when the pups come home, and Innovative K9 makes sure that both you and the pups go home with the skills necessary to be successful going forward! Thank you to David, Jake, and the whole Innovative K9 family. We are so grateful to be a part of your pack! <3

We cannot say enough good things about Innovative K9 Academy and the experience we had with our Malinois, Kilo! He did the 18 day board and train program, and the transformation we’ve seen in him is honestly incredible—it still shocks us when we think about where he started versus where he is now. Because Kilo is a Malinois, we knew going into this that he requires a completely different level of structure, supervision, and training. We spent months researching programs because we wanted to make sure we were choosing someone truly qualified. From our very first conversations, Dave (the owner) was incredibly helpful, patient, and thorough in answering all of our questions, which immediately gave us confidence that we had finally found the right place. We feel incredibly lucky that Kilo was paired with Jake. Seriously, we couldn’t have imagined a better person for him. Jake is absolutely amazing at what he does. From the very beginning, it was obvious through all the photos and videos that Kilo and Jake formed such a strong bond. They truly became buddies, and that connection made such a difference in Kilo’s progress. Jake doesn’t just “train” dogs, he invests in them. He treats them like they’re his own, celebrates their wins, and puts in 100%+ every single day. You can tell he genuinely cares about each dog and is fully committed to helping them succeed. That level of dedication, patience, and heart is something you just can’t fake, and it shows in the results. The training has absolutely carried over into our home life. Kilo’s behavior now reflects the top-notch work Jake put into him, and it’s made such a positive impact on our day-to-day life together. This program truly goes above and beyond. It doesn’t just change your dog’s behavior—it strengthens the relationship you have with your dog and teaches you how to be the best owner you can be for them. The price is extremely appropriate for what you get. Honestly, after seeing Kilo’s results and how solid his obedience is at home the past few weeks, we were shocked this wasn’t more. Especially compared to other board and train programs in the area that costed more and produced lower caliber results for friends. 12/10 recommend.

Last summer I fell in love with a sweet 3 month old border collie. At about 7 months little Brewster, turned into a little terrorist. He became very aggressive and was unmanagable. We were both miserable. I was at the end of my rope and confused. I didn't know what had happened and didn't know what to do. A friend referred me to Innovative K9. I knew nothing about dog trainers and had never felt that I needed one for my other dogs. However, I knew I had to do something. I called and spoke to David. He was calm, confident and seemed knowledgable. He asked questions, answered questions and addressed my concerns. I was impressed. I was desperate. I filled out the company's application, that included a list of concerning behaviors, that I wanted addressed. I checked almost all the boxes. That day I signed Brewster up for the 18 day program. I needed to learn the psychology of my dog to understand his training. Innovative K9 opened my eyes to my dog's nature and who he was. Then, it all made sense. We were both given tool boxes so we could communicate and live happily together. When Brewster completed the program , he came home happy, calm, knowledgable and obedient. He had transitioned from being a little terrorist to a little gentleman.....in just 18 days! I couldn't believe it. Honestly, it was like a miracle. He has been home for 3 months and I continue to reinforce what he learned in school. He checks in with me daily to see if his school rules still apply at home and I assure him that they do. That was our lucky day and it was dumb luck that I found Innovative K9. I cannot say enough good things about David and his team. They are experts in what they do....and such nice people. Every one who I have in contact with (special shout out to Jake!) has been wonderful. They were and still are (service after the sale!) readily available with professional help, support and continuing education classes. This is the real deal, a top quality program and these are top quality people. I would do it all again in a heartbeat! Thank you so much Innovative K9 Academy!