Knallhart Kennels & Training Academy

My wife and I got a Standard Poodle at quite possibly the worst time. Her parents were both moved to memory care for dementia about a week after we got her. Her mom passed away about 12 weeks after we got her. We did a poor job of training and let her develop some bad habits. Luckily Chelsea and her team worked with her from early on and saved us. Stella will be my service dog now thanks to everyone at Knallhart Kennels. A special thanks to Chelsea for spending so much one on one time with Stella

TLDR: Amazing trainer and company that can train any dog. I rescued a pittie pup from a shelter that had a pit bull ban and was euthanizing pits for just being pits. A shelter worker hid her and basically threw her our the back to me with no adoption papers, no shots, nothing. It became apparent day 1 that this pup (now named Josie) had not be exposed to much in her short life. She was afraid of the grass, her bowl, a leaf that blew by, everything. I then realized she was deaf. This adorable girl was insecure and reactive. Pulling on her leash barking constantly. I started reaching our to trainers because I knew she was a good dog but she had just never learned to be a dog. Immediately many trainers refused to work with her when they heard reactive, deaf, pitbull. I probably called 25 trainers and either was declined service or never heard back from them after several follow ups. Then I came across Knallhart. The reviews were amazing. Could this be the place for Josie? I was apprehensive because it was a train and board program but my girl needed some direction that I couldn't give her.5 minutes into talking with Chelsey I was put at ease. Not only was she unphased by my pittie pup, she had no issue with her being deaf and reactive as well. She assured me she had worked with all kinds of cases and this would not be their first deaf pup. Chelsey and her team took care of Josie like she was their own caring, teaching, training, and nurturing this sweet girl. They kept me updated regularly with a few photos and a weekly report card that was detailed. I'm so happy I took the leap and put my trust in knallhart Josie is home now and she is the happiest, kind, polite dog who walks like a champion on her leash. Not only did they teach Josie but they taught me all about dog psychology, training tools and techniques, and plenty of homework that backed up this wonderful training program. Now that she's graduated they give life time support and training, they have refresher graduate classes held weekly. The team was never bothered by texts or calls, it's encouraged. If you have a question or concern they make sure its taken care of. I would 100% reccomend Chelsey and her team at Knallhart to anyone looking for a quality ethical trainer who customizes training to each dog. I could not be happier and more proud of Josie. *EDIT* It's been a little over a year since Josie graduated Knallhart Academy and Josie amazes me almost everyday. She has learned boundaries and impulse control so well she's allowed out in the backyard without a lead and only her e collar on. Even if there are distractions like kids, other dogs, squirrels Josie stays within her boundaries. I have joined in on several classes held by Chelsey in public on or the Gusta family farm to continue building a bond and training in different situations. With all her training Josie has become a confident well behaved dog. I'm able to travel with her, take her into public situations like a farmers market and Josie behaves and stays right next to me no pulling or barking. She greets children so very gently, and knows the correct way to greet other dogs out and about.

Our dog had a bite history and random bouts of aggression that we were not prepared for when he was passed down to us. When I called Chelsea, she immediately responded and quickly came to see him and help us figure out what to do. When he was in training, we had frequent communication and in person lessons to help us apply what he was learning. The homework also helped us immensely in understanding dog psychology and training techniques. Our dog came back more relaxed, confident and obedient. I am so impressed with the work they put into this dog, and especially the work they put into helping us as parents learn how to help him transition and be comfortable applying the techniques we learned. This place absolutely changed all of our lives for the better and I know I can count on her if I have further questions or concerns, which is huge.

We cannot give Chelsey enough praise! Professional, intelligent, ethical, respected by the community, and compassionate about the dogs she breeds and raises. We extensively researched the breed and her, and could not be happier! Nico is 7 months and truly the best dog I have ever known. Chelsey’s calm demeanor and training methods shine in the “little” guy. He is a true blessing to us and everybody he encounters.