Naked Dog Training

Excellent experience working with all the trainers at Naked Dog Training! Dunkin is our 4th dog over the past 40 years, but the first dog which we've ever struggled with in terms of behaviors. He is a rescue dog who came to us at 8 weeks, and we think he is mostly rat terrier but also some chihuahua and shepherd. Not the easiest breeds. He is super anxious around other dogs and acts out with aggression. On the other hand, he is very fun, active and loves to play - and is all cuddles at the end of the day. When he was about 2 years old we took him to another trainer for 2 weeks and got ZERO results so we were reluctant to try again. But because his behaviors were becoming so difficult; he was impossible to take for walks because of his aggression towards other dogs, and his behavior around the house was less than desirable (stealing food out of people's hands for example), we decided to try a new trainer. Dunkin had six weeks or so of day training at Naked Dog. And then my husband and I started going in for one on one training sessions with Dunkin and one of the trainers to learn how to handle at home. It was a big learning curve for us - but the trainers were patient and really gave us all the time we needed to improve our handling. Today our feisty little boy graduated! He walks beautifully now and no more aggressive behaviors when walking. He comes to us when called, goes to "bed," and will "lie down," when told. He also knows "take it," and "leave it," which has calmed down his food obsession. We really can't say enough about all the trainers - John (owner), Addison, Eli, and John - hope I haven't left anyone out! John and Addison really helped us to understand more about how our dog "thinks." John was also super helpful with some specific questions we had about what we wanted to allow and what we didn't. The training felt very tailored to our needs and the personality of our dog. John is truly an expert and his calm manner and philosophy of training so as to still allow the dogs to have "freedom," really worked for us. So yes, highly, highly recommend Naked Dog Training!

We brought our 3-year-old Boxer/Pit Bull mix to Naked Dog Training to address some aggression issues, and we're very happy with the results. While we originally planned for a 3-week day training program, it ended up taking 6 weeks. We were nervous at times due to limited updates about the overall progress. Ruth acknowledged that the team is much better with dogs than with updates, and we agree with this. Once we started the hands-on sessions, we saw how much progress our dog had made. Addison was especially fantastic—she spent the time to really work with us so we could understand and consistently apply the training techniques at home. Nick and Eli were also great and clearly cared about our dog’s success. Overall, we’re grateful for the transformation we’ve seen and highly recommend Naked Dog to anyone dealing with similar challenges.

Our reactive 1-year-old Piper completed her 5-week intensive program, and the transformation has been impressive. From my very first call with Ruth, to meeting John during our evaluation, to working with Piper's amazing trainers (thank you, Little John!), I felt immediately confident in their expertise. What struck me most was how they really listened to our specific challenges and tailored their approach to Piper's personality. John and his team are genuinely invested in every dog's success. Their approach strikes the perfect balance—professional and results-focused while maintaining supportive communication throughout. Watching Piper thrive under their care and seeing the genuine connection they built with her confirmed we were in the right hands. The relationship didn't end after Piper came home. Through regular handling classes and ongoing availability via text/phone, the trainers have remained incredibly accessible. They patiently answer every question — from equipment selection to handling techniques to managing Piper alongside her canine sisters at home. Their attention to detail and commitment to your success is truly exceptional. What truly sets The Naked Dog team apart is their commitment to Piper's – and my – long-term success. They don't just train your dog and send you on your way. They're patient, motivating, and take the time to ensure I understand not just the "what" but the "why" behind each technique. I never feel rushed or judged when I have questions. Their expertise shows in every interaction, and I know without any doubt that they genuinely care about Piper's progress as much as I do. Addison, Little John, Eli, Nick — we truly cannot thank you enough! The Naked Dog trainers are exceptional. I will absolutely return for future dogs and recommend them to everyone. If you're seeking a program that will transform your dog while equipping you with skills to maintain that progress, this is it.

I cannot recommend The Naked Dog Training in Methuen, MA enough! My dog Chloe, who’s almost 4, used to react to everything—other dogs, people running by, animals on TV, even loud sounds or violence on the screen. She would bark like crazy with her hair standing up, and walks were a constant struggle. Now? She’s like a new dog. Chloe walks right by my side, totally in sync with me, and only responds to me—no more reactivity, no more chaos. She doesn’t even flinch at animals or noise on TV anymore. I’m completely thrilled and so appreciative of the transformation. Massive shout-out to John, Addison, Eli, and Nick—you all are AMAZING! Your guidance, patience, and dedication truly changed our lives. If you’re looking for real results and a team who cares, The Naked Dog Training is the place to go.Thank you again John Whitaker and Team !