Top Dog Boarding and Training

I have a dog with some reactivity issues, so I started searching for a reputable trainer in my area. I am against using aversive tools, and have made that incredibly clear with every trainer I have spoken too. After having many tell me that they do use aversive tools, I finally found Top Dog. When I spoke to them on the phone initally I was told that they do not use those tools unless the owner requests them be used. When I went in for the inital consultation with the owner I was told the same thing. I was pitched what they do as "balanced training", which I know now is fancy talk for "yes we actually do use aversive methods but won't tell you that". With all of the answers I had and being reassured MULTIPLE times that force would not be used to train my dog I felt comfortable signing him up for the 10 lesson package. I took my dog here for 8 lessons, and it was 8 lessons too many. Initally, everything seemed to be going fairly well. The only "corrections" given to my dog were very small, very gentle tugs on his leash, which I felt comfortable with, as my dog seemed to be completely fine with them, and the trainer again was being very gentle. On our 5th or 6th lesson, we actually started working on his reactivity issues. This is where I have big problems. In order to get my dog to react, so that they could "correct" the behavior, the trainer tethered my dog to the wall and came at my dog in a very intimidating and threatening way. A way in which I'm pretty sure any cornered dog would be incredibly uncomfortable with. When he did react, the trainer yanked, and I mean YANKED with all of his strength on my dogs leash. I was so stunned in the moment I had no idea what to do or say. This happened multiple times during said lesson and I was so uncomfortable, but I didn't want to "be dramatic" and walk out. Now I wish I had. I even noticed an uptick in his reactivity and agression after this happened. We took him back for his next lesson and after gathering my thoughts I spoke with his trainer about my discomfort and my feelings about the methods being used, and how I felt that I noticed it making the issue worse. This prompted the trainer to belittle me to "explain" how dogs work and how he knows more since he's a "professional" and essentially gaslight me into thinking this was absolutely the only way to help my dog and I was just going to have to suck it up and get comfortable with it. Despite my discomfort and hesitence I ended up coming back for another lesson or two, as I was desperate to help my pup and again was told by this person who claims tp be a "pro" that nothing else would help him. I regret not pulling him out sooner, and I haven't returned in months. My last two sessions have expired since they were purchased so long ago, so unfortunately I can't get my money back, but oh well. If you have a reactive dog I would seek out another trainer. One who ACTUALLY doesn't use aversive methods, and avoid this place unless you want to see your pup in pain and fear.

Can’t say enough great things about Shawn and his “Pack” at Top Dog. I was exhausted and discouraged trying to walk my VERY strong and stubborn Husky/Pitt/Malumut mix without getting dragged around all over my neighborhood. I tried, different harnesses, all types of leashes. My well meaning vet even suggested I rehome him as he was “too much dog for me.” My Shepherd had a mind of her own too! I wanted two well behaved dogs that I could walk together, but I doubted that it would ever be possible! And yet after a little over half a dozen lessons, and yes a lot of practice at home, here I am walking them both! Shawn is a professional and caring instructor. He is upbeat and encouraging and always instilled confidence in me even when I doubted myself. He taught me so much more than just “walking my dogs”. I understand my dogs much better now and they better understand what I expect from them. I highly recommend Top Dog for all of your dog training needs! You’ll be amazed at what you and your dog will be able to do!

If you’re looking for a great place with caring staff to board your pups, look no further! We’ve been using Top Dog for boarding for our eldest pup Denali for a while now and they never disappoint. They are super communicative, send lots of pics, and offer play times for an additional charge up to 2 times a day. Recently, we used their Tempe location. The staff recognized Denali from the other location and were great with our newest pup Rosco. We were nervous about boarding Rosco knowing that he has a harder time in a kennel environment so we maxed play times and asked if we could board both dogs together. He also has been working through some toy resource guarding and the staff was happy to accommodate our dogs particular needs. I don’t know what amazing magic they did but he came back home in high spirits and the resource guarding has diminished significantly! I don’t think the dogs missed us too much while we were gone. ;) Thank you to the Top Dog staff!