Very Good Dog Training

We chose to utilize Stephens 4 week Board & Train program for our 3 year old pitbull mix Maya. I was initially apprehensive and super super anxious about essentially dropping off my baby (literally how I view her) to a stranger for a full month. Stephen was super patient with us and helped us to see that this type of training was the best thing we could do for Maya. We had tried multiple methods of training (classes, private sessions, intensive 8 hour training sessions daily for months ) and multiple trainers and were at our wits end before we met Stephen. This was honestly the best decision we could have made. Stephen has taken her in just one months time from an escape artist, reactive, not dog friendly, super anxious dog to a confident, well behaved, off leash, dog friendly and much happier Maya. We are so thrilled and highly highly recommend Very Good Dog Training. You will not regret it!!!

We started working with Stephen just a week or two after we picked up Stevie from her breeder. He taught us how to train her to be the well behaved puppy she is today. Stevie is 9 months old and can follow commands off leash even in the presence of distractions. This enables us to give Stevie more freedom and gives us more comfort when it comes to her safety Stephen is so knowledgeable and super patient when teaching the whole family different training techniques. We highly recommend Very Good Dog Training!

Tucker spent the first 5 years of his life being spoiled with love and the word “yes.” He often pushed boundaries, and limits; but to me, as well as my family and friends, he was a sweet, playful, and loving companion that meant well. It wasn’t until a tragic incident, that I sought out professional help. Of course me being the animal lover that I am, I contacted several positive reinforcement only trainers: I received one call back, but the earliest consult wasn’t until December 1st, over two months away. I couldn’t wait that long and neither could Tucker. My younger brother decided to introduce me to Stephen, at Very Good Dog Training. Stephen, unlike ever other trainer I spoke with, prioritized coming out to me for a consult within the first week of our communication. He reassured me that there was hope for Tucker and I (despite age, breed, and circumstance). During our second meeting/ pre on boarding session, I was formally introduced to the prong collar. I hated the idea of using anything that would “hurt,” my dog, and begrudgingly began incorporating into my life with Tucker. 6 weeks later, Tucker was off to his 4 week board and train with VGDT. The first week was terrible for me; I was worried that the dog we dropped off wouldn’t be coming back. I thought the prong collar, and e collar (introduced when he was away) would hurt him, scare him, ruin him, you name it. I was wrong. Prong and e collars, when used correctly, are clear and efficient means of communication between owner and animal. I know this, not only because I was given homework (yes, homework, because the dog is only one small part in this equation), but because I witnessed it. Yesterday, I brought home my well behaved, calm/ relaxed dog, and I couldn’t be happier. I know Tuck and I still have a lot of work to do, but for the first time since the incident, I am hopeful. VGDT quite literally saved Tucker’s life. 4 weeks ago, I had an uncontrollable, leash reactive, dog aggressive, possessive, fearful, and anxious dog. Today, I just have Tucker, and that’s because of Stephen and VGDT. All of my friends and family are worried I won’t keep up with the training, and structure, but within just a short time (24 hours to be exact) I’ve seen the benefits for my life and my dogs. This way is easier; handling my dog is easier.

Many thanks to Very Good Dog Training! We have a bullmastiff puppy that had developed some awful habits during the quarantine period. We did the board and train package during the fall and now, wow ,what a difference! Quincy is now 90%. Walks well on leash, doesn't bark all the time, plays nice with other dogs, can sit and stay during our mealtimes. It was well worth it! Thanks Stephen for your hard work and professionalism! Highly recommend to any dog owner that is struggling.

Stephen at Very Good Dog Training helped transform the relationship that I have with my dog Reggie. Prior to going to VGDT, Reggie was very nervous around other people, very hyper at home, and also reactive on a leash. He couldn’t shut down at night and would be up at all hours. I knew that I was failing Reggie and that I needed help. I researched several training programs, and even though I do not live in NJ, I felt that Stephen’s approach would work best for both Reggie and me. Stephen was very responsive to all communication and very patient with any questions that I had. As soon as I met Stephen, any concerns I had about leaving my pup for 3 weeks quickly vanished as he had a very calm and reassuring demeanor and made sure that I understood the whole process. From our first interaction, I felt that Stephen wanted to ensure that Reggie and I were prepared to succeed in our roles once the program was over. Stephen’s professionalism, encouragement, and knowledge made that a reality for me. My pup is now a pleasure to walk on a leash, he is more confident, and he is calm at home. His confidence continues to grow and we are both happier in our relationship. Thank you VGDT!