-
February 2024 by Sierra Tringale
We couldn't be happier with our training experience with Steve! When we brought our 5-month-old Aussie to him, we aimed to create a life where both our dog and we could enjoy each other's company. Steve emphasized the crucial aspect of building a strong relationship with your dog, debunking the misconception in some reviews that he only plays with dogs until they're tired. In reality, he highlighted the significance of play as a rewarding element in training, making it enjoyable for the dog. Steve also emphasized the importance of neutrality in different environments, especially around other dogs. His unique approach sets him apart as one of the top trainers in the Bay Area. We're incredibly grateful to Steve for teaching us effective communication with our pup! He also takes some really cool pictures of your pup :)
-
February 2024 by Sierra T.
We couldn't be happier with our training experience with Steve! When we brought our 5-month-old Aussie to him, we aimed to create a life where both our dog and we could enjoy each other's company. Steve emphasized the crucial aspect of building a strong relationship with your dog, debunking the misconception in some reviews that he only plays with dogs until they're tired. In reality, he highlighted the significance of play as a rewarding element in training, making it enjoyable for the dog. Steve also emphasized the importance of neutrality in different environments, especially around other dogs. His unique approach sets him apart as one of the top trainers in the Bay Area. We're incredibly grateful to Steve for teaching us effective communication with our pup! He also takes cool pics of your pup:)
-
November 2023 by Erica W
Steve is incredibly nice and has two incredibly well trained dogs.Unfortunately, after two short sessions I requested a refund because there was no structure as to how he was going to help address my particular circumstances. I was kind enough to pay in cash transfer of $699 so that he would not have the credit card fee.Because he doesn't offer refunds, he asked me to give him another chance - he did extend the 30 mini sessions to hour long sessions. However, these were really ineffective training sessions. I specifically requested information on "the what and how" of addressing my dogs new behaviors (that likely developed during -COVID) such as well as what I needed to practice with my dog, but to no avail.My dog already knows commands; and, he was not able to inform or assist me in addressing my dog's separation anxiety and protectiveness. He basically advised me to buy a Sprenger prong collar, which is high quality, does work, and does not harm him. However, it's not appropriate for all scenarios and is not a fix.
-
November 2023 by T. L.
We recused a 1 yo 1/2 Doberman and Hound dog, Brooklyn from up north and she's never been experience the world as we know it. Never seen a car, other animals, noises, sounds and even a language. We needed help! I researched a lot of dog training and was referred to Steve by a lady at a park playing fetch with her Doberman. Her dog was amazing, excellent recall, commands, and tricks. She told me how Steve helped her train her and her dog because it's about the relationship between the owner and the dog. There was an amazing transformation after a couple lessons. As the dog owner, you have to continue the trading at home and be consistent. My goal was to be able to walk with her off leash and I can do that now, after a couple months, thanks to Steve. He's always available in the evenings by text if I have questions and he's very responsive. If you put in the time, you won't be disappointed!
-
November 2023 by Parisa A.
When I first brought my boy Caspian, a ~1 year old purebred Doberman, to Steve, I knew he was a smart pup but I hadn't discovered his potential. To say that Cas blew both Steve and I away is an understatement. Since then, he's made incredible strides in his reactivity, bitework training, and impulse control, and our bond has been deepened in a way that's priceless. Steve has given me valuable insight into the way that a dog's mind works and how to set him up for success. I trust the advice he gives and regularly use it as a guideline for my interactions and others' interactions with Caspian. I also appreciate that Steve isn't a trainer that hammers down on pups demanding obedience while intimidating them even though he works with working dogs. He's gentle but impactful, and has redirected me from speaking to Cas in an annoyed or frustrated tone, which has made me much more aware of how I communicate with him. Thank you Steve for your work and the amazing pics you always take of my boy!
-
November 2023 by WaiChee K.
I am a first time puppy owner. I was overwhelmed with my puppy separation anxiety I almost returned my puppy to the owner. I reached out to Steve. He has been a great resource on and off classes on how I deal with Buddy's behavior. I thought I had picked up all the relevant knowledge required from YouTube in training a dog. I was wrong. Steven was able to pick up my flaws and inefficiencies in communicating with and training Buddy in the private lessons. He has directly improved our relationship and connection. He focuses his training and instilling the fundamentals on me training Buddy. I can say for sure this continues to improve my relationship with Buddy and helps me see the potential in Buddy,
-
October 2023 by Mojean H.
I want to take this opportunity to express my thought on Steve at Bay Area K9, association. I went to visit Steve in the month of August 2023 and he showed me the things I need to work on for my German Shepherd. His technique is very methodical, and extremely powerful, 30 minute training to the point. Highly recommended, and his training.
-
October 2023 by nicole n.
Steve has helped my pup and I tremendously with her reactivity! I have done some one on one training with him and some group classes too. I think both classes have helped strengthen my relationship and communication with my pup. I highly recommend reaching out to Steve to be your go to dog trainer!
-
October 2023 by Garrett J.
Steve has provided excellent training to Apollo, my Belgian Malinois. the training and skill sets provided, have allowed me to strengthen my relationship with my dog, and its been amazing to see him evolve continue to improve.
-
October 2023 by Tyler Y.
Steve was awesome! He was able to not only help us make sure the program was tailored to our specific needs, but he went above and beyond each session. The facility was great and it was a lot of fun to be able to utilize both the agility equipment and field for further training.
-
October 2023 by Jimin L.
We've been taking our puppy to Steve's training for the past few months and we're really pleased with his obedience skills. Steve provides tips on taking care of your dog beyond just training and we feel confident about our ability as pawparents. More so, Steve is great. He's patient, effective, and just really skilled at what your dog needs at each stage. He keeps it 100!
-
October 2023 by Faith D.
Olive Oyl absolutely love her training sessions with Steve. He exudes professionalism while maintaining an approachable and enjoyable demeanor. Olive started her training journey a few months ago, and I couldn't be happier with our decision. Steve's training approach stands out due to its emphasis on building a strong bond and relationship with Olive. It's not just Olive who's learning; we are as well. At 9 months, we've reached a point where we can confidently fly with her, explore various environments, and trust her off leash. This trust is a direct result of the time we've dedicated to nurturing her obedience, setting boundaries, and fortifying our family bond. Training isn't one-size-fits-all, and we've found what works perfectly for us. Thank you, Steve!
-
October 2023 by Dominique W.
We have trained both of our dogs here now. One is 8 and the other is 1.5. The training regimen is sound. Our dogs are VERY well behaved. They can tolerate many environments. My older dog has been on an airplane with me. My pup has done 5ks. They both have a 6 year old brother who is very interactive with them and they behave with him beyond well. My only criticism is it seems now there is less support at the facility with classes etc and it can sometimes impact the schedule.
-
October 2023 by Margaret L.
Steve is great. Worked wonders with my puppy. I highly recommend him for dog training.
-
October 2023 by Erica W.
Steve is incredibly nice and has two incredibly well trained dogs. Unfortunately, after two short sessions I requested a refund because there was no structure as to how he was going to help address my particular circumstances. I was kind enough to pay in cash transfer of $699 so that he would not have the credit card fee. Because he doesn't offer refunds, he asked me to give him another chance - he did extend the 30 mini sessions to hour long sessions. However, these were really ineffective training sessions. I specifically requested information on "the what and how" of addressing my dogs new behaviors (that likely developed during -COVID) such as well as what I needed to practice with my dog, but to no avail. My dog already knows commands; and, he was not able to inform or assist me in addressing my dog's separation anxiety and protectiveness. He basically advised me to buy a Sprenger prong collar, which is high quality, does work, and does not harm him. However, it's not appropriate for all scenarios and is not a fix.