Happy Dogs Boarding and Training

Now that we've completed the entire training process, I wanted to share our experience from start to finish. As someone who spent a lot of time researching trainers before making a decision, I know how valuable detailed reviews can be, and I hope this helps anyone considering Happy Dogs Boarding & Training. Before training, our 1-year-old hunting-line Golden Retriever Duncan was extremely energetic and difficult to walk. He pulled constantly, tugged at the leash, and was reactive to other dogs and people on walks. Taking him out became stressful and anxiety inducing for us. Since Golden Retrievers are such an active breed, we knew it wasn’t fair to limit his exercise, so we decided to seek professional help. After researching trainers in the area, we came across John and Happy Dogs Boarding & Training. From the first phone call, we were impressed. As soon as we described Duncan, John accurately identified the behaviors we were struggling with. It was clear he understood dogs and their development, and we felt confident moving forward. Before enrolling, John had us bring Duncan in for an in person evaluation. He observed Duncan firsthand, identified the issues, and determined how long training would need to be to address them. We appreciated this individualized approach rather than a one size fits all program, and it gave us even more confidence in the process. Duncan stayed at the facility for five weeks, and when we picked him up, we were absolutely stunned by the transformation. We’d never seen him so focused and disciplined. We can now walk him with ease, and we have the tools to continue reinforcing his training at home. One thing we really appreciated throughout the process was the communication. As Duncan progressed through training, John sent us videos so we could see his improvement firsthand, which was incredibly reassuring. John didn’t just train our dog, he trained us as owners as well. After the board and train, you receive four private training sessions with John at the facility. These sessions were extremely valuable in teaching us how to handle Duncan properly, reinforce his training, and continue building on his progress. The support made the transition home seamless. What stands out most is how much Duncan loves John and Kimiko. Every time we drive up to the facility, he gets unbelievably excited, which speaks volumes about how he was treated during his stay. We also genuinely look forward to our training sessions. It’s been incredibly valuable to learn more about Duncan’s behavioral tendencies, understand why he acts the way he does, and receive expert guidance on how to manage and improve those behaviors. The training has not only given us more control and confidence as dog owners, but it has also strengthened our bond with Duncan. We now understand him better, communicate more effectively, and enjoy spending time with him even more than before training. We are incredibly grateful to John, Kimiko and everyone at Happy Dogs Boarding & Training. If you're struggling with behavioral issues, leash pulling, reactivity, or simply want a well mannered companion, we highly recommend them. The results exceeded our expectations, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Happy Dogs Boarding & Training to anyone looking for a happier, more confident relationship with their dog.

We sent our 7 month old rescue pup for a 4 week board and train program with John and his team. It was a great experience from start to finish John KNOWS dogs - he was able to assess the challenges we were having within minutes of meeting our puppy, and the time she spent training was transformative. We picked up our dog and found the same happy, lovable puppy we dropped off, but with skills and discipline that were non-existent before. We’ve since been back for training sessions and her tail starts wagging as we are pulling into the parking lot. Great staff who are experts at what they do and who truly care about your dogs.

A million thanks to John Soares ! Highly recommend John Soares and his extraordinary Board and Train program. It took awhile for me to meet John for evaluation and immediate board and train… but it was well worth the wait. If anyone is thinking about dog training with John… don’t think twice about it. John is the absolute best there is without question. “Beyond extraordinary” does not adequately reflect every aspect of the indepth exceptional training that John and his staff (Kimiko and Jeff) gave my dog - Theo. It was ‘pure perfection’ (hard to define but you know it when you see it). That truly exemplifies the superior training, care, kindness from John’s training and Board and Train facility. Theo is a good natured dog; yet, needed obedience training. I had dogs for 37 years and had my 2 prior dogs trained for obedience by someone else - it helped and was good - BUT, no comparison to the superior trainingTheo received from John’s board and train program. Also, John sends photos, videos, and frequently updates on Theo, which I so appreciated. After her training was done and I came to pick her up..I was stunned at her remarkable improvement: she listened, calm, happy, and easily obeyed every action and command. John has such remarkable insight and knowledge of all dogs.. that I saw for myself - John is so right - training is not a one-size fits all (dogs), depends on all aspects of the dog that determines training type needed and length of time. John was perfectly correct on length of board and train and what was needed for my dog. John is brilliant … and is down to earth, kind hearted, considerate and flexible. Again, my sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to John and his staff for everything. John is the absolute best. Theo and Pat ->> UPDATE: Adding to my previous review above. I am thrilled of how well behaved my Theo is after Dec to Jan recent Board and Train at John Soares training facility. After finally getting some nice weather, I took Theo out for a walk yesterday. A woman was walking up the street towards us and I wanted to see how Theo acted. I stopped, Theo immediately stopped and sat right next to my leg. I stayed there and so did Theo. The woman stopped and complimented how “well behaved my dog is” - she said… you don’t see such remarkable behavior when a person walks their dogs. She was so impressed she wanted to take a picture of my dog just sitting there and behaving so remarkably. (I declined her nice gesture). I am so proud of my Theo. Again, many thanks to John Soares, Kimiko, Jeff and staff for the great training. Patricia B … and Theo

Exceptional results- John helped us with board and train for our overly rambunctious Golden Retriever who would just not ever "get it". I honestly thought there was no training him. Our dog went and spent a few weeks with John and we picked up a whole new dog! Our dog is happier, obedient, knows how to play with children, adults and even other dogs now (the training did not involve other dogs so we think this is just a by product of a now well adjusted dog). John saved our lives and gave us the best gift we could have asked for. A lifetime buddy who can now safely enjoy his family, long walks and play time. Charlie will be back for refreshers. Thank you John and team. You are truly exceptional.

I chose to consult John on the recommendation of other dog trainers. I have had German Shepherd dogs for several decades and they require particularly skilled training. I acquired a young dog that I felt I needed help with training. John impressed me with his experience and deep understanding of dogs and his read on mine after a very brief introduction. I left my 15 month old male GSD with John and his staff for “basic” training. I am SO HAPPY that I did. Not only was he superbly trained, he was extremely well cared for; clean, nails clipped, calm. He gained a confidence and connection that I was seeking in his development. He is doing very well at home and out-and-about now in off-leash obedience. We are going back for more training as the dog craves the work. Thank you John Soares and Staff.