Happy Dogs Boarding and Training listing logo

Happy Dogs Boarding and Training

Laurel Springs, New Jersey

4.8/5· 162 Google reviews

About Happy Dogs Boarding and Training

When your dog doesn’t come to you, you should come to Happy Dogs Boarding and Training. We are a dog training & boarding facility specializing in basic & advanced obedience, behavior modification, and aggressive dog training. With our fully licensed and insured kennel servicing clients in the Philadelphia and Cherry Hill areas, your best friend can enjoy unprecedented services in a calm, clean environment and a staff of professional dog trainers with over 25+ years of experience 🏆.

Training & services

Training goals

  • Behavior consultation
    Program details

    Behavior modification is a type of therapy that seeks to modify unhelpful or problematic behaviors by introducing techniques such as positive reinforcement, shaping, extinction, and balanced reinforcement. To learn more, visit our website or give us a call.

  • Canine Good Citizen preparation
    Program details

    The AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program is designed to reward responsible dog ownership and promote well-mannered pet dogs in the community. Call us today if you are interested in completing this certification with us.

  • Crate training
    Program details
  • House training
    Program details
  • Leash training
    Program details

    Leash manners are an important part of dog ownership, and should be taught to puppies from a young age. Properly teaching your pup how to behave on a leash is essential to having a well-mannered K9 companion. To learn more, visit our website.

    Leash pulling is a common behavior problem in dogs, particularly those that have not been trained properly. When walking a dog, simple cues like calling the dog's name or gently tugging on the leash may not be enough to gain control of the situation.

  • Obedience training
    Program details

    Basic dog obedience training is an essential part of any pup's development. Basic obedience can help your pet become a well-mannered and obedient companion. Through balanced reinforcement and consistency, dog owners can help their pup learn basic commands such as "sit," "stay," "come" and "heel."

    Off leash obedience is an important skill for all K9s to learn. It requires a solid understanding of commands, reliable recall, and the ability to listen and respond in any situation. To learn more, visit our website today.

    Off Leash Obedience is a professional dog training service that offers the opportunity for your dog to be trained in off leash control and master basic obedience commands in an off-leash environment. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!

    Pet obedience training is a great way to instill discipline and build positive relationships with your pet. By teaching your pup how to respond to commands, you can help create a loving and harmonious environment for your furry friend, while having fun too! To learn more, visit our website.

  • Puppy training
    Program details

    Puppies grow incredibly quickly during the first few months of their lives, with an average puppy gaining 5-10% of its body weight each day. During this time, puppies learn important lessons such as how to interact with other animals, develop social skills and commands, and build physical strength.

  • Recall training
    Program details
  • Socialization
    Program details

    Dog socialization is an important part of the development of any pup, as it helps them to become well-rounded, friendly and confident canine companions. Proper socialization should begin at a young age and be a continuous process. To learn more, visit our website.

Behavior support

  • Aggression training
    Program details

    Aggressive dog control is an important measure to help protect the public and yourself from potentially dangerous K9s. Dogs can become aggressive for a variety of reasons, including fear, territoriality, lack of training and socialization, or in response to being provoked or abused.

  • Chewing
    Program details
  • Reactivity training
    Program details

    Reactive dogs training can help your dog become better adapted to their environment, while also enabling them to better cope with environmental triggers. To learn more, visit our website.

How training happens

  • Board and train
    Program details

    Our dog boarding with training is the perfect choice for teaching your pup the obedience skills needed for everyday life. Our professional trainers can provide basic to advanced off-leash obedience and our comprehensive program is highly rated. Contact us today to learn more.

  • Group classes
    Program details
  • Owner coaching Customer-reported
    Program details
  • Private training
    Program details

Dog age

  • Puppies
    Program details

Training level

  • Advanced obedience
    Program details
  • Advanced training
    Program details
  • Beginner training
    Program details

    Basic dog training in New Jersey, also known as obedience training, is essential for all puppies and dogs to ensure that they can be good canine citizens. Start early, giving them plenty of reward-based treats as encouragement. To learn more, visit our website.

Support between sessions

  • Follow-up support
    Program details
  • Personalized training plans
    Program details
  • Photo updates
    Program details
  • Progress reports
    Program details
  • Refresher training
    Program details

Assistance and working dogs

  • Protection training
    Program details
  • Service dog training
    Program details

    Service Dog Certification is an important process designed to ensure that a dog is properly trained, vaccinated, and able to safely and effectively assist its human partner. Service Dogs must meet strict criteria set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and have passed rigorous tests.

  • Therapy dog training
    Program details

Dog sports

  • Agility
    Program details
  • Scent work
    Program details

Training approach

  • Clicker training
    Program details
  • Positive reinforcement
    Program details

Additional services

  • Boarding
    Program details

    Our climate-controlled boarding facility in South Jersey is safe and secure, so you can relax knowing your furry friend is in good hands. Plus, we offer a variety of activities to keep your pup entertained (and tired!) during their stay. To learn more, visit our website.

    Dogs love to play and explore, but they also need a sense of stability and routine. When you board your dog with us, they will have plenty of both – plus all the love and attention they crave! To learn more, visit our website today.

  • Daycare
    Program details

    When you have to leave town and can't take your dog with you, boarding your pup at our facility is the best option. We also offer brush up training options while they are boarding with us. Visit our website to learn more.

  • Dog walking
    Program details

Consultations

  • Free consultation
    Program details

Other listed services

View 23 additional details
  • Dog training
    Program details

    Our New Jersey dog training services are an effective way to have your dog trained by a professional trainer and produce lasting results. Dog training includes basic obedience to off leash obedience programs available. To learn more, please visit our website or call us today.

  • Balanced Dog Training
    Program details

    We believe that a balanced approach to dog training is best. Our trainers use a variety of methods to help pets learn, rather than relying on just one technique. We focus on using positive reinforcement and encouragement to create an environment of trust and respect between human and pup.

  • Continuing Education
    Program details

    In addition to providing a safe and comfortable environment, we also offer continuing education opportunities for our staff. This helps us ensure that your pet receives the highest level of care while you are away. To learn more, visit our website.

  • Dog Park
    Program details
  • Dog Runs
    Program details
  • Dog Show
    Program details
  • Dog Sport
    Program details
  • Dog Trainer Consultation
    Program details
  • Dog Trainers/Dog Training for Biting
    Program details

    Dog bites can be a serious problem, and if not taken seriously, can lead to complications. Dog bites are the fifth leading cause of emergency room visits in the United States and account for up to 1% of all medical claims paid out by homeowners insurance companies.

  • Dog Trainers/Dog Training for Jumping
    Program details

    Unwanted dog jumping is a common problem for pet owners, especially those with small dogs or puppies. It can be a difficult behavior to manage because the dog may not understand the implications of their actions and simply be reacting to the excitement of seeing someone they know.

  • Dog Trainers/Dog Training for Personal Protection
    Program details

    Personal protection dog training is an important and rewarding endeavor for any K9 owner. This specialized form of obedience focuses on teaching the dog to defend and protect its owner in a variety of potential situations. To learn more, visit our website today.

  • Dog Trainers/Dog Training for Unwanted Chewing
    Program details

    Unwanted chewing can become a major problem for pet owners. Aside from being a nuisance, it can cause significant damage to furniture and other household items. Chewing is an instinctive behavior in many animals, especially puppies who are teething. To learn more, visit our website.

  • Dog Training Academies
    Program details
  • Dog Training Facility
    Program details
  • Dog Training Programs
    Program details
  • Dog's Social
    Program details
  • Dog's Visit
    Program details
  • Dogs Exercise
    Program details
  • Personal Training Programs
    Program details
  • Pet Therapy
    Program details

    Pet Therapy can be an incredibly effective form of therapeutic treatment for both mental and physical ailments. Through the power of unconditional love, companionship, and non-verbal communication, pet therapy produces positive results. To learn more, please visit our website.

  • School Workshops
    Program details
  • Training Sessions
    Program details
  • Work Dog Training
    Program details

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Questions & answers

From Google

What people have asked about this business.

How long is the Board & Train program?

The length of the program varies from dog to dog. On average, our pup students are with us 2-3 weeks, and the first week is spent getting settled in. We provide our clients progress updates in the form of videos as their pet progresses through the program. There are also dogs who are with us for 4 weeks or more depending on the level of behavior modification required and issues to be addressed.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Do you train aggressive breeds of dogs?

Yes, we specialize in training aggressive breeds of dogs. We have experience working with breeds such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans and German Shepherds that are prone to aggression. We use balanced reinforcement methods to help owners establish a trusting relationship with their dog and teach the dog how to behave appropriately in all situations. In cases where the dog has bitten someone, we can discuss your specific situation during a call with our Head Trainer and make advisement as to the next steps on how we can help you.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
What is the cost of the Board & Train program?

The cost of the program is determined by a Pet Evaluation. We treat every dog uniquely, along with the needs of the owners, when building a customized training program for a dog. You're more than welcome to call us and see if our Head Trainer can provide any insights regarding training for your dog in advance of coming to our facility for an evaluation.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
How long does it take for a dog to learn basic commands?

Dogs pick up on basic commands quickly, with most breeds being able to learn simple commands such as 'sit' and 'come' within a few days. In fact, even puppies can start to understand these fundamental ideas right away!

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
How long does it typically take for a successful board and train program?

Board and train programs are an effective way of training dogs and teaching them good behaviors. Typically, it takes at least two weeks for a successful board and train program to yield the desired results. During this time, the dog is being trained intensively by a professional trainer in order to develop the required skills and behaviors.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
What commands should I teach my dog first?

When introducing a puppy or adult dog to basic obedience commands, it is important to begin with simple commands such as “sit”, “down”, “ok”, and “come”. These commands can be reinforced with treats as rewards for desired behavior to help the dog understand what is expected of them.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Are there any special tips for training an older dog?

It’s also important to remember that older dogs may have developed some bad habits over the years - especially if they weren’t trained when they were younger. Be patient with them as you work on these habits, and remember to reward them when they do something right - even if it’s just a small improvement.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Does every breed of dog have different training needs and challenges?

Every dog is different and requires tailored training methods to achieve the best results. For example, some breeds may respond better to positive reinforcement techniques like verbal praise or treats, while others may require more structure and discipline in order to learn. Size, age, temperament and breed can all affect a dog's training needs and challenges.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Our dog seems protective. Do we really need our dog trained for protection for the dog to actually protect our home?

An important point to note is that not all dogs are suitable for protection work. While some breeds, such as German Shepherds or Dobermans, may be naturally inclined towards alertness and guarding behaviors, many of these breeds will require extensive training in order to become reliable protection dogs.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
What's your favorite breed of dog to train?

Our favorite breed of dog to train is popular breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers. These breeds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and willingness to learn. We also have many years of experience training Dobermans. We love smaller breed dogs, too. We love training a variety of breeds, including Poodles and Goldendoodles.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Is it better to use positive or negative reinforcement when training a dog?

Balanced training is the most effective way to train any dog. Balanced training consists of both positive reinforcement, such as verbal praise and treats, and corrections, such as verbal reprimands or pauses in play. Positive reinforcement encourages desired behaviors and helps build a strong bond between the trainer and their pup. Corrections provide clear boundaries that help prevent unwanted behaviors.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
How long does it take to potty train a puppy?

Potty training a puppy requires patience, consistency and dedication from the pet parent. Depending on the breed, age and individual temperament, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for your puppy to be fully potty trained.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Can you train my dog to be a service animal?

It is possible to train a dog to be a service animal, but it depends on the breed of dog and the individual animal's unique personality traits. Before beginning any training for service work, it is essential to conduct an evaluation of the dog's suitability for such a role.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Is it better to use treats or verbal rewards when training dogs?

Balanced training is an important factor to consider when it comes to dog training. We always tailor training to the specific needs of that specific dog and not always one tool entirely over the other.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
Where do you conduct pet evaluations for training?

Our two pet evaluation training facilities are located in South Jersey and North Jersey.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2024-09-21

Question on Google
What is the best age to start dog boarding and training?

The best age to start dog boarding and training is 5 months and up. At this stage, puppies have developed enough to understand basic commands, as well as how to interact with humans and other animals. Boarding and training at this age allows puppies to develop a foundation of good behavior that can be built upon in the future.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
What is the best way to train a dog?

Our basic obedience program is the ideal way to train a dog because it's tailored to their individual needs. Through our program, dogs learn basic commands such as sit and come, as well as more complex commands like place and heeling. We also address any behavioral issues that may arise, and create a custom plan for each pup that fits its needs.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
How can I stop my dog from barking too much?

Excessive barking can be one of the most challenging behaviors for dog owners to manage. It is important to understand why your dog is barking, as there may be a specific underlying trigger causing this behavior. Some of the most common reasons for dogs to bark excessively include boredom, anxiety, pain, fear, and even hunger or thirst.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2023-09-21

Question on Google
I have a one year old Irish setter dog who weighs about eighty five pounds and I was interested in your doggy day care so that he could get some of his energy out of him I don't have a large property . What is your cost

Hi Janet, We recently discontinued our doggy day care program to have an even greater focus on our dog boarding and training programs. Thank you for reaching out to us and have a great day.

Community answer · Happy Dogs Boarding and Training · 2020-09-21

Question on Google

Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.

Customer reviews

Google listing
4.8
out of 5162 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • leash pulling 15
  • initial evaluation 14
  • board and train program 11
  • obedience training 11
  • knowledgeable trainers 8
  • individualized training 5
All 10 topics
  • video updates 5
  • dog behavior expert 4
  • follow up lessons 4
  • protection training 3

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

100 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Hollie Vaughn
5/5
If you’re searching for a trainer, your search is over. Seriously, stop here! We cannot say enough good things about John & the team at Happy Dogs B&T!! When we rescued our pit mix we soon realized that to handle this guy professional training was definitely needed. We asked aro…Read full reviewClose full review

If you’re searching for a trainer, your search is over. Seriously, stop here! We cannot say enough good things about John & the team at Happy Dogs B&T!! When we rescued our pit mix we soon realized that to handle this guy professional training was definitely needed. We asked around and ended up sending him to a different, well-known trainer in Medford. Such a mistake. It was expensive, disorganized, non-transparent, horrible communication, questionable methods and minimal results. Happy Dogs is the complete opposite. John immediately gave us his personal number & always says call or text any time. He regularly sent progress videos & answered questions. Over years of having large rescue dogs I have read/researched a ton about behavior from many professionals but trust me, John is next level. He accurately read Jasper’s temperament and needs in minutes and told us what was going on in his head, what he could do to help, what it would take and what to expect. Needless to say we were concerned about wasting more money, but Happy Dogs was worth every penny. Everything we were promised was delivered. Going back for the lessons after the boarding part, I thought Jasper would be nervous we would leave him again. Instead, his tail started going & he was actually excited to be there! He clearly loves John, Kimiko & Alex (& probably others). Please if you’re considering, do yourself & your dog a favor and don’t risk wasting valuable time & money elsewhere. Happy Dogs B&T won’t disappoint!

Michael G
5/5
Before ever meeting John , I purchased a Boxer puppy from a breeder. It was very challenging with teething, nipping,jumping and pulling like most puppies do. I saw John's web page and decided to give him a call about his free evaluation and basic dog obedience board and train pr…Read full reviewClose full review

Before ever meeting John , I purchased a Boxer puppy from a breeder. It was very challenging with teething, nipping,jumping and pulling like most puppies do. I saw John's web page and decided to give him a call about his free evaluation and basic dog obedience board and train program and John called me back and explained the program to me and took the time out of his busy schedule and just explained the reasons why my puppy could be doing the things he was doing and it was nothing out of the ordinary. Well after that call I new John was the trainer for my boxer puppy . John is a true professional, very knowledgeable, he cares deeply about the dogs that are under his watch and his staffs watch and I can say my dog is so happy going for his follow up training lessons that were included and seeing John and members of John's staff . I'm so glad I chose JsK9 and highly recommend John and his staff. Thank you John and his staff for taking such good care puppy ROCCO.

Jennifer B
5/5
At the recommendation of a friend, I sent Huxley, 14-month Labradoodle, to a 4-week board and train program. BEST decision! Huxley is a smart energetic pup who was pulling on leash, jumping, and just generally a crazy boy. John quickly figured out his temperament and triggers. Af…Read full reviewClose full review

At the recommendation of a friend, I sent Huxley, 14-month Labradoodle, to a 4-week board and train program. BEST decision! Huxley is a smart energetic pup who was pulling on leash, jumping, and just generally a crazy boy. John quickly figured out his temperament and triggers. After the 4 week program, Huxley and I had a few sessions so I could learn his commands and how to handle him. We even included my other dog in one of the sessions to assess their pack behavior. Huxley walks beautifully on leash, his heel is amazing and he follows commands. He is able to sit and calmly watch people and other dogs walk past us without any attempts to break his sit. John’s ability to assess dogs and figure out what makes them tick is truly amazing. He and his team are quite skilled. Huxley was excited to see his trainers when we sent back - a clear sign that he was happy while at their facility. HIGHLY recommend without reservation! I am planning to do another program to work on off leash training!

Barbara Sontag-Feldman
5/5
John is a fantastic trainer. We had 2 other trainers before John, and John was the only one who was able to train our dog Bella. She is so well behaved now, it’s like she is a different puppy. Bella was so difficult to control that our vet named her “the little terrorist.” We jus…Read full reviewClose full review

John is a fantastic trainer. We had 2 other trainers before John, and John was the only one who was able to train our dog Bella. She is so well behaved now, it’s like she is a different puppy. Bella was so difficult to control that our vet named her “the little terrorist.” We just saw our vet this morning and she could not believe how well behaved Bella is. We highly recommend John and are very grateful to him for all his help.

David Chuyhurtart
5/5
John, Kimiko and the rest of John’s crew are Amazing! They helped train our Rhodesian ridgeback / pitbull mix dog that we adopted a few months prior, and that most people said was a lost cause. He went from being unmanageable, difficult to walk, reactive to dogs and having separa…Read full reviewClose full review

John, Kimiko and the rest of John’s crew are Amazing! They helped train our Rhodesian ridgeback / pitbull mix dog that we adopted a few months prior, and that most people said was a lost cause. He went from being unmanageable, difficult to walk, reactive to dogs and having separation anxiety to being able to heel, ignore other dogs, and overall way more manageable. We can’t thank John and his crew enough for what they we able to accomplish.

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

Explore nearby & related training