North Carolina K9 Training Academy

A Wonderful Experience: Highly Recommended! TL;DR: Maddie is amazing! Our experience was fantastic—she communicated well, kept us updated, and worked wonders with Drago. The only thing I’d change would be to get the dog bath she offers! The Full Story: A little over a month ago, I was at my wit’s end with my dog, Drago, a 16-month-old German Shepherd/Rottweiler. I called him my "frat bro" because he had no idea when or how to settle down. He barked at everything, mouthed with teeth for play, and even busted through doors for joy runs. Despite two rounds of obedience classes, miles of walks, and trying every trick online, he was a smart dog who pushed boundaries with no real consequences. I consulted six trainers, all of whom suggested the same thing: Drago needed more consistency. I leaned toward a board-and-train program and eventually chose Maddie. She trained dogs in her home, providing a family environment that felt more natural for Drago, and her qualifications and communication were top-notch. My biggest hesitation was the e-collar. I’d always thought of them as cruel, but Maddie explained how it worked, and after researching, we decided to try it. Drago had developed dangerous behaviors, especially chasing cars and running to children, and we needed a better way to communicate with him. I had concerns—sending him away for a month, the cost, and how he’d be when he returned. But after discussing it with my husband, I decided to go ahead. Maddie came over, we went over Drago’s habits, and he hopped into her truck with no hesitation. I felt a mix of sadness, hope, and relief. Maddie stayed in touch, posting 27 updates with videos and photos. Drago even got to relax by the fire and under the Christmas tree, just like he would at home. We eagerly awaited his return, and when he came back, it started snowing—symbolic of his fresh start. I waited two weeks to write this review because I wanted to let things settle. Drago is like a new dog! He’s still playful, but now he knows how to relax and follow commands. We keep the e-collar at a low setting (around a 6), and it’s more like an annoying buzz that helps guide him. My husband barely felt it when he tested it. It’s been a game-changer. Drago no longer chases cars—one tap on the collar, and he turned around and came back. He hasn’t tried since. Walks are so much easier. He heels perfectly, doesn’t pull, and stopped eating gross things like cow poop. He now goes to his “place” on command and mostly stays there. Occasionally, he needs a reminder, but overall, life with Drago is much more manageable and delightful. I’m writing this because when I was considering this decision, I wanted to read about someone with a similar experience—full of doubt, emotion, and eventual success. It was emotional when Drago came back, and I feared the changes wouldn’t last. But now, two weeks later, I’m confident he’s doing great. If I had one suggestion, it would be to get the dog bath Maddie offers—Drago definitely could’ve used it after his month away! In the end, I’m so happy with Maddie’s work. She gave Drago the tools to be a calmer, better-behaved dog, and I’m incredibly grateful. Highly recommend!