Off Leash K9 Training, Charlottesville

We had a great experience with Off Leash K9 Training in Charlottesville. Our 5 month old puppy did the 2 week board and training. Lauren was incredible and loved our pup like her own. The daily updates with pictures helped keep us updated on progress and made us miss him a little less with the many daily pictures. This course was exactly what we needed to get on the right path and break “naughty” puppy habits. Our pup came back with great foundation and our family was given the tools to sustain the gains when back home. Could not be happier!

We signed our 1-year-old lab up for the 2-week board-and-train program. It was a bit expensive for us, but we felt it was worth it—especially since their pricing seems in line with the national average. You really do get what you pay for. This was a big investment, but one that benefits more than just the dog. I’ll admit, it’s a little tough dropping your dog off with someone they’ve never met. They’re likely confused at first, and that part isn’t easy. But you have to push through that because it’s only temporary. About a week before training started, I spoke with the trainer on the phone for at least half an hour. I went over everything about my dog and what our goals were. I also asked what the first day would look like for her in a completely new environment. LeeAnn explained that the first day isn’t really focused on formal training. Instead, it’s about building trust—helping the dog feel comfortable, safe, and secure with the trainer and the new surroundings. When we received our daily “report card,” we were pleasantly surprised to see that our dog was already comfortable and had even started some training on her first day with LeeAnn. Each night we got updates showing steady progress. The report cards included details from the day, along with pictures and a video montage. Knowing she was doing well made the whole experience stress-free for us. Honestly, the dogs get far more attention and enrichment than we could provide in a typical week. She was able to train alongside other dogs and go on outings in the community—much more exciting than being at home while we were at work. At the end of the two weeks, LeeAnn brought our dog home and spent about 2–3 hours with us going over everything. She showed us how to properly use the e-collar and made sure we understood all the commands our dog had learned. Overall, it was a great experience. The trainers are clearly true “dog people” who genuinely care about the animals they work with. The two weeks go by quickly, and while the trainers absolutely do the work, it’s important to continue reinforcing the training at home. This program was a lifesaver for us and really helped establish boundaries for our dog. I highly recommend Off Leash K9 Training to anyone looking for professional dog training. We are very thankful for all of LeeAnn's work with our sweet girl and appreciative for checking in with us after having the dog back home for a few days. Things have been going great. Thank you , LeeAnn!

I have a six month old puppy named Kiko and we were having some challenges with house-training and overall behavior. I heard about Lauren Viets from a friend of a friend (Lauren had transformed a very yappy dog into a calm companion). Based on this recommendation, I signed up for a two-week training session with Lauren. I found Off-leash K-9 training, with Lauren as the trainer, to be very organized and effective in their method and goals. When Kiko came home, I was given a manageable set of commands with which to work with my dog. After the training, Kiko knew all the commands and I've since been working to extend the training into our daily routines. My puppy no longer jumps on people. She also had a habit of peeing when she met new dogs or people - that has stopped. If she wants to partake of our meals I know how to get her to sit in one spot and wait until I release her. This same approach also works when I have a work call. This is but a couple of examples of how the training has really helped manage Kiko's behavior. I can't say enough good things about Lauren. I can see she loves what she does - training is in her DNA and she is very dedicated to her craft. One of the great benefits of the program is life-long free refreshers and I've been in touch with Lauren whenever I have questions and she's continued to be very helpful. I'm so pleased with the program and with Lauren as our trainer.