The Dog Wizard Lake Norman

Prior to finding Melanie at The Dog Wizard Lake Norman- Mooresville we had given up on dog training because we have used all the local ones with prior dogs and were very unhappy. After speaking with Melanie and her explaining their training techniques I once again had faith in having our GSD trained at a board and train. Brutus was gone 3 1/2 weeks and I watched videos the whole time he was gone and saw the progress he made. When he graduated at a 2 hour long session where we learned how to work with Brutus and all his new obedience commands. We were given structured homework to do with him and was able to call if I had any questions. We did well and then at our follow up appointment, Brutus did great and all my questions were answered. I now will use Them for boarding when we need. This is by far the best experience ever and I don’t feel abandoned. I can call or text with any questions at any time. Everyone I dealt with here was awesome

I recently sent my 9 month old puppy Jesse through the 21 day Jumpstart Board & Train program and I am beyond pleased with the results. I chose the Dog Wizard thanks to their stellar reviews and a personal recommendation from a coworker who has had several pups go through their program successfully. I’ll admit that the initial days were a little nerve-wracking for this first-time Dog Mom, sending her baby off to ‘college’, after we had only been together for 6 weeks! :) However, once I started getting frequent progress reports via text and social media posts, and could actually SEE her growth & transformation, I knew I had done the best thing for my girl and for our long term relationship. Plus, she looked so HAPPY and EAGER to be working with her trainer, Kassie. Jesse was already a relatively well-behaved pup for her age; and when I signed up for this program I had a few goals in mind: 1) loose-leash walking/heel by my side; 2) freedom to take her out to dog friendly businesses and me have the confidence in knowing how she would react - and not require me to provide her with distractions (bones, chews, etc); 3) recall/off-leash ability mainly for peace of mind when I have other family members & friends care for her when I’m traveling. Kassie ABSOLUTELY delivered on all three of my goals and then some. She also did a great job turning the training reins over to me, spending the better part of two hours teaching me how to work with Jesse and setting us both up for a successful transition; after all, the 3 week program is one thing - but it doesn’t end there - I have to put the work in as the owner to maintain the foundation that has been built. Kassie clearly has a passion for dog training and I cannot thank her enough for what she has done for us. My pup came home as an improved, confident, more obedient version of the one that left! Money well-spent and I have nothing but the highest regard and recommendation for the Dog Wizard of Lake Norman & Gastonia, and especially Kassie. Can’t wait to see her out when we get together for group walks! PS: If my cat were writing this review, he would say he’s frustrated that Jesse isn’t as interested in him anymore (she will hold her down/stay on her bed like it is her JOB, much to his dismay).

We have a strong willed Shephard Huskey mix that we entrusted to Melanie and Chris! Sky was one when she went to board and train. Very nervous about the expense and the time away, we weren't sure how she would come back! We were absolutely amazed. She listens well, always comes when called, and is a dream to walk with! We have 2 older labs and wish we'd have done the same for them. It's was worth every penny. Questions or small issues I've had since she's been home have been answered immediately. Great communication. And she's still lovable and playful! I would 💯 recommend this dog training group!

Our Goldendoodle Darcy just finished up their 21-day Jumpstart Board and Train program and we could not be more pleased with the results. We were struggling with her high energy, pulling on walks and jumping on our guests and children. Melanie and Chris and the whole Dog Wizard team are just amazing and we cannot believe the results. She is still our fun, silly pup, but she now has manners and can go for comfortable walks. We look forward to more adventures we can have together now that she has this wonderful obedience foundation. We can't recommend them highly enough!