First Friend K-9 Training

Bruce, Kyle, and all of the staff at First Friends K-9 Training were always very friendly and helpful - and they made the classes fun. I had rescued a Mini Bull Terrier who was as stubborn as a mule. Almost immediately after getting her, I signed us up for the novice class. It was amazing how much we both learned in the classes and the progress that we made. Bruce and his team are true professionals who know dogs and dog behavior. They are the Real Deal who will help you get to where you want to be with your dog. I highly recommend them to everyone.

After our home visit with Kyle we signed our dog up for the novice obedience classes. We were very impressed with the facility and the owner Bruce along with his staff. When we attended the orientation night, we were told what the classes would entail. Bruce answered questions about any concerns that people had concerning their dogs. Then he showed us what we would be learning during the classes with his dogs who are extremely obedient. I remember thinking, "no way" what have we done? Class 1 seemed overwhelming trying to listen to instruction being given by Bruce and dogs barking. But somehow it all came together. He has a way of telling and showing you what to do and then carefully watching and making corrections where needed. Kyle and the rest of the staff are friendly and also correct you when either you or your dog are not doing something the right way. We have learnt how to sit and stay when told, heel when walking (which is so much better than stopping every 5 seconds to sniff), lay down when told along with several other commands that I never thought our dog would do. Our dog no longer jumps up at visitors or people out walking. By no means do we have the perfect dog but we have come a long way in a few short weeks and really owe that to Bruce and the staff at First Friends K-9 Training.

I have a 1 year old westie who is very intelligent, yet independent, which contributed to some behavior problems I wanted to correct while he was young. I called First Friends and spoke with them regarding my concerns and they immediately talked me through the situation and had me in for a consultation. During the consultation we discussed the behavior issues I was experiencing- specifically inappropriate nipping/biting and difficulties recalling previous training from another facility. The consultation took almost an hour, but they were very through as they wanted to recreate the nipping/biting scenario and stuck with my puppy until he misbehaved. Seeing this behavior first hand, the staff was able to diagnosis his behavior as non-aggressive and recommended training to build his confidence and obedience. Following the consultation, I enrolled in the 8-week novice class and immediately began to see a difference in my dogs behavior. Bruce and his team are nothing short of amazing! His methodology of education, patience and attention to detail made myself and puppy successful. Each week I could see the progress we were making and our transformation was noted by family and friends. Practicing/reinforcing what Bruce taught in class with our weekly homework and consistency is just what we needed! They were so patient with me from our first encounter during the consultation to our time in training- there was never a dumb question or a problem they could not provide actionable suggestions, education and tools to overcome- they never gave up on anyone or any dog! You will attend an orientation session the first night without your puppy. This session is over 2 hours long, and at first I did not understand the purpose of this, but after attending this session along with the training sessions everything came together. You must believe in the methodology and understand where Bruce and his team are coming from with their methodology. As an owner, you must be committed to attending class, leading your dog with confidence and completing multiple homework sessions at home to find true success. Dog training is not a one way street of listening to what is covered in class, but a two way street where you as the owner make the commitment to your dog to use the tools presented in and out of class. Bruce has high expectations and a no-nonsense approach, but having attended novice training, I now understand how this approach helps build confidence not only in the dogs, but owners alike. Bruce has an amazing balance of education/instruction, interaction, discipline, fun and genuine love for animals. He may come off as a hard-nosed guy, but one will very quickly learn he cares deeply and has a big, soft heart for our for our "first friends". I am so glad I found Bruce and his team and highly recommend this training facility to anyone with a young or old dog. I will definitely be attending his advanced sessions and even want to try the agility classes too!

Took my dog for grooming and they did a great job. Was alittle hesitate because they appear to be more into training. The groomer Kelsey did a great job and the business was very understanding that I was stuck in traffic and late to pick my dog up. Will use again.

I signed up our older dog just to polish things up and get some exercise for both of us. Once I got started I realized it would be too much for the older dog as he has arthritis so Bruce kindly let me bring our younger dog. The training sessions are 11/2 hour long once a week for 8 weeks. After the second session I realized it was too much for ME, because I also have a medical condition. I just dropped out. But Bruce called to find out what was wrong and when I explained things, he arranged for our choice of private lessons, or Play and Learn. Bruce is all around a good guy.

reNearly twenty-five years ago, I trained Golden Retrievers at this same facility. True, it was a different owner but I had med the new owner at that time, Bruce. He is top notch is all respects. His training methods are positively rewarding for both handler and the dog. My latest training at this facility was with a very shy Terrier that was rescued from a puppy-mill. The transformation has been amazing, rewarding, and positive. Thank you Bruce and First Friend K-9 Training.

Bruce was excellent. Our puppy went from being nearly unmanageable to a true member of the family, able to interact appropriately with the kids, behave, etc. Truly amazing transformation.

The groomer there is just fantastic with animals, and she is fantastic at providing numerous styles of hair cuts based on the breed of the dog, and it is just a good business. They are nice. The interaction with them is always good.

Staff was courteous and friendly and made the classes fun, but still productive. Provided written materials to remind us what behaviors to work on for homework and how to do the exercises. Even though my dog already knew some basics, the class was extremely helpful to teach me how to conduct training exercises. And my dog is now much better behaved around other dogs and is much less anxious in a room full of other dogs. Trainer is very knowledgeable and the techniques definitely work. I will most likely continue with the more advanced course. I would whole-heartedly recommend this class.

It went really well. We'll definitely be signing up for the advanced course.

On time, fully engaged, high expectations, evaluative, follow up, emails, works well with staff. Bruce is a leader/teacher.

Bruce started with stressing the importance of training and responsibility of taking care of dogs. Training makes obedient dogs and creates better relationships between owner and dog.

We were very frustrated with our little cockapoo because I wanted to take walks with her but, she literally pulled me down the street. She would run from side to side, chasing leaves and twigs. She has the full-throttle energy of a 10 month old puppy! I have had many dogs before and decided to try and train her myself?.didn't work! We decided to take her to First Friend K-9 Training for one week of in-kennel training. They were very good about telling us what to expect. Lauren was her trainer, and did such a fabulous job!!! She worked with me for about a hour an half at the end of the week, so I would know exactly how to continue the training. We were SO impressed! We dropped off a wild puppy, and a week later got back a well mannered, and well behaved puppy! The results were better then we expected! We will continue our training at First Friends, as my goal is to have our dog be a therapy dog. I highly recommend First Friend K-9 ! www.firstfriendk9.com

Overall experience was great. We meet our puppy's parent then were notified when they were born. We kept in contact util we choose our puppy. The staff is always available to answering our may questions.

The first week was a 2 1/2 hour training session for the dog owners. It was very informative and entertaining. Bruce is a passionate advocate for all dogs and is a master at teaching dog obedience. During the remaining 7 weeks of the class we had a fantastic experience in the class training our dog to follow various commands. We loved the way Bruce mixed humor and discipline into each session. We were given homework assignments every week which were a key to our dog's progress. Before taking this class, our dog walked me, practically dragging me down the road behind her as I firmly kept hold of her leash. Within a week after starting this class that all changed and I began walking her. She now happily and easily walks next to me, sits when I stop, waits, follows, stays, and so much more. We would eventually love to take some more advanced training under Bruce's leadership. It was a very beneficial and fun experience for my husband and me as well as our dog Abby. I recommend this training facility to everyone who begins the journey of dog ownership. Tomorrow night is our dog class graduation! Looking forward to it but will be sad when the class is over!

Bruce McNabb and his staff were true professionals at all times. Owners receive one-on-one assistance even though it is a group class. The techniques that are taught are easy to learn and effective. Anyone willing to spend the required time will end the course with a well-behaved dog.

Very well. Bruce is clear in his communication and expectations. He is compassionate about the animals.

Dogs loved it and to this day we still use first friend methods.

6 classes at 1.5 hours plus orientation class. On time, professional, and thorough.

Bruce and his staff are true professionals. They were able to work with dogs of all levels, ages, breeds and sizes in a group setting. We enjoyed going each week and were amazed at what we were able to accomplish in 8 weeks. We will definitely continue training at First Friend K-9.

Bruce and his staff were spot on. They always explained what we were doing to get the dog to what we ask of it and also went into why which is something i greatly appreciated. If you just pay attention read the paperwork he hands out and do the "homework" training he tells you to you will have the best experience.

I was very happy with Bruce and his staff. He even said "this is for your puppy not for you" So true. The training was difficult for me as a new puppy owner, but the results that we have with Woodford are fantastic. While in the class I even noticed other owners and their pets "habits" changing. The class was 6 short weeks, but the results will last a lifetime. I really appreciate the efforts and the attention we were given by his staff, they were direct and hands on. I plan on enrolling my pup in additional classes after he is fixed. I have already recommended First Friends to MY friends!

Having trained four dogs with First Friend over the years I have nothing but positive things to say about their training program. Bruce and his staff are true professionals, mixing military-like discipline and high expectations with compassion and understanding in an effort to ensure a lasting relationship between the dog and handler (family). I suspect the statistics haunt Bruce, as they do many of us, and he does an incredible job trying to make sure that at least the dogs going through his program won't end up discarded or turned over to the shelter. As someone who has always had rescue dogs, I applaud that effort. My newest rescue just graduated from the novice class. She was a bit more of a challenge, not well socialized and a bit aggressive toward other dogs. Being around the other dogs in class, and a few days of doggie day care with a staff that knew her issues, is just what she needed to acclimate to being around dogs outside our household. Is she perfect? No, but she get compliments on her behavior wherever we go, and we will continue in the advanced class because it will keep us from slacking off on our training. My other dog was a breeze to train, but we still go to the advanced class because we continue to learn, and that makes for a happy and peaceful coexistence in our household. Thank you First Friend!

Bite at first site:) We were off to a bumpy start! The puppy nipped at the trainer and challenged him. The trainer immediately took control of the puppy and showed him who was the "alpha male". The trainer spent thirty minutes after consultation @ NC instructing the puppy and me on what it looks like to be obedient. We were sold from the start. We completed the training session much more obedient than we started (still working on socialization). The trainers helped me learn to read my puppy and how to communicate better what I expect from him. Tonight we graduate! We will continue with First Friend K9 Training and have already recommended their services to others. -

Bruce is amazing with the people and the animals! Anyone who is concerned about the fact that they use training collars should pay them a visit! They are very pro-animal kindness and ensure the handlers know how to make corrections without hurting the dog. I've tried different training facilities over the years and would absolutely NEVER go anywhere else again. The courses are very affordable and the staff is wonderful. Always willing to provide advice and answer questions. Cooper LOVES to go to class, and once he graduates Novice class, we will continue with advanced and/or agility training.