Smart Dogs Training and Lodging

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Introduction: Most importantly, we are dog lovers. We are extremely reliable, personable and compassionate with our clients. We always have happy customers. We do what we promise. We care about your dog and your situation. We get to save dogs and families from chaos or having to get rid of their dogs. We make happier, more peaceful home environments by making your relationship stronger with your dog.

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Exceptional 5.0

10 reviews

100%

Lauren L.

Mar 23, 2011

When I met Sadie, an adorable Black Lab and Rottweiler mix, she was about 16 months old. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Smart Dogs for any situation you and your dog might be facing. These folks truly love what they do and the families they work with. They are interested in giving you the best life with your dog and as long as I'm a dog parent, I will be a loyal client to them. Despite the fact that I use a power wheelchair full time and have Cerebral Palsy, I felt an immediate connection to Sadie and that I could handle her 70lbs of young, curious energy. Sadie and I settled into our life together over the next few months but she had her definite issues. She was consistently jumping on and barking at people who came to the door, and while she was not really aggressive she can look intimidating and knows it! She also liked to play bite, never hurting anyone, but it wasn't ideal. Walking her on a leash was a workout for me, even with the help of the power chair. Sadie could not heel on a leash and planted her nose in the ground from the moment we began, tracking the whole time. It was beyond the curious nature of a dog; she couldn't be distracted away from the scents and seemed almost possessed to follow them. Dragging a dog back home when I couldn't get her to listen wasn't exactly what I'd hoped for. It wasn't until we returned to Illinois for an extended stay in the fall that I realized that Sadie's behavior could put her in danger. My family's home has a large yard, perfect for a dog that spends most of her time on a leash. The only problem was that Sadie wouldn't respond to her name or come when she was called once she began tracking something. She ran across the road and through wooded areas, and because of the wheelchair I was unable to catch up with her or keep her in my sights. It was a scary moment. Shortly after the incident I began looking for board and train programs in the area and came across Smart Dogs. I knew that Sadie was no dummy, but that she could be stubborn and independent. She needed trainers who not only cared about her as a happy dog but could give her the structure and basic skills to thrive. Kristi and Ian turned out to be the perfect match for Sadie (and I). Within a few days of our first phone conversation, Smart Dogs took Sadie on for 2 weeks of board and train. When Sadie 'graduated' and came home the day before Thanksgiving, I was greeted by a different dog. To my amazement, Sadie looked at me when I spoke and she listened to me. She sat. She stayed. She lay down. And walking her no longer felt like a marathon! The happiest moment for me was on our first walk afterwards when I watched her look around at the birds and was clearly relaxed. During her time with the Kristi and Ian, Sadie learned how to run on a treadmill and next to a bicycle in addition to her basic manners. These skills seem to have translated well for her to learn how to best adapt to the movements of my chair when we are out and about. Sadie still needs me to guide her in some cases but I trust her behavior enough to take her on her first airplane flight a couple of weeks back.something I could not have done pre Smart Dogs. She was an excellent passenger who diligently listened to me the whole flight. She sat or lay politely while people of all ages asked to pet her in the terminal. Even with all those strangers, she never barked or jumped and I was able to keep slack in the leash. Without the things that this experience taught both Sadie and I, I'm not sure I could have handled her long term. Even though we are back in Texas these days, Kristi and Ian are always a phone call away, ready and willing to give me advice as we conquer new scenarios together. My life will never be easy, and that's ok with me most of the time. I anticipated that having a dog would change my routine, but I had no idea how life changing sharing my life with Sadie would be. Ian and Kristi never questioned my desire or ability to care for Sadie and gave me the confidence I needed to be a good owner. We are probably the happiest pair you'd every meettwo kindred spirits I'm sure were meant for each other.but none of this bliss would've been possible without Smart Dogs. Go as quickly as you can to themyou and your dog will be so happy you did!

Susan C.

Apr 26, 2011

Kristy and Ian, Thank you, thank you, thank you! When we brought Sophie and Rex to you for a Lodge and Learn we were really desperate. Our dogs behavior was causing so much stress in our household! I could not believe they were the same dogs when we picked them up. Your expertise in modifying dog behavior truly is amazing and we are forever thankful to both of you for all the hard work you put into Sophie and Rex. We have implemented the things that you taught them (and us) into our daily routine and they are changed dogs. A neighbor was over the other day and commented on how well behaved they were thats a first! Thanks Smart Dog! Susan and Mike Coulson

Melissa B.

Apr 26, 2011

Having Smart Dogs come work with my dog was, hands down, the best thing I couldve done for King, my family, and our house. Being a first time dog owner who adopted a 1year old ridgeback lab mix, I wasnt sure what I was getting myself into. Within 3 months I was at my wits end when I finally stumbled upon Smart Dogs. Ian listened to all the problems we had and worked to help the root of the issues (walking, chewing/picking things up, deal with strangers, treadmill for extra energy which lead to plenty of destruction, just to name a few) both inside and outside the house. I couldnt have asked for a more professional, helpful, and kind group of people to come to the rescue. The schedule flexibility and diverse range of services made them a perfect fit for King and I. And the best part is you can tell they only want the BEST for you and your dog and give them as much love and attention as if they were their own. Weve used up our 4 training sessions but I wouldnt hesitate to call them again and highly recommend to ANYONE looking for help! Thanks Ian and Kristy!!

Mary W.

May 7, 2011

We have a St. Bernard who began showing aggressive behavior when he was around 9 months old. He was a great dog with our family and other animals, but it was a completely different story with strangers. He lunged, broke out of his tie outs, leashes, broke doors and was completely out of control when seeing a stranger. His size and strength caused several injuries to us when wed attempt to hold him back. I knew we needed the Dog Whisperer, but since that was not likely to happen, I searched the Internet where I discovered Smart Dogs Training. After a few successful training sessions, we decided we should enroll Harley in the Lodge and Learn program. He spent 16 days with Ian and Kristy and he came home a new dog. We are now able to control him with simple leash corrections, walk him without fear and we have a happier, calmer dog. I dont feel we need Caesar Milan any longer since we have Kristy & Ian!

Jessican N.

Aug 11, 2011

I recently sent my 2 year Boxer Casey to Smart Dogs He was sent because he wouldnt come to me when he was outside. I do not have a fence and nor do I want to get a fence. Casey ran to the road on more than one occasion. After a very close call of almost getting hit I made the ever so important call to Smart Dogs. Casey spent 2 weeks in the home with Kristy and Ian. Casey learned so much!! He learned how to walk along with a bike now I take both my Boxers for bike rides (see the picture on FaceBook), he learned how to jog on the treadmill, and MOST importantly he learned the COME COMMAND! The training paid off when Casey and Zoey (my 1 year Boxer) wander from the back yard towards the road. I called Casey once and he trotted right back to me with Zoey close behind!! The training truly paid off!! I also take Casey on walks with the leash dragging on the ground and Casey walks right beside me. I could not be happier with the work they have done! Kristy now comes to my house to work with Zoey and she too is making great strides in learning the boundaries of the yard and the COME command. This training was an investment in a healthy, happy relationship with key members of our family! I would HIGHLY recommend Smart Dogs Training for anyone who wants a WELL trained, Happy, Obedient K-9!

FAQs

How did you get started doing this type of work?
We have been working with and caring for dogs our entire lives in different capacities. Dog training is something we are most passionate about since it brings the biggest change for people and dogs to their lives.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Look at their references and track record. Make sure they are friendly on the phone and truly wanting to help you.

Smart Dogs Training and Lodging

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