Great Companions LLC

Janet Smilowski Edited 9 months ago

We enrolled our dog in a Foundations group class but chose not to continue after the first session. Our dog was initially nervous but quickly settled and worked throughout the class. He did not bark, growl, lunge, pull, or react to other dogs and remained calm and cooperative during the exercises. However, the trainer repeatedly commented on his nervousness to us amd seemed standoff with him,, in front of the group and to other owners, even after he was behaving appropriately. This drew unnecessary attention to him and made the environment feel less confidence-building for a sensitive dog. We contacted the owner to share our concerns and discuss options. Private lessons or waiting until January were suggested, but no alternative group-based solutions were offered, and a prorated refund for unused classes was not provided. Because continuing in a group setting was important to us for socialization, we chose to pursue training elsewhere. This program may be a good fit for confident dogs, but owners of shy or sensitive dogs may want to ask questions about class style and instructor approach in advance.

Tracy Krapf a year ago

I have a very serious, dignified, Scottish Terrier. Terriers in general are not the easiest to train but my little guy is smart and did amazing in puppy classes. When I decided to take training further into performance sports like Obedience and Rally trials, I was training at another facility. A facility that uses prong collars and has very harsh trainers that promote harsh punishments. My dog was so shut down. This dignified, smart breed, hated to walk into that building. He even hated getting in the car because he knew where we were going. I trusted my gut, saw how sad he was and knew we needed a change. Thats when we found Ali at Great Companions. Not only did she help me get my "friendship" back with my dog, she helped us soar to new heights! My little Scottie is so happy now, he loves car rides knowing we are going to see Ali and her pack! When we are working on obedience and rally, he looks like he is enjoying the training. Positive training methods work! Dogs are our friends and companions, training them with the positive methods Ali teaches, strengthen that bond between me and my dog! My little Scottie is so decorated with awards and I owe a lot

Lori Fetterolf 7 years ago

I have been training my dogs with Ali Brown at Great Companions for the last nine years. I was at my wits end after my one year old dog was attacked by another dog and became dog reactive. I tried another trainer but her methods only made his reactivity worse. Ali uses force free methods and is very knowledgable in her field. We started with private classes and then moved to group reactive class. Once we learned to manage the reactivity we were able to join in regular classes, compete in rally and scent and travel across country with my dog. We added a second dog to the family a few years ago. We have done puppy classes, foundations,rally, scent and tricks. Both dogs are well behaved and have several titles each. Great Companions is my dogs happy place!

Debra Itzkowitz 7 years ago

I've been taking classes at Great Companions with Ali for over ten years. I started taking her class for reactive dogs after several private lessons. I'd never experienced a reactive dog and didn't understand the underlying fear involved in the behavior. My dog was a large puppy (think great dane!) and would lunge and bark at other dogs while on leash and cower and shake when meeting new people or being exposed to loud noises, including thunder. I felt completely useless. That all changed after working with Ali. Her methods are scientifically based, humane, and yes positive reinforcing. This does not mean permissive. Anyone who looks at her website will be immediately aware that she uses non force training methods. This was exactly that approach I needed with my reactive dog. If you are looking for a quick fix, there is none. You have to put the work in. Training my dog is not about yelling at him and dragging him around. It is all about fostering a trusting relationship between us so that we want to work and learn together. My dog now chooses to be with me. He comes when he's called, and he checks in with me when he's unsure about his environment. He will be twelve

Jack Lanigan 7 years ago

Classes sizes are small, so you'll absolutely be on a first-name basis with everyone. The classes range tremendously in terms of topics covered. Got a puppy? They have a puppy manners and socialization class. Got a young dog? Attend a foundations course. Got an older dog and just want to learn something new? Try a scent training or agility class. And many more. They believe in positive reinforcement and not discipline. You won't see shock collars. You will see clickers! They absolutely have all of the equipment you could want on-site... odd textures, tunnels, A-frames, crutches.. you name it. Your pup will be well adjusted if you follow the program and do you homework. Fair prices too!