TESTIMONIALS
SONDRA & NIKKI
John has been there every step of the way for my service dog, Phoenix, and me. With John's direction, we started to work as a team. He has continually offered support and kindness, while instilling knowledge through invaluable training. Phoenix and I will continue to engage, continue to train and learn, and continue to hone our partnership. Thank you, John!
RACHELLE & PHOENIX
I cannot say enough great things about John and Loose Leash Dog Training. From day one, John made me feel completely comfortable handling Nikki, who is a large dog—and one I had never worked with before due to her size. His calm, confident approach immediately put me at ease and helped build my confidence as her handler.
Nikki also had a very unique role as the Buffalo Sabres team dog, which meant I had to learn how to handle her in high-energy public environments with fans, and then transition her into “vest-on, working” mode as my personal service dog. Learning how to go from team dog Nikki to service dog Nikki was no easy task—but John helped guide us through that process with incredible patience and skill.
As a woman, situational awareness and safety matter, and John was exceptionally intuitive in picking up on my body language and Nikki’s behaviors during our training sessions. He noticed when I was uncomfortable and when Nikki was exhibiting behaviors that needed redirection. Instead of being harsh or abrasive, John gently showed me alternative ways to correct her—using clear commands, confidence, and consistency. He taught me how to lead in a way that allowed Nikki to feel my confidence and calmness as her handler.
I immediately felt comfortable working with John, and it’s very clear that he is deeply compassionate about his dogs and the people they support. When we decide to add another golden and a sister for Nikki, John will first on our list to help instill the same training standards and techniques.
If you’re looking for a trainer who truly understands dogs, handlers, and the unique dynamics between them—especially in service dog work—I highly recommend John and Loose Leash Dog Training.
KIM
If you are ready to devote the time and work into learning to train your dog, then John at Loose Leash is the trainer for you. I was concerned when I had to find a new dog trainer, but relieved when I found John. He is dedicated, knowledgeable and has many years of experience. I am a long time owner of Boxers, which are smart, but also stubborn. It is important to have a trainer that can guide you in many different breeds, and John is certainly one of them. Highly recommend!!
KATHY & VALKYRIE
We had a wonderful experience in John’s scent and agility classes! The classes were well organized, engaging, and fun, and Valkyrie absolutely loved coming each week. John is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and supportive, and he explains everything in a way that makes learning easy for both dogs and handlers. I saw a big improvement in Valkyrie’s focus, confidence, and overall skills, and we had so much fun working together. I highly recommend John and his scent and agility classes to anyone looking to strengthen their bond with their dog.
CAROL, DOG 1 & DOG 2
I have been training with John for about four years. I have 2 Bernese mountain dogs. My 7-year-old is a therapy dog for Hospice Buffalo. He has trained with John whenever he needs a 'tune up'. He successfully completed cgc, cgca , cgcu, and tdi therapy dog certification.
My 13-month-old has successfully completed her cgc, cgca, cgcu, and her awda therapy dog certification.
Thanks to John's knowledge, dedication, and support, we now have 2 well-behaved therapy dogs.
John is an excellent trainer. He knows dogs and communicates well. Every time anyone has a question or issue, he has a suggestion to deal with it. I highly recommend John and Loose leash dog training.