Name: Gayle
Dog:  Charlie
Date: June 19, 2009

Comments

I thought I'd do Novice only.
However, such a great place and staff continued on with Advance and Agility.  Though there are a lot, Bruce and his staff know who we are and our names.
Excellent, with always new things to learn and practices.  I have found Bruce is always available to answer concerns at any time as well as his staff.

Name: Sam Davis
Dog:  Ripley & Solomon
Date: June 15, 2009

Comments

It is hard to say just how personable, and experienced at what they do, Bruce, his family and (All) of his Staff are. Without sounding like Bruce paid me....LOL. First Friends is not just a dog training business but a way of life. I have 2 German Shepherds, Ripley came from a litter of Bruces. I could write all day about the benefits of a First Friends trained dog or pup. And if you love your dog as a real member of your family you want the best for your Dogs, just as you would for your kids or loved ones. There is nothing like having people stop you to tell you how beautiful and well trained your dogs are. Thanks to All at First Friends.....
The Davis Family.

Name: Cindy Brown
Dog: Pepper
Date: June 11, 2009

Comments

I attended puppy kindergarten with my puppy Irish Setter in May 2009. The class was very good for my puppy. It has helped me to have the basics of what I need to do to have a happy home with Pepper. I now have a fundamental knowledge of what I need to do to help Pepper to know what is expected of her. It has also helped her in socializing with all kinds of people and other dogs. Bruce is very knowledgable and the staff are all very friendly and ready to help. I plan to continue our education with this kennel and would highly recommend it to everyone I know. A trained dog makes a happy dog and owner.

Name: Leah & Daryl
Dog: Izzie
Date: June 08, 2009

Comments

We were part of "Boxer Day" yesterday and had a great time! We have enjoyed being a part of the First Friends classes over the last couple of years, and also really enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere at boxer day. Izzie loved socializing with her boxer friends and working on the agility equipment outside. We always recommend Bruce to anyone we know that wants to train their puppy!

Name: Cindy
Dog: Jackson
Date: June 04, 2009

Comments

My question is why did I not come to Fist Friends in the beginning. Jackson is a joy to be around now. What 4 trainers and 4 years tried to teach us, Bruce did in 6 months and it worked. Bruce and his staff are the best. We knew all along that we needed the training as much as Jackson,but Bruce made us accountable and it worked. We still go to both agility and advanced classes and enjoy every minute.

Name: Brandt Carter
Dog: Jupiter, Webster, Wrigley, BrettII
Date: June 04, 2009

Comments

We keep coming back. After raising 12 dogs a First Friends, 10 are Canine Companions for Independence puppies-in-training, we look forward to each new puppy class and Bruce's opening lecture.!!!! What we learn works for our dogs and is a great foundation for service dog training or certification for Delta Society. I appreciate all the assistants(employees) who conscientuously help each dog handler. Keep up the good work! PS The people who come their to train their dogs are great too!

Name: Melissa
Dog: Cash
Date: June 03, 2009

Comments

"Your dog is so well behaved. I wish mine acted like that." I hear this comment frequently. Cash is so well behaved because of the classes we've gone through together at First Friend--from Puppy Kindergarten, to Novice Class, to Advanced Class . I never hesitate to suggest First Friend K-9 Training to anyone who wants a well trained dog.

Name: Jerlyn Southwick
Dog: Oliver
Date: June 02, 2009

Comments

I can't say enough about First Friends. This was Oliver's last chance since we rescued him at 11 months. He was aggressive and nipped at people for no reason. With the help of Bruce and his excellent staff, Oliver has really progressed. We did the Mutt Strut and is a joy to take on walks. Thank you for helping me give this little guy his second chance!

Name: Leslie & Kristen Schuh
Dog: Kaylee
Date: June 01, 2009

Comments

We enrolled Kaylee, our Brittany spaniel, in novice class in Sept. 2008, a few weeks after we rescued her on recommendations from several of our friends. We had been through training classes with other dogs in Minnesota and Michigan, but First Friend is by far the best. Kaylee is very obedient and a joy to have in our family. My daughter Kristen and Kaylee have been doing the agility class and absolutely love it. Many thanks to Bruce, Barrie, and Jodie!

Name: Jeff
Dog: Cora and Willie
Date: June 01, 2009

Comments

*This is written from the perspective of the dog.*

Just wanted to let you know that things are going well at my new home.  Yesterday after greeting my son Willie I met Chrissy who told me very frankly she was very happy to meet an adult German Shepard.  Chrissy also said she is glad to have someone else "entertain and supervise" Willie as she has had enough puppy attention.  Willie and I had a nice walk on the Monon and in Broadripple last night.  This morning we went to a baseball diamond and played off the leash.  I raced Willie for the ball.  He is very fast!  He is willing to take turns and plays nicely.  I have never had so many kisses!  After chasing the ball we walked and smelled all the things at the Little League Park.  I am sending a picture of Willie and I at Starbucks (my first visit).  Things are going fine otherwise.

Love,
Cora

Name: Lyland  & Milton
Dog: Bruno
Date: May 29, 2009

Comments

Our German Shepard, Bruno was quite the handfull.  He was biting and attacking people for no apparent reason.  We could hardly take him out in public or to the vet.
After attending First Friends for training, Bruno is a pleasure and a joy to have in our lives.  He is now listens and obeys and this has made a very big difference to him and to our family.
Thanks Bruce and Staff.  You guys are great

Name: Andrew
Dog: Buggi
Date: May 28, 2009

Comments

I'd like to thank Bruce and his staff for being very knowledgeable and patient with everyone in their classes. The novice and advanced courses have helped me further establish the incredible bond I have with my dog. The courses provide excellent functionality, particularly for me, as my dog and I are frequently out in areas from urban settings to the backwoods. Regardless of where we are, I can trust my dog to be by my side and responsive to the commands given.

When I decide to get another dog, I will certainly train him at First Friends.

Name: Kathy Janes
Dog: Mater
Date: May 20, 2009

Comments

My Mom & Dad and I had a super time at Doodle Day! All my pals from class were there (except Harley) and we bounced and ran played till we were pooped - some of us literally! We also got to meet some new doods. We loved our snacks too - especially the peanut butter ones. Thanks for having a fun party for us! Woofs & Kisses, Mater

Name: Heaven and Scott
Dog: Naoki (neigh o key)
Date: May 20, 2009

Comments

Thank you for everything! All the support and the time.. we look forward to another year! well be back!

Name: Todd and Liana   
Dog: Zoe
Date: May 19, 2009

Comments

Well I thought I had a pic of ALL in downstay in center of room, but someone got up! :)

 

 

Name: Ryan
Dog: Bella
Date: May 19, 2009

Comments

Jodi, Bruce & Kyle,
Thank you for a fun & very well taught class!

Name: Marcia 
Dog: Zoe
Date: May 19, 2009

Comments

Thank You for everything.

Name: Krista & Andy Gremos
Dog: Moose & Mica
Date: May 19, 2009

Comments

We just wanted to thank Bruce and the staff at First Friend for opening up the facility to us and making the Doodle Romp on 5/17 a real treat! We enjoyed meeting the other owners in a less formal atmosphere. The dogs were having a great time going through the agility jumps and running, romping, and wrestling together....although I think we will bring shin guards next time (our reflexes aren't what they used to be). :)

Name: KEN & JELANE HURST
Dog: MOCHA
Date: May 18, 2009

Comments

We participated in the doodle romp help on May 17th and just want to thank you and your staff for the great event. We have been thru the puppy, novice and advanced classes and could not be more pleased with our experiences. Your love for the animals could not be more evident. The extra mile that you go is noticed and appreciated. We enrolled to take a puppy training class and found a home and extended faimly for us and our pet.

Name: Elizabeth
Dog: Maggie and Suzzy
Date: May 07, 2009

Comments

Bruce and his staff offer no nonsense dog training. They have a deep knowledge of dog behaviors and training techniques that they share willingly to those who want to learn. Participating in the classes is enjoyable. Thanks to the training we have received, our pups are well behaved and improving every time we practice our lessons. If you want to train your dog, this is the place to "Listen up."

Name: Ann E. Andrews
Dog: Aria
Date: May 06, 2009

Comments

I would like to praise Bruce and his staff for providing such thorough training for dogs and their handlers. My 11-month-old pup travels with me extensively, and has become a walking ambassador for her breed and First Friend K-9 Training. Every time we are out, people comment on how attentive and well behaved she is, and I attribute it to the training we receive at First Friends. Thank you Bruce and your trainers for helping me become a better owner and handler as Miss Aria and I work together toward becoming a K-9 companion team.

Name: Beth
Dog: Jobe
Date: May 06, 2009

Comments

We just completed Novice Class with our newly adopted one year old. It was a great experience and one that every pet owner and their dog should take advantage of. Bruce and the staff were very informative and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and plan on attending the Advanced and Agility Classes next. In the past, we had attended a local competitor’s class with another dog. I can say with confidence that Bruce’s class was far superior. I highly recommend First Friend K-9 Training!!

Name: Paula Hardin
Dog: Toby
Date: May 02, 2009

Comments

I have had dogs my whole life but Toby is the first dog I have taken to formal training. Toby is a boxer and the research we did before adopting her told us they could be handful and would benefit from training. I believe I learned more about myself and what I really didn't know about dogs in this class. We are so glad we completed it as she is a much better dog and we are much better owners. We are looking forward to starting the advanced training and agility training with Toby. Toby loves going to First Friends. She starts whining to get out of the car as soon as we park in front of the building.

Name: Josh Kublnick
Dog: Ilke Von Adelshausen
Date: May 01, 2009

Comments

Bruce, Just a qucik note that Ilke, born 7/11/07 of Geppetto and Lexi, is still doing great. She has been very easy to train and have not had any health problems. The same can be said of my friend Matt's dog, Ille, that was bought the same day from the same litter. Both females are great! Would happy to be a reference any time...

Name: Kathryn Greenslade
Dog: Liberty (Libby)
Date: May 01, 2009

Comments

Thank you for the two great classes that we have had with you - puppy and novice. We have had several dogs through the years; this is the first time we are really "communicating" with our dog. Through the classes we have learned how to teach her to behave both in our home and in public. It was also a great date night - something fun my husband and I worked on together. The classes are fun and informative - training first rate! Thanks again!

 

Name: Brad
Dog: Rosie & Sophie (Maggie deceased)
Date: April 22, 2009

Comments

I have taken each of my ESS through the novice class, I don't know how any dog owner could not invest the time and money to learn and bond with their dog. Bruce and staff are top notch. I enjoyed the novice class so much that I now do the Advanced Class, best money I have every spent (then again, I've never bought a Harley)and it's a real bargin to boot!

Name: Jim
Dog: Katie
Date: April 22, 2009

Comments

My wife and I along with our Golden Katie want to thank Bruce and his staff for a wonderful 8 weeks of Novice Training. I think the experience is best sumed up by Katie after experiencing her first lesson on week two, would wine from excitement on the way to class...she truly enjoyed each lesson and was eager to start her daily training. I was very impressed by the entire program but most of all the first night. This night alone is worth the cost of the class. Job very well done...

Name: Sam
Dog: Kalila
Date: April 20, 2009

Comments

We adopted a pit bull almost two years ago from ARPO. One of the requirements was that we enroll her in at least one training class. They gave us many options to choose from and we ended up going with First Friend....we are so glad we did. We took the puppy class, novice class, and now have been going to the advanced class for over a year now. Bruce and the rest of the crew have been amazing! Our dog behaves better than any of my friends dogs. People are amazed at how good she is, even being a pit bull (they aren't bad). Its great that we can represent the breed in this way because of Bruce and the training we have recieved at First Friend. We have gotten my brother-in-law and a co-worker to take the classes as well and they are seeing the same great results! Thank you all so much! Sam & Alexis

Name: Guido
Dog: Rocko
Date: April 16, 2009

Comments

Our Blue Lab/Boxer Mix adopted us at about 9 months of age! He was a real handful in size and behavior. The vet told us he was a fear-biter and probably abused. The vet told us about 1st Friend so we asked around & heard nothing but great news about the school. We enrolled & practice 1 hour every day! The trainer showed us special ways to handle our specific needs with the dog. He was tops in his class & never gave us problems after that. My wife was in a car accident & that dog became her companion animal. It never would have happened without the basic training received at 1st Friend 10 years ago! 1st Friend was an answer to prayers on so many levels! thx.

Name: Susan Hauer
Dog: Sadie
Date: April 15, 2009

Comments

Although I have had dogs my entire life, Sadie is my first Lab and the first dog I have put through formal training. First Friends came highly recommended to me by the rescue group that I got Sadie from as well as perfect strangers that we encountered. We started out in the novice class about a year and a half ago and have since moved on to the annual/advanced class and have also participated in agility. We have both learned so much in the classes about how to communicate with each other. I have learned how to deal with her behavioral issues outside of class as well as the basic obedience commands and it has made both of our lives easier. I really appreciate Bruce, Jodi, Claudia and everyone else at First Friends taking the time to answer all of my dog related questions. They truly go above and beyond what they have to do because they genuinely care and want to see us be successful. Even though it's hard to believe with all of her typical Lab energy, Sadie often gets compliments on her behavior when we are in public or at the dog park and I always tell people about First Friends K-9. I'm certainly glad they were recommended to me!

Name: Patti Broschart
Dog: Pooh
Date: April 10, 2009

Comments

I first took my dog to FFK9 for puppy training in 2002. The training was first rate and the written material that was provided is timeless! Five years later, my “runt” of the litter became a solid 105 lbs. Although he would still obey and listen (most of the time) I still felt I needed to be able to have more control over him instead of vise versa. I came back to the Novice Training to reinforce learned commands and learn new ones – I feel we both graduated! The Annual class is great; we’ve been coming for nearly 3 years now. The trainers are very knowledgeable, approachable and willing to help with any behavior problems your pet might be having. We are still learning new things, meeting new friends and have a lot of fun along the way.

Name: Barb Schwartz
Dog: Boler and Beta (Bo & Bailey deceased)
Date: April 02, 2009

Comments

I've been going to First Friend K9 for twelve years and four dogs. When I started in 1997 I was a novice at training. First Friend is as much about teaching the trainer as it is about training the dog. My first Doberman, Bo, was quite a challenge to train. Each one since has been a little easier. I think that is because I have learned more about training thanks to First Friend. If you have a problem with your dog they will help you come up with a solution. We have been through puppy kindergarten and novice class (numerous times). We are now in the advanced class and agility. Bruce and staff make the classes fun for trainers and dogs while still accomplishing our training goals. My dogs go to work with me every day so it is important that they are well behaved. When I get comments on their good behavior I always mention training at First Friend. I believe they are happier because of the mental stimulation training provides and because they know their roles in our family pack. We've made a lot of friends at First Friend K9 and look forward to our classes every week. I highly recommend FFK9 for a good training experience.

Name: Debbie Harrod
Dog: Rauggy and Auggy
Date: April 01, 2009

Comments

Dear dog lovers, My husband, Greg, and I are the owners of two Dobermans. Greg had previously owned two other Dobermans dating back to 1980. His second black female was in-kennel trained at First Friend's way back before Bruce owned the facility. That is what led us to return. We visited many training schools throughout central Indiana before we made the decision of where to train our red male, Rauggy. Being from Muncie, it was not an easy decision to make the commitment to travel to Fishers for training. Now we think nothing of our bi-weekly trips to First Friend's for advanced training and agility. Rauggy and Auggy love the car ride and know where we are going as we pack up for our trips to "school". Bruce was extremely patient with my lack of knowledge in dog obedience and always bent over backwards to make sure that I was doing everything correctly. Rauggy was not an easy dog to train, especially being the novice that I was. By the time we acquired our black female, Auggy, I felt extremely confident in the handling, training, and care of both dogs. It has not been easy, especially since Greg was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease in October 2008. Bruce and all of his staff have given us lots of love and encouragement in our recent battle with an uncurable disease. I feel blessed to have such great friends and know that everyone at First Friend's will always be there for us no matter what happens. So, if you want the best training for your dog and want to have fun in the process, First Friend's is the place to go. I treasure Bruce's friendship and will always look forward to the many fun and enjoyable classes, parties, and various activities that I have grown to love. Sincerely, Debbie Harrod

Name: Amy Horowitz
Dog: Riley
Date: March 29, 2009

Comments

Riley and I have been through the novice class and are currently in the advanced and agility classes. The agility class has helped Riley become more confident and he loves doing the different obstacles. Bruce has gone above and beyond what other trainers would do. He has helped me with my puppy on more than one occasion. I have and would recommend First Friends K9 to others.

Name: Jeff & Jen White
Dog: Harley
Date: March 29, 2009

Comments

We have a wonderfully trained and very obedient Goldendoodle thanks to Bruce and the staff at FFK9. FFK9 was recommended to us by a friend who had trained several dogs there as well. We enrolled Harley in the puppy class when he was about 12 weeks old. We then graduated to the novice class. Now we've moved into the advanced class and have been here for over a year. Our progression through Bruce's training programs has given us a dog we can now proudly walk around the neighborhood. We don't even need a leash to keep him right by our side! We've also learned valuable skills that make vet and grooming appointments a breeze. Harley loves coming to school so much that we have just recently enrolled him into the Agility class. It's hard to call it "school" when we see how much he loves it. We love it also. We have met so many wonderful people (and dogs!) through our expreiences at FFK9. Thanks Bruce!

Name: Sarah Hart
Dog: Abby and Kiser
Date: March 27, 2009

Comments

We first came to FFK9 right after we adopted Abby in May, 2008. My husbands boss highly recommended the novice class. We have had a great experience. We then decided to adopt another dog in October, 2008. Kiser has also been in the novice program with great success. They both attend advanced training weekly. I take my dogs to our local park to "play" in the woods while my 2 kids play on the playground. Every time we go, I have countless people praising my dogs good behavior. I cant say enough about the care and commitment the entire staff has about each dog and owner that come in their facility. I recommend FFK9 to everyone who owns a dog. Thank you FFK9!!!

Name: Krista & Andy Gremos
Dog: Moose & Mica
Date: March 26, 2009

Comments

Moose and Mica have been attending training at First Friend since we adopted them from the IDOG rescue group. We started them in the novice class and now they are both in the advanced class on Wednesday night. They also take the Saturday agility class. In addition, both dogs have taken and passed the Good Canine Citizens test a number of times. The classes are great and a lot of fun for both us and the dogs. We have had people comment on how well behaved and trained our dogs are. We have recommended First Friend many times. Bruce, Jodie, Claudia, and the rest of the gang are wonderful trainers. They are very helpful and happy to answer any questions you might have. We think they are great and our dogs love them!

Name: Bobbie Garver
Dog: Beethoven
Date: March 25, 2009

Comments

Beethoven is a Wire Hair Fox Terrior with a mind and attitude that is not always in sync with what I want him to do. However, I was told when I first started at First Friends there were no bad dogs just bad owners. Bruce and the Frist Friends staff are very consistent with their training; even though I may not be. Beethoven is sometimes the class clown and Bruce often asks him where his mind is tonight. We will probably go to the Wednesday night advanced class as long as we have Beethoven; it keeps reminding him of his obedience skills. As soon as we turn off of 126th Street toward First Friends Beethoven starts getting excited and class is always fun. They also have a product called Lyfe Lyne which we started using years ago for his hot spots (at lease every other month). Beethoven has not had a hot spot since I started using the product. I put a tablespoon on his food everyday.

Name: Chris Hale
Dog: Maggie
Date: March 19, 2009

Comments

First Friend has been an asset to us in the training and socialization of our golden retriever, Maggie. Bruce and his staff are always available to help with specific behavior problems. The advanced year long class is fun and we are all treated like one big family. Maggie is a member of our family and it is important that she is well trained so that she can go with us and be a welcome addition to all our activities. Thanks to all at First Friend K-9! Chris and Maggie Hale

Name: John & Susan Simmons
Dog:  Zin and Zoe
Date: March 15, 2009

Comments

Bruce and his current staff do a great job of training both people and dogs for all situations.

We used First Friends K9 training 18 yrs ago with our Jack Russell and Afghan. Dean, the previous owner, left an impression that brought us back to the same facility 2 yrs ago with 2 new puppies, a Jack Russell and a really smart and well behaved Standard Poodle.

Bruce and his staff at First Friends do a wonderful job training the owners to best understand their dog!

Name: Don and Theresa DeLay
Dog: Heiko and Gunnar
Date: March 14, 2009

Comments

Bruce’s breeding program can’t be praise enough. We have two dogs from him, one from a G litter and one from an H litter. Both are very smart. We started Heiko in puppy classes and then in novice and now we have him in advanced classes, he has been in agility classes as well. Gunnar we got at a later time, he is also in the advance class. Bruce has his puppies socialized at an early age and I think this is why they have such great personalities, and they are very easy to train. He has some of the best Shepherds you will find in this area. If you are looking for a great puppy or a good place to train at, check out Bruce and his Staff.

Name: STEVE & BEVERLY PAULLUS
Dog: MAGGIE
Date: March 12, 2009

Comments

We have been taking Maggie to First Friend Training for five years . No , she is NOT a slow learner ! Puppy class , novice training , and the last 4 1/2 years - in the " maintenance " classes. This helps keep the dog sharp as well as interaction with the other dogs. Bruce and his staff are concerned with getting the dog properly trained and the general well-being of the animal , ( good nutrition , health concerns , etc. ). If you are interested in getting your dog well trained while having fun doing it , I would highly recommend First Friend K-9 training . Steve & Beverly Paullus

Name: Beth Glazier
Dog: Brodie
Date: March 07, 2009

Comments

I had been overwhelmingly terrified of dogs since my childhood. That is, until Feb of 2007 when my husband brought home a puppy. We immediately enrolled him in Puppy Kindergarten at First Friend K9 Training where I was surrounded by all types of dogs. As Bruce taught us the commands for Brodie, I learned how to communicate with all the other dogs in the class as well. We followed through with Brodie’s training through the Novice class and are now into our second year in the Advanced class. Brodie is just a little over two years old and still a puppy, but he remains the most well behaved dog of all our friends and family. My own life has been so enriched by my complete recovery from my fear of dogs and, still shocking to me, I can’t seem to get enough of them!

Name: Lisa Zender
Dog: Heidi/Ellie
Date: March 05, 2009

Comments

I took my now 1 year old rott mix through the novice class in October 2008 due to some behavior issues and her lack of self confidence. At times I wanted to throw up my hands and quit but the reassurance that I received from Bruce and Jodi kept me coming back. Now graduated and into the advanced class I am so glad for the reassurance that behaviors can be overcome and good solid training will build self confidence. Heidi has made a huge transformation. I now am about to graduate my 2 year old german shepherd mix from the novice class to move forward into the advanced class. The heart-felt caring and concern that Bruce portrays for every dog, big or small that walks through his door is a wonderful trait. Congratulations on your training school, you have done an outstanding job! I look forward to bringing my dogs to your class, it not only reinforces your training style but it is fun to see each dog transform right before your eyes. Lisa Zender

Name: Kathy Giunta
Dog: Zelig and Leyna
Date: March 05, 2009

Comments

First Friend K-9 has been central to the training, care, and happiness of our beloved dogs. I have had so much success and help with my pets that my mother traveled 6 hours with her two St. Bernard dogs to have them trained at First Friend. Bruce, Jodi and Claudia are so caring and helpful. They listen to concerns and thoughtfully come up with solutions that are individualized for the dog. Because our first dog is so skittish and nervous, we bought Leyna as a puppy from Bruce and she is the most loving and beautiful creature ever. She has helped Zelig in so many ways. Our pets are family. I recommend First Friend every chance I get.

Name: Tom Janes
Dog: Mater
Date: March 05, 2009

Comments

We have had our Golden Doodle Mater in training for over a year. We started in puppy class then novice and are currently in the advance training. Our experience has been great resulting in a very well behaved dog as well as being personally well trained as a pet handler. We also participate in the Saturday agility training which teaches dogs skills beyond proper behavior which Mater really enjoys doing and a fun activity to do with or pet. Our experience with First Friends boarding was exceptional which provided continued training while being cared for while we were out of town. Kudos to Barrie, who provided Maters, continued training in both obedience and agility. Thank you to Bruce, Jodi, Claudia, Barrie and the rest of the staff at First Friends Tom & Kathy Janes

Name: Heather
Dog: Heidi, Koby, Bella and Luna
Date: March 05, 2009

Comments

I started going to First Friends in August, 2008. A week before signing up for class, I was about to take our 2 year old boxer (that we adopted in Jan. 08) back to the shelter because of her aggression issues. But then I decided to give first friends a shot before I gave up on her. Heidi has been a struggle and hard to handle at times, But thanks to Bruce and his wonderful staff, I know how to handle the situations and avoid them and enjoy taking her to the weekly advanced classes. When we adopted Koby, a 1 1/2 year old male boxer in Jan 09, without even thinking twice I signed him up for the first class available. He's been in the class only 4 weeks and I have seen drastic improvements in his behavior, including problems with house breaking and chewing. I cant wait to get him into the advanced class. We also have two Miniature Pinchers, which are known for being extremely hard to handle and train. I havnt taken them through the Novice class but have used the same techniques at home and have seen wonderful results! I highly recommend First Friends, especially for people who have serious behavior issues and need quick results.

Name: Cara & Tim
Dog: Ranger
Date: March 04, 2009

Comments

We adopted Ranger in 2006 from the Humane Society. It was such a joy to add him to our small family and he has been a wonderful companion. However, about a year and a half after adoption Ranger seemed to show some signs of dominancy and aggression—lunging and barking at people and dogs when on walks. We took him to a vet based behavioralist and did some additional training, but he seemed to grow more aggressive over time, even after we made adjustments at home. We love our dog and didn’t really know what to do as he began to behave aggressively toward us. So we talked to a friend of ours about it and they recommended First Friend. We thought it was worth trying because of the positive recommendation and as a “last ditch effort” to see if we could do anything else to change his behavior. At our consultation, Ranger brought out his very worst behavior for Cheryl and Bruce, but they both did a great job working with our dog and with us under stressful circumstances. We enrolled him in the novice class and decided to do some private lessons to learn some handling techniques that would specifically work to curb the dominance and build trust. Our private lessons and the classes showed immediate improvement, but we still saw those small signs of dominancy, so we enrolled Ranger in IKT (In Kennel Training). IKT advance Ranger’s training so that we could move to the next level in how we worked with him at home. He also came back with a healthier coat and features that any other boarding experience. We graduated novice class and have continued on in other classes. Now Ranger is a happier, more confident dog with practically no signs that he was ever an aggressive dog. Ranger loves coming to First Friend, when I work long days often he will go for daycare. When we pull in the parking lot he is visibly excited and it is the only time he ever pulls on the leash to get anywhere. He practically wags his little tail off when he is around the staff which is a big change from that first day! Our family is extremely grateful for the patience, guidance, care and commitment of each of the staff members at First Friend.

Name: Josh & Stephanie Burkhart
Dog: Guinness
Date: March 04, 2009

Comments

Our Airedale Terrier, Guinness, is a strong-willed dog who has been a member of our family since June 2007; however, after about a year, Guinness clearly let us know why an Airedale is known as the "King of Terriers". Due to our own fault, Guinness became very territorial, disobedient and unruly to the point we didn't know which way to turn. It seemed as if the home training we tried had no effect and the problems continued to get worse. As a family, we were at our breaking point and our last ditch effort was an appointment at First Friends. At our appointment, the deciding factor happened when we stepped into an Advanced Traing class with Guinness. While trying to control Guinness as he barked aggressively and lunged at every single dog, Bruce was standing in the middle of the room staring at Guinness as all the dogs sat and the owners looked at us. At that point, the decision was made to enroll Guinness into First Friend's In-Kennel Training (IKT) program for 4 weeks. Without a doubt, this was the best money we have ever spent on anything! Guinness is now extremely obedient, more confident and his quality of life and ours is much higher. We now have Guinness enrolled in the Advanced Training class and the Agility class, and he continues to become more confident and truly an obedient dog. A special thanks to Jodi (Guinness' IKT trainer), Bruce and the rest of the gang at First Friends. We're now clients for life and look forward to our next trip to First Friends.

Name: Pam & Gary Wurm
Dog: Jasmine
Date: February 28, 2009

Comments

Jasmine is a standard schnauzer. She became extremely territorial and began biting at anyone who she was unfamiliar with that came into the yard , including kids in the neighborhood and delivery personnel. While in the house she would bark at everything going on the outside and would pace from window to window guarding her turf. Bruce came to our home, evaluated the situation, advised us on what needed to be done, and encouraged enrollment for Jasmine in both the Advanced and Agility classes. We acted on the advice given, enrolled in the classes, and took responsibility in changing Jasmine's behavior. As a result, her annoying behavior in the house is almost nonexistent. Her outside behavior has improved so much that we have a better piece of mind. We look forward to the structured classes which provide guiduance, coaching, and quality time to produce the desired behaviors of a well trained dog. Jasmine perts up when we ask her if she wants to go to class. She appears to like the socialization in seeing her classmates. The outcome has been extremely positive. We still have opportunity for improvement, and it is difficult to imagine what the end results would have been if Bruce had not helped us get the aggressive behavior reversed. Our family and friends have witnessed the change and we would gladly be a reference for the services Bruce offers.