Dogsmart Training Systems

We just tried our first agility training class and it was so much fun. Nicole, our trainer was relaxed and supportive. She knew dogs really well. She also let us have our space without too many directions — just enough to guide us. Our standard poodle Luna did so amazing for her first time! She went through the the tunnel, did the jumps and climbed the A frame (her favourite!). We can’t wait for next week.

I’ve gone to a couple dog training facilities and DOGSMART was the best out of all I’ve been to. I’ve taken my dog there for agility training and did the canine good neighbor course. Anyone who’s asked me where I’ve taken my dog for training, I always recommend DOGSMART. Every time arrived at the facility, I’ve always been welcomed with a smile and warm hello. I don’t think I can express just how incredibly pleased/​satisfied with the results their training styles had on my dog.
If anyone needs a trainer for a puppy through to adult dog this is the place to go!

I made the mistake of not seeking expert behaviour training early enough with my last dog. After adopting another Staffordshire Terrier (Staffy, Bully, Pitbull) rescue dog, I spent a month meeting with dog trainers (Dogsmart was the 7^th) in the Vancouver area. Several were suggesting harsh training methods (buzz/​shock collars), others looked like they didn’t like my dog, and those whose philosophies were congruent with mine want obscene amounts of money.
Alice is frank and can be scary, but genuinely wants to see you and your dog succeed. DogSmart is very affordable and customizes lessons to each individual dog and owners needs. They are always a phone call or email away for advise, even if you’re not enrolled in a class.
They go beyond simple obedience classes; offering Reactive Dog, Agility, Out ‘n About (basic obedience at a different park each week so you get real-​life training), Play (dog park etiquette, making introductions, recognizing when your dog/​others are overwhelmed), Games (pooches need mental stimulation beyond the same walk everyday), etc.
Alice, Cathie, Rita, & all make you feel welcome and part of the family.

Alice is beyond-​words awesome! Her understanding of dog behaviour is current, relevant and most helpful so that YOU can effectively have a well-​behaved dog!
Our one-​on-​one training sessions were followed-​up with an e-​mail that reinforced what this human-​canine team had been taught.
I can’t say enough good about DogSmart! Go to them! You won’t be disappointed!

They train you as much as the dog… and that’s a good thing.
Alice and her army of dog trainers are very particular (Caesar bad, rewards good) and run a tight ship (sample comment: «what ARE YOU DOING with your dog. STOP.») but we quickly realized — this is crucial.
Doting owners learn to stop indulging their dogs and instead to reward for appropriate behaviour. The learning is very practical and enjoyable and has led to a far superior relationship with our beast. We have been back for three classes and have the «graduation» certificates to prove it.
Location is a bit far from downtown but an excellent facility and store make it worth the drive.
As Alice says…“TAKE IT!”