Positive K-9

We brought our beautiful one-year-old Newfoundland, Dukie, to Positive K-9 because we had run out of training options. Our loveable 130 pound Pros: null Cons: null more

When I was younger, I had my heart set on getting an English Bulldog. One with lots of wrinkles, the flatter the face the better, the package. I finally got my wish three years ago and I purchased an English Bulldog from a breeder with a champion sire. Tank arrived and was more than what I ever wanted and expected.... in more ways than one! Around the time Tank turned two, he began to overcome the household with his overbearing personality and soon aggressive nature. Soon, I had visited the Emergency Departments twice, once for a bite that split my upper lip in two and required a plastic surgeon and 42 stitches. Tank was constantly growling, being aggressive with everything and was out of control. Clearly, we had lost control of Tank and the household all together. The aggression soon turned constant and we couldn't have him around any other people or dogs. Food, toys, couches, beds, collars... Everything turned into a nightmare ordeal. We needed help. I spoke to the vet and had him checked out for medical issues, all negative. I asked around and heard that Melissa and her staff were the best in town, truly comparable to the great Caesar Milan! I was skeptical that anything or anyone could help Tank but needed to try. Giving up was not an option. I set up an appointment with Melissa and she set a positive but urgent tone to the prognosis. Tank needed to have a residency program established to help him understand his role and we needed to learn how to handle our dog. We decided it was a last option and went for a 4 week program based on her diagnosis of the situation. It was the longest 4 weeks of our lives but Melissa and her staff made it easier with CONSTANT updates, communications, pictures & videos. When it was time to pick up Tank we were thrilled. We went to the long transition session to receive our training and soon found out two distinct measures: 1.) Tank was a great dog who was seriously confused due to the fact that he needed to be the pack leader because we weren't fulfilling that role & 2.) We needed to drastically adjust our view and lifestyle for Tank's sake. Once we took on the new role Tank was a completely different dog! Our expectations were well beyond surpassed. Melissa did not turn our dog into a zombie like we had feared but the exact opposite. Tank was a controlled and calm submissive dog that looked to us for direction. We had the Tank personality without all the negatives he had developed over his few years with us. We had a difficult time adjusting to the new lifestyle because it meant we needed to constantly be in control, but once we settled into a role it was great. It is now 3 months after the residency program and we have an amazing relationship with our bulldog. Not only is Tank the best natured dog I have ever met, he is obedient, fun, loving and above all trustworthy. I would recommend Melissa and the staff at Positive K9 hands down over any one else. They worked with us to help us realize our roles in our dog's life and made it clear that we needed to take on the role of pack leaders. If you are considering their services, you must not think twice! more

We brought home the cutest 8 week old lab puppy. That was her only asset. Within the first month, my clothes were ripped, my arms had scabs, and I was trapped in one room with a crazy puppy. I was miserable. more

The only place I'll bring my dog. Why? Melissa is formally trained in canine behavior modification. She has a special way with dogs. It has to be seen to be believed. Her staff is supportive and knowledgable as well. I am so glad that we found a trainer with the outstanding credentials that Melissa has. We would strongly encourage anyone who is looking for a dog trainer to first look at their qualifications (especially education) before hiring them. more

Pearl came to us from a rescue group in Indiana at three months of age. We thought we knew Labs, but she was definitely a challenge. We went through training classes with two different trainers, read and re-read books and heard lots of advice. The issues remained. We were so very fortunate to have found Melissa and Positive K9. Pearl was in residence at Creekside Resort for only two weeks. We simply could not believe what a young lady she had become! We just knew that she was a great dog. Melissa brought out the best in her. Not only are we impressed with the result of her training, but Pearl is a much happier girl. People actually ask us if she's the same dog! We also had never boarded a dog before. I visited various kennels, but the experience just reinforced my opinion. Creekside stands alone. It was like puppy camp! Thank you to Melissa, Rob, Kourtney and everyone at Creekside Resort. Woof! more

Our rescue puppy has issues. Afraid of people,not nice to other dogs,as well as anxiety issues. My wife made the appointment and I was honestly a bit skepticle. Pros: Abundance of knowledge Cons: We had to wait a while to get in more

I must say I wasn't sure what to expect from our first training experience (also our first dog), but I was beyond pleased with the services of Positive K-9. The grounds and facilities are absolutely breath taking. I have never been a fan of boarding, but this is seriously a paradise for dogs! Upon arriving I was immediately put at ease by the serene environment and can only imagine that all dogs visiting feel the same way. Pros: Honesty, integrity of the trainer; Beauty of the location; Care for their craft Cons: Long wait to get in more

We have used both the training and boarding services, and are always delighted with the results. more

My dog was trained by Melissa when he was just a year old. Everything about Positive K-9 and Creekside Resort is just fabulous. Therefore when I read the diatribe by Jose Whoever, not a real name I don't think, I was somewhere past furious. If he has a problem, why can't he address it with Melissa or Rob? What is the point of writing this? Oh wait, could it be because none of it is true? more

My wife and I just had our third Cocker Spanial trained by Positive K9. We have known Melissa and her staff for over a decade. We have referred neighbors, co-workers, and other family members to Melissa over the years for training as well as boarding. It is a one of a kind facility! We would trust no one else with our dogs. Pros: The only training your dog will ever need! Cons: none more

Dobermans are very energetic, loyal, loving dogs. I knew this because I spent time researching the breed and selecting a breeder. What I didn't know was my "training" of them was exactly the opposite training that they needed! When I decided to bring a second Doberman into my house, I thought, " this time the dog will be better, I know more now". Well, again, another mistake. I tried many trainers in the area and nothing helped my 1-year-old Bella. I was going out of mind everyday, that is until Melissa and Positive K-9. She stayed at Creekside resort for training with Melissa for 2 weeks. Before training Bella ran our household. I never thought I would be the type of person to consider putting a dog up for adoption, but I was running out of hope. Melissa changed all of that. She not only taught Bella her place "in our pack" she also spent time teaching us our "place" as the "pack leaders". Bella is not a new dog-she is just a better member of the family. Melissa has been great after her training as well, answering questions and seeing us for our follow-up lessons. She has helped us ensure Bella's success. Along with Bella's amazing training- we also had a few lessons with our dog Jack. He needed what I would call "refresher training". Melissa trained Jack and us on an e-collar. It was an immediate improvement-IMMEDIATE! Jack listened and in turn Jack was awarded the freedom that dogs so desperately need and deserve. The collar is a lifesaver and Jack is getting so great at listening he won't need to wear it much longer. Now we can go to the park, let our dogs be dogs, and not have to panic every minute of the day that our dogs might not listen and have an accident. We are so much happier and Jack and Bella are now too-they get to run, play, jump, swim, and be happy dogs! I can't say enough about Melissa, Rob, and the staff at Creekside. Don't waste money on group classes like we did-come here and get the personal attention you and your dog need! Pros: personal service, caring, professional, dogs get A TON of activity! Cons: have to book in advance because there is such a demand for training/boarding more

I can never thank you all enough for complete transformation with our recent rescue dog. We still can not believe that this is the dog we brought to you ten days ago. We were so upset at the thought of having to return this dog to the shelter.Melissa and her staff gave US the training and the confidence to make this work. Pros: Lifetime of free private lessons! Cons: We were on a waiting list to get in.[worth it!] more

Having just read the response from "Joe Smith" I felt compelled to respond. With regard to cleanliness, especially, I have visited every single boarding facility including the new chain hotel and would not even consider taking my dog anywhere else. I have had Melissa and Brian train 2 of my dogs and would recommend them highly. I have been thoroughly impressed during my interactions with the assistant that "Mr Smith" refers to. Brian's resume includes dozens of awards for winning field trial competitions with his champion Labrador retriever Bree as well as years of practical behavioral training. Even a brief conversation with him will show this. Brian knows dogs! As a part of the Positive K-9's board to train program "Mr Smith" should realize that he has a lifetime of private lessons to correct any issues that may need work. That is precisely why I chose them. " A big act" as "Mr Smith" refers to it could not be ,again, farther from the truth. The facility rightly boasts 7 acres of field and trail walks in addition to a 1/2 acre "Fenced" in area where my dogs safely play when they board. The bottom line for me is that my dogs are my life. In choosing a trainer I am fortunate to have the ability to send them anywhere in the world. I chose Positive K-9 and the results have been outstanding. They have changed my life. In the event that "Mr Smith" has issues with the services that have been provided I suggest that he take them up directly with the staff of positive K-9 directly, they have always gotten back to me. They even brush up their training when they board at no charge. Melissa, Brian and the Resort staff are consummate professionals that have devoted their lives to the training and caring of our family members. I am confident "Mr Smith" that were you to contact them directly it would be far more productive rather than to lurk on the internet. I will not travel lest my beloved four legged friends are in their care! That says a lot about the big picture... Pros: Attentive and caring staff! Especially Crystal! Playtime included in price Cons: Need to book far in advance as they seem to always be booked. more

We found Positive K-9 on the internet, and set up an appt., hoping to get some control of our 2 large rottweilers. Our first impression of Melissa and her facilities was ?WOW?. Both are breath-taking. After the initial consult, my husband and I were both amazed to see the immediate change in our dogs after a couple of minutes with Mellissa. Her ability to not only communicate with our dogs but also with us, led us to a better understanding of what is needed to ensure a healthy, happy relationship for us and our dogs. Melissa was kind and gentle, with both the dogs and us. Like Ceasar Milan, she believes in the ?Exercise, Discipline, then Affection? guidelines. We left knowing that we needed to provide an appropriate amount of exercise, and calm, assertive leadership. We were both on the same page, and anxious to start working as a team to make our pets the best they could be. It was reassuring knowing that Mellissa was only a phone call away. Her training worked ? wonderfully! We returned a few weeks later for a second session, and I?m not sure who was more excited as we drove down the driveway ? us or the dogs. We all viewed Mellissa as a wonderful friend. Our dogs no longer bring us frustration, but much joy. They are very well behaved. more

Melissa was great with our dogs. We had not been to training before with previous dogs, but thought it would be a good idea to start out on the right foot with our two new pups. I couldn't believe how quickly and how well the dogs responded. I feel like we just saved ourselves years of frustration in only the first couple of weeks! Very highly recommended. Pros: caring, gifted dog training Cons: absolutely none at all more

My wife and I have owned Bulldogs for over 25 years.We have always brought our dogs as young pup's to a traditional group class for socialization.We enrolled "William" in a puppy class,and were shocked at how out of control he was in the presence of other dogs and even people.The trainer became frustrated with how disruptive and aggressive our dog was in the class,and had suggested that we seek training elsewhere.After making several phone calls,we were invited to join another group class.The trainer assured us that he would be more then able to manage "Wiliam's" behaviors/tantrums.After only 2 classes we were asked to leave.We were told that" William" was one of the most difficult dog's that they had ever seen.What made this situtation so frustrating for us is that we were willing to do what ever we were told to help him,however no one had any answers as to how to help us. By this time he had become aggressive with us,as well as our cats.Our vet's office had givin us the information to contact Melissa ,the owner of Positive K9.After evaluating "William" [and us],she felt that the best option was to have "William" Stay with her at her lovely Dog Resort for a few weeks for some intensive training.It was the best thing we could have ever done for him.the results were truly amazing.He is calm,focused,and a joy to be around.She cares so much about her work and it shows.We have a life time of free lessons with her,so that she can continue to work with us.We will never forget how she changed our lives.A thousand thanks to you Melissa!!!!!!! Pros: The best we have ever seen! Cons: A bit of a wait,but now we know why. more

My husband and I have searched high and low to find a dog trainer to help us with our "pack" of 4 dogs.After over a year of traditional group classes,and even some private home visits from local trainers we had not made any progress.We were even told by one trainer to find new homes for two of our dogs,because it was hopeless.To even take them for a walk together seemed like a far fetched dream,not to mention a safety risk. Pros: Melissa is the "Dog Whisperer". Cons: Our only regret is that we did not find Positive K9 sooner. more

We had been to several trainers,before our vet told us about Melissa.The one week programs that she offers almost sounds to good to be true.However,when we picked our dog up at the end of the week we were speechless.It by far exceeded our expectations.Our dog was happy to do the training,and seemed so much more relaxed and confident.Melissa takes the time to train the owners as well, which is so important .Before finding Positive K9 we had even considered giving our dog away because he was just so out of control.Our friends,and family can not believe that he is the same dog.We will never be able to thank her enough for turning our crazy dog into a member of the family who we now enjoy being around.THANK YOU Positive K9.You are hands down simply the best. Pros: No one has a better understanding of dogs.Great results! Cons: May have to wait a few weeks to get an appointment [so worth the wait]. more

Melissa Cocola at Positive K9 is a dog owner's dream. She has skill and understanding of dogs that can transform your pup in a matter of days. She made huge transformation in our unmanagable dog and turned her into a model hound! =^..^= Pros: The only dog-trainer you will ever need. Cons: Very popular... slight waiting list more