I like the fact that I’m surrounded by lots of trainers and I am getting the opportunity to learn useful techniques for training dogs. One of my most impactful moments was when I realized exponentially how true the advice I received from the trainers is. I learned you can’t force or pull a dog. When I was working with a Great Dane going over a A-frame agility platform, the first day he wouldn’t go near it but each day he would come closer and closer. As he continued to proceed, it clicked in my mind that with training dogs the results happen in baby steps. It’s a natural progression. I never had the opportunity to process all of the aspects until I experienced this in working with the trainers.

Kevin Student December 22, 2016

I love animals and I think everyone can benefit from understanding that another living being can be as valuable as you are.

Layne Founder December 22, 2016

My most rewarding moment as a dog trainer is when I hear from pet owners; I didn’t know my dog could do that or my dog would do that.

Karen AZ Dog Sports Trainer December 22, 2016

Dog training is the only job that has kept my attention and made me proud of myself.

Monika AZ Dog Sports Trainer December 22, 2016

I have had an amazing experience with my classes and experiences at AZ Dog Sports. The trainers are really helpful and great with the dogs. They have the ability to teach the owner how to effectively communicate with their dog in order to train and encourage the dog to accomplish the desired task. This really builds a strong bond between the owner and the dog. I absolutely love Debbie and Darcy. Devon does an incredible job teaching his Canine Adventure Class He makes it fun for both the dog and the owner.

L. Schaffner Student February 4, 2017

I have learned so much from my classes at the AZ Dog Smart Academy. I have a much better [understanding] of the importance of early exposure training, repetition, and body language, in the canine world. The instructors work very hard to make sure you can understand the materials presented, and the staff always make you feel welcome.

Kim K. Student February 4, 2017

Very happy with what I have seen with the staff and students.

Anonymous Student February 4, 2017

Knowledgeable staff & trainers. AZ Dog Sports utilizes positive training methods that are effective and productive. The academy touches all bases of dog training and uses creative methods to train dogs.

Anonymous Student February 4, 2017

I was excited and so impressed with my visit to The AZ DOG SMART ACADEMY and the personal warmth I received from the staff who had a genuine and gentle interest in me and my canine companion, I am now in the process of increasing my skills as a trainer with the AZ DOG SMART ACADEMY.

Thank you Layne for your gentle kindness and patience in assisting me in every area of my process. You are truly one of the most delightful woman I have ever had the pleasure of communicating with.

Thanks again to you and all at THE AZ DOG SMART ACADEMY!!!

Semper FI!

Johnny and Luciano

Johnny February 19, 2017

These Academy classes offer very useful handling skills that can be applied daily life by anyone who loves training dogs.  The instructors are very likable and knowledgeable.  Great place to start my new career!

Tandi February 24, 2017

Working with Darcy and Will has taken my skills to the next level!

From learning about equipment to how to use all the different kinds.  I learned so much about fitting equipment on a dog and correct usage to helping my dog become a better dog through my ability to communicate to him.

I look forward to each class to learn how to be the best dog trainer I can be.

Denise FJ February 24, 2017

I came into the AZ Dog Smart Academy thinking I knew a lot about dogs. After my first class, I realized I had been blissfully ignorant.

The information I have learned is phenomenal!  It has changed my view on all dogs and why they behave the way they do.

Will has a vast amount of knowledge to share and is very engaging.

Cathy G. February 24, 2017

AZ Dog Smart Academy is a great option for those who truly want a hands-on learning experience with extremely knowledgeable staff. Aside from my personal experience, AZ Dog Smart Academy taught me valuable knowledge that I use every day in all canine situations. I look forward to continuing my education with upcoming events from AZ Dog Smart.

March 3, 2017

Both class and training academy were absolutely amazing-worth the time and money.

Trainer academy class with Will was outstanding. Two of my dogs also did beginning agility with Karen and loved it.

We will definitely continue both dog training and trainers' academy.

March 3, 2017

I was looking to make a career change and desired to go into a dog related business. I enrolled in the Arizona Dog Smart Academy at AZ Dog Sports. The academy was taught by professional and knowledgeable trainers. The course covers all aspects of dog behavior and positive training. The hands on approach training with the dogs was fun and rewarding. I now have the foundation to start my own dog sitting/walking business.

March 3, 2017

I just wanted to take a moment to let you know how much I have not only learned throughout the three classes, but how they have helped me see my dogs in a whole new light! Will is engaging as an instructor and every class has a tale to share moving the class work from the pages to reality.  I can't tell you how awesome it is (at my age) to find something that makes me so excited after 45 hours of working, 3 days of volunteering; and cooking and cleaning every day!  Can't wait to finally follow my childhood dreams of working with dogs--part time anyway until I retire!  This journey has been spectacular!

~Cathy G.

June 6, 2017