Schilling's Northwest Lawdog

The Saturday group class with personalized instruction worked like magic for me and my German Shepherd Thunder. We did our homework - specifically working on the simple obedience of Sit, Down, Stand, Stay, Sit out of Motion, Down out of Motion, Come, Heel, all with anywhere from 6 -18 other dogs and handlers, goats, pigs, chickens, cats, and various other distractions. Our daily practice only required about a half hour each night - just practicing the basics. The Schilling's operation and guidance was perfect. I will also say that it is really fun too - just building the relationship with your dog is super satisfying. The lead trainer - Courtney did a great job and it was fun to see how well the dogs responded to him occasionally taking the leash and demonstrating the handling techniques and explaining the understanding behind it.

Ken's training with my 2 cane corsos and myself saved their lives. When we found him, my dogs had become dangerous with other dogs (and anything else that ran). Animal Control had gotten involved and i had been in numerous situations that were terrifying and out of control. I had done the recommended puppy training classes and worked with another trainer who had little understanding of owners and did not know how to communicate effectively. I still did not have the skills to deal with 2 powerful, smart, protective and potentially dangerous dogs. I had lost all confidence that i, as an older woman with balance issues, could manage these dogs safely. But i was very attached to them and i looked to Ken also to help me make the right decision for them. Scroll forward 2 years: after a year of private lessons with Ken, i started participating in group classes with his son Courtney, who is a wonderful dog trainer in his own right. My dogs are now well-behaved and have not lunged at another dog in many months. When they leave the property, they are in muzzles of course. They are being exposed to all kinds of different situations. Their trust in me has deepened and so has mine in our relationship and my ability to handle them. Ken's quiet and calm personality and vast experience with all kinds of dogs and owners created the safe space for my dogs and i to learn and change. He worked with my limitations and was kind and clear. The dogs learned indeed that disobedience was not an option anymore, but Ken always knew when they needed a break and relax and was quick with praise for them. I learned to set clear and consistent limits and expectations and follow through. My family and friends remark on their progress and how well behaved they are now. There is so much more i could say about my appreciation for Ken and Courtney. But you dont want to read a book. One regret i have is that i didnt start training with Ken and Courtney when my dogs were puppies - it would have saved a lot of heart aches! Do yourself a favor and start with them the day you get your pup!

I don't have a dog of my own, but I recently had the wonderful opportunity to pick one up that had come from Greenhill. I was really impressed by the owner, the facility, and their expertise in caring for the breed. It made me feel completely comfortable knowing how well the dogs are looked after! 🐕 Tammy, Bailey and her dad.

Training I wish every dog owner had to take Ken’s course (or similar as that would keep Ken pretty busy 😁). It has been several years since I attended one of Ken’s classes but I have nothing but praise for his training process. You truly know you have a well trained dog when your dog follows your commands despite all the distractions Ken provides (horses, goats, peacocks, etc.). I have been in many dog classes over the years and Ken’s is a standout. If you expect coddling, go to a Petsmart class. If you want a true professional with decades of experience whom not only trains your dog but also trains you, you found him; you will be thrilled with the results. I continue to get complements as to how well trained my DDR German Shepherd is.

My dog was a rescue, when I got him he was frantic and unfocused, his personality is what I refer to as an "ADD dog". Ken's obedience training courses not only transformed my pup, but also taught ME how to be a better dog owner. Going to Schilling's was the best decision I have made and our lives are SO much better as a result. I get so many compliments on Monty's behavior from everyone. I have since moved from the area and now drive 10 hrs to board him at Ken's when I travel. That's how much I trust him and his family with my dog.