Way of the Dog

We are so incredibly grateful for Brian. Over four years of dog ownership, we worked with five different trainers (private trainers with glowing Yelp reviews, group classes like PetSmart, and more). No one even comes close to Brian. He is deeply knowledgeable, his approach is thoughtful, and he truly speaks dog. Brian has worked with an incredible range of dogs and behavior challenges, and it shows. No matter the question or concern, he always had clear, grounded guidance that made sense and actually helped. Brian came highly recommended by our trusted vet, and finding him changed everything for our family. When our dog, Miko, turned 8 months old last summer, she suddenly began attacking her brother Rufus with no provocation (no food, no toys, no attention) and developed territorial behaviors at home. Up until that point, they were best friends, with Rufus patiently playing with her and teaching her dog manners. It was terrifying and heartbreaking, and at our lowest point, we even had to confront the possibility of re-homing Miko after losing our other dog, Luna, suddenly during her spay surgery last year. Since then, my husband and I have been training and exercising both dogs religiously, spending 3–5 hours a day between the two of us, and Brian was there every step of the way. He was endlessly encouraging and validating, especially on the hard days, helping us stay grounded and hopeful when things felt overwhelming. What truly sets Brian apart is how much he genuinely cares and his extensive experience with dog training. He has always been incredibly generous with his time, offering phone consultations during training and even long after sessions ended. You never feel rushed, judged, or dismissed, just fully supported. We’re beyond grateful to say that Miko has now hit 6 months with zero aggression, and the two of my dogs play together again both inside and outside of our home. If you’re struggling, losing hope, or just want someone who truly understands dogs in your corner, Brian is the real deal.

Started from scratch with an 8-week-old working line Dutch Shepherd pup earlier this year and did a good amount of research into trainers across the South Bay. Brian was a common rec amongst a lot of people but also vets and other dog care professionals. His philosophies described on his site also stood out to me, particularly in regards to teaching the owner more than just the dog and vast experience specifically targeting dog behavior. I went with my gut and pulled the trigger on a puppy package and couldn't have been happier with the investment. My dog knowledge probably shot up 20x in just the first hour of conversation before my pup even arrived; infinite tips and details on environment, relationship, socialization and more were crucial to prepping for my puppy adventure. Brian actually gives logical answers for all "why" questions every dog owner has, backed by experience with dog behavior but also experience and awareness of how people's relationships to dogs usually have a ton of thoughtless flaws. He teaches you to be a leader with your dog, and I would bet most people who try his program feel a surge in confidence and control around all dogs/situations in the future. From consistent puppy parties for safe and "referee'd" exposure during the crucial developmental windows to specific recs on the best vet/daycare resources, dog products, etc. for YOUR specific breed and situation--if you start your dog journey with Brian (especially before you even get the dog), you will feel 10x more confident and exceedingly prepared for any scenario. You'll have a detailed program outline to take notes in and refer to forever that will cover everything from basic needs and leash training (somehow he worked his magic and taught me and my pup on AND off leash training with JUST leash work in all of 20 minutes) to socialization management, relationship dynamics, communication that actually works and sticks, and other deeper, crucial, and overarching concepts. My rather challenging, high-drive pup in a 2 bedroom apartment was better behaved than any dog I've had or dogsat in the past 25 years within the first two months of seeing Brian, and it's not like the progress stopped there. My entire perspective towards dogs has changed for the better. I'll bring every pup I ever get to him for as long as I'm local enough and recommend him no matter what age, prior/lack training, situation, or breed to others.

Let me just start by saying, best “dog training” ever! I put dog training in quotes because Brian’s approach directly teaches and empowers YOU as a dog owner and dog protector. I’ve been to countless dog trainers in my past (for a different dog of mine) and Brian’s methods thus far has shown to be the most successful. My rescue GSD had no form of structure what so ever and with his help, we have now implemented a new structure and bond with our girl, Athena. Both within our household and community. He’s been so great that we also have implemented the methods with our other dog and have also seen changes with her. Said dog who has been to many other trainers. If you are dealing with any and all dog issues or just getting a new puppy to add to the family, Brian is your guy. Way of the dog has been AMAZING for our family. Thank you so much!

I didn't realize how much I didn't understand about doge behavior before my session with Brian at Way of the Dog. We have an old pup that we got at 8 weeks old. He was exposed to many situations from the start, so he is the sweetest and gentlest around all animals, people, and situations. A couple of years ago we got an 8 month old dog rescued from a hoarding situation. He is a sweet, sweet boy, but you could tell he was fearful in some situations. I won't go in to details, but an in incident in our home led me to Way of the Dog. I didn't want a trainer. Sit, stay, rollover weren't commands I was immediately interested in, rather I needed to understand my new dog. I needed a behaviorist - someone to help me and my family understand why dogs do certain things or act certain ways in various situations. My search for the best behaviorist in the South Bay led me to Way of the Dog and Brian Lee. I am so glad my journey led my family to Way of the Dog. Brian didn't work directly with my dog, but rather worked directly with me and family. He forced us to acknowledge how our actions (or inactions =/) and behaviors directly affect our pups. He guided me in dissecting and breaking down emotional barriers I had created that prevented me from being the best leader for my dog. Brian helped me gain the role as protector of my pup, so he can learn to relax and trust me in all situations, and that has made such a difference. With the help of Brian, I have not only become more confident in raising my dog, but more confident in myself. Brian gave me the tough love I so desperately needed to become the leader my dogs deserve. Thank you, Brian, for forcing me to "grow through what I go through" and transforming my life! My family and I are forever thankful!

Because of Brian and his "Way of the Dog" program, our lives (dog and humans) are much more relaxed, happier, and enjoyable. This comprehensive and thoughtful process is catered to each specific case for the optimal results. We are able to create the best possible life and situations for our dog, which make her less anxious, friendlier, and confident. Thank you WOTD!