We had an amazing experience with Gene and Berk! Gene helped us understand the importance of becoming effective managers for our poodle AJ by expecting consistent obedience 100% of the time. The results have been incredible—our pup has changed so much for the better! He’s no longer biting us all the time and is much easier to manage overall. While we still have work to do, the trainers have provided us with a solid foundation, helpful resources, and the confidence we need to keep making progress. We’re so grateful for their guidance and highly recommend them to anyone needing help with their pups training!
Larissa Hernandez
January 2025
We had such success 8 years ago taking our boxer to be trained by Gene at New Hope that we trusted them again with our 7-month old boxer puppy recently. Both our dogs had much success! The dogs came home calmer, better behaved and knowing the most important commands. Gene and Berk are experts and know how to train dogs to be good and their humans to manage them properly to maintain that good behavior.
It takes time and effort on the humans part but it really is worth it!Ann M
January 2025
Gene, John, and Berke were great. I Have a 3 year old Presa Canario that started to get more temperamental, destructive, and aggressive as she aged. Before the program she had gone through 2 windows after the mailman. Now she is back under control, well mannered, and much more manageable. I am also a better dog owner and honestly a better person from some of the life lessons and wisdom that genes has shared.
Max M
January 2025
Gene and Berk did a fantastic job with our dog Shadow. We were really pleased with the program and the structure it provided not only for Shadow, but for us as well. 10 out of 10 would recommend!
Logan Mathews
December 2024
We took in a foster dog who was described as ""cuddly"" but within a few weeks he had bit my significant other several times. He knew no commands and was 70 lb of jumping dog, he was reactive to every moving thing in social situations, chewed on everything, and was incredibly difficult to get into a crate without growling at me or laying on the floor as dead weight. We are no strangers to having dogs but nothing we tried was working and after several bites, we knew that we couldn't return him to the shelter because he would be euthanized and we knew we were over our heads as trainers. When we brought him to see Gene and Berk, he was immediately aggressive. They were able to take him inside and get him settled and within the 20 minutes I was there to drop him off and fill out paperwork, Gene already had him sort of settled in and listening to him. I'm sure it wasn't easy but Gene and Berk were both fantastic! We were very skeptical about e-collar training because we didn't understand it that well. Berk did a great job of explaining it to us and letting us test the collar on ourselves to see that we weren't inflicting pain. After his time boarding with them, even though we didn't expect much of a change because he really was a pretty severe case, he truly was like another dog. He was no longer jumping, we were able to quickly train him to new commands, he would listen to me when he was told no, training on the leash was much quicker, and we were now much better equipped to introduce new boundaries and training goals when we were done with the in-person training and the zoom classes and homework. He's doing really well and he still has a lot of work to go as a shelter puppy, but without this head start with New Hope Dog Training and the skills that we learned bringing him there, we feel much much more prepared to take them on. If you were on the fence I would highly recommend them. We were on the fence for a lot of reasons and probably the top one being that we very much are used to having laid-back dogs that we pamper. The idea of instilling the kind of discipline that he needed was a little tough for us at first so even the language that we used when talking about disciplining him was a little tough for us to take. In the long run we knew that we were the problem, that we needed to allow him the chance to get this training. In our case it was really this or the worst case scenario. I would say that if you are struggling with the decision but some behavior or issue is making your daily routine with your dog difficult and you're considering this option, then don't hesitate. New Hope is amazing at what they do! You can tell by talking with both of the trainers that they're very well versed and you are dealing with top professionals. They will teach you how to take over what they started. 10 out of 10 highly recommend!
Heidi Bassani
December 2024
Our dog was extremely anxious and could be aggressive around other dogs. We had tried basic training with her but the anxiety and aggression continued. We were at our wits end when we found Gene and Berk through a neighbor and after spending three weeks with them, we have the sweetest, calmest dog. By just teaching her (and us) some basic commands and communication techniques (us), we have the dog we always knew she could be. Thanks Gene and Berk!
Jennifer Jackson
November 2024
Our Brittany attended training sessions at local dog training centers and continued to have behavioral issues, many of which we thought were related to separation anxiety. We were about ready to give up on her. I read about the New Hope Dog Training Center and Gene's extensive experience training dogs. Gene and I discussed our dog's issues, and he was willing to see if he could help. With Gene, our dog has made remarkable progress in just a few training sessions, and I have learned so much about how my behavior has contributed to her misbehaving. We are in the middle of our training and look forward to completing Gene's easy-to-follow program.
Kathryn Daily
October 2024
Gene and Burk communicated expectations clearly and consistently. My dog, Ellerbee, has progressed so quickly with their guidance. More importantly, Gene taught me the skills I needed to successfully build good habits with Ellerbee!
Jesse Kovacs
September 2024
Berk and Gene did a great job working with my Cavapoo Cali. She had a great three weeks with them, and has been so calm since returning home to us. She's doing really well with many of the nuisance behaviors she had before (jumping up on people, pulling on the leash, barking). She really is like a different (well-behaved!) dog. I wouldn't hesitate to sign your dog up!
Erica Rankin
September 2024
Gene teaches us how to be “the operator” of our dog. He does a great job of teaching us how dogs think. His practical advice, examples and techniques have helped me more clearly set expectations for myself and for my puppy and how to be consistent with her training. Gene builds the techniques and difficulty level as the dog is able to learn them. My 6 month old puppy made great strides in learning not to jump on visitors, play bite, jump on the furniture or bark unnecessarily and the basics for leash manners. After the initial 3-week training, we met weekly via Zoom for 2 times to discuss successes and challenges from the first 2 weeks back at home, and discussed the next steps to further our learning at home. I am very pleased that I now have critical techniques and strategies that will assist me in training my puppy to be a well-behaved and enjoyable dog.
Susan Ferdon
September 2024
Gene and Berk at New Hope Dog Training were great - this experience really worked for us! When we reached out to Gene, our dog Kevin was chewing everything, jumping on the kids, escaping anytime there was a crack in the door. We needed to do something, and this was it. Gene helped create a foundation of obedience training with Kevin. When we picked Kevin up after a few weeks with Gene and Berk, we saw that he was capable of being obedient and it was really helpful to see. Gene's follow-up trainings were the key to success, though. He gave us a theoretical foundation for his approach (e.g., ""an open door is not an open invitation"") followed by concrete instructions about what to do and when, to make the training stick in our own home and day to day lives. Gene is quirky and fun and integrates stories into his training to help ensure that his points land. Kevin has been home for three weeks and has completely stopped chewing things he shouldn't, hasn't jumped on the kids once, and understands how to be a good dog in our house. It's been life-changing. And, comparing New Hope Dog Training to other offerings in the area, this is a great value.
Sarah Guidi
September 2024
About a year ago I took my sweet Eloise to New Hope Dog Training Center. Gene and Berk were amazing. My main reason for seeking training for Eloise was a general feeling of a lack of control. She is very active and playful so at times it was hard to breakthrough and get her to focus. The program at New Hope was great because it gave me, the owner, the tools to carry out the continued training at home following her stay at the training center. It has always been reassuring to know if we have setbacks all we have to do is go back to our basics with the tools learned and proceed from there. Again, we are a year out since Eloise was at New Hope Dog Training Center and things are great. Thank you!
Chloe Pearce
August 2024
Fantastic instructors and facility! My sweet rescue was in serious need of formal training and New Hope Dog Training Center DID NOT DISAPPOINT! The follow up meetings were essential to continue her behavior training- truly appreciated all of the help from both Berk and Gene! Thanks again guys!
Anna Douglas
August 2024
Our recent German Shepherd import, Gaela, knew no commands (in English) and had a habit of jumping and gnawing on her new owners ! We enrolled her in the New Hope Dog Training Center and she is now more obedient, less threatening to family members and more a part of the community. We plan to continue enforcing limits and anticipate excellent ongoing results. Very grateful to New Hope Dog Training Center!
Craig Drake
July 2024
I was really impressed with the transformation of ACE... even though Ace is only a puppy... his behavior was very pleasing to me and the family
Louis Collins
July 2024
Huge thanks to Gene and Berk for their help with our energetic 3-year-old spaniel. They not only helped with our dog’s behavior issues but worked with us to maintain adequate control in the future.
Lydie Neill
July 2024
We had a great experience with New Hope! The dog trainers know what they’re doing and helped us with our 5.5 year old hound!
Hallsey Van Dongen
July 2024
We would like to express our appreciation to Gene and Berk at New Hope Dog Training Center. “New Hope” is what they provide for dog owners and the pets they love. We have 2 seven year old mixed pit litter mates. We have had 2 other well certified trainers over the years but our dogs never emotionally separated from each other and , while they were well behaved 90% of the day, they drove us crazy with their disobedience the other 10%. At New Hope, they learned to be independent of each other while still best buddies. More importantly, we learned to be in control by using the techniques that Gene has perfected over the years. Our dogs received 3 weeks of training at the beautiful New Hope facility and we received 3 training sessions. We now have 2 dogs who are calm, happy and looking to us for direction, praise and love. Thank you Gene and Berk for helping us finally “get it“!
Judy Croan
June 2024
These folks are dedicated and caring. They did a wonderful job training our dog and providing us advice as to long term training goals and strategies.
James Rainsford
June 2024
My daughter gave me her dog because it was so bad ,also the grandchildren hated the dog .I couldn’t do anything this with this dog . Very dog aggressive, ate my couch. The New Hope dog trainer performed a miracle !!! The dog can walk pass an aggressive dog and NOT go crazy . They did such a good job my daughter and grandkids want him back. Thank you from the bottom of my heart , Hunter the dog thanks you for saving his life.
Paula Carter
May 2024
We had an excellent experience with New Hope. Our dog was treated wonderfully and came back to us trained and ready to be trained by us. Gene thoroughly explained the thinking behind how to train and positioned us well to do so. It’s now on us but the training is going well and it feels like we have a new dog.
Brian Stekloff
May 2024
This has been the best experience for my dog and me. He came back much calmer than before and now he can walk on a leash without pulling me. I highly recommend!
Marion Sprott
May 2024
Our 2.5 year old dog did the training program with Berk and Gene at New Hope and it was a great experience for her. We’ve learned a lot of valuable information on commands and reinforcing good behaviors. They were also great with responsiveness and follow up. We would definitely recommend this program to others needing dog training.
Jacqueline Miller
May 2024
We can't express how much we appreciate Gene and Berk and they amazing work they did for our 1 yr old labradoodle Ollie. We got a brand new pup home. They made such a difference with Ollie during his time there. We are the ones in charge now and not him. New Hope alleviated our anxiety and stress we were having with Ollie. We had an issue getting the ecollar to work after we got him home but a quick phone call to Berk and we are back in business. Their training only works if you maintain and build on what has already been taught. I would highly recommend New Hope to anyone with an out of control pup.
Myles McGonigle
May 2024
New Hope Dog Training Center was really our last hope to rehabilitate our very disobedient and sometimes aggressive rescue dog. In addition to picking up an obedient dog, we learned training methods from Gene so that we could continue what New Hope had begun. We are grateful to Gene and Berk for teaching our pup skills for being a better citizen at home and out on walks.
Lisha Brody
March 2024
Gene and Berk did wonders with our previously rambunctious spaniel mix Jenny. Jenny was almost 4 when we dropped her off at New Hope after her behavior had deteriorated incrementally with major changes in her life since we got her (and trained her) as a puppy – we had two kids, and moved to a new home. When we picked up Jenny, she was a new dog! Far easier to manage and seemed much happier/less anxious with her new understanding of the rules of our house. But what really set the program apart was the follow up trainings with Gene, who was a great support as we continued the program from our own home. Jenny no longer barks when people enter our home, stays off our furniture unless invited, doesn't pull on the leash when walking, and listens when we tell her to come/quit/stay. We couldn't be happier with the program and are so grateful to Gene and Berk for all their help – couldn't have done it without them. Highly recommend to anyone whose willing to collaborate and work hard at continuing the program once they get home (that's important! and makes sense). These guys know dogs and will treat your dog with care and respect, while training them to be more comfortable and happy with a new set of rules. Thanks guys!
William Rawlins
March 2024
My puppy attended the training program with Gene at the New Hope Dog Training Center. When I dropped her off, she was anxious, biting, jumping, scared of everything, and would not listen to a word I was saying. After I got her back, she was attentive and obedient (as much as you can expect from an energetic golden puppy). Most importantly, she did not bite or jump on anyone/anything which was my main priority. Moreover, I can tell my puppy was in a good hands, the facility was spacious and the dogs are well taken care of. Gene was an informative teacher and cares a great deal about his customers. He always followed up with any additional questions/concerns I had about my puppy. It's been about a month since I've got her home and it has been great. I highly recommend New Hope Dog Training Center's program and believe it was worth every dollar I spent!
Ziyi Zhou
February 2024
My wife and I adopted a extremely timid Cairn Terrier from a breeder we had previously delt with. She was one year old and had never been on a leash or walked steps, she didn't even know how to jump. After spending three weeks with Gene she is so much more confident and obedient, it's almost like we picked up a different dog. The facility was well kept and very clean. We highly recommend New Hope Dog Training and we appreciate everything Gene and his employees accomplished with our precious Mindy.
George Cook Sr.
February 2024
We dropped off our 8-month old female Bernedoodle, Bear, at New Hope Dog Training Center on 1/18, for a Boot Camp session, and retrieved her on 2/5. What a difference Gene and Berk made for her, and it was evident from the start that we'd made the correct decision! The after-class lessons (one when we picked her up, and one each of the following 2 Mondays) helped us cement the lessons she'd learned! She's not always a calm puppy, but 95% of the time is not bad for 3 weeks work. Their facility is state of the art, and Gene is a master at what he does. We could not recommend them more enthusiastically! We were able to bring her own food, and that lasted throughout the time she was there. What a pleasure to have a dog that no longer jumps, no longer counter surfs, and is no longer a Sharkadoodle! My hands are finally healing! In short, she's a well-behaved pup now, at 9 months, and we expect to see her continue to improve over the remainder of the Winter and Spring. Thank you, Gene and Berk! If anyone is in the area, and is even remotely thinking about having their dog professionally trained, you could not do better than this crew! Worth every cent.
David Parker
February 2024
This has been the best dog training experience that I have had. Not only did my dog come home a completely different dog, but we were also trained on what we should do going forward with the training. I realize that this will be an ongoing process. We as dog owners will need to dedicate our time on a regular basis. We can't stop with the training that the dogs received from the center. This will be a lifetime process. I am so happy to have found New Hope Dog Training Center. The crew was great and the lessons we received through Zoom were great. I.made sure that I took good notes. Thank you gang for your helping my dog become a great family member. Suzette Burrell A very pleased dog Parent
Suzette Burrell
February 2024
We had our 5 year old mini goldendoodle trained at New Hope Dog Training Center. We noticed immediate improvement in his behavior once we picked him up after he had been in the training program for about three weeks. Multiple weeks on now and he is much better behaved and responds to commands immediately. Gene and Berk were both incredibly helpful with the training. Plus, unlike a lot of training programs, the training doesn't end once you pick up your dog. They make sure that you and your dog have continued success by implementing a tiered training for dog owners via Zoom after your dog is back home. It helps acclimate your pup to listening to you, understanding your commands and helps continue to polish their behavior. Gene is super straightforward. He doesn't mince words or sugar coat things, which I appreciated. Not only have we seen improvement in our own dog, but we have seen improvement in my parents new dog as well. She went through the same training program at the same time as our dog and she is much better behaved. It helped with her house breaking, and getting her to break out of her shell some. She was constantly skittish but now seems much more confident and well rounded. It's a big and unexpected change! So thanks Gene and Berk! You guys were incredibly helpful and we now feel like better dog owners based on the education you provided!
George Cook
February 2024
We are long time dog owners but it has been a long time since we had a puppy . My daughter, in response to the loss of her dog , purchased a 3 month old Scottie Puppy in September . He lived the life of a college student for the next 8 weeks ; with a loose schedule , some house breaking and with lots of attention from cute college girls and their boyfriends but not much in the way of discipline . When he arrived home with her at Thanksgiving and it became clear he was now ""our"" dog , my husband and I looked into our options. I investigated a number of dog training possibilities , both local ( we live in Pinehurst) and further away . New Hope Dog Training center had great reviews and I was able to speak personally to the owner about our dilemma. He felt he could help us and help our puppy Bennie ; although he warned us that a significant part of the program was training us as well . Fast forward , Bennie has completed his residential program and we have completed our 3 week commitment as well. We now have a very well behaved and happy puppy as our newest family member and we could not be happier . We were willing to invest in our puppy as we are anticipating being together for the long haul but did not want to live with the "college party animal" puppy that had arrived here at Thanksgiving. Thank you Gene and Berk . An obedient dog is truly a joy to live with!
Leslie Murphy
January 2024
Our rescue required training and we reached out to New Hope Dog Training and so glad we did We got back a calmer, better behaved pup and she got two better trained owners. HIGHLY recommend them
Bob Spadaccia
January 2024
We took our 7 month old German Shepherd (Maverick) to New Hope Dog Training. It has been a great experience. Maverick benefited tremendously from the training, and we (owners) learned a lot from Gene and Berk that has helped us continue the training. I would highly recommend their training!
Ken Tilley
January 2024
Best money we ever spent! We took our 4mo puppy to help with bitting and aggressive play and 3 weeks later brought home a completely different dog. If you can trust the process, it really is life changing to have a dog that respects you and your home. Big props to Gene and Berk! They are wonderful! Thank you!!!
Marissa Farrell
January 2024
I love ya’ll so much! You changed my life! Here is my story;
This is the absolute best dog training facility in the world! My puppy German Shepherd was a major handful! She barked aggressively to everyone but us, jumped on counters, ate everything including plastic and clothes and pee’d and pooped all over the house. I was at a loss. I have had a lot of shelter rescues over the years and never had dealt with a puppy quite like this. So, I literally googled dog training and took a chance that I may find some help! Boy did I ever! They kept her for 3 weeks and when I got her back she wasn’t perfect but definitely I saw a major change in her behavior. It was amazing! The best part of it all was the one on one training I received from the trainer, John. He taught me how to communicate with my dog, that was the key! It wasn’t about learning how to “sit” or “stay”, it was about forming a relationship with her where she knew who was boss always. They taught ME how to communicate with my dog! How to make her understand the difference between right and wrong. I always thought it was about teaching each “trick” individually. No! Its a much bigger picture than that! Now, I can teach her to do anything and it comes so easily and instinctively to her. I can’t say enough great things about this place and how much it has changed my life with my dog angel Annabelle!
Monnie Lunsford
September, 2019
Gene, the owner, obviously cares more about us and the dogs, than money! We went to him with 2 littermates, males, that were so out of control, that I dreaded getting out of bed every day. They are English Mastiffs, and at 14 months already weigh 150+ pounds...destined to get to around 200-260 each!
He pointed out that with us being 67 years, and my health failing, that we simply had way too much dog to be safe...much less happy. He offered to keep Jeremy, continue his training, and find him a new, and frankly a better forever home. There was no charge for this. He said he didn't plan to sell him, so he didn't need his AKC paperwork.
The boy we brought home, Joshua, is an absolute joy now. He is obedient and respectful. We still continue to work with him on leash manner issues...after all he is still a puppy.
It is imperative for you to attend the classes after the 3 week school is done. THAT is the time for you to get your training!!
I cannot say enough good things about Mr. Obedience, Gene, and his trainers. They're all a class act and they earn every penny of the tuition.
Thanks to all of you.
Katie Hunter
September, 2019
I was hesitant to send our 8 month old yorkiepoo, Coco, away for obedience training. Now that we have gone through the process, I can say it was the best decision and well worth the cost. We were too busy with work to devote the time and consistency it takes to train a puppy. I started my research and found Mister Obedience. His reviews are stellar….and I see why.
Before, our home was somewhat chaotic with lots of yelling and getting nowhere with Coco’s training. It was sad to drop her off for three weeks, but I knew it was for the best. The Mister Obedience facility is very nice and the property is beautiful. The staff is very pleasant and helpful.
Gene really knows dogs! Not only are they training your dog, but you get trained as well. It was comforting to know we were learning how to be good dog owners so we could transition over Coco’s training at home.
The changes in Coco are wonderful and there is much less yelling at our house! If you are at your wits end with your misbehaved dog, you definitely need to see Mister Obedience. Think of it as sending your dog away to camp, but they come back better behaved! Thank you Mister Obedience!
Dana W.
January, 2019
Our two year old lab was a handful for us. We had almost given up until a friend recommended Mr. Obedience. We live in southern Virginia, and I was not sure about driving almost two hours one way to Chapel Hill. I am so glad that we did! Gene Lonsway was the best! Not only did he spend three weeks training our Coby, but he gave us the tools we needed to continue at home. We are so happy with the results. We now have a dog that is a joy to share our home with.
Quick update on Coby: We had to go to Maryland Sunday and had to board him. We just picked him up tonight. The boarding kennel people were AMAZED at the transformation!! He has been going there for almost 2 years and was always as wild as can be. So he was there for almost 4 days this week and they said he was very well behaved. He rode home for 15 miles lying on the back seat like an angel and believe me that would never have happened before. We are ecstatic!! Thank you, thank you!
Brenda Curtis
April, 2017
I just walked my 60-pound boxer/terrier mix dog around the block with no issues. It may not seem like a big deal. However, two months ago that would not have been possible. He would have lunged and barked at any jogger, neighbor, rabbit, bike rider, or anything else that moved. He was a rescue dog with behavior issues, no social skills, and was not food motivated. As a last resort, we enrolled him into Mr. Obedience’s In-Board Training Program. The results were more than impressive. Gene assessed our dog and implemented training strategies and techniques that changed his behavior. He also trained me, as the owner. He taught me the skills to continue working with our dog at home. We now have a dog that enjoys his walks and we have a dog that we can enjoy. I would highly recommend Mr. Obedience for any dog and dog owner.
Bill Goa
March, 2017
Ryan and I would like to thank you for the time and effort you and your theam put into training our dogs, Levon and Henri! Meeting with you also taught us a lot, too, about pet parenting. We appleciate you making our lives exponentially better!
Aphton & Ryan Lang
March, 2017
We brought home an adorable puppy from the shelter. It only took a few days to discover that this cute little dog was nervous, strong willed and difficult to handle. Most distressing of all was the severe aggression toward other dogs. It shocked everyone who witnessed it, and 2 other trainers told us that correcting her behavior may be impossible. We discussed returning her to the shelter, but we knew that aggressive dogs are difficult to rehome.
Gene kept Bailee for 4 weeks, and returned to us a dramatically improved dog. The jumping is gone and the barking is gone. She obeys commands and stays out of trouble. She is still an excitable dog, but she has some self control that was not present previously. Best of all, she remains calm around other dogs, even when the other dogs are barking at her.
Bailee's behavior is continuing to improve, and we are very grateful for the magic that Gene worked wit her. He succeeds when other trainers fail, and we highly recommend him.
Carole and Doug Morris
May, 2015
My husband and I were at our wits end with our yellow lab, Freya. Despite attending several sessions of puppy training classes, she was still hard to control. She jumped on family and friends, dragged me during walks, ate random things, and jumped on furniture. We left her with Gene during the 2014 Christmas/New Years holiday and the improvements in behavior in the dog (and the humans) has been impressive. Gene was very patient with us as we learn to adjust our approach to Freya. Its been a couple of months and she walks nicely on a leach, comes when called, stays off furniture and does not mouth us or touch things that do not belong to her. She is a very nice dog and our family is able to enjoy her sunny Labrador retriever personality without stress or anxiety (my 87 yr old dad visited us this Easter Sunday and she was very well behaved.)
Cristina, Durham, NC
April 14, 2015
Gene knows dogs. He has a carefully thought out philosophy that makes sense. I recommend his approach, as it is honest and practical. He takes time with the dog and delivers results. He takes time with the owner(s) and delivers results. Gene's methods are well grounded in theory and simultaneously evidence based. He has a beautiful facility that speaks to his love of dogs and his professionalism. I recommend his services without hesitation.
John Wurzelmann, Chapel Hill, NC
August 10, 2014
Our sweet, 1½ year old English Setter, Ellie would not listen at all and was driving us crazy! We loved her very much, but felt we couldn’t deal with her poor behavior anymore.
We had gotten to the point of finding her a home, when my wife suggested we give her a final chance. After looking on the internet, we found Chapel Hill Boarding Kennels, and will be forever grateful.
We know Ellie was difficult and a challenge, “Thank You” Gene Lonsway for your patience and skilled training. Ellie is doing GREAT! She listens, minds and is a wonderful companion!
We’re so thankful,
Wilson and Jan Vaughan, Henderson, NC
July 22, 2014
Gene, what you did for Buddy, our Lab, is amazing! We have never owned a big dog before and it was like owning a bull in a china shop. He would run around uncontrollably, though he was a very sweet and loving dog. I almost gave him away, but I knew he had potential. I was so nervous about having him trained, but when I saw all that you could do, I knew it was something I had to do for us and Buddy. When I had my first follow-up training session and you first brought him into the room, I was convinced that you had switched dogs on me.
It's so much fun and peaceful actually having a dog that listens and wants to learn. You have made both him and us much happier! It has been so much fun attending the training sessions. When I first brought Buddy home, it was like having a new baby and not quite knowing what to do with him, but after a ttending the trainings myself, you are a great Instructor and I learned exactly what I needed to do. I feel so great having a trained dog! It's amazing and has made all the difference in the world. I couldn't have done it without you and your expertise! Thank you so much again!
---Elizabeth Gregory
When I contacted you, Abby had only been with us for a few months and we were going through lots of changes in our family. The stress was enormous and adding an untrained puppy to the mix spelled trouble and chaos.
When I picked up Abby after the weeks of training with you, I was delighted to see the transformation. Her beautiful, happy personality now shines through. The training you provided to me after the weeks that she spent with you helped me in so many ways.
One other aspect of the training that I am so happy about is my ability to now take Abby to work with me. As you know, I own SarahCare, an adult day care center in Raleigh that provides care to senior adults with cognitive and physical impairments. Being able to take Abby to the center brings much joy to my participants and I have confidence that Abby will be well behaved and share her love with them.
---Marcia J.
Raleigh, NC
Your lessons helped enormously - so much so that we're no longer embarrassed to take him out in public.
Please keep us informed on the kennel project. We were very happy with how things went when Banzai stayed with you while we were in Florida in March, so we'll definitely be happy to come back.
---Adam Fuss
Thanks so much for transforming my Gus into a nice polite lab! Prior to the training I was wondering how peace would ever be restored in my household again. Incorporating a puppy into a house with a senior dog proved to be difficult for me. So we all got a needed break when we turned Gus over to you for the four week board and train program. The results far exceeded my expectations and I could not be happier with the new behavior. So much so that I am looking forward to a few more training classes to continue our learning.
Thanks again!---Janelle M.
I first met Gene 12 years ago when he helped me train our 2 year old lab mix Rosie. Having a new baby at home and an out of control dog was more than I could handle. At the end of that 12 week course I had a well behaved dog who became a wonderful family companion. Those sessions changed Rosie's life and ours too!
When we got our Golden Doodle puppy, Lyla, I called Gene knowing he would help me raise a puppy our family could enjoy. This time we boarded Lyla with Gene and he transformed her into an obedient dog who is a pleasure to be with. She is a constant companion and a member of our "family pack."
Gene knows dogs like no one else and does an excellent job training them. You won't be disappointed!
---Joy K.
You were my last resort.I was considering finding a new home for my wild, totally out of control Westie. After four weeks with you and your training she has turned out to be such a joy. Still head strong and willful at times but minds immediately. Thanks so much.
---Sharon N.
Dear Gene, Just a short testimonial to you for the wonderful training you gave to us for our very loveable Golden Doodle, Happy.
He is the second dog you have trained for us. We started training with you when Happy was a 7 month old, untrained puppy. With your guidance, he began to show signs of obedience after only a couple of lessons, and by the end of the course, he was completely trained. He is so well behaved and obedient that I do not even put him on a leash when I take him out. He immediately responds to my commands whether another dog or a person comes into view. He is the sweetest, most loveable dog we have ever had. Thanks so much for your knowledge and expertise and help.
---Bob Hotte
Ernest was a shelter dog who had been neglected by a previous owner. He was a 15 pound force of nervous nature who was difficult to control in public, around strangers and other dogs due to his lack of socialization.
Gene did a wonderful job helping us understand how a dog perceives the world around him and how we could help shape that perception so that we could rehabilitate Ernest. We did not undergo a regular dog obedience lessons. We began with socializing Ernest and then moved on to obedience.
Now, thanks to lessons with Gene, Ernest is STILL a force of nature, but now one who is far less nervous about the world around him, who will obey commands and who understands leash manners. We can all now enjoy long hikes and trips to the park without worry.
---Melissa H.
I have just completed a very unexpected adventure with Gene Lonsway owner of Mister Obedience. This was the best decision that I have ever made owning a dog. My wife and I researched extensively training for our new puppy. We live in Raleigh, about a thirty minute drive from Chapel Hill the location of Gene's school.
We decided that five months or so of time driving the thirty minutes was worth a life with our new pet to receive training correctly for both of us.
Having completed the courses with Gene I am not sure if I learned more or our pet learned more, but I am certain we now are both trained. It truly is a partnership process and Gene did an outstanding job with both of us.
I now have a pet that is really a companion. He is a joy to be around and we work very well together to satisfy our respective needs and desires etc. and expectations. I am in charge and while we both understand that, I am able to maintain a leadership position with him that he has come to expect and enjoy. This makes for a great pet/owner relationship.
It truly was a short commitment together for a pet's lifetime in our family.
I highly recommend the Canine College for everyone's pet training needs. However, you do have to be careful, you might find yourself enjoying it and learning as much as your pet.
---Jim and Debbie Sineath
Raleigh, NC
Thank you so much with all your work with us and with our chocolate lab, Manfred. It was very interesting and fun and we are so pleased with the results!
---Paula S.
"Everyday I look at these beautiful pictures of Rosie (our Vizsla) that you sent and am grateful. I appreciate the photos, but even more I appreciate our 2 well-behaved dogs. What a difference you made in our lives and theirs!"
---Andra James
It is almost a year ago that I brought you Sammy. He is doing GREAT!! He is living in NJ with my sister-in-law from my first marriage and her family. They have a big fenced yard which Sammy loves. They also have a home in Cape Cod which they go to every 6-8 weeks. Sammy loves going between both homes. (He is living better than I am!!) He is getting lots of exercise with everyone in the family. They are crazy about him. Everything worked out better than I could have ever hoped for. They stay in touch with me and send me pictures so it is less painful for me to be away from him.
Just wanted to let you know your old bud was doing well. Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it.
---Betsy F.
Jim and I came to Canine College in early 2009, desperate for advice, training, and disciplinary approaches for our two new standard Schnauzer puppies. Both are female (Kerra and Roxy) and came from the same litter. Gene told us immediately that we were going to have big challenges - first of all with two new pups at once and being sisters could make it even harder. I am now happy to say that we have two very disciplined and obedient pups in our home. We are still working on the off-leash obedience, but given how wild and unmanageable they were in the beginning, this is a minor step to their total training. This was the first time Gene has tried to put two pups through the same training together, especially with such opposites trying to train them, so I believe he learned something too. We appreciated Gene's patience during our 15 week course and are very pleased with the outcome. We now have two obedient and enjoyable companions - exactly what we were looking for! Thank you to Gene and Canine College - couldn't have done it without you!!
---Jim and Robin Chapman
Hillsborough, NC
"We are just completing a 12-week course with Gene Lonsway, and it has been a very successful positive experience. His method is based on his excellent knowledge and understanding of how dogs think and learn. The training is built from this understanding and consequently sets the dog up for success. We used positive reinforcement extensively before corrections were applied and that made the training a very pleasant experience for both the dog and us. Our year old Golden Retriever is a joy to live with and take out in public. He can go in crowds and be very relaxed and comfortable. We hope to have him be a therapy dog and we are confident that the manners and behavior he has learned through Gene's methods will make him successful."
---Bob and Susanne Hotte
"Thank you for giving me a method of training that made Mugsy a nice and lovable companion.
Mugsy was 12 weeks of age when he came in December of 2002. Days and weeks passed with him still not being house trained. Finally in February something had to give or he was out of my life.
Fortunately for Mugsy, I found you and after working for one week with your approach there were no accidents. Other lessons continued and Mugsy has learned other useful things to make him a nice companion.
Thanks again for your help.--Janet Pilkington
"Our dog is amazing! So affectionate and vibrant. Always eager to begin her day. She bounces right into it. She will do fine on her trip South on the 15th. She is such a joy and so smart. Hope your Christmas is peaceful. Thanks and love"
---Michele
"I hope all is going well for you and your business. I just wanted to let you know that Maeve the insane Airedale has matured into quite a nice family pet. The neighbor kids no longer scream and hide when they see her in the yard, she and I go on training runs together and most importantly she no longer is the source of family stress. In fact, she is a NICE addition to the family. She DOES tend to follow me around a bit closely but it's more funny than annoying. When I get sick of bumping into her I just tell her to go lay down. Done.
Thanks again for your patience and knowledge. "---Kate Kennedy
"The 1500 mile, three day trip with my two dogs went surprisingly well. I was very apprehensive about managing the dogs during the long hours in the minivan and in strange motels. I was concerned that they might have an accident or run away, and barking or growling at other people and animals were also potential problems. However, to my great relief, the trip went without a hitch. They stayed on exemplary behavior even when a flat tire was getting changed."
---Roy J. Mathew, MD
Professor of Internal Medicine
School of Medicine
Texas Tech University
