Karma Dog Training: Testimonials

When I picked up Caleb, my (then) 6 week old Goldendoodle in June of 2007, I was excited...and very anxious. I knew that this was going to be a long relationship, and I wanted to "get it right this time;" the infamous "last time" being a failed 5 year relationship with a Jack Russell Terrier that now (more) happily resides on a farm in rural Canada. I did some research and through nothing short of Karmic grace ended up attending a puppy class taught by Jeffrey Brian. Six months and two series of six- week Karma Dog Training classes later, it has become clear to me - I am a good "doggy dad." How do I know? Because my relationship with Caleb is a deep one; a bond unlike any I've had with a pet. He is eager to please, to listen, obey, to learn, to be near me, with me and to love me - everything that we want from a canine companion. There is a deep mutual trust and respect coupled with an ongoing sense of fairness. Caleb has taught me much about patience, kindness, respect, logic, focus, and dedication. He has been my teacher as much as I have been his. And to know that I am "getting it right this time" is a feeling beyond compare. But this is where the story is incomplete without mentioning Jeffery Brian. It is Jeff that, through his classes, fosters that gift we all have, who reminds us what is really going on in our relationships with our dogs and the deeper processes that are at play, and who offers proven techniques to build trust and confidence in our dogs. It is not an understatement to say that it is because of Jeff that Caleb is such an amazing dog. It is also because of Jeff that I have learned to be a great dog owner, and that I am getting it right this time. Thank you Jeff!!

Greg Critchley, Tarzana, CA
Songwriter/Producer

We knew our 8 week Dalmatian, Puck, would need socialization and puppy training from a young age, so we started looking for a trainer. We started a class and the trainer used overly harsh methods and did not respect that Puck did not have his shots. We did not feel right about treating a dog like this, so we looked online for a trainer who would help us raise our pup to be a well-mannered dog, and who would do so in a way that we felt good about. After reviewing several sites, we decided to check Karma Dog Training out. We were nervous after our bad experience, so we audited Jeff''s class before committing. We were amazed with what we saw! Young puppies who listened to their people. No harsh methods, just love, treats and respect. We quickly signed up and began puppy kindergarten with Karma Dog Training. One of the things we loved most about Jeff''s program was that he not only helped us learn how to train our dog, but he helped us understand how not to be frustrated with Puck. (Baby Dalmatians can try the patience of a saint!) Jeff also was diligent in making sure young dogs who don't have their shots were in sanitized areas. We have completed Puppy Kindergarten and Puck is doing great! He behaves appropriately with other dogs and people, he travels with us staying in hotels and eating out in restaurants and he's not even 5 months old! When he acts up, we know what to do and when he flat out ignores us, thanks to Jeff, we know he doesn't hate us - he's just a puppy! We can't thank Jeff enough for helping us nurture our relationship with Puck in a positive manner while teaching him the basic obedience commands.

Jenn and John Larivee
Toluca Lake, CA

My 3 year old Boston Terrie Cane is a very high energy dog. He not only thinks, but believes that he is a big dog. Soon after moving near my in-laws, we started to see Cane and my in-laws dog Snoopy (9 year old Pit Bull) playing a lot rougher than normal. With in time it escalated to a real dog fight. It was always started by Cane jumping and bitting Snoopy. The last fight they had was the one that changed my life, I could not get the dogs apart and it scared my to death. That is when we knew we had to get the dogs some help. I found Jeff's website and called him up, he came to our home for the first visit and worked with Cane, but mostly he taught US!! We enrolled Cane in his 6 week dog training program, and we were determined to follow through the entire program. The most important thing we learned was that Cane needs lots of exercise since he is a high energy dog. He was not trying to fight with Snoopy, he just had so much pent up energy that he did not know where to direct it. Since we had been walking Cane everyday we had seen a HUGE improvement. We are able to let the dogs play and enjoy life, while we enjoy our dog being happy. We are so thankful to have found Jeff, he not only cared about our dog, he cared about our family.

Ben & Lisa Ledesma
North Hollywood, CA

I grabbed the business card for Karma Dog Training as soon as I returned from chasing my 2-year-old Smooth Coated Collie through the neighborhood for the second time that day. I dialed the number in a panic. What would I find at the other end of the phone? Would he think I was crazy or stupid that I couldn't handle my own dog? I spoke to Jeff and we agreed to meet at my home for an evaluation. I warned him that my dog was "high spirited" which is another word for "out of control". Jeff knocked on my door, the dogs barking and jumping on the furniture. I opened the door. He walks in with his little treat bag strapped to his belt. He made a few chirping and clacking noises and held his hand over their heads and they both sat down. WHAT? I thought I had entered the Twilight Zone. Each training session followed suit from that very first visit to our home. Jeff taught my husband and I how to behave, so actually, it was a training session for HUMANS. The experience with Karma Dog Training was phenomenal. Jeff equipped us with the proper tools so that I could walk my big dogs without the fear of passing by the "conflict" houses. Barking dogs behind fences no longer pose a threat to me. My friends and family can come over now and not be bowled over by my big dogs. And Jeff was not only brilliant in training dogs; he's someone that you want to stay in contact with after the training was done. I highly recommend his services. It's the best money we ever spent.

Eileen & Ron
Van Nuys, California

If you had asked me a couple of months ago if I thought my 3 year old Chihuahua Remy could be housebroken, I probably would have laughed. My husband and I were at a point when we thought it was impossible. When we saw Jeffrey Brian's website, we knew his philosophy of positive reinforcement was right for us. After coming to our house, he taught us everything we needed to retrain Remy (and ourselves). In one month we had a completely trained dog. Jeffrey has truly changed our lives for the better. We have a happier dog and a more peaceful home now.

Jill and Darrel Dressel
Glendale, CA
flight attendant

Jeffrey,
Thank you. These were not my fist dogs or puppies, but at this stage in my life these two rat terrier pups had a little more energy than I could deal with myself. So on the internet I chose Karma Dog Training. I was not disappointed. I started out with individual in-home instruction, and after a couple of sessions joined a puppy class in the West Hollywood area. Jack and Jill, four months old at the time, learned all the basic commands fast. Also, where to go to pee, and assists with the barking and chewing, and how to get along with a cat. So going in, feeling quite helpless and out of control, me and the dogs, I now am - I want to say - glowing, happy - that these dogs know what is expected and usually comply. And I get that you know what you are doing, Jeff, and you convey and teach that nicely. Your passion for what you are doing is evident and I thank you for two pups that are loving and behaving. Best of life in everything you undertake.

Dennis Lewis
CA

I was so happy to find a dog trainer like Jeff. He was so professional and truly cared about me and my puppy! Utilizing his postive reinforcement methods proved to be quick and effective. Following Jeff''s advice to socialize Frankie as soon as possible was the best advice that I took. Fankie is friendly to dogs and mankind alike and a joy to be around. Thanks Jeff!

Viviana & Frankie
Television Host, Los Angeles, CA

As first time puppy owners, we throughly enjoyed the class ourselves and felt more confident at home with our little guy using the new techniques we learned each week. As well as learning all of the basic key commands which he got right away, the Karma Dog Training class gave Bailey, our Australian Shepherd, a chance to have a fun playtime in a clean and safe environment with other dogs his age. We looked forward to the class each week, and meeting with the same friendly group of dogs and owners to share our stories. We would highly recommend this beginner class for anyone who has just brought home their new bundle of joy.

Mike and Catriona
West Hollywood, CA

Our puppy Garcia is 15 months. People always say that he is adorable, but very hyperactive. He chewed our shoes, sofa, socks, etc, etc! Jeff spent the first session with us and completely changed Garcia's behavior. We were amazed at the results. The only regret we have is that we waited so long to find someone like Jeff. He taught us in 1 1/2 hours a gentle and easy way to train our dog. Our puppy looks happy and calm. We can't wait for the next session!

Fabiana Lamm
School Psychologist, Chatsworth, CA

When we recently found a stray Pit Bull wandering the streets, our intention was to give her shelter for a few days and then find her a permanent home. But after doing some research on the web, we found out that Pit Bulls or preferably "Staffordshire Terriers" are possibly the most misunderstood breed of all. The truth is that they are fiercely loyal, gentle and loving and incredibly intelligent. Also, unfortunately, they are usually the first in line to be euthanized at the shelters. After spending a few days with "Daisy," we knew we had a diamond in the rough and decided to "rescue" her. While doing this research on the web, we found Jeff's Karma Dog Training and immediately enrolled in group classes. In a matter of just a couple of sessions, we established an understanding and communication with Daisy, and we learned to be consistent with OUR behavior. Daisy responded beautifully to Jeff's expertise, which was enhanced by the fact that Jeff has Pit Bulls himself and understands the breed. Daisy loved going to class every week, sitting striaght up in the car when we got close to the park on Saturday mornings. Jeff has a way with dogs that is gentle but assertive, and Daisy learned quicker than we could ever have imagined.We hired Jeff for a private hiking session to monitor Daisy's response to other dogs and Jeff found that she is great with other dogs. It was US that needed to keep OUR emotions in check! As a result of a few classes with Jeff, we have now been trained to communicate with Daisy and thus give her a better life, while at the same time providing us with a perfectly behaved and beautiful dog. So much happiness for so little! WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND JEFF AND KARMA DOG TRAINING!

Jeff & Toni Vanston
Music Producer, Studio City CA

I had over 40 people (adults and small children) over on Sunday to celebrate David ’s birthday. Teddy and Jake had their citronella collars on and were perfect angels! They hardly barked and there was no aggression from Jake whatsoever. They were timid but not shaking and scared like they had been in the past with lots of people in the house. I owe their change in behavior to your wonderful training and techniques. They are no longer the pack leaders and are happy to have their status. Teddy is more gentle with Jake – I don’t remember the last time he started a fight with his brother. It’s great to have these tools at our disposal! Thanks, Jeff. Looking forward to speaking with you soon.

Sheila & David Gilbert
Encino, CA

Thank God for Jeffrey! When I went to his web site I got a good feeling about his respect for dogs and patience with people. He gave a lot of time with me on the phone while I explained our situation. We decided to sign up for classes and it has been literally a life-saver.
Jeffrey really looks at the needs of each person and dog. He puts the dogs needs first, which is how it should be for a real dog lover. He is very clear and gentle in explaining dog behavior and communication. His handouts are great and well organized so you can practice at home. For Humphrey, the goal was not so much how to sit, stay, etc., but for him to gain trust and comfort being around people and other animals.
Thanks to Jeffrey Humphrey is now a firmly established part of the family.

Thanks so much,
Judy, Roger and Brian ( and Humphrey)

Having rescued Zamboni, a 4-year-old pit bull mix who had been caged for six months, we decided we wanted to get some guidance with training. Our veterinarian who had been caring for Zamboni recommended Jeffrey Brian and we were encouraged to see that he was an owner of three pit bulls himself. What struck us most upon meeting him was his true love and empathy for dogs. Thanks to excellent advice, materials, & homework by Jeffrey in both private and group lessons, Zamboni is a wonderful and well-trained dog who even Jeff commented was an A+ student. When out in public, people often comment how well-behaved Zamboni is. Thanks Jeff!

David Secor & Brandon Leger
Sherman Oaks, CA
Chief Financial Officer & VP, Human Resources
UCLA Athletics & Dentsu

This past year, I decided I was finally going to take the plunge and get the dog I always wanted. I chose the biggest dog I could find; the English Mastiff. And when I finally got my puppy, I realized something very quickly... I didn't know anything about raising a puppy! I knew I had to learn to have a well-behaved dog, rather than a 200 pound monster. I called other dog trainers and they were interested in domination and aggressive training, which is not my personality at all. I came across Jeffery Brian, and am I ever glad I made that call. He taught me how to get behaviors that I wanted and avoid behaviors that were unwanted. His phone line was always opan and was always willing to talk "dog" with me whenever I needed his advice. He made having a puppy an easy, loving, enjoyable experience, rather than a dominating, frustrating experience. Thanks Jeffrey!

Adam Zeise
Van Nuys, CA
School Teacher

Dear Jeff,

Luke, Sammy and I thank you for bringing so much light, love and happiness into our lives. It’s not easy to contain the often uncontrollable energy of two male puppies only 1 1/2 months apart. You listened with your heart and opened our eyes and ears to the language of each other. You showed us the way through the perfect blend of energy expertly knowing when to reward, when to ignore, and how to achieve the ultimate goal; for Luke and Sammy, click and treat, and for me, happy well behaved, well adjusted puppies.

Debra Ziven, Tai Chi Instructor & Real Estate Agent, Century City

When choosing which dog would be right for me, Jeff instinctively knew which one was the perfect match for me, even though his opinion was different than what everyone else was suggesting and I couldn't be any happier with my new whippet puppy.
Most of my dog owner friends wanted me to use aggresion and force to train my dog but that just didn't feel right for me. Using Jeff's "training with tranquility" program I had my new pup behaving nicely with out hurting or scaring her.
Thank you so much Jeff!

Jen Bush
Hermosa Beach, California
Floral Designer

Jeff, You have made a world of difference in my relationship with my dogs. I have had Pokey for 14 years and it is not true that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. Pokey was learning right along with my new little 6 month old Bella. You made it very easy and enjoyable to teach Bella to go for a walk with me and to do many other things that I did not know how to teach her. Thank you so much for your patience (with me) and gentle way with my dogs. We are greatful.

Jeannie Payne
AAII, UCLA
Reseda, CA

There is no single person who loves dogs more then Jeffrey Brian. Jeff Brian's training methods have taken our puppy at 8 weeks (now 5 months) and turned him into a well trained, behaved and adjusted dog. All of our friends, neighbors, vet, the people at his doggy day care, groomers, etc. are astounded at his progress and behavior. Jeff's positive training and love of dogs is incredible to experience.

Joanie Kern,
Literary Agent, Los Angeles, CA

My dog and I have always had a good relationship and I've always known she had the potential to listen and respond to my commands more, but it just wasn't there. Jeffrey Brian was the bridge in our communication. With Jeff's training and guidance, she listens and responds more than I could have ever hoped for and we have actually grown closer. Not only has Dioji become a better pet, Jeff has helped me become a better pet owner. I finally have the dog that I've always envied and I'm loving it!

Rose Geddes
Encino, CA

Karma Dog Training's Jeffrey Brian is the best of the best. We were so lucky to find a local trainer who cared so much about his work. Jeffery has a true love for the dogs he's teaching and they can feel it. His teaching methods are unique, pain-free, fear-free and methodical. There is no question that he has created a program that works wonders. In a few short visits, Jeffrey had earned our dogs trust and created an environment where learning could happen. Our two boxers were so lucky to have him! Charlie, our brand-new puppy, benefited by Jeffrey's patience and repetitive methods. Jeffrey always has the treats in hand, and he demands respect during training. Stella, our 3-year-old deaf boxer, is filled with unique challenges that Jeffrey Brian embraced. He did hours of research into training deaf dogs and the research paid off. Not only does Jeffrey work wonders while he's in-home, he provided my husband and I with tricks to continue training after he he left. Karma Dog Training practices what it preaches: The creation of a loving environment where pets come first. From day one, we knew that Jeffrey was the real deal. He had us complete an extensive questionnaire about our pets and our lifestyle. He interviewed us to learn our approaches to pet care. Finally, he created a binder full of tips, techniques, and anecdotes so that we could study between visits. It was so great to work with a professional who is clearly devoted to his trade. Our dogs have benefited so much by having Jeffrey Brian in their lives!

Kimberly and Josh Gausman
Lake Balboa, California