Testimonials

 We brought Aurora home from the breeder at 8 weeks old and she was a nightmare for me. She was up all night, so I was up all night, and she was a challenge during the day. Sue Ellen called me every day and walked me through how to handle Aurora until she was 10 weeks old and able to go to her house for training. I was a wreck and truly did not think I would be able to keep her. Sue Ellen changed our lives! After a month-long board and train, we brought Aurora home, and she is a brand new puppy. She listens, sleeps through the night, behaves, she is such a pleasure and the best addition to our family! Even after bringing her home, Sue Ellen continues to call and check in. She makes me feel confident with Aurora and when I'm unsure of what I'm doing, she is so quick to call or text me back. Sue Ellen is the best and I couldn't recommend her enough! 

-Heather U.

I was referred to Sue Ellen shortly after picking up my 8 week old miniature bull terrier named Ludo. I was told Sue Ellen was an expert in training small breed puppies. The advice I received was exactly right. At 10 weeks old, Sue Ellen already showed an incredible rapport with my pup, and in that first training session she set the groundwork for Ludo's good behavior going forward. I've since taken several instructional classes with her and now, at Ludo's 10th month, I have Sue Ellen to thank for helping me raise a sweet, well-behaved, well-socialized, and very owner responsive dog. Ludo goes to work with me at my chiropractic office every day, but he can also be left alone for hours without worry. Through the process of raising Ludo, Sue Ellen has become a good friend, but more than that I trust her skills, advice, and confidence in consistently improving my dog's behavior while also bringing us closer as Pop and Pup. 

-Kip D.

I was a little hesitant to commit to a board and train program, but I could not be happier with my decision to go for it with Sue Ellen. She is the perfect combination of professional and loving with the dogs, which is exactly what I was looking for. I was struggling to establish boundaries and authority with my sweet but stubborn puppy, Una. Sue Ellen has seriously helped  me and Una overcome training challenges. She not only trained Una during Una's board and train, but she also followed up by giving me the tools and constant support to maintain and advance the training. Sue Ellen is extremely dedicated to her clients - dogs and humans!

-Kelsey O.

I adopted a puppy from the West LA Animal Shelter. She was so cute, but a little crazy head; and there I was in puppy hell. I began to regret my decision, resent her, and even thought of trying to rehome her. BUT...enter Sue Ellen. My/our savior. Our own personal miracle worker. Not only does Sue Ellen get remarkable results, she provides extraordinary customer service. She hand-holds you through the whole experience. Always giving you progress reports. Making herself available every time you need her. She even stays with you after the official training is over. She's still right there, answering any and every question. Encouraging you, supporting you in this new wonderful relationship you have with your well trained dog. We went from puppy hell to seventh heaven. We are one happy dog and one ecstatic human!

-Carol K.

I had the pleasure of having my 10 month old min-pin/chihuahua trained by Sue Ellen. Mia was at overnight boot camp (board and train) for 3 weeks. Sue Ellen kept in contact with me to let me know that Mia was safe and doing well. She even sent me videos of Mia's progress. Mia was dropped off last night, a totally different little princess. She followed commands perfectly! I am so excited to see a different puppy than the one that left the house. She is now well mannered! Thanks so much, you are a rock star Sue Ellen! I am referring all of my dog owner friends to you.

-Marc D.

When we sent our puppy to Sue Ellen 3 weeks ago she was a completely out of control puppy. We couldn't get her to obey commands, she would yank on the leash constantly and I was left wondering if I had made a mistake by getting a puppy rather than an older dog. 3 weeks later, the difference is ASTOUNDING! She is calm, responsive to commands, and SO much easier to handle. She is now behaving like the dog I envisioned when I was wanting a puppy in the first place. Thank you Sue Ellen. Thank you for taking the time to work with our puppy and help her develop the foundation to being a well behaved dog. I look forward to enjoying my time with her now. I can't thank you enough.

-Diana A.

I've been with Sue Ellen for years, I can't remember how many because it's been that long. I have dachshunds and they are notoriously hard to train especially when it comes to housebreaking. Sue Ellen has successfully trained 4 of my dogs - completely housebroken and well-mannered, yet they still have their unique doxie personalities. She's the best!

-Susie D.

Sue Ellen is absolutely wonderful! We began working with her with our 3 month old rescue puppy to help control his excessive puppy biting. She has helped his play style improve so much, he is terrific with other dogs and has become nothing but gentle with people. We were away recently for a weekend and Zuma stayed with Sue Ellen for a quick board and train while we were gone. In just a few days she trained him to lay on his mat whenever we need him to relax (i.e. not jump up on the table or in our laps while we eat dinner!) This has been a game changer. Sue Ellen not only has incredible dog training skills, but she is fantastic at follow through and continues to check in with us on how Zuma is doing, and goes out of her way to help us problem solve anything that comes up. It continues to be a pleasure to work with her.

-Kelly N.

We were referred to Sue Ellen when we bough our first pet, a French bulldog. I was impressed with Sue Ellen's professional demeanor and extraordinary wealth of knowledge on the subject of French bulldogs and in general of all things dog-related. We entrusted Sue Ellen with our Frenchie for training and boarding from a young age. We were and continue to be confident that he is given the best treatment while staying with her. Thanks to Sue Ellen's outstanding training at an early age our Frenchie's potty trained and obedience was accelerated. Every time we leave him with her, he comes back and is well behaved. Our Frenchie has also had some digestive issues and Sue Ellen is the first person I call for guidance. She always seems to have a helpful tip to deal with the issues at hand.

-Leah K.

We rescued our little 3 month old chihuahua mix a few months ago, and we signed her up for board and training with Sue Ellen. It was a tough decision, as we felt she had already been through so much living on the streets and we were giving her "away" again, but after 3 weeks with Sue Ellen, we not only got our sweet Nala back, we also got the worlds best behaved dog! She follows every command and is doing things we never thought possible. We had such a hard time crate training her and after being at Sue Ellen's, she would walk into the kennel herself and not a peep of protest or complaint. She stays in place when we put her in "place" and waits patiently until I say "okay". She still is a little rascal at times but she is not the skiddish, wild animal any longer. I will send Nala again to Sue Ellen just for boarding. She received a lot of training and so much love in the process, I trust her 100%. When I talk to Sue Ellen on the phone and Nala hears her voice, she goes and looks for her. She felt safe and protected at Sue Ellen's which after living on the streets for half of her life, was really important to us. 

-Kathrin W.

I always recommend Sue Ellen any time I hear someone considering training for their puppy or dog. Sue Ellen was recommended to us six years ago. We took our new puppy to her and let her board and train him for several weeks with some follow-up visits during his first year. Our dog benefited tremendously from Sue Ellen's training and her ability to assist us with continuing the training once home. He does not bark at other dogs while we walk, is able to stay in place and follow our commands when in a public place and is well behaved in our home. He has been such a joy over the past six years that we decided to get another puppy in April 2020 knowing Sue Ellen would be a part of the plan in bringing him home. Sue Ellen did not let us down in any way. We are following the schedule Sue Ellen used while puppy on the puppy's progress. Sue Ellen knows the temperament of each dog she works with, truly cares about their progress over time, and is extremely knowledgeable about behavioral techniques for positive training. We cannot recommend her highly enough. Our dogs have brought much pleasure to our lives and we contribute some of this joy to the positive training they have had from Sue Ellen.

-Lynn B.

Sue Ellen is the ultimate pack leader and we will never have another dog that isn't trained as a puppy by the one and only Little Dog Chick! It was truly heartbreaking to leave our sweet little baby for 2 weeks but now we know it's the best thing we could have ever done. Board and train is a dream come true for all new dog owners. Bernie is the best dog we could have ever asked for and puppyhood was a breeze, thanks to all the patience, love and consistency he got in his time with Sue Ellen. Even if you've had dogs before and you think you can train your new puppy, we've now seen what a difference it makes to have a professional give your pup the best start in life to have patience and great manners, all while maintaining their individuality. We are constantly getting compliments on Bernie's behavior and I always give credit to Sue Ellen, for training both him and our family on how to keep up everything she taught him. We are forever grateful!!!

-Erica L. and Andrew S.

If you are anything like me, you've probably devoured every single testimonial about Sue Ellen, and let me tell you, they're spot on! Not only will your new puppy be impeccably behaved and mannered, but they'll also be in the pink of health. Sue Ellen has been there for me every step of the way, guiding me through the ins and outs of being a new pet parent - from vaccinations and spaying to dietary needs and navigating every stage of the puppy's development and transition. She's become a cherished friend and my go-to person for anything puppy-related. Grateful for her.

   -Dolly H.

I met Sue Ellen about 10 years ago when we had our lab, Vinnie. Recently we rescued Molly, who was about 4 months old. She is very active (and slightly crazy). We brought her to Sue Ellen for 4 weeks, and she did an incredible job training Molly! Molly was so well behaved when we picked her up. Sue Ellen spent over an hour with "training us" how to work with her and reinforce her learning when we picked her up. Sue Ellen's interactions with Molly were loving, caring and confident. She called the night we got home, and several times after to check in on how everything was going. Next time there will be no hesitation to board Molly with Sue Ellen. We could tell Molly was well taken care of, loved, and had fun!

-Karen & Bob P. 

 I have been a long time client of Sue Ellen’s program and she has helped me with all three of my Australian shepherds. I have raised many puppies in my lifetime and I consider myself an experienced dog owner. The importance of what Sue Ellen does at the beginning of the puppies life is crucial for any dog lover and owner. I am also a mother with four children and I needed help with my puppies especially with young kids involved. After Sue Ellen’s Board & Train program, each of my puppies could sleep through the night in a crate, were potty trained, leash trained and understood other commands. Sue Ellen continued to help me after the Board & Training program to enforce the foundation for each dog through her weekly dog playgroup program. I often get comments when walking all three dogs about how well trained they are. I always recommend Sue Ellen’s program because it works! 

-Marci D.

I am so glad we sent Zeus to Sue Ellen for board and training. It made such a difference in all our lives. Zeus is now a pleasure to be with. Sue Ellen trained both Zeus and me. Thanks to her, we all enjoy dining outside at a restaurant because Zeus stays on his place--even when dogs walk by!! That would never have been possible before Sue Ellen worked with him. Zeus returned home housebroken, much better on leash, amazing at sitting and staying on his place (never realized the value of that until now!), not crying when left alone, and no longer jumping up on us. Sue Ellen gave me the tools to work with him successfully. As a result, I am more relaxed and I am enjoying him more.  Sue Ellen is great on her follow-through. Her help does not end after you pick up your dog. When I email or call her with questions, she gets back promptly and gives me good advice.  I had not realized in advance how valuable this is. Sue Ellen really got to know and understand our dog's personality and tailored her training her training to him. Thank you!

-Sandra L.

We have the cutest little Bernadoodle. He is so full of personality and life. Unfortunately, he was also a brat and knew no boundaries. Board and Train with Sue Ellen has been transformative for him and for us as a family. He went from a dog who stole food from the table, ate socks at every opportunity, and listened almost never, to a dog with boundaries and structure. It has made him such an incredible family dog. Quite honestly, everyone who knew him didn't realize he could be this good. Thank you Sue Ellen!

-Laurel T.

We adopted an 8 week old Bernadoodle and quickly came to realize that our baby pup was somewhat crazy and getting worse by the minute. As the days went on, bad habits ensued almost to the point that we considered giving him back. Needless to say we were desperate and needed help! Thankfully, we were introduced to Sue Ellen through our vet and it literally was the best decision!  We packed Bronco’s suitcase and he moved into Sue Ellen’s home for 3 weeks. Hallelujah! He’s now home and we have a completely different dog. He’s well behaved, doesn’t bite, doesn’t attack people coming into our house, is a terrific walker and doesn’t chew his leash when walking. He also had a sensitive stomach-so potty time was always a mess-together we worked with Sue Ellen to reintroduce a new diet that has worked magnificently! We couldn’t be happier!! We HIGHLY recommend Sue Ellen-she focused on all the things that were problems for us plus more. She is absolutely phenomenal and we are forever grateful! 

-Sandi C.

My 10-month old puppy started to develop a few behavior issues where he would nip when he wanted attention, ran all over the furniture, and lacked respect for his humans. We tried a few other trainers, however, the behaviors continued. I had difficulty setting boundaries with him and that was when I was referred to Sue Ellen. I was very anxious to leave Oliver overnight at a board and train, but Sue Ellen made us feel at ease when we dropped him off. She had clear communication and did not sugar coat the truth. Within a few weeks, Oliver was such a well behaved, social puppy! Since he has been home, he has learned respect, he follows all of his commands, does not pull on the leash during walks, and most importantly will no longer nip for attention! We cannot thank her enough for all the hard work she put into Oliver. We now have the best trained dog on the block!

-Michael K.

Before training with Sue Ellen, Louie was a bull in a China Store. He literally ran the show and I did not know where to begin. Sue Ellen was the perfect remedy for our difficulties with Louie. Upon completion of Sue Ellen’s program, he was a beautifully trained and completely changed dog. He heeded to all commands and, most unbelievably, was perfectly leash trained. All his “bad” behaviors were replaced with manners. Sue Ellen’s work with Louie has held strong, in part because she spent time teaching me how to effectively work with him. Now, my relationship with my puppy is rewarding and pleasurable, stress free. Sue Ellen is the very best at what she does and her clients are very fortunate to receive her dog training expertise.

-Elizabeth T.

My family got a puppy Cavalier King Charles. She’s incredibly active and we were concerned about her wreaking havoc in our home. Sue Ellen was referred to us as “the one” to train our pup. Thank goodness for Sue Ellen. The time our pup, Meg, spent with Sue Ellen  was invaluable. Meg came home and her behavior was 100 % better …. like we had a different dog. 

Sue Ellen stayed  in constant contact with us as our pup progressed with training and she continues to stay in constant contact with us since Meg came home. She’s always available to answer any and all questions/concerns, she’s honest, trustworthy and highly professional. If you’re concerned about your dogs behavior, Sue Ellen will guide you and help you transform your pup. We’re so grateful that our Meg is no longer a complete terror in our home. 

-Marsi F.

We’ve known Sue Ellen through dog training for over 17 years. She boarded and took our cockapoo to playgroups from the time he was 12 weeks, until his final days when he passed away as a very old and happy boy.  

So when we recently got a new puppy, the first person we called was Sue Ellen. She told us how to prepare for the new addition to our family and then explained her board and train program to us.  Even though three weeks felt like too long for him to be away, we wanted a dog who would play well with other dogs, be good on walks, sleep through the night, not have separation anxiety, and most importantly, listen to us. We knew he would be in good hands and have other puppies to play with and we trust Sue Ellen’s knowledge and experience. 

After three weeks away, our puppy was just as happy, bouncy and sweet as when he left for training. The difference is, now he listens, he sleeps through the night, and he’s all the things we hoped he would be. Sue Ellen sent us videos showing us how much fun he was having and how he was learning to behave while he was with her. When we picked him up, she showed us what he’d learned and how to continue his training at home. Now we’re working on integrating what he learned into our schedules. 

Sue Ellen trains the dogs she takes in with lots of love and solid discipline and it works! We highly recommend her board and train program.

-Terri M.

I am absolutely thrilled with the outstanding service provided by Sue Ellen as my dog trainer and boarder. She did an exceptional job in training my dog during his stay. My furry friend now sleeps comfortably in his crate, responds promptly to his commands, and even knows his designated spot.

Sue Ellen's expertise and dedication were truly evident in the way my dog returned home as a happy and well-behaved companion. I am genuinely grateful for the positive impact she had on his behavior and overall well-being.

Moreover, the boarding experience was exceptional. Sue Ellen's care and attention to detail were evident throughout my dog's stay. I felt confident leaving him in her capable hands, knowing he was receiving top-notch care and training simultaneously. 

I am so glad I found Sue Ellen, and I will undoubtedly be utilizing her boarding services in the future. Her professionalism, expertise, and genuine love for dogs makes her an exceptional trainer. I wholeheartedly recommend Sue Ellen to anyone in search of a trainer who goes above and beyond to ensure their canine companion's happiness and obedience.

-Renee S.

Our almost two-year old Dusty, a Golden Sheepadoodle, has been going to Sue Ellen for training and boarding since he was 10 weeks old. Initially, he stayed with her for about 3 weeks. He is a wonderful, smart, obedient and loving dog, and we attribute most of these qualities to his work with Sue Ellen. Sue Ellen is knowledgable, patient, kind, firm, and deeply caring about the dogs she trains. She is also an amazing resource to us as we incorporate many of her techniques and suggestions into our daily routine with Dusty.

Dusty enjoys speding time at her place. He just came back from three weeks there while we had to be away. She sent us email updates and videos, which were not only reassuring, but thrilling to see how much he was learning and was so obviously enjoying life with her. His return to us was seamless as he immediately fell back into our routines.

We have recommended Sue Ellen to many friendswho have gotten new puppies and their experiences have matched ours.

-Janet R. & David K.

 Maisie arrived from the breeder at 9 weeks and was very challenging  from the start!  She was jumping, biting, having accidents all over and impossible to potty train, eating everything, extremely stubborn etc.   We were having such a hard time with her we considered sending her back to the breeder.  She went to Sue Ellen and she came back a completely different dog!  She still has a lot of energy as puppies do, but listens so well now. She stays on place, walks with us on a leash so well, sleeps through the night, comes when called, sits when asked and is an all around sweet loving dog.  We are so grateful for all of Sue Ellen’s hard work to make her the perfect family dog.  Sue Ellen not only trained Maisie as a new puppy, but continues to train her when we go away and she stays with her and really has been and continues to be there for us every step of the way.  Sue Ellen calls to check in on Maisie regularly and helps make sure we are staying consistent so that all the hard work we have done continues to pay off.  We are so grateful and so highly recommend Sue Ellen!  

-Erin D.

Mango is our family’s (and my) first non-small breed dog. Soon after he came home, I realized we need help. A good friend of mine highly recommend Sue Ellen to me and we decided to send Mango for her camp session. After the camp board and train, not only did Mango lose all of his bad puppy habits, he also learned all the necessary house manners and rules. Hands down the camp was totally worth it. For us it was really great that we sent him in early age too! Even after the camp, Sue Ellen was so thorough with follow up and check in with us. 

Thank you, Sue Ellen! We really appreciate you

-Chloe C.

We brought Penny to Sue Ellern when she was 5 months old. She was lovable but so rambunctious that we worried we could not live comfortably with her. She nipped and bit constantly at all people and jumped all over them as well. Walking Penny around the block was like a 20-minute wrestling match. Penny went potty whenever and wherever she wanted. We were constantly cleaning up after her mess. After 3 weeks with Sue Ellen, Penny had completely changed, and all for the better. No more biting, no more jumping on guests. She walks comfortably next to us without rushing ahead or stopping to sniff. She eats and goes potty on a very dependable schedule and has not gone once in the house in the 2 weeks she has been back home. Sue Ellen has been very diligent and generous with her time in following up with us by phone, checking in daily at first, and still on regular intervals. She has answers for all of our inquiries and continues to help coach us at giving needed boundaries and discipline to the dog we love so much. We can't recommend Sue Ellen highly enough.

-Julie M.