The Dog Wizard Charlotte

Kathryn Arnold

2024-01

Sent a rescue puppy to complete a 2 week board and train program, within a few days of being home she resorted to all her old behaviors. Upon graduation her sit and down had been proofed but we had started that before she left. A big issue for why she was sent related to leash reactivity which no changes were observed. Trainers were great and everyone was super kind but not worth the price especially when you have to pay for additional trainers on top of thousands and some training techniques especially related to crate training. Additionally there was inconsistent communication in which one person told me with the puppy board and train you had unlimited access to group classes until 6 months but when inquiring at the end I was told there was a few per class.

L B

2024-02

This review is not about the training itself, but the communication I had after filling out their online form and speaking with someone about getting started. While I appreciate their questions about my dog and our needs, it quickly turned into a car salesman pitch where I felt very pressured to schedule the first private $200 lesson then and there without even being able to discuss with my partner first. It made me uncomfortable and anxious, so I don't think this will work out for me. Maybe it will for you!

Emma Nichols

2022-05

Moki went to the Charlotte Dog Wizard for sleep away camp to work on crating, anxiety, obedience, and social interactions with other dogs. During Moki’s stay I was updated with pictures/videos and stories of progress each week (see some of her photos from her adventures below!). Our trainer was Helen and she has been a joy to work with. She was professional, kind, and truly committed to doing what was best for Moki. Helen made so many previously impossible things happen with Moki’s training. I never thought Moki would enjoy being crated, be able to play off leash with other dogs, or that I would be able to rival her stubbornness. Don’t get me wrong, seeing this training through once you bring home your pup is the only path to success. That being said, Helen has been so willing to aid and answer any questions I have during Moki’s transition home. If you’re looking for trustworthy, highly communicative trainers who are passionate about your dog’s well being, The Dog Wizard is the place to go! I can’t thank Helen and the rest of the Dog Wizard staff enough!

Rebecca Evans

2023-06

The dog wizard gives me peace of mind I thought I'd never find. They helped me with training my Max after he came to me from a tough situation and I was nervous introducing him to new people. They helped us both build confidence and enabled Max to live the happy, healthy life he deserves. Now both he and his brother, Tibbers, love going to the Dog Wizard for daycare and boarding, and we're looking forward to Max's first enrichment camp soon! I cannot recommend Dog Wizard enough.

Molly Carmel

2023-05

I have the kind of dog people stop on the street and say “oh my god your dog is so sweet and well behaved!” And it’s completely true. My dog is the BEST. This is ENTIRELY as a result of the amazing, kind, warm, brilliant, fun, invested and simply magnificent team at Dog Wizard. I’ve used them for daycare, individual training and sent my dog to their 3.5 week intensive training program - they are the absolute best. I don’t have any complaints about them - and I feel like I need to say here that I’m a big complainer when it comes to the care of my loved ones and I’m not someone who likes a whole lot of people. But WOW do I love the team there. From front desk to my amazing trainer Brittney to all the other delightful trainers to the owner - I’ve only been greeted with kind, honest, loving feedback and care that is always in the service of me and of the health of my dog. I really consider dog wizard a part of my family and certainly the main reason I have such an awesome dog. I would recommend using dog wizard to anyone looking to have a transformational experience with their dog or looking to feel completely safe and relaxed when needing care for their dog.

McK5

2023-07

Awesome dog trainers. Just had my male 5 month old boxer there for a week training. They worked on leash training, socializing with other dogs, obedience commands, and crate training. Saw videos on FB during the week, and he was happy and learned a lot! Highly recommend.

Betsy

2021-05

Brittany was so helpful and great to work with us and Buddy through the Freedom Program!! We can't wait to continue to work with Bud dog and hope to be hitting up the brewery scene with the little guy in tow! Many thanks!!! Will return, would recommend, and have recommended The Dog Wizard to friends and family! 🙌😆🙌 (Thought y'all might be impressed with this photo of Buddy placing while the sprinkler is on in the background! 😜)

Allyson Deak

2023-05

The Dog Wizard has truly changed my life. I rescued my dog Luna nearly a year ago & brought her home to the heart of South End. She was the sweetest pup but nothing short of a nightmare in this area of town. Her leash reactivity caused me to hide behind cars on walks and eventually I was only taking her out in the dark or during off times of the day. While affectionate and loving to me, it was hard to tell if this behavior was anxiety or protection or simply excitement, but I quickly learned I was WAY out of my league and desperately needed help. That’s when I came across the Dog Wizard. I enrolled Luna in their Sleep Away Camp and they took the time to understand my goals for her as well as the root causes of Luna’s behavior. It turns out she has a very high social drive and so her reactivity is an expression of her frustration when she can’t interact with other dogs on walks (temper tantrums if you will). Here we are ten months later and I now feel confident & in control to manage her reactivity. While she is still far from perfect (as am I as her owner), we are learning to trust each other, challenge each other, and enjoy being out in the world together. I am endlessly grateful to the Dog Wizard, and especially to Jamie & Brittany who have spent countless hours working with us. Their passion, patience, and perseverance is unbelievable. I know they truly care for Luna and have continued to do everything possible to ensure her success to this day. I could not recommend this place more highly, I’m so very grateful.

Fernando Alvarado

2022-05

Took our 4 month puppy for a 2 week boarding training and it was a great experience. Everyone was super responsive and flexible and our pup learned great skills! We were amazed the first time we took her out for a walk and how much better she was overall with her basic obedience! We are very grateful to everyone at The Dog Wizard and I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a complete training experience for their dog!

Cat Gaertner

2022-05

I take my boss's dog here every day and she's beyond well behaved so I already had experience with how well their training works. I have an 11 yo mini pit bull named Midget who loves everyone except other dogs. She gets scarily aggro when one even gets near. In just ONE lesson Danielle gave us just a ton of wonderful information. I've applied some of their techniques and already my dog is responding and doing so much better. I know it can be pricey but if you need help then this is the place to get it. I plan on coming back for another couple of lessons. Thank you SO MUCH!!

Jacob H.

2018-05

My dog, Ruby, was enrolled in the 18 day board and train. General obedience and a few undesired behaviors were addressed, while I was able to monitor progress on Facebook. Danielle, one of the owners, did a fantastic job with Ruby. Worth every penny!

Suzy Medve

2023-05

Life changing training!! We did the board and train boot camp with our 8 month old lab. She is a changed girl. We have gotten so many compliments on how well behaved she is in public and we owe it all to Dog Wizard!

David W

2014-05

I wanted to publish this review and share my experience with those who are thinking about getting there dog trained by The Dog Wizard. I will start this review letting you know that I am the proud owner of an extremely high energy Brittany named Cooper. My wife and I started looking into a training program due to our realization that our attempts to train Cooper had failed and his behavior had reached a point where we were finding it hard to enjoy the time we were spending with him. After talking with the trainers at The Dog Wizard we decided to send our puppy to there home-front program. We were a bit apprehensive about whether they would be able to succeed in meeting the training goals that had been set for Cooper (I am a bit of a perfectionist) but The Dog Wizard not only met the goals but greatly exceeded them. Our trainer Danielle has been amazing and did a fantastic job training not only our dog but training my wife and I on how keep our dog behaving like the champion he now is. As of this review it is now a month after the initial training and Cooper is still doing great. He is truly off leash reliable and a pleasure to take with us no matter where we go. I highly recommend The Dog Wizard to anyone who needs help training there dog. Thanks Danielle and the Dog Wizard staff for doing such a great job with Cooper and for your continued support!!!!

Heather Jackson

2022-05

To say I am pleased with the staff and experience at the Dog Wizard feels like an understatement. We came to them with a sense of hopelessness after other trainers thought we should rehome our foster fail, Buddy. Danielle met with me and explained the training, our goals, and gave me the spark of hope that both Buddy and my family needed. A few short weeks later and our beloved pooch began his journey with the fantastic trainer Helen and the Dog Wizard team. We brought to them a dog that had taken on way more responsibility than we needed him to have. He was a guarder, herder, and protective to a fault. After 18 days of intense training camp, our Buddy has the freedom to be the calm disciplined sweetheart we knew he was and always had the ability to be. They showed both Buddy and my family how structure was one of the main things we had lacked. Not only was our bestest boy learning, but we learned right along with him. I have been a dog person my entire life, but it wasn’t until this whole experience that I realized the importance we play in each other’s lives.It truly is amazing what this camp experience has done for us. Every single person we have encountered from the owners, front desk, and trainers has been top-notch. You can feel the love and passion they have for these canines, which is so incredibly important. My family is so grateful for the Dog Wizard. Buddy Big Foot is so important to us and we are beyond happy he received this much needed help.

Janay Green

2022-05

I am forever thankful to Dog Wizard and Jamie, who was my dog trainer. She help me and my Princess, who is a 13 year old Westie/Yorkie Mix, with leash reactivity. IN JUST 4 SESSIONS! There was times that I didn't think it would work, but I was reminded that i have to put in the work as well and it definitely showed. It was like yes I am there to train my dog but I am getting trained along with her, which is was very needed. I HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Dog Wizard. Princess is now walking and meeting dogs while on the leash and you can tell how much more happy she is now. I feel more comfortable going on walks with her and longer walks without fear of her barking because I know what to do confidently and I trust her more as well. Who says you cant teach an old dog new tricks.Thank you so much DOG WIZARD. I am forever grateful for you and Jamie, personally!

Madison Del Duca

2021-05

We enrolled our 2 year old pup in the 18 day board and train program at the beginning of September. After bringing her home and working with her on our own I can say with full confidence that the program was worth every penny. We brought home a new and improved, more confident, and significantly less anxious dog. Helen helped our dog become her best self and it has made a world of a difference in our lives and hers! Everyone at clt dog wizard is knowledgeable, kind, and caring snd treated our dog like she was one of their own. I cannot recommend their services enough.

Catherine Walton

2013-05

The Dog Wizard was great!! We send our 9 month old labradoodle to dog wizard for help with basic manners. We had trained her on some things but needed help mostly with leash pulling and jumping. But the Dog Wizard provided training on that and so much more, it was so very worth it!! She knows how to greet people and other dogs nicely, she heals on her leash and she's off-leash reliable which has turned out to be such a blessing we never even knew we were missing! And because she's so well trained and behaved now, we take her everywhere we can and know she will behave and not be any sort of a problem! The Dog Wizard gave us so much more flexibility and freedom with our dog than we ever knew was possible and we love it!! We'll definitely be sending any and all other puppies we get!

Sarah Faltin

2023-05

we had 2 dogs, littermates, who went to another training before dog wizard. One of our two really needed to work on some behavioral skills (reactive with other dogs, really anxious), and so we took her here. They took a totally different approach with her than her previous trainers. Rather than treating her like she’s being disobedient, they recognized that she’s a sensitive little goof ball and she came out so much more confident. We’ve gone for follow up sessions and she LOVES her trainer Jamie. We unfortunately had to rehome her at the end of the day, but Jamie even worked with her new owners to make sure they could learn everything we did. We are just so incredibly grateful to know our sweet misunderstood girl was so loved here, so beyond just the initial 5 weeks. Thank you dog wizard (and Jamie!)

Tim Traywick

2015-05

We took our 8 Month Old Golden Retriever to The Dog Wizard for the Homefront Program. From the very first meeting, I was nothing but impressed with Danielle and the staff at The Dog Wizard. She took the time to hear all of the issues that we were experiencing and convinced me that she could correct all of them. We picked up our puppy from her on 8/19/14 and could not believe the transformation. We kept asking her if she had gotten a new puppy for us while she had him. He is so well behaved and a wonderful member of our family now. If you are considering training, please contact The Dog Wizard. You will be completely pleased and will love your 4 legged family member much more than ever. Thanks Danielle and The Dog Wizard!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Aimee Simmons

2020-05

We were at the point of deciding if we would have to get rid of our dog as she was constantly fighting with our older dog (almost daily), not listening to any commands and starting to become human aggressive. After working with 3 other trainers in the area (we should have just gone straight to the dog wizard) we decided to give it one last shot. I can not even begin to tell you how appreciative I am of these amazing group of people. They have completely flipped our outlook on life with our dogs. After the 18 day program our dog came back not only trained but an overall happier dog. She now listens to commands on the first request and is so eager to want to please us. You might think I'm writing this review right after I picked her up, but I'm not. I waited over a month because I wanted to see how she was after adjusting back to her home environment.We have only gotten one growl out of her towards our other dog, and has even started to cuddle up with him for naps (which she never did before). She had a couple instances of not listening the first couple days home but its up to you as the owner to stay consistent and those instances slowly go away. If you are even hesitating to sign your dog up, please listen to me as these people work magic. They obviously can not promise that your dog is going to come home and be magically 100% fixed, as I said its up to you as the owner to continue their training but they dedicate so much time, effort and love to your dog. They also provided updates throughout her stay so we could see her progressions. But from a dogmom who wasn't sleeping, stressed out and overall sick at the thought of getting rid of her, I don't even have a thought in my mind that she will just continue to grow and to be honest is even better in some areas than our other dog. The best part is that even after your dog goes home, the trainers continue to want to help you learn and progress with your dogs with weekly pack walks and online support groups with live Q&A's. I also drop her off once a week for their daycare so she can continue to build her social skills. Overall, I cant thank the dog wizard family enough you all have truly become apart of our family for life.

Jennifer Saarbach

2015-05

Our experience with The Dog Wizard was absolutely wonderful! After two weeks in the Home Front program, our dog came home COMPLETELY transformed. Six months ago, we adopted a rescue dog from a hoarding situation. She suffered from extreme anxiety, especially when meeting new people. To help build her confidence, we enrolled our dog in the Home Front program while we were on vacation; our dog lived with her trainer Danielle for two weeks. Danielle posted daily photos on Facebook to update us on our dog's progress, which we loved. She began with basic obedience training (commands like "sit", "come", "heel", and "place") utilizing positive reinforcement techniques. She then introduced our dog to situations that triggered her anxiety and excitement --- crowded public areas, playgrounds, parks with lots of squirrels, etc. Harnessing the commands at her disposal, she was able to build up our dog's confidence in these situations and reduce her anxious behavior. Our terrified, squirrel-crazy dog came home a happier, calmer, more confident dog. In just two weeks, our dog learned to walk perfectly on a leash, come/sit/stay on command, and remain calmly in place even under the most distracting circumstances. After two months, not only has our dog retained all of her knowledge from her training, but has also continued to build her confidence. The in-home follow-up sessions helped us learn how to continue our dog's training on our own and maintain a consistent routine. Danielle also helped us get comfortable with the e-collar the Dog Wizard uses in continued training --- it is NOT a shock collar (something I'd been very skeptical about initially), and we use it only on it's lowest setting to help our dog focus on her commands if she gets distracted. We have yet to take advantage of the continuing education that was included in our package, but we are excited to take part in regular group lessons this spring. The Dog Wizard is worth EVERY penny, and we cannot thank Danielle and the team enough for all their hard work!

Renee Matthews

2022-05

We brought our great dane, Lambeau, here for sleep away camp/board and train. He's a big boy and doesn't know his own size and strength. He also had some trouble with manners that combined with his size made coexisting almost frustrating. Kiki and the other ladies worked with him and taught him A TON! After his 3 weeks of training we got some lessons on how to help maintain the good behavior and help him retain tje knowledge he got. It's a relief to know that we are able to call or talk online with any new concerns or bad habits that may resurface.Overall, we feel this was worth the cost of training. Our boy has been much more manageable and the entire home has a better quality of life. I would recommend to anyone with an especially difficult doggo.Thank you all at The Dog Wizard Charlotte!

Kasey Strouse

2021-05

After adopting a rescue pup and training her to my fullest potential - I knew she needed additional support and further training to build her confidence. Millie went from being a fearful, anxious pup to a brave and courageous pup. That's not to say she's still not afraid of the occasional loud noise or a plastic bag (we all have our corks). She went from not walking on a leash to being so excited to go for walks. I cannot say enough positive things about the Dog Wizard. The staff is amazing. I could not be more thankful.

Jesse Springer

2017-05

We sent our two male Boxer puppies (17 months old) to the 18 day training program because--you probably don't have to be told--they were a handful and way too much unmanageable energy for us. They're home now and...wow! There is a night and day difference! They are actually enjoyable and so nice to have around because they are obedient and calm. Their trainer, Caitlin, took on quite a unique challenge when she took them on, and she did an absolutely FANTASTIC job. She is a very attentive, caring, talented, knowledgeable and just all around great trainer. We can't say anything negative about her; she is simply great. Our lives and the lives of our dogs are changed for the better and we can't thank her and the entire staff at the Dog Wizard enough. And the training didn't stop once the 18 days were up--we still continue to get all the support and help we need, which is amazing. Thank you Caitlin and everyone at the Dog Wizard!!!

Capri Fedler

2020-05

Had my two dogs go for the board and train during my sisters wedding. They had disobedience issues going in but came out a lot more responsive and attentive. No place will magically solve all your problems, of course it takes time and patience but The Dog Wizard definitely took a lot of the stress and frustration out of it. They both use to pull on the leash like crazy and they came back walking exactly beside us. No pulling! I was always stressed walking my dog but now I can go out everyday with them and give them love and exercise they need.

Elizabeth Holm

2016-05

Our experience with The Dog Wizard began when we were looking for a training program for our new bullmastiff puppy; as he was our third bullmastiff, we knew how important training would be. I was very reticent about the e-collar approach to training, so we started out with Puppy PreSchool to learn more about the trainers and the program. We could not have been more impressed!!! The Puppy PreSchool program's focus on socialization was exactly what we didn't know we needed. We went from our little Morgan cowering in a corner to being a happy social puppy with some manners besides.After six weeks of preschool, it was an easy choice to put him in the 2 week board and train program. Emily took all the time we needed in making sure we were completely comfortable with the e-collar and how it worked before training started. Our trainer Corey did an amazing job, teaching all the basic commands while building his confidence.Following his basic training, we have continued with the free weekly classes for all clients who have completed a training program. These sessions are a fabulous opportunity to keep skills sharp around other dogs and people, continue to build confidence and talk to the trainers about any issue that is challenging at the moment. Weekly group classes build friendships around our pets and have been a wonderful way of reinforcing all we have learned together.Without question, the best part of The Dog Wizard are the owners and the trainers. These are people that truly care, not only about the dogs entrusted to them, but about their human clients and families. They LISTEN, and know that each relationship between a dog and their person is unique, and they train with those needs and priorities in mind. Whether your dog needs some fine tuning, or you have serious issues to address, this is a group you can absolutely trust for the best results!

Jessica Beal

2017-05

I brought my 8 year old beagle Eli to the Dog Wizard and completed the 4 day fundamentals program. All I can say is WOW. I was at a loss of what to do as anytime Eli saw another dog on walks he would bay and howl uncontrollably which was really stressful for us both and other people walking their dogs. We had done private training lessons before at another place but it did not improve his behavior. I was scared that since he is an older dog, the behavior would be so engrained in him that it could not be corrected. I was completely wrong! I couldn't believe the transformation that took place within a few days. When I came to pick him up he was around 5 other dogs but his focus was solely on me while walking on leash. He now walks on a leash well at home and when he sees other dogs is able to remain calm. Most importantly the trainers gave me the tools to refocus Eli if he gets off track so I don't feel nervous bringing him on walks anymore, I actually thoroughly enjoy it. My boyfriend and I still can't believe this is the same dog! Cannot wait to bring him on a hike in a few weeks, which I thought would never be possible! Truly life changing. Can't wait to participate in pack walks!

scott skeen

2023-05

We have found a caring place that is tender and gentle with our older dog (16). The staff are gracious during her every other week visits. They take care of her nails, teeth, and ears along with her bath and trimming. We are glad to be clients of Dog Wizard

Sarah Roche

2018-05

I can't thank Dog Wizard enough! My dog had some aggression issues towards other dogs that made me nervous to take her out around people/animals. They not only taught me how to work with her to keep her calm, but also how to better understand why she was reacting the way she was. I learned how to control her in any scenario and to help keep her away from situations that would make her uncomfortable. Thanks to Dog Wizard my dog is happy, able to be out and enjoy life, and I'm a better dog parent for her and all my future fur babies!

jill bogage

2012-05

The Dog Wizard was the best thing that ever happened to our dog. We were slowly losing control of Frankie. She was creating jobs for herself like barking at the doorbell, barking at all passer by, guarding her food and more. It got worse until it drove us crazy. Frankie spent 2 weeks at the dog wizard and came back like a different dog. And then they trained us! we learned how to maintain what she learned. We would recommend the Dog Wizard to any one and everyone. Both Frankie and her owners are happier!