Client Testimonials
"The transformation was night and day. Going to the dog park is a joy instead of a workout!"
Howie - Leash Pulling
Now walks calmly by my side regardless of squirrels or other dogs.
"Finally, people can visit our home without being jumped on at the door."
Luna - Jumping on Guests
Learned polite greetings and now waits patiently on her place.
"Sam has helped shape our pups into well-behaved dogs. We've genuinely learned so much from him. He is the best."
Blueberry - Obedience
has become overall a well behaved and very intelligent pup.
Success Stories
Howie & the Lawsky Family
The Problem: Severe leash pulling and reactive barking during walks. Making outings stressful for everyone.
Training Approach: We implemented a structured positive reinforcement program focusing on focus drills and loose-leash foundations in low-distraction environments before transitioning to busy Atlanta streets.
Howie was a rescue pup who had a lot of energy and behavioral challenges. He needed quite a bit of
training, routine and structure. Sam was very patient, knowledgeable, and truly understanding of how to
work with dogs and their owners. We have seen an amazing change in Howie's behavior and are so
grateful to Sam for his guidance and expertise! Thank you, Sam!
Ben & Sutter
The Problem: Sutter struggled with leash reactivity and resources guarding
Training Approach: Through specialized private coaching, we built rockstar leash skills and self control using high-value rewards and progressive praise.
Results: Ben now has the confidence to walk Sutter and to leave food out freely
Blueberry & the Taylor Family
Obedience training for basic puppy education, helping with jumping on guests, potty training, recall and leash skills and more
Training Approach: We focused on place training and impulse control exercises, helping Blueberry understand how to settle when new people enter his space.
We have worked with Sam at Down Dog ATL for 10 years, most recently with our Great Dane mix puppy and previously with our 2 Great Pyrenees mix dogs. We want to confidently and safely walk our giant dogs and take them into crowds without worrying about how they’ll react. Sam has helped shape our pups into well behaved dogs while training to the individual personality of the dog (so important!).
A few reasons we highly recommend him:
- It feels safe - I know Sam deeply cares about our dogs and success in training.
- Sam trains us too. We learn something new in every session. I have remembered and applied his advice to many situations over the years.
- Sam makes it manageable, leaving me with just a handful of things to focus on each session, not a ton of overwhelming instructions.
- Sam adapts his training to our family, dog, and needs - asking us what our days look like, what phrases do we use for commands, etc.
We’ve genuinely learned so much from him. He is the best!
- The Taylor Family