Kathy Santo is a widely recognized figure in the dog training world, with over 35 years of experience shaping canine behavior and enhancing the bond between dogs and their owners. Her training philosophy, which has benefited tens of thousands of dogs and their human companions, is centered around effective, relationship-building techniques delivered with a fun-filled approach, both in-person and online. This review delves into Kathy Santo’s training methods, client testimonials, and the overall impact of her services on the dog care community.
The Kathy Santo Training Philosophy
At the core of Kathy Santo’s training is the understanding that success lies not just in teaching a dog new commands, but in unlearning bad habits and building a strong, communicative relationship. She emphasizes that learning is a continuous process for both dogs and humans, and her programs are designed to be accessible and convenient for all dog lovers. Her methods have been proven effective through decades of experience, leading to a high rate of repeat clients and a strong sense of community among her graduates.
Kathy Santo’s expertise is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), holding the title of “Master Trainer.” Her achievements extend to competitive obedience trials, where she has earned numerous awards with her own dogs and trained many others to achieve their titles. This extensive background in canine behavior, combined with her degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology, allows her to approach training with a unique blend of knowledge, empathy, and practical application.
Key Training Principles:
- Relationship-Building: Santo’s approach prioritizes creating a positive and trusting relationship between the dog and owner.
- Positive Reinforcement: While not explicitly detailed as “positive reinforcement” in all search snippets, the emphasis on fun, rewards, and building enthusiasm suggests a positive-based approach. Testimonials highlight that her methods “work best for your dog” and lead to “great results” with “awesome, caring” staff.
- Understanding the “Why”: Training is presented with an explanation of the reasoning behind the methods, empowering owners with knowledge.
- Consistency and Structure: Programs like “Board and Train” emphasize the importance of a clear routine and consistent expectations for accelerated learning and positive behavior.
- Addressing Root Causes: Santo focuses on unlearning undesirable habits before teaching new behaviors, recognizing that many training challenges stem from ingrained patterns.
Services Offered
Kathy Santo Dog Training offers a wide array of services to cater to various needs and levels of training, from puppies to adult dogs with behavioral issues. These services are available both in-person at their Waldwick, New Jersey facility and through comprehensive online programs.
In-Person Programs:
- Puppy Training: Tailored for puppies under six months, this program focuses on setting a positive foundation for future behavior.
- Board and Train: An immersive program where dogs live at the facility and receive intensive training. This is designed to accelerate learning through consistent structure and expert guidance in a controlled environment.
- Behavior Modification: Specialized programs for dogs exhibiting aggression, growling, snapping, or biting. These programs aim to transform challenging behaviors.
- Group Obedience Classes: Available seven days a week, catering to all levels from puppy to advanced, including specialized classes for reactive dogs.
- Daycare and Enrichment Programs: Services like “Play & Train” and “Grow” combine play with structured activities designed to enhance a dog’s social skills, confidence, and physical well-being.
Online Training Programs:
- Virtual Training Courses: Recognizing the need for accessible training, Kathy Santo offers numerous online courses. These were particularly crucial during the pandemic, allowing owners nationwide and internationally to continue effective, relationship-building training.
- “Small Bites” Courses: Short, focused courses addressing specific issues like puppy biting, recall, loose leash walking, barking, and housebreaking.
- Comprehensive Online Programs: Including “Puppy Prep,” “Good Dog School,” and others designed to address a range of common and challenging dog behaviors.
- Podcast: “Dog Sense with Kathy Santo” offers ongoing tips and advice for dog owners.
Client Testimonials and Reviews
The success of Kathy Santo’s training is consistently reflected in the overwhelmingly positive feedback from clients. Many testimonials highlight the transformative impact her methods have had on their dogs, even those with significant behavioral issues.
- Transformative Results: Clients report incredible progress with dogs who had “major behavioral issues,” leading to well-behaved dogs that are a joy to be around in public and at home.
- Professionalism and Care: The staff is frequently praised for their professionalism, knowledge, kindness, and genuine love for animals, making clients feel comfortable and confident in their care.
- Effective Methods: The “realistic training, with the ‘why’ behind the method” is a recurring theme, indicating that owners appreciate understanding the principles behind the training.
- Comprehensive Support: Many clients feel supported throughout the process, with some noting the staff’s investment in their success. The availability of 24/7 support for immediate problem-solving is also a valued aspect.
- Broad Appeal: Her training methods are effective across various breeds and temperaments, from “stubborn bulldogs to timid rescue dogs.”
While the search results predominantly feature positive reviews, one snippet mentions that “Some clients feel initial program assessments may seem overwhelming due to high expectations set during onboarding processes.” This suggests that the thoroughness of her assessments and the clarity of expectations during the initial phases might be areas for potential refinement for some clients.
Media Presence and Recognition
Kathy Santo’s expertise has earned her significant media recognition. She has appeared on major television networks, including the “Today Show,” “Fox and Friends,” “CNN,” and “CBS Early Show.” She was a regular guest on the “Martha Stewart Show” and has contributed to numerous other national TV outlets. Her book, “Kathy Santo’s Dog Sense,” further cemented her status as a leading authority in the field. She is also a frequent contributor to AKC.TV, creating training videos and appearing on their expert panels. In 2024, she was recognized as the “Face of Bergen” for dog training, underscoring her local and professional acclaim.
Conclusion
Kathy Santo Dog Training has established itself as a premier service for dog owners seeking effective, compassionate, and relationship-focused training. With a deep understanding of canine behavior, a diverse range of programs, and a history of consistent success, Kathy Santo and her team are dedicated to helping dogs and their families live happier, more harmonious lives together. Her enduring commitment to education and her proven methods make her a trusted expert in the field of dog training.
