Barkeley K-9 University

Training begins with a free consultation to assess goals. Clients can choose private one-on-one sessions customized to their home environment, an intensive board and train program where the dog stays with the trainer for focused results, or group classes for alumni to practice skills in a social setting. Group classes require mastery of five basic commands: sit, down, stay, heel, and come. All programs emphasize positive reinforcement and owner education to ensure long-term success.

Pricing Summary

Private lessons cost $115–$165 per session with packages recommended. Board and train pricing varies based on duration and goals. Group classes are $25 per session or $100 for a 5-class package.

Barkeley K-9 University is a professional dog training business serving the Greater Bay Area, led by owner and trainer Pat Gibbons with 23 years of experience. They offer custom, positive-reinforcement-based training programs designed for busy dog owners and their dogs, focusing on building strong communication and creating Canine Good Citizens. Services include one-on-one private lessons, immersive board and train programs, and group refresher classes held in parks to reinforce skills in social settings. Pat emphasizes understanding dog behavior through natural learning logic, avoids harsh discipline, and trains both dogs and owners to ensure lasting results. The business is known for transforming challenging behaviors like leash pulling, poor recall, and reactivity while preserving the dog’s happy personality.

Their approach is rooted in continuous learning, with Pat regularly attending workshops and seminars to stay current with industry best practices. Clients report dramatic improvements in their dogs’ behavior and a stronger human-dog bond, with many returning for multiple dogs over more than a decade.

The training is tailored for all dog ages and types, including puppies, adolescents, adults, and seniors, and has successfully worked with breeds ranging from deaf Australian Shepherds to Great Pyrenees mixes and Belgian Malinois.

Accomplishments

Pat Gibbons has been professionally training dogs for 23 years, starting with his own dog Ozzy in high school. He attended two professional dog training schools, became deeply involved in dog competitions, and continuously attends workshops and seminars to refine his methods. He is recognized by long-term clients as a trusted expert with a proven track record across multiple dogs and breeds.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a free dog training consultation via email or phone to discuss goals and determine the best training program—private lessons, board and train, or group classes.