Ironwood Dog Training

Ironwood offers customized training programs including Puppy Training (building confidence and manners), Basic Obedience (reliable commands in distractions), Board and Train (immersive 2–4 week residential training), and Competition Training (precision-focused for obedience, agility, or sport). All programs use science-backed, positive reinforcement methods with personalized plans, take-home guidance, and progressive skill-building. Sessions are structured to ensure measurable outcomes and real-world application.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed; clients are encouraged to contact for customized quotes based on program selection and individual needs.

Policies

Policy details regarding cancellations or rescheduling are not provided on the website.

Ironwood Dog Training is a science-based dog training service in Phoenix, Arizona, led by Robert Santana, PhD, RD, SSC, who applies evidence-based methods rooted in Classical and Operant Conditioning to help dogs and their owners build stronger, calmer relationships. They offer customized training programs using positive reinforcement to address common behavioral issues like leash pulling, reactivity, separation anxiety, barking, and potty training, while also providing specialized programs for puppies, basic obedience, board and train, and competition training. Their approach emphasizes personalized plans tailored to each dog’s breed, age, and behavior, as well as the owner’s lifestyle, ensuring lasting results in real-world environments. They serve clients across Phoenix and surrounding communities, with training conducted at their facility and through immersive board and train options.

Robert combines his background in human performance coaching with canine behavior science to deliver structured, measurable outcomes. Clients report significant improvements in their dogs’ behavior within weeks, with tools and techniques provided for consistent home reinforcement. The business also offers a gallery of training successes and client testimonials highlighting their professional, results-driven style.

Additional services include puppy evaluations, behavior modification, and competition preparation for obedience, agility, and scent work.

They do not offer grooming, boarding, walking, or pet supply services beyond their core training programs.

Accomplishments

Robert Santana, the lead trainer, holds a PhD and is a Registered Dietitian and Starting Strength Coach with over two decades of experience in human performance coaching. He applies his scientific and methodical approach to dog training, with demonstrated success in training obedience, bite sports, K9 work, scent detection, and bird hunting dogs. His dogs are noted for high levels of obedience and behavioral control.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact Ironwood Dog Training via phone or email to schedule an initial consultation or puppy evaluation, where goals and dog behavior are assessed to create a customized training plan.