Metropolitan Executive Dogs

Training programs are customized after an initial evaluation. Board and train programs include daily obedience, protection, and behavior training at their facility, with walks and nature exposure. Obedience classes are offered in small groups (4 dogs) or private sessions. Puppy classes focus on socialization and basic commands. Schutzhund/IGP training is available through their affiliated club. Protection programs include activation of prey and defense drives, guarding, vehicle protection, and nighttime simulations. All programs include post-training integration support for the home environment.

Pricing Summary

Puppy obedience classes are $200 plus WV sales tax for 6 sessions. Board and train programs are customized based on evaluation and client needs, with executive protection programs available at premium rates. Single obedience classes and group classes are offered with varying pricing. Specific pricing details require direct consultation.

Metropolitan Executive Dogs is a family-owned and operated dog training business established in 2003, with roots in dog training and breeding dating back to 1978. They provide customized training programs for all dog breeds and mixes, specializing in obedience, protection, and Schutzhund/IGP sports. Their training is delivered at their 5.5-acre facility in Jefferson County, WV, where dogs receive multiple daily sessions using motivation and positive reinforcement. They offer board and train programs, single obedience classes, group classes, problem-solving sessions, and grooming services. They also breed and import high-quality German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois from European bloodlines, and sell fully trained executive protection dogs. Their team includes former European law enforcement officers and national/international competitors in Schutzhund, with a unique training method called MCM developed by founder Hardy Ernsting.

Clients can choose from structured programs including puppy training, behavior modification, and advanced protection training tailored to family, personal, or professional security needs. The facility simulates real-world scenarios for protection and patrol training, including nighttime break-in simulations and vehicle protection. They also provide pickup and delivery services and lifelong support for clients who purchase dogs or enroll in training.

Their Podium Schutzhund Club, led for over 25 years, is a specialized sport program focused on tracking, obedience, and protection, open to multiple breeds. They emphasize building strong owner-dog relationships and provide follow-up video or phone support after training completion.

Accomplishments

Founded in 2003 by Sabine and Hardy Ernsting, with over 45 years of combined dog training experience since 1978. Sabine Ernsting is a Master Groomer from the Maryland School of Dog Grooming (1998). Hardy Ernsting developed the MCM training method through study in Germany, Denmark, Holland, and Belgium. He has trained police, army, and detection dogs and led the Podium Schutzhund Club for 25 years. Team members include former European law enforcement officers and national/international Schutzhund competitors.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must request information or schedule an evaluation to customize a training program. An initial assessment determines the dog’s needs and the appropriate program, whether board and train, obedience class, or protection training. Follow-up consultations and video support are offered after program completion.