Way of the Dog

Started from scratch with an 8-week-old working line Dutch Shepherd pup earlier this year and did a good amount of research into trainers across the South Bay. Brian was a common rec amongst a lot of people but also vets and other dog care professionals. His philosophies described on his site also stood out to me, particularly in regards to teaching the owner more than just the dog and vast experience specifically targeting dog behavior. I went with my gut and pulled the trigger on a puppy package and couldn’t have been happier with the investment. My dog knowledge probably shot up 20x in just the first hour of conversation before my pup even arrived; infinite tips and details on environment, relationship, socialization and more were crucial to prepping for my puppy adventure.

Brian actually gives logical answers for all “why” questions every dog owner has, backed by experience with dog behavior but also experience and awareness of how people’s relationships to dogs usually have a ton of thoughtless flaws. He teaches you to be a leader with your dog, and I would bet most people who try his program feel a surge in confidence and control around all dogs/situations in the future.

From consistent puppy parties for safe and “referee’d” exposure during the crucial developmental windows to specific recs on the best vet/daycare resources, dog products, etc. for YOUR specific breed and situation–if you start your dog journey with Brian (especially before you even get the dog), you will feel 10x more confident and exceedingly prepared for any scenario. You’ll have a detailed program outline to take notes in and refer to forever that will cover everything from basic needs and leash training (somehow he worked his magic and taught me and my pup on AND off leash training with JUST leash work in all of 20 minutes) to socialization management, relationship dynamics, communication that actually works and sticks, and other deeper, crucial, and overarching concepts.

My rather challenging, high-drive pup in a 2 bedroom apartment was better behaved than any dog I’ve had or dogsat in the past 25 years within the first two months of seeing Brian, and it’s not like the progress stopped there. My entire perspective towards dogs has changed for the better. I’ll bring every pup I ever get to him for as long as I’m local enough and recommend him no matter what age, prior/lack training, situation, or breed to others.
– Client

I didn’t realize how much I didn’t understand about dog behavior before my session with Brian at Way of the Dog.

We have an old pup that we got at 8 weeks old. He was exposed to many situations from the start, so he is the sweetest and gentlest around all animals, people, and situations. A couple of years ago we got an 8 month old dog rescued from a hoarding situation. He is a sweet, sweet boy, but you could tell he was fearful in some situations. I won’t go in to details, but an incident in our home led me to Way of the Dog. I didn’t want a trainer. Sit, stay, rollover weren’t commands I was immediately interested in, rather I needed to understand my new dog. I needed a behaviorist – someone to help me and my family understand why dogs do certain things or act certain ways in various situations. My search for the best behaviorist in the South Bay led me to Way of the Dog and Brian Lee.
I am so glad my journey led my family to Way of the Dog. Brian didn’t work directly with my dog, but rather worked directly with me and family. He forced us to acknowledge how our actions (or inactions =/) and behaviors directly affect our pups. He guided me in dissecting and breaking down emotional barriers I had created that prevented me from being the best leader for my dog. Brian helped me gain the role as protector of my pup, so he can learn to relax and trust me in all situations, and that has made such a difference. With the help of Brian, I have not only become more confident in raising my dog, but more confident in myself. Brian gave me the tough love I so desperately needed to become the leader my dogs deserve.
Thank you, Brian, for forcing me to “grow through what I go through” and transforming my life! My family and I are forever thankful!
– Client

Because of Brian and his “Way of the Dog” program, our lives (dog and humans) are much more relaxed, happier, and enjoyable. This comprehensive and thoughtful process is catered to each specific case for the optimal results. We are able to create the best possible life and situations for our dog, which make her less anxious, friendlier, and confident. Thank you WOTD!
– Client