Testimonials

Euro Training Kennels' clients are virtually entirely referral based; veterinarians, animal control agencies, humane societies, rescue organizations, other trainers, and, not least, thousands of satisfied customer throughout the Bay Area have referred clients to us. Many of our clients have traveled here from as far as Marin County in the north to Santa Cruz in the south, and from San Francisco in the west to the central valley area out east. Listed here is a small, but representative, sample of the depth and geographical range of our client and referral base.

On April 10, 1999, Jeri Marlowe and Scott Nelson, from Mill Valley, CA, wrote:

"When we decided to get a puppy we knew our priorities were to raise an obedient, fun loving, well-mannered dog.

After interviewing several trainers we chose Euro-Training and John O'Connor even though it meant a 45-minute commute, each way, every week and a longer training commitment than we had expected. In our initial interview with him it was clear that John was extremely knowledgeable and truly had the best interest of both dog and owner at heart. We began our classes when our puppy, Maddie, was 12 weeks old. After a year and a half we continue on a drop-in basis. John taught us to train Maddie, and equally importantly gave us the skills to maintain her high level of obedience and behavior so important to enjoying our dog. Because of her controlled but pleasant behavior Maddie is welcome in most places we go. As psychotherapists we take her to work with us. Her presence is often quite therapeutic for our clients.

 At the age of one year, she was both on and off lead trained to heel like a champ, could maintain a sit and down-stays for long periods of time, and come on command. Almost every time I, or we, take her out, whether on a walk, shopping, or to a dog park, someone stops to comment on her behavior. Many are so impressed with her that they ask for the name of our trainer. We happily and confidently give our referral to John without reservation. We often refer to John as the "Dog Whisperer". 

If you have any are reachable via email at jerijet7@aol.com if you have any specific questions".

On June 13, 1998, Randy and Ginger Cava from Berkeley, CA, wrote:

"We had already attended four dog training programs when a friend recommended John O'Connor.

John told us that our dog was very well trained but needed to do better with us. We had also experienced difficulty with her aggression towards other dogs, so taking her out to play was a bit risky.

We accordingly began training with John and over a period of time we learned to better understand our dog's temperament and personality, and how to handle her accordingly.

The training was the best investment we have made because Laika is now very tolerant of other dogs, is great to walk on leash, and does excellently off leash in parks and on trails. We certainly achieved the goals we set in the area of training our dog."

On July 10, 1998, J. Thibedeau, DVM, and his staff at the Hillcrest Veterinary Clinic in Pleasant Hill, CA, wrote

"We have had many very satisfied clients seek assistance at Euro Training Kennels.

Whether for routine puppy training, advanced specialized training or correcting behavioral problems, John and Kate O'Connor have always been helpful, dedicated and honest.

It is always a pleasure to refer to professionals with their knowledge and expertise."  925.676.1134.

On April 18, 2009, Nora & Denis Jensen from Pleasant Hill, CA, wrote:

 "We were so lucy to have found John O'Connor to train our Great Danes. Our current dog, Madison, is the second dog that John has trained to be the gentle, people friendly and well behaved dog that everyone hopes to have. You have to remember that John takes on the puppy and the owner for training. John's great sence of humor lets the owner fail without embarrassment as the dog continues to improve. There are many dog trainers, but very few dog trainers that take the time to understand the dog as well as the owners. I cannot imagine ever entrusting the future of a new dog to anyone else than John O'Connor and Euro Training Kennels."

On April 8, 2009, Karen Simpson from Danville, CA, wrote:

"Hi John -- here's a picture of Tucker, my Jack Russell Terrier; I figure he might be one of your only three time graduates -- not that he needed it, but that he had the privilage of a refresher course as each new dog came into our house. I know Terriers are one of your favorite breeds! In all seriousness though, I really looked forward to my training sessions each week, and have always been grateful for the behavior you helped me cultivate in my dogs."

On April 13, 2009, Grace Lynn & Nana from Berkeley, CA, wrote:

"Before going to John I tried many different training classes. Some focused too much on positive reinforcement, relying too much on treats; some were expensive and ineffective, cost me tons of fortune, and my dog still could not stop pulling, messing around on the street, and jumping on people. Just as I was about to give up, I found John -- a person who knows how to handle a dog properly without treats, and a person who is devoted to deliver effective training.

Upon consultation with him, I immediately decided to start training because of his extensive knowledge in dogs. After just a few weeks, I could see obvious improvement in my dog -- you could tell that she was thinking twice before causing me any trouble. After a few months, I would have people come up to me and compliment on her behavior. I was able to walk her with and without leash, command her in and off the house, and finally, have a sense of relief because of her willingness to be obedient.

Thanks to John, I have a very well trained dog. I have to say that I am glad I've invested in him. I will definitely refer John to any dog owner I know without hesitation. He is truely amazing!"

 On 8 April, 2009, Judith & Keith Flachsbart from Lafayette, CA, wrote:

 "We began with John when Fargo was 15 months old. We have never regretted one minute, or one penny. John is very patient with everyone -- dog and person. Our Berner (Bernese Mountain Dog) has a bit of a stubborn streak but John worked with us to overcome this. Fargo is loved by everyone, and very well behaved. It is so important to have a dog others are comfortable with. At 120lbs you don't want a misbehaving dog. We understood from the very beginning with John that it really is the person he is training. We are very grateful to have found John and his training."

My name is Ginny, and I'm from Oakland, CA. and . . .

That noble creature sitting beside me resting his paw on my foot is "General Sam Grant," otherwise know as "Sam." Thanks to John O'Connor's expertise, Sam has evolved from a cute, but easily distracted and headstrong dog into a boon companion at home and on daily hikes. Full credit must go to John for quietly but firmly guiding Sam into the select company of happy, well behaved dogs."

Phyllis Ford of Martinez CA, wrote:

"I consider myself extremely lucky to have found John O'Connor as the trainer of my dog, Red. His training approach was very empowering, as he trained both Red and me as a team, and I learned many skills which I could then use on my own. The group lessons were focused, and addressed the needs of each dog in the class. They also provided an excellent environment for dog socialization, which is extremely important. His training program also includes private sessions to reinforce areas that need extra work. I was so pleased with how the training went with Red, that when I got River, I immediately signed her up with John. My dogs are welcome anywhere I go, and they respond to voice command and hand signals when off-leash. They have no behavior problems. I give Euro-Training my highest recommendation."

In April 2009, Donna Zetterquist, in Santa Cruz, CA, wrote:

"Many thanks to John O'Connor for his training skills and patience with both my big, unruly adolescent male Swissy (Swiss Mountain Dog) and, even more important, with me. It was a major struggle to just walk Zar to the show ring. John taught me the proper and humane use of training tools to get Zar under control. I now have an AKC Champion who is preparing for the obedience competition. We had tried several training programs with little or no success. John's program is hands-down the best and only one  that has been truly effective."

In April 2009, Greg & Libby Peterson from Martinez, CA. wrote:

"We were referred to Euro-Training Kennels and John O'Connor when Homer was just three months old. Even at that early age, Homer had decided to be a dominant puppy around other dogs and much larger dogs. Our concern was that he would becomes a problem dog as he matured into a full sized, full strength dog.

Homer did mature (he is now 86lbs and very strong) and with John's guidance and training (for Homer and us) Homer is a wonderful, fully socialized companion and has never given us a moment of concern around other people or dogs. In fact, with John's guidance, Homer earned his CD rating from the American Kennel Club with three successful competitions in a row (a dog must pass standard tests in three different shows to qualify - although not necessarily three consecutive passes in a row).

We recommend that every dog owner spend a least a few sessions (and ideally more) with John at Euro-Training Kennels. There is no better preparation for a long and happy realationship with your Best Friend".

Warren & Connie Pinckert from Lafayette wrote:

"Our German Shepherd, Sienna Von Wilhendorf, couldn't enjoy herself in this beautiful field without the recall and off-leash training from John. 

He is truly a gifted dog trainer and behaviorist who has helped me teach my Schutzhund titled dogs to be wonderful well-rounded animals. He seems to have an answer for any behavioral situation."

John & Shelly Zovickian from Piedmont, CA. wrote:

"We wanted a family dog for our teenage twins and came home one day with a three month old German Shepherd Dog.

We quickly discovered that Hobbs was a very spirited dog with a "mind of his own."

After interviewing several dog trainers we happened to learn of John O'Connor.

John's combination of expertise and practical and personalized instruction has made all the difference for us. John is an excellent listener and has tailored his training methods to our dog's individual needs.

After several months of working with John we now have a wonderfully obedient and good-spirited companion dog. We continue to work with John on advanced obedience training, and we feel very lucky to have found him.

We can't recommend John highly enough."

As of 3/27/10 John & Hobbes have qualified CD CDX & UD in AKC obedience competitions.

On May 13 2009, Jan Cope of Martinez, CA. wrote:

"Segan, our Doberman, was four months old when he joined our family. Already fifty pounds and without any training, I knew I needed to find someone to help me train him.

Though the recommendation of a friend, I contacted John at Euro Training. My friend touted John as "one of the best trainers in the area". Segan and I arrived for a consultation and I was impressed with the time John spent getting to know both of us. Under John's tutalege, I learned how to work with Segan.

I am now the proud owner of a well-mannered, self-assured aminal that is a plesure to live with. Segan travels with me while I work, so he is continually exposed to new places, people and situations. Not a day goes by that I don't receive a compliment on his behavior, and his happy attitude. Thank you John!"

On May 23, 2009, Maureen Cook from San Francisco wrote:

"Oliver was six month old when he came to live with me in San Francisco, an untrained puppy with a mind of his own. Fortunately I was referred to John O'Connor and school for both of us began immediately.

Oliver, though charming and laid-back from day one, is challenging. We had individual classes for about ten months and his bad behavior, unsually because of my inconsistency, was stopped before it could develop into aggressive and unsafe habits. Thanks to John, Oliver minds my commands as well as his manners. He is gentle with toddlers and playful with children, though he is truly happiest hanging out with other city dogs. In outdoor restaurants his obedient behavior is noticed and commented upon. We are enthusiastically welcomed to return and people always ask who trained him.

I have referred countless dogs, and their owners to John. I tell them the drive to Martinez, though a bit far away, is worth every mile. That's why Oliver and I still go to Saturday classes, which are instructional and fun, both for dogs and for people."

On July 7th 2009 Patti Livanos from San Ramone wrote:

When Kuriboh was a puppy, he was a curious mix of overconfidence and bravado coupled with a host of pretty acute anxieties.  On one hand, he refused to accept me as his pack leader and would even go so far as to jump up and rip my shirt or jacket from the shoulder whenever I dared to utter the word “no” to him.    He had no respect for me or other members of my family, play biting much too hard or running into us on purpose when we played.  On the other hand, he was terrified of the stairs, cars that were passing from behind us on walks, jumping in and out of the SUV, and all other dogs that might bark at him.  I would meet a friend for tea (without Kuriboh) at a place very popular with dog owners, and yearn to have a well-behaved dog like the ones I’d see there who could not only behave well but were also excellent companions.  I truly began to despair that Kuriboh would never be able to be that for us.  Even taking him for a walk was troublesome.  He’d pull back on the leash and refuse to walk forward, or just sit there.  The only way we’d make it around the block was to lure him with food or have my son playfully coax him along.  People would come out of their houses and tell us how much they laughed when we went by, or strangers would stop their cars, roll down the windows and say something like, “Don’t you hate it when they embarrass you?”  And he wasn’t trustworthy.  He’d act innocent when you were in the room, but as soon as you left he found some kind of trouble to get into.

On October 28th 2009 Gwen Davies from Martinez wrote:

John O’Connor is a great teacher, dog trainer and human being. He’s kind and thoughtful about all that he does concerning people and their dogs. You can’t go wrong in hiring John as he has vast knowledge and experience with dogs and their behavior. His calm and quiet way with a dog is reassuring to the dog and the owner.  John gave me and my family the tools to integrate Roxy into everything we do in our lives.  I can’t sing his praises enough.  Gwen Davis, Martinez CA

On January 17th 2010 Heather & Ricardo from Walnut Creek wrote:

My husband and I ended up rescuing a 2 year old female german shepherd
last summer.  I was a little hesistant at first because I never owned a
german shepherd and didn't know what to expect, but when I met her she was
so sweet and gentle I instantly fell in love with her and thought to
myself.. "This dog is so mild she can't possibly harm anything".  So
without knowing anything about her background and both of us inexperienced
with dog training we took Anka home to be apart of our family.  Yep....we
were in for a big surprise.

We found out pretty soon that Anka has a high prey drive, extremely hyper
and is very dog aggressive.  Not only that, we found out that her father
is Jabino Falco who is classed as a SCH 3, IPO 3.  Needless to say Anka
ended up being more of a dog than we imagined.

We had difficulty controlling her on lead when we went on walks.  We had
to avoid other owners walking their dogs because Anka would lunge at the
dogs barking and growling.  Often times people picked up their small dogs
in fear our dog would bite them.  I was so frustrated that I could not
control her and I became so worried that she would hurt another dog.

Thank goodness somebody recommended John O'Conner.  He immediately made us
feel like we could train our dog with the appropriate tools and training.
His experience and knowledge helped us train Anka and stop her aggressive
behavior towards dogs.   I can take her hiking and I have complete control
on and off lead.  She will heel, come, sit and stay on and off lead.
Thanks John, we really wouldn't have been able to keep her if it had not
been for you.

Heather and Ricardo.

On the 4th March 2010 Mark & Jean Stanley, from Moraga, wrote:

I have always wanted a Rottweiler and with the kids now gone it was my turn to pick the dog. We obtained Sumo from a Rottweiler Rescue Kennel. Although Sumo had been previously trained it was clear that he had developed some bad behavior problmes. My wife and I were uncomfortable walking Sumo when other people or pets were out and about. Although the rescue kennel did not recommend taking Sumo to a trainer we did not want to be worried every time we took Sumo for a walk. After talking to a number of trainers, none has experience working with Rotties, we learned about John's Euro Training Kennel. On our firest visit we were impressed with John's background and experience. I appreciated his candor and clear explaination of what was possible. We set up a schedule and met weekly. We were very impressed with the immediate changes we saw in Sumo and how quickly he responded to the training John taught us. Under John's guidance we have learned how to establish and maintain control over Sumo and his behavior. During one session, John asked if we wanted to work with Sumo off the leash. At the time I thought I would never be willing to have Sumo off the leash by myself. Today, we take Sumo out and will often let him off the leash. He is under our control at all times, he heels, and responds to our commands as if he were connected to us by the leashe. Without hesitation, we walk the Lafayette Reservoir, go on trips to Monterey, or on walks around our neighborhood. Along the way, people come up and ask to meet and pet Sumo. We receive compliments on what a well behaved dog he is. After a few sessions, I realized John was teaching us more than he was training Sumo. John is a very patient teacher, thorough in his explainations, and works well with both the dog and owner. Whenever asked, we attribute Sumo's good behavior to the training and teaching we received from John.