Dogs love to run around and explore their environment, using their noses to find the next place to investigate. Allowing your dog off-leash freedom means they can be allowed more freedom to exercise, play, and just be a dog! We will teach you how to safely train your dog for superior reliability and control without a leash.
Why is Off-Leash Training Important?
Expertise Highlight
Sometimes your dog gets off-leash on accident; maybe they saw a squirrel or a cat and they rip the leash out of your hand as they take-off at a sprint. Or maybe your dog enjoys wandering, but when it’s time to go home your dog decides to play a one-sided game of “tag”. No matter where you live in San Diego or what your off-leash troubles may be, we have the expertise to make your dog’s training exciting, fun, and safe!
Approach
Off-Leash Training can be approached several different ways, and training is highly dependent on your dog’s temperament, age, and level of impulse control. As balanced trainers, we will use various tools and techniques training your dog, sometimes including e-collars. Through consistent training and practice, we believe any dog can be safe and reliable off-leash.
Please Note: Depending on your dog, your goals, and the difficulties you are facing, we may require use of an e-collar for safety concerns..
Details of our Programs
What to Expect
You will learn how to engage with your dog without the use of a leash and incorporate their leashed obedience and behavioral training into leash less scenarios. As your dog is taught basic boundaries and rules to his off-leash activities, we will begin to incorporate more excitement, greater functionality, and safety to their daily life and training. Please note: Our Complete Off-Leash Training Program is only offered to dog’s who enroll or are already enrolled in another dog training program.
Duration
This program typically adds 1-2 weeks to your dog’s training.
Kris Hansford
2025-01-06
Zach is an absolute professional in every aspect of the word! After adopting my German Shepherd, Asher, I learned that my basic knowledge of "sit, stay, down" was not nearly enough for my dog's needs after he exhibited some reactive behavior. I invested in a comprehensive training program and was extremely lucky to have Zach help me overcome some huge obstacles with behavior modification for Asher. From day one, Zach was extremely knowledgeable, patient, and thorough in helping me understand the root of Asher's behavior, and various techniques to manage and maintain obedience. Zach gave me the tools and skills to succeed, and I had FUN putting in the time and effort to keep my dog well-trained! Zach made things easy to understand, and he helped me reinforce my bond with Asher. I am extremely grateful for Zach's time and expertise!
I HIGHLY recommend Zach for any dog training need - big or small. You won't be disappointed!!
Richard Beckhart
2024-12-31
Before Zach’s training our two dogs (a five year old Labrador retriever and a one year old German Shepherd/Great Dane/Mastiff mix) were difficult to walk and difficult to control in both inside and outside environments. Zack came to our house, met the dogs, talked with the family about expectations then went to work. Everyone (both dogs and all family members) were involved in the training. Zack showed how to train for a certain behavior, then each family member worked with the dog. After each training session we were given “homework” to continue the process between sessions. I am truly amazed at the change in our dog’s behavior. Our Lab is walking off leash and the youngster walks with a loose leash. Control is not an issue. Our dogs are much happier since they know what is expected of them and the family is delighted to be able to apply the teaching techniques we have learned. Toko Dogs provides exemplary training for all concerned (dogs and people). Zack and his company are highly recommended for your dog training needs.
Karry McDannald
2024-12-21
Our 1-year old Lab, Royce, had a few behavioral issues. My husband & I were needing some help with jumping, excessive barking & counter surfing. We opted for the Board & Train program as I was having back surgery and would not be able to put the training time in every day. Royce has learned SO much in those 3 1/2 weeks. Although we need to continue with his training at home, we are amazed at the difference Zach has made. Royce will come to us on command. He did not jump on us when he came home. He has very little reaction, if at all, when visitors come to the house. We are SO pleased and honestly in a bit of disbelief about how Royce is so well mannered after his “boot camp” training. Definitely recommend Toko Dogs & Zach for dog training. I am thrilled with the results!
Cy AB
2024-08-28
Meeting Zach was an absolute game changer for us! Our rescue dog, Gemma, had fear based aggression to dogs (not humans) and obsessive reactions to basketballs, soccer balls, bicycles and skateboards. We had several trainers before Zach. He focused on the whole dog in a kind, patient and passionate way for her overall growth. He is clear with his instructions and explanations of what to do and why to do it and teaches in layers of training with compassion and patience. Zach trains you as well as your dog. We have seen a tremendous change in Gemma. She is less anxious and is a much happier dog.
We are so happy to share that we just introduced her to a new rescue dog, Star, and they are best friends. That would not have been possible without Zach’s training. If you are in need of a trainer who truly cares and produces outstanding results, Zach is the best in the business.
G Galvin
2024-08-05
Zach was amazing with our rescued street dog, Charlie. Charlie was cute but could go from sweet to aggressive and biting in a second. Zach started with basic commands and heeling, which got Charlie to start listening to us. When Charlie kept grabbing any plastic bag or remnant of a food wrapper on our walks (probably how he used to feed himself), Zach made an inventive training process using plastic bags to get him to start ignoring them. Over the course of training, Charlie quit trying to bite us and even stopped chasing our cats! Almost from the first time Charlie met him, Zach had Charlie’s full attention and good behavior. Zach was just as great at teaching us how to do the same!
FAQ
Can I take my dog off-leash anywhere after completing your Off-Leash Dog Training Program?
Absolutely not! Just because your dog has an excellent heel walk and recall does not mean that every environment in San Diego is appropriate for your dog to be off-leash. When it is acceptable for off-leash activities, you and your dog will do so with greater safety, enjoyment, and confidence.
Do you train dogs for off-leash control without the use of e-collars?
Yes, we can and have trained dogs for off-leash control without the use of e-collars. However, a conversation must be had with your trainer about the strengths and weaknesses of the various strategies and tools we can use. Please Note: Depending on your dog, your goals, and the difficulties you are facing, we may require use of an e-collar for safety concerns.
Why is off-leash training so important?
Off-leash training is incredibly important for every owner because your dog likely spends the majority of their lives off-leash. Whether they are laying with you on the couch, or camping in the wilderness, the ability to shape your dog’s behaviors and have reliable obedience will reduce conflicts that may arise between you and your dog, and increase the satisfaction that you have on your excursions with your furry friend.
How To Start Your Training Journey!
Step 1
Schedule your free Phone Consultation with us so you can learn about our services, get a quote, and schedule a FREE In-Home Evaluation (zero obligation).
Step 2
Your In-Home Evaluation gives our trainer the opportunity to evaluate your dog, discuss program customization, and give you a live demonstration of how we will work with your dog.
Step 3
If we’re a good fit for each other, we’ll finalize your dog’s program, and start your dog’s training program as soon as the same week.
Toko Dogs provides services across the San Diego area including
Ready for personalized dog training classes in San Diego?
Related Services
Does your dog also struggle to stay seated when you want them to? Check out our Obedience Programs! If your dog struggles with barking, lunging, or snapping at people or animals, check out our Reactive Dog Training Programs.
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