First Friend K-9 Training

Pearl Clark

2023-12

I heard about FFK9 from a coworker, a person at a pet store, and saw reviews online so I decided to give them a shot with my first dog. We went to puppy class and he learned a lot. People comment on how well behaved he is to other dogs his age when we are out. He gets very excited when we pull into the parking lot because he knows he gets to see all his friends. He goes to daycare once a week too, and the staff are super nice and friendly. The play and learn training you can do during daycare is great. So many cute photos of my pup. You can tell that Bruce, the owner, really cares about dogs and what he’s doing. Signed up for novice class to continue our fun.

Shawn Phillips

2024-04

Bruce and his team of trainers do a great job of making everyone feel at home in his facility . They take great pride in what they are teaching and it shows every single time I’m there. First friend K9 helps you train your dog so in reality they must train you to be a better dog handler some people don’t understand that part of the process . Bruce and his team are great with your first friend but they are training you to be confident, knowledgeable, and understand your animal. In my opinion, couldn’t ask for a better group of people I thank you and I know Stella thank you.

Aleks M

2024-01

We have been part of the First Friend family for 5 years now. We walked in one Saturday morning back in 2018 lost and looking for the first steps to take with our rescued German Shepherd/Husky mix. Bruce and his wife Debbie were amazing. They gave us tons of information to get started off on the right foot with our puppy. We immediately signed up for their puppy classes, then proceeded through the novice course, and have been attending the weekly Advanced Course since that time. When the opportunity came to purchase a puppy from one of Bruce’s litters we couldn’t pass up the opportunity. We once again completed all of the training with our 2nd dog and are constantly amazed at all of the compliments we get about our dogs when in public. We cannot say enough good things about this facility, the quality of instruction provided, and the amazing staff. Bruce, Debbie, and all of the staff are truly family. The excitement from our dogs when they get to see their friends, humans & four legged, is such a special thing to see.

Becky Oldham

2023-12

We have been going to Bruce and First Friend for over 20 years now. Our 4th dog just graduated from puppy class (2 boxers and 2 aussies over the years). We can’t recommend them enough. It doesn’t matter what breed you have, they work with them like the professionals they are; whether small dogs or large dogs. We also love that you can take the training as far as you want, with a class that meets all stages of your dog’s life from puppy to advanced to agility class. Bruce is a straight shooter who gets the job done and the result is the dog you want as your family member. Never retire Bruce🤣

Brenda Huewe-Gomolak

2024-04

Our pup, Luna, is a Boxer/German Shepherd mix- lots of energy and very head strong and smart! Bruce and his trainers taught us basics of dog training by talking us through, modeling, and allowing us to practice while they gave corrective feedback. Bruce is an excellent teacher because he is high energy, funny, and keeps things moving! We also did the boarding/training for one week with Alexis- another wonderful teacher/trainer! I think Luna loves her more than us!

H “Mayflower88” H

2024-01

This is our second puppy class at first friend in over 15 years. We came right back bc our first experience was so good with our first pup. Bruce has a gift for this. He understands dogs but also people and tries to set folks up for success. We enjoy the laughs too as the classes are as entertaining as they are focused and educational. Everything is easy to understand and we are coming out with a dog who has a great foundation.

Kari Kuper

2024-04

We recently just completed puppy class (and graduated!) under the direction of Bruce and his team. It had been 18 years since we have been in the puppy stage and while I consider myself an experienced dog owner, this class was essential for us! Each week we learned new lessons for training our puppies, but us as owners and leaders as well. We were given the tools and materials to set us up for success. They gave us plenty of opportunities to seek extra help and guidance and always a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Bruce and his team for any level of training needed and plan to continue on with next round of classes!!

Hannah Mullinax

2023-11

I took my very first dog Willow to both puppy kindergarten and the novice class and I'm so happy I did. Bruce and the trainers make it so obvious how much they love what they do and they love working with all the dogs and the trainers. They're super passionate and knowledgable not just on dog training but also how to have a great relationship with your dog. They put in an effort to get to know you and encourage you throughout the process.They're a little out of the way for me but I trust them so much that I'm willing to make the trip out there when Willow needs to go to daycare. I highly highly recommend going to First Friend if you have a new puppy, a new adult dog, or a current dog you're wanting some guidance on how to train.Here is Willow at her first day at puppy kindergarten and her graduation from the novice class :)

Laura Hoots

2024-04

We signed up our puppy for classes here after at least 4 other families recommended Bruce and his team for training. We have completed Puppy Class and are nearly done with Novice. I am so impressed with our dog’s behavior after learning the skills to succeed. We also take our high energy pup (a mini Aussie) to daycare here at least 3 days a week which he thoroughly enjoys! There are other daycare options closer to our house but I choose to drive farther because I know the things the learns in class are reenforced and he is familiar with the team and space! We plan to continue training with the Advanced class to help our pup thrive!

Sk8ter Indy

2024-03

We've trained several of our dogs at First Friends K-9 classes. Over the years, we consistently received compliments regarding how well behaved our dogs were. Bruce is awesome with managing difficult behavioral "issues". It's so nice to be able to take your dog anywhere and know you can trust them and they are happy. As an owner, you have to follow the program of consistency outlined in the classes. The results won't disappoint.

Jasmine Petrie

2024-04

My parents and I have taken three dogs through the novice and advanced classes now. All have done exceptionally well and enjoyed the class. We really like when the weather is nice and we are able to take the dogs outside for class.

michael robinson

2023-12

Over 30 years of training my dogs with First Friends. Currently not sure who gets more out of the advanced class my 5 year old doodle or my 70 something me ! Bruce and the trainers that work with him are in a word AMAZING!

toni murnan

2024-02

I love K-9 Training. My dog loves to go there. He went to puppy kindergarten and then the novice class. We are going to go for the next training in the spring. I also love that they have daycare that he loves and some time will see about boarding. I highly recommend taking your dog there for all your needs. I won’t go anywhere else. Staff is awesome!!!

Hannah Buchanan

2024-01

very trusting facility with high educational knowledge on K9 training. My dog has been through multiple training classes through this facility. All the staff members are knowledgeable, trusting, and caring. I take my dog to daycare frequently where she gets trained. My dog has a very good bond and trusting relationship with Alexis. Alexis has not only helped train my dog but she also takes the time to educate me. I could not thank this place enough for loving my dog almost as much as I do.

Necee Jennings

2023-12

We took our 3 month old puppy here based on researching other puppy training places and this place had by far the best and most reviews. After the first class we knew this was a place where we could get the help we needed. Bruce and team are super helpful when it comes to teaching what you need to know for a well behaved dog. If you’re a sensitive person then this is not the place for you because he pushes you how to be the best for your puppy… he does not train your puppy but instead gives you the direction that is needed and gives you homework so if you don’t work at home with your dog it will be evident in class. Highly recommend anyone taking their puppy here!!

Christina Whitten

2024-01

Can’t give them enough credit for what they do! I have such a well-trained dog because of First Friends. They also deeply care about their customers- my dog was lethargic during a class and when I voiced concerns, Bruce personally called his vet to get us seen on a Saturday. He then followed up with how my dog was doing. I then had issues crating my dog, and he called to follow up on how it was going. Bruce and his team are very smart and very good at what they do, but they also care so much about the well-being of dogs and their owners. We will be back for more classes!!

Rachel Miller

2023-12

I've taken 2 of my German shepherds to First k9 friends. My shepherds were a pain in my butt. With the help of Bruce and his staff they are well mannered and listen very well. I recommend this facility 100 times over! I just got another pup and definitely will be taking him here for training!

Tamara Modglin

2023-08

First Friends k9 training has saved my sanity. I have a 9 month old Golden Doddle and started puppy classes then moved onto novice classes. She was an uncontrollable fluff ball of energy before starting training. I was unable to get her to settle down or walk on the leash without her almost taking me to the ground. Through puppy class she learned how to listen and even though she was clumsy and stubborn learned a loose base of the training. Which led me to sign us up for novice classes.Now training is our favorite day of the week. She is more confident in herself and I feel more confident that she will listen. She has stopped the nipping and biting. She now knows she can depend on me to lead her in the right direction. Do not get it wrong the team is Training YOU to train your first friend. There are classes that offer boarding while training or One on One training too! Which is great if you have a crazy work schedule. Though the class has many dogs it is ran great. Instructors are there to help you as needed. The number of dogs and their owners has helped my dog greatly. It can be distracting but in life when you really need your dog to listen there are going to be many distractions. Plus your dog gets to know how to interact with other dogs and their owners!!Without the help of Bruce and his amazing team I would have lost my mind long ago!My first Friend and I enjoy the training and increasing our knowledge so much I would love to continue onto Advanced classes. Hoping to be able to save up for the class soon and keep excelling in training.First Friends also has doggy day care and Grooming by Katie. They are great priced and will even work on the training with your dog. My sweet girl was groomed today and I cannot stop looking at how cute she is now. If you are looking for a groomer Katie is the best. With doodles it is hard to keep up on all the brushing but with her advice I am able to recognize where I need to focus more on to keep her knot free. Katie if you are reading this you are my hero!Thank you again for helping my First Friend and myself bond and enjoy our time training in and out of class!

Marissa Johnson

2024-04

I attended the orientation and knew within minutes that I wouldn’t be moving forward with training. It felt like a cult the way that Bruce expected people to repeat his “teachings.” He was very arrogant and obviously biased against small dogs. I wish I had done more research before signing up, but they nickel and dime you so that if you attend a “consult” (aka just buying your leash) and don’t enroll in training you are still charged. I’m sure it works for some people and some dogs but do as much research as you can before signing up.

E E

2024-02

Our goal was to support our dog with his overexcitedness when guests come to the house. Brian (obedience trainer) is outstanding. He displayed such insight and professionalism. He was able to give us tools to provide better structure and consistency for our dog. We definitely recommend First Friends K9 ❤️🐾

Caroline Voelz

2023-11

We couldn't be more pleased with our experience! Bruce and his team are fun, compassionate and understanding. They have taught us how to best communicate with our first friend. We were excited to see the difference in our pup's behavior and overall listening skills by the end of our eight-week class. Thank you to everyone who took part in our training!

Clare Longendyke

2023-12

Our family was recommended to First Friend from another trusted dog family, and now we are happy to pass the recommendation forward! Bruce, Gabi, Laura and the entire team at FFK9 are the absolute best in the business. Our first pup, Petey, benefitted from 4-week in-kennel training in 2022 and continued to improve his training in Novice, Advanced, and Agility classes. Our newest pup, Zuzu, graduated from Novice class very recent. We use their day-care and boarding regularly, too. Highly recommend!

diane clowers

2023-12

I have been taking my puppy there and they are great. I highly recommend. They even offer additional training for a nominal fee. You can tell Bruce and his staff are highly passionate about what they do. I highly recommend. My dig loves going for daycare. Its such fun for her. You can't go wrong my dog went for puppy and novice classes.

Amanda Chismar

2023-12

I took my little pug here for puppy class, I enjoyed the knowledge of Bruce and the trainers. My stubborn little pug definitely benefited from the classes. I will consider using them again for future classes and needs. I also benefited, wonderful experience.

Kevin Jessup

2023-12

Have done six different classes through FFK9 and learned a lot about training my dogs. Would definitely recommend puppy classes for every new puppy whether it is your 1st dog or 25th. Always a good refresher and opportunity to socialize your puppy.

melisa lalich

2023-05

It's been about 20 years since my first briard was trained at first friend K9 and almost 20 years later, I am happy to report that the level of training my THIRD briard received this October, was just as skilled and impeccable as my first!I literally drove across the country from Phoenix Arizona so that my pup and I could benefit from the renowned skill and expertise that only Bruce McNabb and his crew can deliver. Dog training is unregulated in Arizona and anyone can call themselves a "trainer"and believe me, you can tell who's worked at PetSmart and now calls themselves an "expert" 🙄I won't and can't afford to trust my dog's training to just anyone with a t-shirt and business card.Bruce's training methods AND results (then and now) are truly amazing, long-lasting, and solid if you continue to reinforce what your dog has learned at first friend K9.Once again, I am grateful to Bruce and his staff for their dedication and the quality of training they invest into their dogs. It was totally worth every bit of the 1750 miles I drove to get my dog Sugarbear here to First Friend for their in kennel training programI cannot recommend First Friend K9 training services ENOUGH to anyone who is serious about having a well-behaved dog that will be accepted everywhere it goes and will be beloved and respected by all who encounter it's amazing manners and obedience. ❤️Highly satisfied and forever grateful,Melisa Lalich PHX AZ.**a special Thank You to Gabrielle for her dedication, consistency, and amazing results. TY 🐾🐾🐾

Emily Wargo

2023-10

When I say I will never have another dog without sending them here, I mean it. I have two dogs who combined, are bigger than me. Walks were impossible and overall I was at a loss of what to do for them. Sent them both here for one week for training and the week alone made a life change for me. My dogs still have areas to improve (totally on me, not them) but they gave me the tools to work on those areas. Gabby is hands down the most bada$$ trainer too. She explains it all to you and you can tell her heart is in it. I was embarrassed by how long I waited to find a trainer and she never once has made me feel shamed for it like others have. She truly just wants to help my little monsters improve. The training, daycare, boarding, everything they offer is *chefs kiss*

Morgan Goodpaster

2019-05

We love FFK-9!! When we got our blue heeler, Maisie, we knew we had to find a good trainer. She is a puppy, and I did not want her to be crazy for life. My mom took our family dog here 15 years ago, and she loved it, but I wasn't sure it would be ran the same way. So I was a bit nervous. But Bruce and his team are amazing!! Bruce gives you all the tools/knowhow to train your dogs correctly. You honestly just have to put in the time and before you know it your dog will behave better! I also want to give a shoutout to Hailey and John who work there. They are so kind, great at making people feel at home, and quickly remember who you are. We've attended 2 classes so far and plan to do the advanced class and agility classes in the future.

D S

2022-05

I've brought 2 of my previous rescue dogs here for Novice classes. This is our first puppy. I'm really enjoying this class. The brushing, ear cleaning, brushing of the teeth & nail trimming lessons have been amazing.

G Fatima

2024-02

My Siberian Husky graduated from the Puppy Class last week and while it’s our 3rd time training at Bruce’s First Friend K-9 we can’t ever get over how important and onpoint Bruce’s training is for a new puppy.We adapted our puppy 2 weeks before we started our class and we right before adapting knew that First Friend would be the only place to be for training our puppy.In 8 weeks, we had an amazing, well trained puppy who was so obedient, and well mannered. This was done through weekly classes and reaffirmation of 10 mins training everyday. I didn’t have the time to train more but I stuck to the same schedule and Bruce’s training concepts and it was GOLD!Highly recommend Bruce for your First Friend, you will NOT REGRET it! This is so essential to create the best experience for your puppy and YOU!