About Us

I absolutely will never use, and do not advocate, the use of electronic shock collars! - a good dog trainer, behaviorist or experienced handler would never need one.
John M. Rubin

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John's Natural Dog Training Company was established in 1991. John Rubin, and his wife Bonnie, incorporated their company in 1995 establishing Natural Pet Systems, Inc. as the parent company. John has been training dogs for over 20 years and has extensive equine experience as well.

John's desire to help owners better communicate with their canine companions drove him to build John's Natural Dog Training around his philosophy of a "natural" approach to communicating, handling, and training. All owners can benefit from utilizing John's methods without using fear, treats, or gimmicks like clickers, gentle leaders or cans with coins in them. We do NOT use, and never will advocate the use of pain compliance (electronic shock collars aka e-collars) nor physical abuse in the form of what is commonly know as "alpha dominance" techniques. A good trainer, behaviorist or handler would never need to utilize these methods.

We currently employ three full-time dog trainers and two part-time trainers. Our trainers are all employed by JNDTC and are not independent contractors. All employees utilize our natural methods and are committed to providing excellent customer service. We encourage you to visit any of our dog training classes whenever you wish.

Many dog trainers claim to be certified. (see article on Choosing the Right Dog Trainer) There is no governing board or "certification" requirement in the State of California for dog trainers. Most "certified" dog trainers simply join an association, like joining a club, study a curriculum written by other members, and then take a test - usually on-line. They pay a fee for their membership, and to keep their certification current. They are not regulated nor are they monitored by any agency. Membership does not ensure that the "certified" trainers employ similar methods nor does it guarantee the skill, competence, or experience of the trainer. In our opinion, this can create as many bad dog trainers as good. It can also lead owners into a false sense of security when hiring a trainer.

It takes skill and talent to be a great dog trainer.  We have trained a few dog trainers in the last 20 years. Few have gone on to open up their own businesses. Those that did, left with only the skills to be a good trainer but, in our opinion, too soon to actually develop the talent necessary to be great. The "pull" to be their own boss and own their own business was too great and they left quickly to pursue entrepreneurial dreams rather that perfect their craft in order to be the best they could be. Certification does not guarantee experience nor talent. Indeed, even 20 year experience does not indicate that true innate talent is present. But, longevity does allow for talent to be developed and honed. Referrals, repeat customers and testimonials can often be indicative of the developed skill and talent that is present. The absolute best indicator is your own personal experience. Consultations over the phone can be a start but the "in person" consult, with you viewing the trainer interacting with your pup is essential. You and your dog deserve a GREAT dog trainer.

We are members of the IACP (International Association of Professional Dog Trainers), and the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers), as we believe membership encourages ongoing education, and helps towards our common goal of developing better dog trainers using more humane methods. But we will most likely not seek certification until it is mandated by a regulatory agency. We have been in business longer than the CCPDT, and the APDT have been in existence. We are always seeking more education and new ideas - especially in the areas of canine psychology. Our trainers are sent several times a year to industry conferences and training seminars. We believe many organizations are headed in the right direction and we respect their efforts. But at this early stage, so much more needs to be done.

We are San Diego's In-Home Dog Trainer

• We teach you to cultivate your dog's cooperative and loving nature
• We teach you to understand the psychology of your dog

• We obedience train all breeds, all ages

• Our In-Home programs provide lifetime admission to group classes!*

• We are Approved AKC CGC Evaluators. (see Canine Good Citizen)

• We are members of the BBB - San Diego Better Business Bureau

• We are members of the APDT**, and IACP***

• We are Adult Human CPR Certified and Canine CPR/First Aid Certified

We Offer Comprehensive and Unique Training Programs to Fit Your Needs

Our unique approach to helping you train your dog, and end unwanted behavior, offers you the best chance of "naturally" bonding with your dog with fewer frustrations. We teach you to utilize your dog's natural instincts and loving cooperative nature throughout the training process. Our experience and intense knowledge of canine behavior allows us to share with owners the most effective ways to live with their K9 companions.

Our Private In-home Training Packages are the most popular and comprehensive obedience training programs available in San Diego. No other dog training company offers our level of service, quality and experience
	Platinum In-Home Program - Perfect for young pups and new owners. Receive one-on-one private training and lifetime access to all of our obedience and specialty classes
	Gold In-Home Program - Great for adolescent pups or experienced owners. Receive on-on-one private training and lifetime access to all of our obedience classes
	Silver In-Home Program - Terrific as a refresher course or for older dogs with experienced owners. Receive one-on-one private training with one round of obedience class
For more information on our private training packages please give us a call at 877-447-8597 and get started today!