John's Natural Dog Training Company

Serving all of San Diego County

We are San Diego's #1 In-Home Dog Trainer

"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 Read our latest article "The Shocking Truth"

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.  

Our distinctive approach to helping you train your dog centers around understanding the psychology of your canine. We teach you to end unwanted behavior by reinforcing good obedience thus allowing 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 way to live with their K9 companions.  

John has earned many AKC Obedience titles - for his dogs and many of his K9 clients. Our trainers work extensively with several therapy dog organizations and are evaluators as well. Several area rescue organizations refer us to assist them in re-homing difficult as well as special needs dogs. John volunteers his time to the Vista School District in a reading program for kids and canines. We conduct seminars every month for vet hospitals all over San Diego County.

San Diego's Most Experienced Dog Trainers

JNDTC currently employs three full-time dog trainers and two part-time trainers. Our trainers are all employees 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.

We are members of 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.

Many dog trainers claim to be certified. (CPDT) (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 organization, like joining a club, study a curriculum written by other members, and then take a test - usually on-line - and send in a video of themselves teaching a class and doing a private training session. 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 insight to be a great dog trainer. Certification does not guarantee experience nor insight. Indeed, even 20 year experience does not indicate that true innate talent is present. But, longevity does allow for talent and instinct 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.

Experience You Can Count On 

Our 20 years experience has proven to us that a quickly trained dog is usually not a well trained dog. If you have an aggressive dog, we can help! With one Behavior Consultation we can evaluate your dog and give you an honest assessment of your dog’s aggression which can help to determine what is best for you and your dog. We have puppy and advanced K9 obedience classes all over San Diego County in several convenient locations. We also offer military and private group discounts! Give us a call and speak to one of our trainers today.