Smith Canine Academy

I cannot say enough incredible things about Kristen Smith and her team at Smith Canine Academy. We have 2 rescue dogs, both with their own special quirks and SCA has been our go-to trainer and support system for both. This team of generous and compassionate trainers have taken a weight off my shoulder and I know I can always count on them for help when we need it. I would recommend them to anyone looking for training/walking/advice services for their pup, weather already well trained or needing lots of TLC.

Kristen is the BEST!

I have a dog that is terrified of the vet. She has worked with me and vet to try and relieve my dog’s anxiety . She has taken the time to explain why my dog is afraid of the vet and created customized lesson plans for my partner and I to do .

She is excellent at what she does ! She explains the why and how ! I would highly highly highly recommend her !

Have I mentioned she is the BEST?

Smith Canine Academy is the best of the best in Guelph. Every single staff member has been phenomenal with Blueberry, especially Kristen and Anna. They’re amazing with him and mindful of his anxieties as a rescue pup. He gets more excited to see them than he does to see us! They’ve been amazing to our family and have always been able to accommodate training walks, dog sitting, and day care. He comes home happy, tuckered out, and safe. We especially love the messages they leave about his sessions and the photos. We can’t recommend Smith Canine enough — they’ll definitely help your pup be their best!

Our dog Clyde is a rescue who we didn't get to meet before came home with us. He was very reactive and would lunge and bark at all other dogs, cats, squirrels and cars/trucks. Kristen worked with him twice a week for 8 months and it made a HUGE difference. He now can pass dogs on the street with just a small whine, doesn't bark at cars or trucks, and is much better with his prey drive. We also loved that he was being let out of the house while we were at work at the same time! The app Kristen uses shows you where they go, and includes pictures at pick up and drop off. Definitely recommend!

Indie was our very sociable 2 and a half year old Australian shepherd. His herding mentality was making walks unbearable - barking and lunging at bikes going by, birds, other dogs, trucks etc. It made going outside with him nearly impossible! And In walks Kristen! Her extensive knowledge, experience and gentle touch with Indie provided a complete 180 after just 1 lesson! We are now able to go on long walks without fear of him lunging or barking at passerby’s. Kristen’s continued support after her visit, provides us with the utmost confidence that we, as well as Indie will succeed.