About Stonnie Dennis Dog Training & Boarding

Who runs it

Stonnie Dennis Dog Training & Boarding is at 1800 Cabin Creek Road, Winchester, described on its own site as "a family-run working kennel in Winchester, Kentucky." The site says "For 30+ years we have trained dogs the same way we live with them: on land, in packs, through work, physically demanding activities, and repetition." Its stated scale line reads "30+ years of training • 305,000+ YouTube subscribers • 200+ five-star reviews • Family-Owned."

The approach

The site frames itself against reactive training: "Most dog training approaches are based on reactions to problems. Our system is completely different. We focus on building core obedience and socialization skills that keep dogs doing the right things so owners don't have to worry about reacting to one misbehavior after another."

Three named elements make up the method. Activity Based Learning — "the best kind of learning is learning by doing," with days "full of mentally and physically challenging activities." Mentor dogs — "Younger and reactive dogs learn from calm, experienced mentor dogs. Novice trainers also learn from interacting with calm, experienced mentor dogs." Real environments — "We train on acres of trails, creek, brush, hills, and everyday life. The world is the classroom."

What they offer

Two programs, both priced. Board & Train is "Selective, multi-week in-kennel programs," with a "Flagship 28-day program: $4,000." Online Coaching is "A year-long program for owners who will do the work at home," in which "Stonnie shares a complete amateur dog training video library and an online training journal" and "monitors the journal and provides feedback as the puppy matures through each developmental stage," priced at $1,500.

Who it suits

The site screens openly. A good fit if you "Want a dog that can live in real life, not just pass a class," "Are willing to be consistent after the dog comes home," "Value standards over shortcuts." Not a fit "if you want a 10-minute miracle, a treat-only routine with no structure, or a facility that hides the actual work."

The result they describe

"a companion that can settle at a soccer game, walk politely through town, go on off leash adventures, has great house manners, and make better decisions without being micromanaged."