About Top Dogs Naples

In-home training in Naples

Naples Top Dogs is an in-home dog training and pet sitting business in Naples that says it has been training in the area for over 20 years; a longtime client notes the company was formerly South Florida Premier K9 Trainers. Allison Christian is its trainer, and she is also head trainer for the German Shepherd Rescue of Southwest Florida, where she runs group sessions for socialization and obedience. Training starts in the home and then moves outdoors and into public places.

Method and credentials

The company uses positive reinforcement only, with no force, and follows a LIMA (least intrusive, minimal approach) philosophy. It offers AKC Puppy STAR and CGC training, and its trainers belong to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

Programs

Puppy training comes in three levels: Puppy Pre-K (8 sessions over 30 days for puppies 8 weeks to 6 months), Junior Puppy and Senior Puppy. Private sessions cover obedience from basic to off-leash, behavior modification, reactive dogs, separation anxiety, resource guarding and help choosing a puppy or rescue. Training for emotional support, psychiatric service and diabetic alert dogs is also offered, and group lessons meet in Golden Gate Estates. Pet sitting includes overnights and drop-in visits.

What owners say

One client wrote: "Allison Christian is incredible! She has trained my husband's service dog."