Dog Training & Handling
We don't train dogs. We build them.
Instinct refined. Behavior defined.
San Diego's premier dog training — built on structure, trust, and a bond that lasts.
They just haven't met the right method yet. The right foundation changes everything.
Most people want a dog they can trust. What they don't realize is their dog needs to trust them too. We build both — and that's where everything changes.
Xavier doesn't just train dogs. He reads them. He reads you too.
The technique is always the same. The approach is different for every dog. That's what makes every program custom — not a different method, but a modified approach built around the specific dog and handler in front of him.
"In the end, it's more about training the dog's handlers than the dog."
Puppy Foundation · On Leash · Off Leash · Full Program · Advanced Obedience
Three levels — Detection & Alert · Defensive Bite · Offensive Bite. Qualified clients only.
Targeted work for specific problems. We identify the root cause and rebuild it the right way.
Obedience Retrieval · Scent & Detection Work
Determined at assessment. When full immersion is what the dog needs, we make it happen.
Task-specific training tailored entirely to the handler's needs. Limited availability.
"Xavier trained our 2 year old Pit/German Shepherd mix and we couldn't be more pleased. Now we can go eat outside at restaurants and Oda will maintain a down stay — just happy to be spending more time with us."
"My dog Mercedes was always very dog reactive. After training — Mercedes is like a much calmer, happier version of herself. I'm thankful for trusting his process."
That will be clearly discussed during your assessment. It's not a one-size-fits-all price because every dog starts at a different level and every behavioral challenge is different.
We cannot assess behaviors over the phone. Same reason a vet needs eyes on the dog before explaining a stomach ache — we need eyes on the dog, the handler, and the primary environment before we can explain the behavior. We're not just reading the dog at the assessment — we're reading the pair. That's how we know what actually needs to change, and it's also how we know if we're the right fit to make it happen.
Every dog progresses at a different pace — but here's the truth most people don't expect: the dog is the easy part. Dogs learn fast when the communication is clear and consistent. What actually takes the time is training you — building the timing, consistency, and leadership that makes the training stick. During your assessment, we'll walk through what that looks like for your specific dog and household.
The earlier, the better — but it's never too late. Puppies benefit from learning structure early, while older dogs are absolutely capable of learning new behaviors with the right guidance.
Behavioral issues are exactly why many people come to us. We'll evaluate what's causing the behavior, explain why it's happening, and build a customized plan designed to improve control, confidence, and reliability.
Yes — this isn't optional. Dogs aren't robots you drop off and pick up "fixed." Any program that hands your dog back without teaching you anything isn't training, it's a babysitting service with extra steps. You'll be taught exactly how we communicate with your dog, step by step, so you leave knowing exactly what to do — and confident you can do it. That's how the results actually hold once we're not there.
Whether you're raising a new puppy or working through years of unwanted behavior — it all starts with one conversation. Availability is limited.
Tell us about your dog. We'll handle the rest.
We typically respond within 24 hours.