Taylor Made Working Dogs

First off, let me state that I'm beyond happy with the team here. Now for the details. We were recommended by our breeder up north in Tracy that Taylor Made was a reputable spot in Southern California if we were seriously interested in getting our working line German Shepherd trained for obedience, schutzhund, or protection. I've read countless books on dog training and best practices - however, it never seemed enough or optimal. He had quirks that we didn't know how to address and we also wanted to teach him some games to entertain his mind. We were thinking of protection or schutzhund as a sport too, but didn't have any resources to go to.Taylor Made's team (Ian, Stetson, Liz) have been the most communicative and helpful group I could have hoped for. They provided us a solid foundation and insight toward how we should train our puppy to best meet my needs and my family's.The group obedience class was an eye opener as it addressed issues that I didn't know I was causing by my own training methods. Our puppy's responsiveness to the training was quick as well and there is a noticeable difference after one class.We plan to continue the group obedience but also do private lessons moving forward too so we can learn more about the various sports and higher levels of obedience. I plan to post a follow up down the road - currently, I would definitely recommend this team for training your working line dogs, or any dog for that matter. I have nothing but good things to say about their training methods and how communicative they are as a team. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

TLDR at the end for those of you who don't like long reviews. For those of you that do, you're in luck. I adopted my dog, Foxy, about 2 years ago. From the little history his rescue had on him, he was a stray in baja mexico that was taken in by an animal hoarder. He had clearly been abused and did not in any way act like a normal dog when I first got him. I had to teach him EVERYTHING-how to eat from a bowl, what a collar/leash are, toys, treats, belly rubs, you name it.Once I was able to get Foxy up to speed on the basics, I figured professional training would be super beneficial for him. Cue Petco. It was good enough for the ultra basics, like sit, down, wait, etc. but Foxy was starting to develop problems and I knew they couldn't tackle them based on our six weeks of training there. If your pup just needs polishing up, it's fine. But most IMO need a lot more.Foxy started to get super aggressive, ESPECIALLY to other dogs. He lunges, growls, pulls on his leash like a wild animal, spins, you name it. It started to come out from what felt like out of nowhere too, so I was super upset. I only wanted him to be well mannered and normal and not feel anxiety at the thought of taking him anywhere.Around this time, his sister's owner that I keep in touch with shared his sister's DNA results with me, and I was confused first and foremost, but disappointed next. He is a chihuahua/GSD mix, with a few others thrown in. I adopted him because I specifically did NOT want a working dog, a high energy dog, a needy dog, none of the above! He had a vet checkup shortly after the results and I asked his vet for advice. She gave me a list of ~100 trainers in the San Diego area that use positive reinforcement and said to call a few.Cue my literal saga here.I called through some from the list, a ton from yelp, and a few from friends suggestions. I would estimate that I called around 50, and I was genuinely shocked at the cost of some of them. $2k for 2 hours? With a "lifetime guarantee" was what I was quoted by a few. Unless you're teaching Foxy to talk, it's a no from me.Some of the others were more reasonable, but were still in the 200-500 dollar an hour range, with weird guarantees or stipulations. A lot of the reasonable ones had ridiculous wait lists of 4-6 months, though, so I was beginning to feel stuck.I decided that if this is going to cost me a limb (which at TMWD it doesn't, thank god!) I was going to find a trainer that specializes in GSD's and can prove it, since it is the dominant breed of his personality.I found TMWD on yelp and decided to call them up. Liz returned my call the following day and I let her know my struggles. She was informative but not pushy, which was refreshing. I set up a consultation for the following weekend on that call.I live in San Diego, so I knew going into training that it was going to be a drive. It's 1000000% worth it to me. I met with Rodney and Foxy, and he was also super informative and not at all pushy. We discussed Foxy's issues and he assured me that he's not truly an aggressive dog and that we can teach him to be better. My anxiety pretty much dissipated at this point. We settled on two private lessons, followed by a group class. Foxy going to a group class was, in my mind, next to impossible, but Rodney had no qualms. Our first private was SO productive. I haven't even had the second yet but I was so compelled to write about my experience. We fitted and used the Hermspringer prong collar on Foxy, which he has never been exposed to before, and I have seen tremendous results. He hated it at first, but Rodney assured me that they all do and to trust the process, and i'm so glad I did.Foxy now pays attention to ME when we walk--not other dogs, not lizards, squirrels, little kids, loud noises, me! In the same day as our first private! He has some more work to do, that is certain, but after having so much anxiety and stress over his behavior for the last two years, I can't believe how much better he is doing, and how much better i'm able to communicate with him after just one hour.Even though we haven't completed our second private or group class yet, based on Foxy's progress now I'm confident I picked the right trainer for him and that he WILL get there. If you're reading this and you've hit a wall like I did; tons of tries of different sedatives, watching every youtube video out there, suffering through sheer embarrassment of your dog's asshole behavior at any public place, tears of frustration, nights of no sleep, sadness thinking your dog will never be "normal" or "happy"--give TMWD a call. I wish I did MUCH sooner.TLDR: My dog was a huge asshole, and one lesson at TMWD and now he isn't. I wish I called them so much sooner! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I bought a GSD puppy from a pet store rather than a legit breeder and had numerous problems with dominance, obedience, mannerisms and overly just how to tame my beast of a puppy. I always seen dog training but for thousands of dollars, and I dont have that kind of money to just throw out to strangers who may not take care of my baby Creed. I found Kris on Google after hours of looking, and I saw his videos on YouTube and I was impressed. Never have I seen such a passionate team of individual care so much about a living creature more than the money. Kris and his team's main priority is the Dog, and it was never focused around the money. That is why I trust them. Liz is amazing, she is better than the vets. She has cured infections that the doctors said weren't present. She loves Creed and has this beautiful ray of passion for all dogs and their owners. This team of people are so good to you, it's ridiculous they dont care about the money, they care about your dog. I Highly recommend them. They ensure the dog is having a good time while they are training,and the results are amazing. I highly recommend them. Kris, Liz, Stetson, Gabe no complaints and they remember you and your dog even after you leave, it is such a personalized training facility that it's hard to believe it's California, they have their own land and house that they do the training and they literally live with your dog.-Shalena More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Very great knowledgeable team with up to date training methods. They produce really nice German shepherds and are very experienced with trainings of all breeds

Reviewed on Facebook

These guys are at the top of their game. One year ago we got a puppy from Kris and she has been an absolute perfect match for our family. She is great with our kids, super fun to train, she’s up for any adventure, has a better personality than most people I know and I like the fact that people will cross to the other side of the street when they see us out for a walk just because of how impressive she looks. As a first time German Shepherd owner we were looking not only for a world class breeder but also expert trainers who could coach us for the entire life of our dog and that is exactly what we have found here. Kris, Liz and Gabe have helped us from things like late night frantic new puppy questions, private lessons, obedience and protection training, nutrition and equipment recommendations, boarding, group classes and getting us started at their working dog club in IPO to everything else in between. Best breeder, trainers and dogs you can get. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Love love love them! From training advice, to ipo videos, and all of their awesome accounts! They have a real love for what they do there and you can tell in what they produce. Anyone who has one of their dogs or gets there dog trained there could call themselves lucky! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Kris and his staff are just amazing. They have helped me stay sane with my (no longer) dog aggressive dog. They have not only stopped that issue, but showed me other issues I didn't realize there was and fixed that as well. They are all so patient and very understanding. They are very eager to help. I will be recommending them to everyone I know with dogs. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I recently bought a puppy from TaylorMade Working Dogs who will be trained to be my service dog and I couldn't be happier. They always responded quickly and answered any and all questions/concerns I had. She is the most intelligent and sweet dog I've ever owned and I look forward to spending many years with her as my service dog. Everyone who has met her has commented on how awesome her temperament is and how beautiful she is. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

My husband and I are so pleased with Kris and his staff. We have personally worked with Kris, Liz, and Gabe from the team and have had wonderful results with our rescue. We have witnessed passion and a love for what they do. So much so, that we decided to adopt a beautiful Czech Shepherd from them. Thank you so much for what you do. I pray your business continues to grow and your team continues to improve in excellence. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I run a rescue in San Diego that mainly rescues mastiff breeds and have been looking quite a while for a trainer in San Diego and finally decided on Kris after seeing the results of a friends dog he had worked with and then meeting him myself and seeing his facility in Ramona. The first dog I sent to him was quite a case. He had a bite history, had attacked another dog and was previously relinquished to a rescue where he was at for 6 weeks and after all that time would barely let anyone touch him. When I first visited this dog after only a week of being with Kris he had to be brought out to me on a catch pole and cringed whenever anyone touched him. Today, I picked him up after a month in training and this time he looked at Gabe (one of Kris’ trainers) very lovingly and looked to him for guidance and security. He no longer cringes when he is touched and life is not the scary place it once was for him. He also got to meet a potential adopter today who ended up adopting him and he went to his forever home tonight. A huge thank you to everyone at Taylor Made Working Dogs for all you did for Sherman and helping set him up for success and a wonderful future. I will definitely be using you again and am so glad I found you and now have you as a resource! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

When I reached out to Kris about a pup, I explained that I wanted a female with enough drive to keep up with my active life, but that she also needed to be super balanced as her primary purpose would be as a companion animal. Over the past year and a half, my spunky pup has turned into a very stable, well rounded dog who is confident, but tolerant; lovable, but firm; a crazy energy nut, but a mellow house dog. Her temperament is a true credit to Kris’s breeding program; she’s accompanied me on busy subway systems, to a festival with 8,000+ attendees, watched over me while camping, shops with me at dog friendly stores, etc. You name it, this dog has probably done it with grace and a level head (granted with much enthusiasm as well.) Kris and Liz have also been great resources for questions that I’ve had along the way (even the stupid questions lol!) If you are searching for a GSD to become part of your family, I highly recommend contacting the Taylor Made crew. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I have a year old that looks just like this one.

Reviewed on Facebook

We LOVE our Taylormade dog! He's fun, energetic and beautiful! Thanks Kris!

Reviewed on Facebook

The best team around. Super knowledgeable about training, diet and all things dogs. So glad to have found such an awesome village.

Reviewed on Facebook

Not only does Kris breed phenomenal dogs, he is very easy to work with- even 6 hours away! Very prompt on his replies back, and available for any questions/concerns that I had. I would absolutely recommend him to someone looking to get into sport/IPO training or just for great quality bred German shepherd. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

These guys really got it figured out! Great training Great Breeding. I have worked with many of the Taylorhof dogs and they are great! I take my dog to Kris any time I need a tune up he is a Dog mechanic and I trust him to train and board my dogs often thanks for all you do for the breed guys! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Kris Taylor and Liz Snider are the best! I highly recommend Taylor Made Working Dogs for training, dog purchases, boarding, and food.

Reviewed on Facebook

Almost 7 years ago we found ourselves having to move to Mexico for financial reasons. Kris took our lazy fun loving pit and with an accelerated program turned him into (he already had "it") protection dog, ready to deal in Mexico. We were clueless and he gave us the clue. Since then he has provided us with another dog and is always there to answer our questions and respond to our concerns. Thanks Kris More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Kris is the only trainer I would recommend for your dog training needs! He is beyond knowledgeable and so easy to work with. You can't find a better combination of a down to earth and detailed trainer anywhere else!

Also, his breedings are outstanding! My husband and I recently got a puppy from TMWD and we are in constant amazement of how stable, driven, and beautiful she is! She's the whole package! Thanks Kris, Liz, and TMWD! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

This team I have been watching for a while. Some of the titles they have earned could be considered bragging rights. Getting connected with this team has taught me so much as a new handler. The individuals who I have encountered showed their passion for training. When I see them interact with their dogs, or board and trains I am always engrossed!! To be connected with these guys (and girls) is an honor. They know their stuff. Thank you for sharing your fire!! Looking forward to ordering some gear! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I could've sworn I rated before but I guess not! We got our crazy little German Shepherd from Kris and Liz and we love her so much. Even after it's been a few years I'll still message Liz about something with my dog and she'll respond with her advice and it's so helpful.

I still have training sessions that are long overdue so we hope to see them soon and learn more training.

And they have great boarding rates which I wish I lived closer so I could take advantage of the boarding! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Amazing trainer and breeder!! Whether your looking for competition IPO training or pet obedience, Kris is the way to go!

Reviewed on Facebook

I have trained with many people across the United States and I can confidently say that Kris Taylor is one of the best trainers I've come across. Highly recommended!

Reviewed on Facebook

I was very impressed with their professionalism and knowledge of dogs and their behavior. Most of all my dog and I were able to work on some issues that have been holding us back. They were exceptionally patient and took the time to explain things to me as I needed. Thank you guys so much. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Nick and Kris and have excellent training programs and very impressive breeding programs, along with a great group of people working with them. Together the possibilities are endless. I would recommend their services to anyone. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I have had the great opportunity to train with Nick for quite a while now and cannot say enough great things about the training my dogs and I have received! He custom tailors all training to each dogs needs and let's the dogs dictate how fast we can go. The training and results have been nothing short of amazing and I look forward to continue and get my puppies titled! Furthermore, his breeding program is phenomenal, the attention to detail and care of raising his puppies is truly spectacular. I am lucky enough to have a puppy from his program and she is proving to be amazing! I wouldn't hesitate for one second to recommend Kris and Nick for training, the quality you will receive can't be beat! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

We take our 5 month old German shepherd here and we absolutely love it. We started going when he was 12 weeks old and I don't think we're gonna go anywhere else! We do obedience and protection training with them and everyone definitely knows their stuff. We worked with Liz and stetson at first for puppy class and right now, we have been working with mostly Gabe for obedience and protection. They are all so kind and answer all my annoying questions without being annoyed! Lol. And best of all, I just love how they show so much attention to koa and really want him to do well. You just don't get that anywhere else. Also we live about an hour away but I think the drive is totally worth it! I completely recommend them if you're looking for some quality trainers!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I was a completely new German shepherd owner, and very curious on dog sports. Liz invited me up one day to have my evaluation for my dog and she was the sweetest and most kind person I have met so far. She has helped me come such a long way! If it wasn't for her and Kris as well, I probably wouldn't know much about working dogs or German shepherds. If it wasn't for relocating I'd definitely still be training with them today! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I recently bought a puppy from TaylorMade Working Dogs who will be trained to be my service dog and I couldn't be happier.  They always responded quickly and answered any and all questions/concerns I had. Even my vet was extremely impressed with her breeding and asked me where I got her. She is the most intelligent and sweet dog I've ever owned and I look forward to spending many years with her as my service dog. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Kris and Liz are very helpful when we have questions regarding our German Shepherd. We bought her almost two years ago and she is very smart and loyal. In terms of services, Kris and Liz are quick to respond and are accommodating since we live far away and can only train on weekends. We have also boarded with them before and they have great pricing for boarding. Wish we lived closer so we could do more training at their facility! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Amazing facility! Great breeding and training programs. They have a real care for what they do and their passion comes out in their work. I love following their Facebook, insta, and youtube accounts. Real quality More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Kris, Liz and the staff at Taylor Made Working Dogs are top notch. I have had many working dogs including  German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois and Rottweilers. I have used other trainers in San Diego, but never like them. They truly love their work and have equal patience with dogs and owners. We travel over an hour from Jamul to go there. They helped us change the life of a 2 year old male we rescued and one year later he is amazingly obedient. We recently acquired a 7 month old from them and hopefully will be doing IPO training with them. I recommend them above all. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Such an awesome and great staff they have here! Everyone is super knowledgeable about dogs and their training techniques are one of a kind. Working dog or not, they'll able to help you out with your dog training needs! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Dedicated folks

Reviewed on Google Maps

So proud of my TMWD team!

Reviewed on Google Maps

I was gifted with a beautiful German Shepherd who barked at everything, the wind, a leaf moving..you name it :he barked. Kris and Liz worked with Mojo for two months as they were trainig him for my specific needs. What an awesome turn around--thanks to them both. They cleared up his infection, tried all types of food to isolate what he was allergic to (he is now on a raw diet and I purchase the food from Kris) and gave me back a totally different partner. Whenever, I have any questions or concerns, they get back with me and advise me of how to correct the action. This is the place to take your furry baby. TAYLOR MADE WORKING DOGS is perfectly named as they TAYLOR your beast into a well manered partner More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My Husband and I recently moved here from Texas. We have two Working line GSD's, we Love the sport of Schutzhund. I myself desperately needed help with my dog and am so incredibly lucky to have found Kris at Taylor Made Working Dogs. Kris is so knowledgeable he can spot any issues you and your dog might have, find a resolution that fits not only the dog but you as a handler. Kris finds a way to explain things in a way you understand. He is patient and truly cares about his clients and their success in reaching the goals they have set for themselves and there dogs. Taylor made facility is set in a country atmosphere that suits all types of dogs. Both He and Liz are excellent roll models for any dog handler in any venue. Check them out you WON'T be disappointed! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Kris, Liz, Gabe & Taylor have all been great help! We take our Crazy Belgian Malinois, Rollo to Taylor Made Working Dogs for training in Protection & Obedience. They are by far the best trainers! We went to petco to try some "obedience" and it did absolutely nothing for our crazy man. If you want a well trained dog, and want a great connection with your dog. They can teach that! We drive an hour there and back every weekend for their training. Great prices too! I recommend TMWD to anyone and everyone! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Wonderful trainer and breeder! He truly cares about you purchasing the dog that will match your family.Weeks after we bought our awesome shepherd I asked a questions that had nothing to do with the dog I purchased from him but our other shepherd and he answered quickly and professionally. Thanks Kris and Liz for your caring heart and hard work! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have a 3 year old female GSD who needed a lot of careful training due to previous poor attempts by other trainers in northern SD county. Kris has a valid framework which takes time and practice for the owner to learn, but it is highly effective and uses canine instincts with marking good behavior and rewards. During our introductory lessons I learned more in the first hour than I had learned in months of reading, watching training videos and spending money on trainers who didn't deliver. He breaks down training concepts into small chunks that can be repeatable during the week until your canine responds to your commands (he uses leashes, verbal and physical cues). We graduated into intermediate training and my female shows more confidence and is more willing to follow my lead. These group lessons are also very affordable. Highly recommended to take the personal lessons if you want to address specific issues. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Kris Taylor of Taylor Made Working Dogs is one of the most gifted trainers I have ever had the pleasure to work with! I have been in the sport of IPO for a few years now, and have never worked with any one as talented before. He produces amazing puppies, true to breed standard and can handle any obedience problem you throw at him!! If you're in the Southern California area, this is your go to for the best training for sure! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Chris has great knowledge of dogs. Takes the time to learn your unique situation and what technique will work best for you and your pup. Made big changes in my dogs behavior in a very fast time. Highly recommended More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have a 3 year old female GSD who needed a lot of careful training due to previous poor attempts by other trainers in northern SD county. Kris has a valid framework which takes time and practice for the owner to learn, but it is highly effective and uses canine instincts with marking good behavior and rewards. During our introductory lessons I learned more in the first hour than I had learned in months of reading, watching training videos and spending money on trainers who didn't deliver. He breaks down training concepts into small chunks that can be repeatable during the week until your canine responds to your commands (he uses leashes, verbal and physical cues).  We graduated into intermediate training and my female shows more confidence and is more willing to follow my lead. These group lessons are also very affordable. Highly recommend!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I met Kris and Jessica 3 years ago when I was in a situation where I had to rehome my dog.  Even though this isn't a part of their service, I cannot even begin to explain how kind and thoughtful and caring they both were during this hard time for me.  Not only did they rehome my dog with compassion and professionalism, but they ensured me constantly that my dog was in a great home and treated well.Three years later Kris and Jessica remain close friends.  I can't wait to get another dog when the time is right and you betchya it's gonna be from Taylor Made Working Dogs! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Taylor Made Working Dogs is the absolute best out there for any dog training needs (for any breed).  I am a first time German Shepherd Dog owner and wanted to do my dog justice by taking her to a skilled and reputable trainer.  During my first puppy obedience session with Kris I learned more in 5 minutes than I had learned in months of reading and watching various training videos.  He breaks down training concepts into terms that are easy to understand and then achieve.  I believe my dog received the very best foundation in training she could have because of Taylor Made Working Dogs.  Highly recommend!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp