The Wayward Canine
Lowell, MA, Middlesex
(39)
Lowell, MA, Middlesex
(39)
The Wayward Canine offers behavior modification for dogs with issues, obedience training, boarding and training, and in home boarding. Any dog, any age, any issue! Will travel, distance is not an issue in many cases.
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39 customer reviews
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Important Message.
⚠️ Important Notification: We See There Are Posts And Page Rules That You Violate Page Detected to Have Repeated Violations To Keep Your Page Active And Following Guidelines We recommend that you follow the steps that have been mutually agreed upon View and submit your complaint here: https://www. facebook.com/jessicamessali/posts/917850506371034 Thank you for following the agreed guidelines and rules This report in order to help us understand and resolve the issue. You can further help us fix this problem by sending complete logs and diagnostics. This may include information such as user activity logs, network logs, crash logs and memory dumps associated . We will not use the information contained in this report for other purposes Our Best Regards More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Haley Avery
The Wayward Canine is extremely diligent in caring for the dogs that walk through their doors. They are patient, kind, and take an individualistic approach to their training to make sure that dogs are learning at the best pace for them. Our dog Thor, was apart of a rehoming situation that they helped facilitate. Over the time that Thor stayed with them before he came to us, they insured that he was his most comfortable during the transition process. When we met him, he was healthy, happy, and had been taking care of as if he was one of their own. I highly recommend Josh + Alyssa and the rest of the staff at Wayward! Attached is the picture we took on the day we received him- look how handsome 😍 More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Paige Woodward
Our 9 month old German Shepherd, Juneau, just completed training at The Wayward Canine and we are thrilled with her progress. Before, she was very anxious and I felt like I had to avoid places where we would run into other dogs because she was reactive on leash. We wanted to be able to enjoy more of life with her and not be worried about that. Juneau has only been home for a couple of days and the difference is amazing. We went to Petco and a busy shopping plaza today and everyone commented on how well-behaved she was! We saw a lot of dogs, kids on electric scooters, and other distractions and she didn’t react at all. She also had separation anxiety and we were never able to successfully crate train her. Now, she goes into her crate on command and sleeps while we are gone. We are forever grateful for Josh and Alyssa and the work they have done (plus they put up with my craziness!) I would recommend them for training to anyone looking for their dog to reach their full potential. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Amy Ducheneau
Sending our 2 year old Dogo Argentino to Wayward Canine was the best decision we ever made as dog parents. Thor immediately took to Josh when we went for our consultation, which we both took as a great sign. After explaining what we were hoping to accomplish, Josh gave us a comprehensive breakdown of what Wayward could offer us and what would logistically be best for us (we live over an hour away). Of course we were devastated when Thor was dropped off for his four week train and board program but Josh and Alyssa are so good about keeping us involved via social media. The patience and understanding they showed me with all of my questions and concerns was so comforting. When it was time to meet Josh at the end of Thors training we were so anxious to see the progress. Our minds were completely blown. The transformation our dog went through in those weeks is beyond anything we expected. He has done a complete 180 and I actually asked Josh if he was okay being my hero. ???? (and I firmly stand by that!) Bringing Thor to Wayward Canine was the best decision not just because our dog is living up to his potential but because he was trained by two people who genuinely care about each dog they work with. It is clear in their messages, pictures and interactions with the dogs. I could go on and on, honestly, but I’ll wrap this up by saying if you’re looking for boarding or training for your dog do yourself a favor and bring them here. You won’t regret it! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Ryan Dern
Josh and Alyssa are very knowledgable trainers with a balanced and effective training repertoire to meet the needs of a variety of Canines from sport dogs to companion animals and puppies to adult dogs. They truly care about the dogs and their owners. Highly recommended! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Emma Papadakis
Alyssa and Josh are absolutely amazing! Not only are they extremely kind, efficient, and responsive but they are a total wealth of knowledge. You would be insane to bring your dog anywhere else. I’m extremely lucky to of found Wayward! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Madcat Madigan
Hi. I took home a puppy from Mass Berneedoodles (Molly’s Feb 14 litter). I one million percent recommend to get your fur baby into the foundations training At The Wayward Cainie. It was tough to pick our puppy at gotcha day and then not see him for a week, but Sandi-(bashful) was crate and almost housebroken from day one. I am still in shock. It has made being a new puppy mom so enjoyable. Literally I stuck to the schedule like clock work ( it’s like boot camp) but the dividends paid off. He eats his three meals a day in the crate and sleeps from 10:30-7:00am. Josh has been just a phone call away anytime I had questions. Not only helpful- but patient with this new puppy mom and fun to chat with. Alyssa did such a great job with the initial food trading that at 10 weeks SANDi already sits and comes on command. My peeps think I am a genius - but I take none of the credit it was all foundations. Cant wait for leash training. @sanditheberniedude on Instagram. Kim More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Tim Wieland
Josh and Alyssa saved our dog! Our Bernadoodle showed possessive aggression and unpredictable lashing out at my kids. He had been trained with positive reinforcement since 12 weeks old, but it wasn't enough. We couldn't think of letting him go, so this was a last ditch effort to keep him in our family. Josh and Alyssa's work with the e-collar changed our dog. He just needed a different approach, and we are now HUGE proponents of the e-collar training. He is now a loving member of our family. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Karen Aiello
A very big Thank you to both Josh & Alyssa i brought my 2 yr old Pittbull Taz for training for leash walking.... as he is very strong & a super puller & i was unable to walk him. After the training....i can now say that i am so excited that I can now finally walk my dog without him pulling THANK YOU BOTH VERY MUCH! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Abby Stern
I highly recommend Josh and Alyssa for dog training! We had a 10 week old bernedoodle who was in much need of house and crate training- two weeks later she was an almost perfect pup! Not only do they both do an excellent job with the dogs but they are available during AND after for questions and concerns that we may have. That to me is money well spent! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Jen Rutstein
We sent our dog there for training. She would pull you around on the leash and wouldn’t listen when you called her back. She stayed for the 4 weeks and she is such a different dog. She walks great now and will come when we call her. We can’t thank you enough! Dakota loved it there! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Beth Miller
Alyssa and Josh of The Wayward Canine are fantastic. My now 8 month old Bernedoodle Stanley spent 7 weeks at a board and train while I was on an extended business trip. They took the most amazing care of him and were completely flexible with what skills I wanted them to work on with him as well as giving ongoing input and feedback. They sent videos and pics on a regular basis and answered every question I had both while Stanley was boarding and even upon his return back home. They are loving and warm with the dogs and highly skilled in all training techniques. I know Stanley can’t wait to go back again and I can’t recommend them highly enough. Absolutely thrilled with the care and training that Stanley received!!! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Patrick Riney
We rescued Lexa (GSD/ black lab) at the age of 5 months. When we brought her home we soon learned we had our own little “domestic terrorist”. Wayward canine was recommended to us by a friend who has worked with Josh and Alyssa for years. After meeting with them for only a few minutes their passion for what they do was obvious.... Lexa has gone through basic OB, moved forward into E-collar training and has also stayed at wayward while we were out of town. In a few short months Lexa has gone from uncontrollable to well mannered. Not only is she regular at the local home depot along with any “dog friendly” brewery around. Having the confidence in her to go off leash while we are camping, hiking, or visiting friends and family is something that would not be possible with out Josh and Alyssa. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Joshua Santana
Getting Koda has been absolutely life changing for me. Being her caregiver has helped me realize the importance of a daily routine. Going from merely providing care to becoming a genuine handler has opened my eyes even a bit more. Training her every day has helped me learn about teaching a dog obedience. Having other dogs bark or charge at us with no mediation by their owners shows me that many people have dogs for just show...We ourselves bred these animals and we still owe them the attention and order they need to survive but also the time you need to put in to meet their individual breed's needs. Here Koda's reacting to a simple "sit" command right before sprinting for her Frisbee ⚡️ Serious shout out to Alyssa because she helped me get the best start to becoming a dog owner. She helped fully inform me and I credit her for helping me adjust so well to being a dog owner...I had never previously liked dogs before this at all, trust me! She is one of the most knowledgeable and trusting trainers in the area. Koda completed basic obedience training with @thewaywardcanine and for sure will go through the leash obedience course and the off-leash too. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Jinny Fernandez
Although I missed Bailey immensely you can observe the changes in her even after only being there 2 weeks. They kept me informed sent pictures and video and had a personal one on one to show me how to keep it going. Thank you guys Bailey will be back at 5-6 months for more training. You should be commended for running a top notch facility. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Lou Longo
Alyssa is fantastic as our dog loves her and the other dogs that are with her. She is so easy to work with and very responsive to messages.
Reviewed on Facebook
Jessica Fefferman
Alyssa is a great trainer. When my pup has stayed with her she comes back better behaved. Alyssa is responsible, reliable and super knowledgeable so you can feel comfortable leaving your most beloved fur baby with her.
Reviewed on Facebook
Tayla
Alyssa is the only person I trust to care for my dog. Gracie gets so excited when she gets to board with them when I go on vacation!
Jeani Knowlton
Josh is one of if not the best dog trainer in the business!
Reviewed on Facebook
Cindy Gannon
I highly recommend Josh and Alyssa. We own large working breeds that can be difficult without strong balanced leadership. Josh has always been honest and helpful with me over the last five years. I am a better and more knowledged owner because of his help! Working or obedience, they can help! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Jonathan Katz
Josh is an extremely talented dog trainer with experience on both ends of the leash. No matter what your goals are for your dog Josh can help you. He takes a kind and balanced approach to canine communication and has compassion for the handlers he coaches. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Kim Clinton
Alyssa and Josh have done an excellent job with all the puppies I have sent their way for training! I’m the owner of Massachusetts Bernedoodles and continue to send puppies to The Wayward Canine because they consistently deliver on what needs to be accomplished with 8-10 week old puppies: crate training, house training, socialization and lure training. Highly recommended and well worth the cost! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Dori Aimis Lennox
Alyssa has know both my dogs since they were 8 weeks old. They are now 1 and 2 and she is the only person that I let watch them when we are away. She loves them as much as her own and I swear they always come back better behaved when we pick them up! Both of my dogs absolutely love her! They get so excited to see her that they literally pee themselves.????. No need to worry either if your dogs have special feeding instructions Alyssa will always make sure it is done exactly how you tell her. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my boys! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Kristen Marino
Alyssa and josh are amazing trainers !! If I ever need training advice or tips I always go to them I have 2 german shepherds and a beagle I only trust them to watch my dogs ! They always take such good care of them and send me pictures and videos because I’m a crazy dog mom and drive them crazy asking questions all day long ! I have known josh for about 5 years he has so much knowledge I love talking to him because I get to learn something new each time I have a German Shepherd I am going to be competing with he has helped me every step of the way when ever I need help He explains everything so I know exactly what to do ! Alyssa has been a long time friend I have know her for years she is amazing with dogs I trust her with my life !! She also helps me when ever I need help ! She once watched all my dogs for months because I was looking for a place to live ! I recommend these guys 1000000000000000% I don’t know what I would do without them More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Diane Normandie
Alyssa & Josh are wonderful trainers and you can see that with the work they've put into their own dogs. They are both dedicated and love what they do! I recommend them because they are trustworthy and reliable. they put out great product as well. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Julie Gustafson
Alyssa and Josh are like a breath of fresh air. These are the best trainers around and the only ones I will ever trust with training. I had worked with three other trainers before working with Alyssa and Josh- and they were positive and optimistic for a tough case that I had with my dog. I traveled from central New York to work with them, they even met with me via Skype and over the phone. They are nothing but professional, dedicated, and caring. You can tell they love what they do and devote their lives to it! If you haven’t done training with them, you are missing out. Thank you Alyssa and Josh for what you do! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Isa Marie
Alyssa has taken care of Asher multiple times and each time he came back happy and tuckered. I could tell that he loved going with Alyssa because his little nub would wiggle SO MUCH when he saw her! Alyssa was always prompt and kept me updated on how Asher was doing. Would highly recommend her services! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Jared Wolf
Josh Knowlton is a experienced and knowledgeable dog handler / trainer. He has mentored me for the past 2 year on all things dogs and I would not be where I am today with my dog Thai had it not been for his guidance and patience. From working breeds to everyday pets Josh knows his stuff ! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Stefani Marie
Alyssa is only reason I was able to keep my rescue Charlie. I rescued Charlie when he was 9 months old. Charlie had been neglected by his previous owners and on top of that, he was very set in his ways. Alyssa was able to correct any bad habit that Charlie was previously getting away with as well as train him to an advanced obedience level in a very short amount of time. My husband and I take Charlie up North to NH a lot, I don’t have to worry about him getting loose from me and running away, he listens to commands very well! I cannot thank Alyssa enough for being so great with Charlie. He is now the most lovable, happy, smart pup he was always meant to be! Another thing that I love is that Alyssa also boards dogs. Not only do I feel safe knowing Charlie is in great hands, I’m not leaving him with a stranger! Charlie knows and loves Alyssa and it puts my mind at ease knowing that he is comfortable while I’m away! I would recommend Alyssa in a heartbeat. Her training knowledge and professionalism is top notch. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Randy Green
Alyssa is naturally very good with animals and has a big heart. Very responsive and responsible (also good with kitty cats!)
Reviewed on Facebook
Fe Ahrens
Alyssa takes wonderful care of our pit, boxer, lab mix, Laz. She’s always available last minute for boarding and we never have to worry about him being safe. Her training background puts our minds at ease, especially when he’s “rooming” with new doggie friends. We highly recommend Alyssa! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Jacob Golemme
Where do I start... I will be forever grateful to Alyssa, if it wasn’t for her I would’ve never found my best friend. A few years ago Alyssa rescued a Rottweiler named Queen, she wasn’t socialized at all, had no idea what was considered acceptable behaviors because she was never taught. Alyssa took her in and took the time to train her and socialize her so that Queen could have a fair chance at a happy life with a forever family. Alyssa took the time to get to know me and my family including our house. After Alyssa observed just how good me and Queen got along she knew it was a perfect match! Not only for Queen but for me too. Me and Queen are so bonded that not only is she my best friend but she is also my service dog, Queen and Alyssa literally saved my life and I can’t say thank you enough. The work you do is amazing! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Hayley Meara
Josh Knowlton is a talented, intuitive trainer. I have an aggressive two year old dog who I have continuously struggled with, if not for Josh’s guidance and expertise I would not have the strong and functional relationship with my dog that I have now. He is clear in his explanations and very personable. There isn’t a person I trust more with my dog(s) and he will always have my business. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Shea Lynn
I have show dogs and completely trust Alyssa with my dogs. She genuinely loves dogs and it shows in how she takes care of them.
Reviewed on Facebook
Brian N Christine Golemme
We would absolutely recommend Alyssa as a trainer, she is very gifted, her dogs and the numerous other dogs she has trained speak for itself. She’s the only one we trust with our girl Queen when we need to board her. Alyssa actually rescued Queen and put a lot of work into her so that she could find her forever home which ended up being us as the lucky family! She took the time to get to know us and to make sure Queen would be happy. Queen came to us a very well behaved, obedient dog, we were and still are very impressed. If it wasn’t for Alyssa our son would’ve never met his best friend. We can never thank her enough!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Sierra Cobb
I would recommend Alyssa 10/10 times. Very trustworthy and such a good trainer! You can definitely see her dedication.
Reviewed on Facebook
Rebecca Marie Callahan
Alyssa is a great trainer hands down when I dropped my puppy off for daycare he always came home super tired and he learned his basic obedience so quickly thanks to her hard work. She is really dedicated to what she does and she loves doing it. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Melissa Medina
Alyssa is a great trainer, and is very passionate! She puts in a lot of hard work, love and effort into every single dog. She’s the only person I trust taking care of my animals!
Reviewed on Facebook
What do you love most about your job?
Being able to make a change for the better for dogs and their owners.
What inspired you to start your own business?
Our passion for working with dogs and helping them.
Why should our clients choose you?
Results will be noticeable. We are honest and will go above and beyond for our clients.
Boarding & Training
: Our most popular program (Recommended). Your dog will receive the top care and training in the trainer’s home. Trainers will design a plan to serve your dog’s needs and help you reach your training goals with your dog. Depending on what training goal you have for your dog, the stay may include structured walks, socialization, trips to dog friendly stores, and interactions with other dogs. Board and Trains are also a great way to speed up any obedience you want for your dog as well. Most of your dog’s learning and developed habits are learned at home. Issues such as leash aggression, separation anxiety, possessiveness, bad manners and jumping on people are habits formed within your home. Therefore, the board and train in a home setting is the best training program for your dog.
At the end of the board and train, we will have a private training session so we can teach you the handling skills you will need to continue what your dog has learned at home.
Private In-Home Training
Trainer will come to your home and go over any issue you are having with your dog. Private session lasts an hour.
Behavior Modification
We will create an obedience foundation with your dog to help manage/fix behaviors that may range from anxiety to different types of aggression. We will also diagnose where these issues may be rooting from so we can come up with the perfect training path to help you and your dog live a more peaceful life together.
Basic Leash Obedience
(4 months & Older): once a puppy has gone through the food luring foundation, he/she should have a pretty good idea of what sit, down, and heel are. Although the dog may not hold these positions too long, this is where leash training and reinforcement of these obedience behaviors come into play. First, we will get your puppy comfortable with a training collar he/she responds best to, then we will overlap the behaviors that he/she knows with the leash. If the dog breaks their obedience command, we are now able to correct and reinforce what we asked of them. This is where your obedience starts to become more solid and reliable. Without this next step or training, your dog may only listen to you when you have food. Therefore, this next step of training is very important.
Advanced Off-Leash Obedience Training
(6 months & Older): Foundations of advanced off leash training can be started around 6 months old. However, with consistent training and practice at home after the board and train, the off-leash obedience will become more solid and reliable after the dog is about a year old. Your dog will learn the skills necessary to be off leash with you on hikes, beaches, or wherever you may be. For more information about this type of training, please contact us.
In-Home Boarding
Whenever you go away, you can feel safe knowing that your dog is being boarding in a trainers house in a comforting home setting instead of a stressful kennel environment. When you board your dog in our home there are a number of activities your dog could be involved in to meet his or her needs. Activities may include walks, hikes, dog socialization/play time (that is, if the dog enjoys other dogs), treadmill strolls, training if requested, or games of fetch!
Puppy Training
Having trouble keeping a good crate schedule during the work day with your new puppy? We can offer day training where you drop your puppy off where we can keep up with the bathroom schedule. We will also start introducing food obedience training to teach your puppy basic commands such as heel, sit, and down. Socialization will also be part of the program.
Ask us more about our puppy training!
Foundation Puppy Obedience
Using food is a great technique when teaching new behaviors to our dogs. Using food with young puppies is a great way to start their obedience foundation and make them motivated to work and learn! With food luring, the trainers will teach your puppy basic positions such as sit, down, and heel. When the puppy is old enough, the lure will fade and the puppy should move on to leash training.
