February 19, 2019

Just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for the transformation in Laila. She came to you a sweet, but headstrong two year old pit mix.  After the training she returned to me not only significantly easier for me to handle, but also seems to be a calmer happier dog. I have no hesitation recommending your services. Well done Ted!

D. Wallsten

February 24, 2018
Aloha,

We want to share our tremendous appreciation, respect and gratitude for the results of Alpha K-9 Training 28 day obedience program (Phase I & Phase II) with Ted.
The lessons we and our ( 2 ) 9 month old German Shepherd puppies learned have transformed our life. We are all happier and speaking the same language now. Ted modified our understanding and our own behavior in handling the dogs. Ted is a natural in training humans as well as canines.
It’s amazing to see how much Harley and Bandit have responded and look forward to daily training. They’re still puppies and still learning. Problems like barking, nipping, jumping, chewing are now under control. Hikes have become a pleasure with the dogs knowing appropriate behavior. Neighbors and guests are more comfortable without uncontrolled barking and jumping. It’s awesome to see Harley and Bandit look to us with awareness and connection waiting to see what’s next.
We highly recommend Ted and the benefits of his training for the whole family. We will definitely use Ted again if our family grows.
Thanks again Ted for the fantastic job with our boys Harley & Bandit.

PJ & Sherrie
North Kohala
March 18, 2017
Due to my frequent business travel, my wife Susan, decided to get a dog for companion walks and
security while I was away. Susan selected a female pure bread German Shepherd puppy from a local
breeder recommended by a friend. Despite having large dogs in the past, she soon realized Kila, her new
puppy, was not only more physically demanding than her previous dogs, as the dog matured, she felt
overwhelmed handling the dog. Susan concluded that she needed to find Kila another home.
Having never had a dog, I considered Kila to be my wife’s dog. Nevertheless, I had become very attached
to Kila and realized if I wanted to keep her I would need to take the lead in training, exercise and
leadership. Initially, due to his experience with military dog training and working dogs, I was reluctant to
use Ted because I mistakenly assumed his training style would be too strict. Also, knowing that Ted does
recommend E‐collars when appropriate, I subconsciously resisted this method as an option for training.
It was only out of desperation and fear of having to give up Kila that I contacted Ted.
I expect quite a bit of myself and those expectations are often transferred to others. Nevertheless,
assumptions are often wrong. Ted has far and away exceeded my expectations in many ways. Ted is not
only a skilled dog trainer, he is very skilled at training people. In every circumstance, Ted has provided
practical answers to even complex questions and has effectively taught me how to be the handler and
leader Kila needs. Contrary to my expectations, Ted provided a balanced training style, incorporating
both positive reinforcement and discipline. Additionally, Ted was sensitive to the dog and quick to
recognize when the dog and/or I needed a break.
As a first‐time dog owner, I was literally starting from scratch with no knowledge of how to handle or
train a dog. Ted has never grown weary of my numerous questions and has consistently provided
excellent guidance. He knows when to speak up and hold me accountable and when to provide
encouragement to me as a novice dog owner & trainer.
As I write this, Kila is two. We recently had friends return for a visit after more than a year, and they
consistently said how much change they’ve seen in me personally as well as in my ability to handle Kila. I
continue to meet with Ted weekly or as my schedule permits and plan to do so for the foreseeable
future. I can say without reservation that if not for Ted, we would have found Kila another home.
My only regret is that I didn’t start training Kila with Ted from the beginning.
B. Kennelly
Waimea, Hawaii

March 3, 2012

Hi Ted,

Just thought we’d let you know Puna is doing MUCH better, in almost
all ways. He walks with much more attention. He’s quieter,
especially when someone comes to the door. He seems to really
understand what “quiet” means. He’s had a few challenges, such as an
unleashed dog charging him in our neighborhood. He reacted per his
usual way but a hearty “pop” and he was under control and walked away
nicely. The weather’s been awful lately so haven’t been able to to
train outdoors much more than 20 minutes a day but doing some work
inside, just so he won’t forget.

Thank you VERY much for working with Puna. We’ll carry on
diligently with his training and probably see you at a later date.

Mahalo,
K. Shanaman
T. Evangelista

February 12, 2012

Aloha Ted,
I can’t thank you enough, it’s amazing what happens when you modify the behavior of the owner’s. All along Bella just wanted someone else to be the Alpha leader. In such a short time her behavior has improved dramatically, to the point where neighbors noticed right away how calm she was and how well behaved. I’m sure she is a much happier pooch.
We started the training of leaving her this morning and for the first time she did very well. I had to come back to the lanai only once after a few minutes to quiet her and then went again out of her sight this time for 5 minutes and she did the time without one bark. I’m so happy.
My neighbor came by with her 5 dogs, which in the past was always a noisy fiasco, today one little wuff the bag of cans and that was the end of it. During that time there were two other walkers with their dogs that went by and not one noise out of Bella. She has responded so well to both Terry and I and we are both looking forward to the day (which should be soon) that we will be able to go play a round of golf without worrying about Bella. Our training day has just begun, but I’m looking forward to the rest of our little training sessions and to see the progress we are all making.Thank you, thank you, thank you, we are all much happier and I’m sure healthier because of the knowledge you have shared with us.
Have a fabulous day.
We will keep in touch with our progress and if we should have any other issues we will be in contact with you.
Mahalo,
Susan, Terry and Bella Gresswell

March 13, 2011

Aloha from Kona,

I have had Roxy the Rottweiler home now for about six weeks and she is doing so much better than we ever thought possible. She just turned nine months old and after your four week obedience course over the holidays we are still amazed at how well she is doing. I have been walking her on a walking trail for an hour two to three times a week and it is amazing how people come up and tell me what a well trained dog I have. I have had many dogs over the years but having a well trained dog brings much joy to the owner as well as the pet. Thank you again for your help training Roxy.

Doug Scoufos

Ted, January 22, 2011

Your Advanced Obedience and Beyond Advanced classes have helped me to turn Skye, my Dutch Shepherd, into the kind of dog that many people would want to have.

I get many compliments about Skye wherever I go, as to his exemplary behavior. He is now a dog that is welcome anywhere. He is also a showcase of the potential of a rescue dog that might have had a challenging start in life. He has come a long way from his past of fear aggression towards dogs and timidity towards strangers. He now gets along with most dogs he meets (he turns away from aggressive dogs), and he enjoys having strangers pet him.

Although Skye was deemed not suitable for law enforcement work (which was lucky for me) he is an excellent K-9 citizen. The happy go lucky dog that I once saw only in certain comfortable environments, is now just as animated in almost every situation he is in. Working with him in your training classes has greatly improved his confidence with all the unfamiliar distractions he has encountered there.

We are very fortunate to have a dog trainer of your caliber in Hawaii. You have many years of dog (and people) training experience in the islands, along with your extensive background training of dogs in law enforcement and the military, amongst other places. I must say, I have yet to meet anyone else with your remarkable patience for training both dogs and their people. I recommend you to everyone I meet that asks me about my well-trained dog.

With your patient encouragement and guidance, I was able to bring Skye’s training to another level, which created an even happier dog. I am very grateful for that.

Thank you / Mahalo

Seréna

July 7, 2010

Hi Ted,
I just wanted to let you know that Kenji and I have had many successes since our private session with you. The collar I purchased from you and the guidance has been working out wonderfully! I am able to walk Kenji past other dogs on the street with little correction. I have only corrected one incident with another passing dog/owner on the street after our session. Today we past 5 dogs and their owners on the street and I was very proud of Kenji. He(we) seems to be a little more at ease when he sees/meets other dogs.
I do realize there will be set backs and that I have a lot to learn, but the immediate changes are wonderful.
I look forward to the group session on July 17 at 2:30 p.m.!

Thank you,

Debbie

July 7, 2010

Ted,

I took Sophie with us to Volcano’s 4th of July parade. She did pretty good considering all the people. I left her with my sister in a down stay, when I got back about 5 to 10 min later she was still in that position. I was so proud of her. She did have an issue with a puppy at the end of the day, other than that she behaved good around the other dogs there. Thank you, without your training I would never have been able to take her.

Annabelle

December 1, 2007

Aloha Ted,

I hope everyone is as well and happy as when I last saw you. I realize this testimonial is quite overdue, but it’s very heartfelt, and I hope you find it helpful. During lots of instruction and education over the years, I’ve formed a pretty rigid list of important qualities in an instructor. Knowledge first, followed by patience. Consistency, enthusiasm, integrity, clarity (of plan and communication). These qualities describe Ted and his training perfectly. The deliberate, methodical, unflappable way he works with dogs and owners is extremely effective, while producing thehappiest and most responsive dogs I’ve ever seen. I don’t know how he does it, but he does it really, really well! Y’all have a wonderful Christmas and a terrific new year…

Eternally grateful and warm regards,

Anne Schmaltz

March 22, 2011

Hi Ted,

Did I ever send you a testimonial? Now that I think about it maybe not. This is certainly overdue!

I want to share with everyone in your training classes the challenges and rewards of Schutzhund Sport. I have the awesome privilege of owning one of your German Shepherds, Gili Misha VomYounghaus (Prandy Von Der Lobach xPrada Vom Younghaus) and training with you for the last 5 and a half years. Schutzhund teaches the importance of being patient, forgiving, tolerant, and nonetheless humble. The bond that is created between you and your dog is forever. It is a constant learning experience; your dog is an intelligent living being that has a mind of its own. Even though you may spend months or even years training, learning never stops. It evolves. Schutzhund pushes you to do this. As you and your dog progress in the sport, their ability to react and respond to different situations and challenges also grows.

Misha and I started Schutzhund back in March of 2005 when she was four months old, and have not stopped, she in now six. Since then she has earned her BH (17 months old), Sch1 (2 ½ yrs old), Sch2 (3 ½ yrs old), Sch3 (4 ½ yrs old) Sch3 (5 ½ yrs old). We are currently training for another Schutzhund 3 title. There is always some aspect of this sport to improve upon. As long as your dog keeps giving you its best, you should too!! The camaraderie with fellow schutzhunder’s (is that a word??) is equally rewarding. Everyone is committed to their dog, and support each other’s efforts. The best part though is having a trainer who is equally or even more committed in seeing that you and your dog succeed. Ted’s training is very unique. He uses many training methods to achieve results. He is patient and tolerant with people who at times may need more training than the dog!! So come out and see how exciting Schutzhund can be!!

Looking forward to many more years!!

Michelle Querobin-Licus and Misha Vom Younghaus

January 10, 1999

Re: 17 month old, 89 lb., uncontrollable, non-vicious, black labrador retriever mix male.

To Whom It May Concern;

Malu was placed in Alpha K-9’s 28 day obedience program for exhibiting the following behavior:

1. Jumping on people (adults and kids) in a non-vicious but playful manner often knocking them down; inflicting bruises and scratches; tearing clothing and scaring the individual.

2. Wrapping paws around one’s leg and nipping at slippers, shoes and clothing.

3. Chasing cars.

4. Chewing and demolishing objects left on our property.

5. Difficulty in controlling on a leash.

Basically, we were afraid that he would injure someone and surely he had already made a bad impression on our kids. Whenever we needed to leave home (our property is completely fenced in) , Malu had to be chained up for fear of having our clothing soiled or torn. Upon returning home he would always be loose (he managed to get off his cable) and if I were not present, my wife and kids could not escape being jumped on, soiled and scratched while getting out of the car.

We decided to seek professional help after our 16 year old daughter received large bruises and puncture wounds on the biceps of both arms and scratches on her torso while attempting to place Malu back on his cable. These injuries were inflicted while wearing a heavy cotton long sleeved t-shirt.

After 28 days, Malu came home a changed dog. Absolutely no scratching and tearing of clothing, no chasing cars, no chewing and demolishing of personal objects and most importantly he doesn’t bother and intimidate our 8 and 16 year old daughters. He still jumps a little in excitement to see us but is very controllable upon command.

The change in Malu’s behavior is incredible. It’s a relief to be able to come home and unload a car of groceries and enter your home with clean clothes. It’s great to go anywhere with him on a leash without him dragging you along or going to the vet and having him sit patiently without much distraction. Imagine, weighing him now at the vet takes 5 seconds…2 seconds to step on the scale, 2 seconds to step sit and 1 second to read the recorded weight.

Although these are significant changes in his behavior, the most impressionable change is the way he now seeks our attention and affection. Malu was always a friendly and lovable dog but the way he sought our attention and affection was undesirable. Through obedience training he seeks our affection even more but in a very warm and subtle way. The biggest reward for us is that he is now a family dog and not a family nuisance.

Alpha K-9 Kennel’s ability to produce favorable results is excellent and has our highest recommendation. However, you must be willing to spend the time with your dog and be committed to work with him or her on a periodic but continuous basis. These reinforcing sessions just take a few minutes of your time.

Trainer Ted Young along with his wife, Laurel, is very professional, competent, patient and always willing to help the owners. If you allow Alpha K-9 to train your dog and later follow and maintain their recommended training instructions, you will inevitably be rewarded with the results we enjoy. Rember Alpha K-9’s obedience program trains BOTH your dog and YOU.

Have fun with your dog!

Craig C. Kimura, DMD
Kamuela, Hawaii

August 21, 2006

Aloha Ted, I just wanted to let you know how very impressed we are with Ted’s instruction. He zeroed-in immediately on our biggest concern and source of frustration/discouragement with Maui – his biting. I’m happy to report that we have seen definite improvement in the biting from using the choke chain. He is still eager to test his status, especially with Ginger and me, but when this occurs I immediately get the choke chain and work with him. There is a new tooth hole in my favorite shirt, but the occurrence of pierced skin is much reduced! He has been spending more time in the house and things are much more pleasant. I don’t know what we would have done without Ted’s expert advice and guidance. Thank you so much! We’ll see you soon at Puppy Training! Mahalo! ..Teri, Bud, Ginger & Maui Carlson

June 4, 2004

I want to thank you guys for the best dog we have ever owned. We get compliments where ever we go. Vi Stryder vom Younghaus (Wolfman X Fullhouse) is our best friend and watch dog. He was always a smart dog, but your 28 day boarding and training program really made all of the difference. He now listens when we give him a command on the first command. He does not jump on me, the family and our guests. I can walk him calmly for a mile each morning and I am truly enjoying his maturity. We wish we sent him to the training program sooner! I will recommend this program to our friends with dogs. It is such a benefit in so many ways. The only bad thing is that we missed him but it was well worth missing him because the result is a fantastic, well behaved, handsome German Shepherd. He is a special part of our family and now he behaves like one!!
E. Poolman- Kamuela,
Hawaii 6-04

March 15, 2005

Although it has not been more than a few days since bringing our Miah back home from the 28 day training program, we are able to see a world of difference with her behavior. As you found out, Miah is a very driven, high-energy dog…and unless that enthusiasm is channeled in the right
direction, she can still be adorable, but can also be uncontrollable. Now that she underwent the training program, Miah has come back to us as a part of the family that we can enjoy ALL the time, instead of only when Miah wanted to calm down. We completely understand that this was not done by a “magic wand,” but by some very hard work….hard work that WE must continue
to practice with Miah on a daily basis to mold her into the wonderful adult that I know she is bound to become. If you’d like to post this on your site, feel free…because we are very happy with the results. Before training, I loved to walk Miah, but found it to be very tiresome and
difficult, often leaving me with a very frustrated feeling. But when I walk her now…it is not automatic pilot of course…some corrections will always need to be made, but it is SO much more of a relaxing walk. And to be honest, I look forward to taking the 15-20 minutes a day (which I break up into two sessions) and making sure she keeps the fundamentals that you’ve
instilled in her fresh in her mind. It makes me a proud owner that I can walk my dog around my neighborhood without having to yell or pull the whole time…I just like to show her off now too! 🙂 And I can’t tell you how nice it is to lay on the floor with Miah and just pet her…with no
resistance…because before, it just wasn’t possible unless you wanted your hand as a chew toy 🙂

Miah is the type of dog that is just has a lot of ambition…and I for one will always look at that as a good thing that I will continually work to harness in order to better prepare her for adulthood…we can’t forget…she is still only 5 months old!

So, we both want to thank you and your entire family (because they helped too!) for the great job you’ve done with our little girl! We’ll be sure to keep you up to date on how things are progressing and will most definitely send you a picture from time to time.

Thanks again…we’ll be in touch I’m sure!

Scott & Carolyn

April 5, 2005

It’s been about 3 weeks now since Miah’s graduation from your 28-day training program. She is doing extremely well with all aspects of basic obedience (walking, sit, stay, down, etc) and now she also will consistently roll-over on-command…she knew how to do it before, but using your same training methods, she is much more consistent with this particular trick. We are so happy to have her back, but our happiness is really due to the fact that Miah is now a controllable, enjoyable part of our family and I look forward to training her everyday. I’ve made it a habit of doing about 15 minutes of concentrated training with her daily (as you recommended), and
it has truly kept her up to par and more! Just a few days ago, Miah did her entire formal training (walking, sit, down, stay, both of her heel commands) off-leash! This would have never seemed possible before her training at Alpha K-9 Kennels. She is so good and we are so proud of her progress! And I am serious in saying that you can really see her progress every single
day. It seems as though everyday, she’ll do something unexpected (in a good way!) to amaze us. Miah (as well as most Shepherds) are extremely intelligent dogs, so we realize you MUST vary your training with them in order to keep them from “mind-reading” your next move/command. She will anticipate, but as long as we continue our training in the manner that you
(Ted & Laurel) handed off to us – which really helped!!! – we will be just fine and will continue to enjoy Miah’s company for years to come.
We’ve recently moved to Kailua, and are located directly across from Kailua beach. Miah has taken quite well to the water and is an avid swimmer now…she loves to play on the beach. I mention this because before her training program, we would really have never been able to let Miah enjoy the beach in the manner she does now. She most likely would have run towards a
distraction or made us chase her around the park to get her back under our control. But now, I can let her run and fetch her ball and go for a swim with little or no worry of her not returning to my side when I call her. Whether it be in our own backyard or at the beach, I just cannot put into
words how much more of an enjoyable experience it is spending time with our little girl now that she has the right fundamentals for us to continue building on.

Thank you again Ted and Laurel (and family) for providing US (because we as owners were “trained” as well) with the right tools to keep Miah as the loving, watchful family companion that she was meant to be!

Scott & Carolyn VanDenHaute