A1K9 Academy

I recently had the opportunity to send my male golden retriever to A1K9 academy for three weeks of boarding and training from Boston. He is an energetic 16-month-old who is definitely trainable, but has a very independent streak at times. I asked A1 to work on certain areas where he knows the command/behavior, but can be stubborn and at times decides not to listen (e.g., recall, leave-it, counter-surfing, etc.). A1 took exceptional care of him during his training. I received frequent, detailed written updates on his progress. In addition, A1 posts frequent videos on IG so that I could see his progress in training, and also just having a great time playing with the other dogs at A1. Watching all the happy dogs in their videos demonstrates how devoted they are to all the dogs in their care. Being able to see my dog's progress in training and just to know he is having a great time brought me peace of mind. When it came time to pick-up my pup from A1, Taylor spent substantial time to go over all the notes from his training. Moreover, Taylor took time to "train" me in all the techniques to continue with my dog at home. Although it was very difficult to be without him for three weeks, it was definitely worth it in the end. I know I will be able to rely on A1 for training advice in the future and will always have confidence that they will take great care of my golden when boarding him. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking to train and/or board their dog.
Mar 25th, 2024

A1K9 is truly the best dog boarding facility in Maine. We couldn't be happier with our experience. The owners are simply incrediblethey genuinely care for every dog as if they were their own. Their passion and dedication shine through in every interaction, making it easy to entrust our dog to their care. I was so anxious leaving our dog for the first time and they were so understanding/supportive. Now we drop him off and dont stress at all while away because we know that he is in such capable and loving hands. It's clear that he's treated to endless fun and attention during his stays by the trainers/owners. I wouldnt send him anywhere else. He absolutely loves it there and runs for the door when we arrive. It's SO clean, they have plenty of outdoor space with lots of activities and the trainers are always in the yard with the dogs. They also always post stories on their instagram daily of the dogs playing so you can check in on your dog. A1K9 has created something truly special here, and we're grateful to have found them!!!!
Mar 21st, 2024

We absolutely love A1K9! I would give more than 5 stars if I could. The owners are amazing! They are dedicated and truly care about every aspect of their business and it shows! They are both hands on and go above and beyond for the dogs and their clients. We struggled to find the right fit for our very high energy, quirky Vizsla but then we were introduced to A1K9 by a friend and that changed everything. Our dog loves going to doggie day care now and I know I dont have to worry about a thing. He is thriving! Some days he requires some special love, and attention but they make sure he gets it. Taylor is extremely knowledgeable. He knows how to handle every type of dog situation and he expertly guides their staff. Also, if there is ever any type of issue at all the owners and the head trainer are very communicative, easy to talk to and understanding. They always put the wellbeing and happiness of the dogs first. Even when that may not be the most convenient thing for them to do or it requires a hard look and a difficult decision. I know I can count on them! They make sure to have the right staff in place and they are all absolutely wonderful! I love interacting with the owners and the staff at pick up/drop off which they make so easy and convenient! Thank you A1K9 for being the absolute best!
Mar 18th, 2024

Brandon and I decided to send our new Golden puppy, Buddy, to training! A1K9 was our first choice based on all the reviews we had heard from friends. Even from the start Taylor and Teressa were super flexible on scheduling dates that worked for us and great about listening to our wants and needs for Buddys training goals. From the morning we dropped him off to the day we picked him up, two weeks later, they kept us updated on Buddys progress and growth. Half way through Buddys training he unfortunately had an accident in the yard. Both Teressa and Taylor called me right away and explained the whole situation. They asked our wishes on how to proceed with treating him. In caution we asked for him to go to vet to make sure all the boxes were checked. They instantly took him in and updated us every step of the way. Buddy was completely cleared by the Vet and ready to get back to training the next day! A1K9 has been a game changer for us. The day Buddy was picked up Taylor went over every goal we had previously talked about and showed how well Buddy can do all of them. Buddys skills from just two weeks of training are incredible. We cant wait for him to go back in April to learn even more thank you to all the staff at A1K9 for keep our pup safe and happy!
Mar 13th, 2024

Taylor and A1K9 have changed our lives!!! I cannot say enough good things about our experience! We started working with Taylor a little over a month ago on behavior modification. My dog, Kane, is a 5-year-old rescue pittie with big emotions and reactivity issues. Over the last several years we have gone to multiple trainers with little to no results and advice that left us feeling defeated. One trainer even suggested surrendering Kane because of his reactivity! Obviously, that was not an option. We knew Kane was an incredible dog who just needed help that was beyond my capabilities. After meeting Kane, Sam at Timberline Treks referred us to Taylor and it was game on! We entered into an intense 30 days consisting of all-day training 3 days a week coupled with 1-1 sessions at the A1K9 facility and out in the world. Taylor worked literal magic with Kane, today he is a different dog in the best way possible. He is less stressed, happier, barely reacting on walks, and truly looks carefree. Even people in our neighborhood have commented on his change!! Previously people could not speak to me without Kane lunging and reacting and now we can have nice calm conversations with our neighbors. Taylor and Terresa both took the time to bond with Kane outside of training moments and they have become two of his favorite people. When we pull up to A1K9 Kane cant get out of the car fast enough and runs straight to Taylor barely giving me a second glance goodbye. Kane previously would not leave my side unless he was on anxiety medication and now he acts like A1K9 is his second home! Taylor also has been a great coach to me. So many trainers I talked to or attempted to work with shamed me for not knowing how to handle Kanes reactivity. Taylor did the exact opposite he took the time to coach not just me, but my boyfriend as well. He educated us on the best ways to engage with Kane and took all factors of Kanes life into account when working with us. We still have work to do and are going to continue to work with Taylor and his team, but where we are today after just 30 days of work is truly unbelievable! Taylor and A1K9 have given Kane the life I always hoped he would have! We are endlessly grateful and are just in absolute awe at this transformation!!! #TeamKane
Mar 11th, 2024