To give a better feeling about the atmosphere that exists and the approach that is used at Signature K-9, and to serve as a type of reference for our services, we have offered recent clients the opportunity to write comments or to summarize their individual case for placement of this Web Site. The information on this page is from our clients in their own words.

Battling Boxers

My husband and I have two rescue Boxers; one male and one female. In regards to rescues, I was under the impression that if you just take the dogs to a safe home and give them enough time to realize it was safe, they would eventually come around and be fine. I was very wrong. We started reading books, got DVD's on dog behavior, took them to training classes, and exercised them every day, but it was not enough. Our male would still occasionally lash out at our female for what seemed like no reason. There was always a lot of tension in the house. Then, the male bit me while I was trying to break up a fight. After the biting incident we realized how dangerous the situation was, because there were children in the house at the time and called around for some advice. We were advised by experienced people that some dogs cannot overcome their past abuse and they suggested he be euthanized. I am very attached to my dogs; and I had to give them one more chance. I called my vet which led me to Jim. I was extremely hesitant at first, because I have heard stories of “trainers” and “behaviorist” that do not use humane methods and I didn’t want to get caught up with one of those. After just a couple conversations with Jim I started to feel more comfortable. He seemed to be just as picky about which customers he accepted as I was about who I allowed to work with my beloved pets. So I set up our first session and it has been worth every penny, every second and every ounce of effort. Jim was extremely positive from the very beginning which made all the difference after being bit. Since then all four of us have had great experiences. Some of which include reversing the damage of Opus’ past abuse and neglect, building a better relationship of trust between us and the dogs, building a better structured routine in the home for the dogs and teaching us how to act in the appropriate way so the dogs don’t misinterpret our actions and intentions. We even learned how to play with our dogs properly. Who knew that was important? – Jim! We have seen the level of confidence improve in our male, which decreases his need for self-defense based aggression or fear aggression. This new level of confidence has also enabled him to relax more and enjoy more out of life (us too.) From there we worked harder on building more trust between us. By the last session our once dog-aggressive pet was focusing on me while an unfamiliar dog was in the room. My dog – the same one that bit me just a few months before – was trusting me. Just before we left that night, both dogs were just a couple feet and lying down. It wasn't just obedience, he actually trusted me. He was okay to have his back toward the other dog and lay down even to the point of lying completely and voluntarily on his side. I'm sure it seems simple for most people, but it was an amazing experience for me. Anyone who knows dog language can understand what a vulnerable position that is for a dog. As I said, I feel very connected to my male dog, but that day that connection became a more clearly defined relationship with the foundation of very strong trust. My dog has come a long way, but I was surprised at what that lesson did for me. I went home with a greater sense of accomplishment, confidence and pride. Maybe his methods work on humans too! Although it has been work, in a lot of ways the work has been fun and absolutely worth it. We really enjoyed our time with Jim and the things he taught us. Thanks a million times for helping us keep our companion.


R.F. and J.F. Louisville, OH.

 

Polished Onyx

Signature K-9 is one of two training schools I have attended. It is the only one I would recommend! I have had two dogs in classes at Signature K-9. Our Nita was a coated German Shepherd that unfortunately we lost due to Diabetes and EPI prior to her first birthday. Onyx is a purebred male, four year old German Shepherd rescue.

 Jim and Charlene have an incredible amount of patience with both the dogs & the owners. They are extremely knowledgeable & are exceptional communicators. Their clients benefit from their willingness to continually attend new training seminars. The training center is clean and comfortable. The classes are relaxed and enjoyable.

I particularly like that they are flexible if you have a schedule conflict. They have helped me immensely with additional training specific to our needs. They are always available for support to help solve problems through email & phone calls, not just for one hour in your weekly class.

Thank You! Jim and Charlene for all you have done for Nita, Onyx and me! You are truly dedicated with a tremendous love for canines. Onyx certainly is a walking advertisement for signature K-9. Hardly a day goes by without someone commenting that he is beautifully trained with impeccable manners. We couldn’t have done it without your expertise.

S.P., Louisville, Ohio    

                         

Calli Cutie

If you are looking for an instructor who believes in the philosophy of positive reinforcement/reward, Jim is the one for you! No harsh tactics used here! Jim offers suggestions for solving your dog's problems in positive and gentle ways. Thus, learning is enjoyable for you and fun for your dog.

How did I hear of Jim and why did I seek his help? Believe it or not, I was talking with a person who had interviewed three different trainers and felt that he was by far the superior one. So... armed with that information, Calli and I sought his advice. You see, my goal for my then 2 year old Wheaton Terrier and myself was to become a certified therapy dog team.

However, Calli displayed her exuberant personality with constant "talking back" (barking) and continuous leash pulling when walking. Of course, neither behavior is acceptable for therapy dog work. I needed to get this little "bundle of energy" under control.

Through Jim's offering of various positive training techniques and through his constant encouragement, we overcame these particular problems and are now certified. I truly believe that without Jim's help we would not have accomplished our goal. In fact, we had so much fun that we continue going to class and learning more each time we meet with fellow class mates.

Would I recommend Jim? You bet-ya! Is he one of the best around... absolutely! He is a real professional... no doubt about it!!  One last thought. His facility is kept spotless and he always has training tools on hand to aid you. He throws his heart and soul into his work... you can not only see it but you can feel it. He will go that "extra mile" to help you.

C.T., Canton, Ohio

 

Talented Border

Signature K-9 has been a blessing for us and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for dog training. Jim and Charlene are wonderful, dedicated people with an incredible knowledge of K-9 behavior. My Border collie, Dewey, first started training when he was a 5 month old pup with a lot of potential, but in need of a lot of work.

Using the Akenhead's positive training methods and participating in many group classes has helped Dewey develop into a wonderful dog.  Now at 18 months old, Dewey is a Rainbow Therapy Dog and Canine Good Citizen who continues to amaze us with his abilities.

I couldn’t thank his trainers enough for helping bring out his potential and for teaching me how to be a good handler. Dewey and I will continue to take classes at Signature K-9, not only to further challenge ourselves, but because we enjoy them so much!

S.K.H., Alliance, Ohio

 

Shy Maizie

My vet recommended that I get some professional training for my pup, Maizie because she was what he referred to as "a shy dog". His concern was that she might become aggressive if provoked. Since I had never taken any of my previous dogs for training, I asked friends for advice on whom to take her to and received many recommendations for Jim Akenhead at Signature K-9

Jim starts each dog with one-on-one personal training which was very valuable for Maizie since she was so shy. Jim is very knowledgeable about dogs and he seems to be able to communicate with them without saying a word. During our first lessons he immediately taught me ways to read my dog properly so I am able to anticipate her behavior. He also taught me ways to help Maizie cope with her shyness, which we still practice today

Maizie and I have also attended group training at Signature K-9 which helped us both in many more ways. I was very impressed with the way Jim worked with all the dogs and got them to respond. I found the lessons to be interesting, relaxed and fun. Maizie has responded well to training and she has come a long way from her early puppy days.

I now enjoy taking Maizie for walks because she is the first dog I have ever had that walks beside me, rather than pulling me along. I wish now that I would have taken all my dogs for training because the benefits are so great. If you keep up with the training that Jim teaches, you will have a pet that will be an enjoyable part of the family.

J.L.C., Alliance, Ohio

 

Labradoodle

We brought our miniature Labradoodle, Chloe, to Signature K-9 at around seven months of age. She was very high-strung and demanded a lot of attention. She had been through puppy training elsewhere but we were having trouble with her jumping, pulling, and getting possessive with non-Chloe objects. Getting a shoe or sock away from her was risking a finger!

Jim was very calm and firm but loving with Chloe. His presence alone seemed to affect her. He spent a lot more time than the allotted time with Chloe and me working on getting her to listen by praising positive behavior (along with reward) and discouraging the negative. My husband and I laughed that a lot of the time, the training was more for us than Chloe!

The group classes were small enough that he was able to work individually with each dog, helping them and the owners get the required response in a group setting.

We can’t say enough praise about Signature K-9 and would highly recommend anyone to take their dog there. The facility is immaculate and Jim and Charlene are extremely knowledgeable. They haves a true love for dogs and for what they do!

G.C., Canton, Ohio

 

Border Collie Surprise

Scully, my 9 year old Border Collie, and I have been going to classes at Signature K-9 since she was 6 months old. Scully was becoming a fear biter and had separation anxiety - our vet suggested that I contact Signature K-9 Services for training. It was the best advice!

Scully and I have both learned so much from the Akenheads. We have participated in individual sessions, group training, agility classes, and rally obedience classes. Scully enjoys the classes and loves the Akenheads! I started with a dog who had sever behavioral problems and now we are a therapy team.

D.I.R., Alliance, Ohio 

 

Golden Wisdom

I'm not sure who enjoyed the class more - Chamois or me! I'm also not sure who learned more - the dog or the human. Thanks for a great class.

It's good to learn techniques for civilizing one's pet that don't involve platoon sergeant yelling or jerking on choke collars. We'll definitely be back for more!

The class was low key, atmosphere wise, which relaxed both dogs and their owners and yielded positive results in training.

When Jim walked among the dogs, every head turned and every tail wagged. It was amazing. The dogs all loved him. We humans think he is pretty great too.

B. G., Homeworth, Ohio

 

Saintly Terrier

We brought Winston to Jim after two different trainers. Winston had a lot of territorial issues. He was a rescue from the pound. Judging by his behavior, we believe he had been abused.

Jim worked wonders with him. On Winston's first visit, all he wanted to do was bite Jim. By our 4th session, Winston was on Jim's lap.

Winston had private training until he was able to control his outbursts. We are now ready to begin group classes.

Jim has worked miracles with him and I highly recommend him to everyone. We’ve seen a huge difference. Winston still has a way to go - but we are beyond thrilled with his program.

I. M., Canton Ohio

 

Obnoxious Rescue

Buddy, our brand new, three year old Labrador retriever was very loud and very obnoxious. He barked at everyone coming in to our house. He barked and growled at all we met on walks. You could not get him under control.

Jim helped with socialization in his classes and with many ideas to follow through at home. At last, with persistence, we can get the barking stopped and very quickly. Thanks Jim.

S.F., Salem, Ohio

 

Petite Newfie

On the advice of a dog trainer, I took my then one year old Newfoundland, Emma, to Signature K-9. Emma had been in attendance at two other obedience schools since she was ten weeks old; and we weren’t making much progress with obedience

That changed when we enrolled at Signature K-9. Much to my surprise, I learned, for the first time, that I was a part of the problem. Jim and Charlene made sure that I understood what I was to do in executing a technique properly. In addition, if a technique just wasn’t getting the desired results, Jim was able to modify or suggest a different approach.

So, here we are, a year and a half later and Emma is now a registered therapy dog as well as a student in advanced obedience classes. My Plan is to remain in classes into the future. Positive results, that is what Signature K-9 can provide you

H. W., Mogadore, Ohio

 

Experienced  Rescues

My husband and I have both been dog owners all of our lives. Six years ago we decided to adopt a 24 month old male German Shepherd from a rescue group.  He had been a kennel type environment prior to his adoption, a dog pound before that, and the rest is a mystery.  He was basically a friendly dog but it soon became apparent he was very nervous around other dogs and he was a physically powerful animal that would require intensive obedience training to channel this level of energy in a positive manner.

We tried other dog schools in a large classroom environment which only seemed to intensify his wariness of other dogs. Finally, we found Signature K-9 and during individual lessons the trainer not only evaluated the dog’s response to stress but the responses of my husband and I. As a result, each of us became part of dog handler teams rather than “pet owners”.

We have now taken two German Shepherd rescue dogs to Signature K-9 that were greater than 1 year of age at the time of adoption. Both very powerful animals with less than ideal socialization.  As a result of our training, we have been able to positively, safely, integrate them into our family environment. We recommend Signature K-9 to all of our family and friends and will continue to bring all of our future pet partners to Signature K-9

M.A. & M. G., Malvern, Ohio

 

Bitter to Buddy

Buddy, a shepherd mix, was 4 years old when his aggressiveness became a real liability for me. He had bitten two people and neither the groomer nor the vet could get a muzzle on him. It broke my heart to ask the vet about putting Buddy down, because I had rescued that cute little stray when he was 8 weeks old.

The Vet said I might try Signature K-9 before I made my final decision. I didn’t have much hope because buddy had been expelled from puppy school when he was 5 months old, but, I wanted to feel I had tried everything before I had Buddy put down. I met with Jim and Charlene 3 times for private lessons and have attended two 4 week group classes. I really enjoy Buddy now!  I am amazed at how I could see improvements weekly. Buddy is well on his way to passing the therapy dog test.

There is no doubt in my mind that Buddy would be dead today if not for Jim and Charlene at Signature K-9. I am so grateful for their expertise and patience.

J. A. W., Louisville, Ohio

 

Boston Buddies

Boris & Natasha are our 4 ½ year old Boston Terriers. They’d been with since they were 13 weeks old and they seemed very well behaved. The only problem we had was that Natasha must’ve thought she was a beagle, because once she got on the scent of a rabbit, nothing could stop her. We were afraid she would either run 'till she dropped or run into the street and get hit by a car.

In spite of that fear, I didn’t know any trainers, and didn’t want to take her to anyone who’d be mean to her. I couldn’t stand the thought of losing her, so I talked to 3 other trainers before I talked to Jim at Signature K-9.

When I talked to Jim, he said he would rather have seen her at 3 months, but he would be willing to work with her. We set up four individual sessions; the first three would be Natasha by Herself, and the fourth time we would take Boris with us so he could be evaluated.

My husband and I decided that I would be the one to take her since they were to be my companions. 

From the very first day, I had a great respect for Jim because while he was explaining to me how the training would work, he was also talking to Natasha and gaining her trust. Not one time did he do or say anything that would scare her.

The entire time she was in training, he treated her as if she was a part of his family. He always treated her with respect - never raised his voice, and never lost his patience with her.

She always had “homework” for us to practice before the next session. There was never a doubt in my mind that Natasha would pass with flying colors - even though a couple of time I was afraid I might flunk!

Natasha was always a proud little girl, but with Jim’s training she just seemed to blossom. Not only did Natasha excel, but when we took Boris with us on the fourth lesson, he could do everything Natasha had learned in class (perhaps a tribute to what his owners learned).

As for the theory that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks - we also have a mixed breed dog that someone dropped off about eight years ago who now sits like a champ! We recommend Signature K-9 to anyone who wants their dog to be the best that it can be.

S.D., Alliance, Ohio

 

Darling Dunkin

After Purchasing a new Miniature Schnauzer puppy for our children, the excitement quickly diminished as we realized how lost we felt. We had never had an indoor pet and the reality of having a new addition to the family had begun to set in.

Dunkin didn’t listen, or sleep, he had accidents in the house, and chewed on everything in sight. Obviously we were very frustrated and began searching for answers. Thankfully, we found Signature K-9 Services. Jim took the time to sit with us and discuss his philosophies on training appropriate puppy behaviors and how to make the new addition to our family a welcomed one.

We signed up for individual classes and quickly realized it wasn’t just Dunkin who needed trained, it was us who needed to be taught how to address appropriate and inappropriate behaviors and how to properly reinforce the behaviors we desired.

The changes in Dunkin’s behavior were immediate, after only one class session he was a different puppy. It was truly astonishing.  Jim was able to give us the guidance we needed to elicit the appropriate behaviors we desired from our new puppy.

We have now completed the individual classes with Jim and Dunkin and I have signed up for group classes. We look forward to maintaining our relationship with Jim and Signature K-9 Services and continuing to cultivate a loving relationship with Dunkin. We are happy to say Dunkin is now the enjoyable addition to our family as Jim said he would be. We would highly recommend Jim and Signature K-9 Services if you have a new puppy and feel lost. 

C. D., North Canton, Ohio

                      

Shepherds Only

I have owned Shepherds all of my life. My current German Shepherd started classes at 9 weeks. She progressed with her training under the patient guidance of Signature K-9.

As I needed to be trained as much as my dog, I have appreciated the instruction and helpful comments to overcome some behavior problems in the dog and me.

I would recommend Signature K-9 Services to anyone who would attend classes for training their dog.

R. A. S., Washington Two. Ohio

 

Glorious Goldie

Both of my Golden Retrievers have been to puppy school I felt the individual attention we received was really great. The many questions I had were always answered in a very professional way and the weekly tips helped make our transition from a hectic puppy house to a dog friendly environment.

I still use many of the tactics with our 2 year old today. I can’t imagine having a dog without being trained and the staff at Signature K-9 made this very possible. I felt they were very reasonable in price for the attention we received and the fact that our dogs looked forward to going each week was priceless.

J. M., Alliance, Ohio

          

Youthful Exuberance

Sid, our 6 month old blond Labrador enjoyed biting and pulling when walking.

We began our training with individual lessons where we learned how to take charge instead of the dog. Next we took a 4 week group session to improve general behavior, social manners. 

Lessons taught: patience, discipline through patience, and kindness. Jim really knows dogs and personalities. Sid is much calmer and socially acceptable. There are times when his behavior is inappropriate, but because of this training, we are prepared.

R & R. S., Louisville, Ohio

 

Talented Tobie

Tobie, my 1 year old sheltie has been attending different Signature K-9 classes since he was a puppy.

Tobie and I have enjoyed the obedience classes. I like that there is no tugging, yelling, or pulling on the dogs. We do our learning with soft excited voices and we praise them a lot.

I have enjoyed taking Toby to these classes and knowing we are having a good time and learning too. 

M. R., Maximo, Ohio

 

Bursting Energy

Marley and I first came to Signature K-9 when he was about 4 months old.  He is a Labrador/retriever mix with an abundance of energy. Having had a dog previously that lacked social graces, we decided early on to raise Marley differently. Signature K-9 was recommended by a friend who participates in Rainbow Therapy Dogs, Inc. with her dog.

Marley did well in his individual sessions and I am very pleased with his progress in group sessions. Their methods of instruction for both Marley and I are very effective. Marley and I are planning to attend classes with the hope of someday becoming members of Rainbow Therapy Dogs.

I recommend Signature K-9 to anyone with a new puppy or with any age dog that may need some proper guidance.

N.B., Alliance, Ohio

          

Cautious Canine

Our Dog Beau came to our house as an abused stray with fear to move that he would be strictly reprimanded.  Signature K-9 Services has helped me learn to have him trust again.

He is such a well mannered dog that we are hoping to have him become a therapy dog and are working toward that goal. He is an English Pointer and makes an excellent house dog and wonderful companion.

J. S., Alliance, Ohio

 

Labrador Deceiver     

Hi! I am Mary and I am owned by Cassie, a yellow lab who is just about 6 years old. Her first couple of years were trying with digging, some chewing and eating mine and the neighbors tomatoes. I worked with her at sitting and down which she learned quickly. Then I saw an ad in the paper for Rainbow Therapy Dogs, Inc. I attended a couple of meetings and decided I would like to get Cassie and I involved.

I met Jim and Charlene at the meetings and started taking Cassie to classes at Signature K-9 to learn what would be expected of her to be tested for a therapy dog. Cassie needed to be around the other dogs to learn the approved behavior. I don’t know where she would have learned it if it had not been for Signature K-9 Services.

M. M., Louisville, Ohio

 

Independent Aussi      

Frank and I brought our 3 year old Australian Shepherd, Rio, to Signature K-9 in hopes of resolving his “lack of obeying us”.  When he was stimulated by a passerby, he was impossible to walk and he even nipped someone who entered our yard!

All three of us received training  “Thanks for all the important daily “ exercises we implemented so that Rio would see us as the leaders and not his followers! We’re all much happier now and Rio now pays attention to commands when in the presence of others! Our one-on-three training sessions proved to be invaluable! 

B. B., Massillon, Ohio

 

Prison Pup

Maddie, a retriever mix, was a rescue dog from Trumbull County Animal Welfare League. She spent eight weeks as a “cell dog” at a correctional institute where she received her basic discipline training. After that, we wanted to continue her discipline training and enrolled her in Signature K-9's Therapy Dog Training Class.

Initially, we took Maddie to Signature K-9 for her “pulling” problem and through Jim’s expertise in problem solving, Maddie blossomed from Jim’s intuitive and positive training methods.  She passed the therapy Dog International test.

As a registered TDI dog, she now visits nursing homes as well as Edwin Shaw Rehabilitation Hospital. She seems to love her job. We also have kept her enrolled in group training classes where she seems to enjoy socializing with her doggie friends.

Maddie seems to enjoy agility training as it is mixed in with our classes. Jim and Charlene make it a pleasure to attend their classes. They attend specialty and problem solving seminars on a regular basis & share information with us making it a learning experience for all. 

 J. C. L. & M. L., Uniontown, Ohio

 

Location & Contact:

Signature K-9 Behavior & Training is located in NE Ohio, 2 miles south of Ohio SR 224 on Ohio SR 44 in Marlboro Twp,, Stark County, Ohio

Mailing Address is: 14143 Ravenna Avenue NE, Alliance, Ohio 44601

Telephone: 330-935-0186, E-mail: bigdogs@neo.rr.com