Advanced Canine Systems Westlake Village, California

Advanced Canine Systems is the real deal. I live in New York City and ended up finding these guys via Instagram. I was addicted to their content. I had never seen so many varying breeds of dogs look so happy and enthusiastic to train, nor have I seen such attention to the little details needed to create this finished product, especially on the pet dog level. I couldn't stop wondering what on earth they were doing to get these results. After nearly 2 years of swooning over ACS' social media content and feeling sorry for myself for living on the complete other side the country, I had the idea to see if they offered virtual sessions. BINGO! I'm not going to lie, I had some pretty high expectations for what working with Advanced Canine Systems would look like. At the same time, I realized that social media is often a highlight reel, and I had a healthy degree of skepticism as to how much could be accomplished virtually. Whelp, the Instagram versus reality analogy could not be further from the truth here. The amount of information I learn from Joe in a virtual session, most of which are 30 minutes, is incredible. So much so that by the time the 30 minute mark is approaching, I am often asking myself "is this over yet?!?" in the best way possible because that is how much I learn in this short amount of time - I am mentally spent, like I left a day-long seminar. Overall, Joe and ACS have really changed my opinion on virtual training. Because of ACS, I have been able to develop a competition-style heel with my dog. When you consider that this was accomplished virtually, with neither Joe nor the team laying a hand on the leash, this is even more impressive and speaks volumes about Joe's expertise and coaching abilities. When I had my first session, I couldn't even get my dog to look at me or jump for a toy. In addition to being knowledgeable, Joe is also incredibly patient, especially given that I move like I have two left hands and two right feet in most of my sessions. Joe has been such a cheerleader for my girl and I and it is evident how invested he is in seeing his clients reach their goals when they are willing to put the effort and work into it. I don't even care that I live in New York City anymore! I cannot get on a plane soon enough to work with these guys in-person. That is how incredible this team is. They did not meet my expectations - they exceeded them tenfold. Before I got to this point of working with ACS, I struggled with my dog for so long regarding overarousal and frustration, which manifested in explosive leash reactivity. I spent the better part of first 3 years of my dog's life trying to get a handle on this, and it was a long and often disappointing journey of four different trainers, and a lot of lost time before we finally started to see success. Knowing what I know now, I only wish I had reached out to ACS even sooner for assistance on the behavior modification front, as I am confident I would have reached the breakthrough I needed a lot earlier. 10 out of 5 stars.

If I could give ACS 10 stars I would. My wife and I brought our Malinois to Joe and the staff at ACS for some behavioral issues as well as some formal training. We were blown away with their professionalism from every member of the facility. Every person we worked with was super knowledgeable and really wanted to not only help our pup but help US to make sure we could continue the training and continue to create a well behaved and happy dog. The facility is top notch, and the training can’t be beat in my opinion. Even after we brought our pup home I could reach out anytime and ask questions via text, phone or even video and the staff always got back to me and gave me advice on what to do or what to adjust as we got our dog back home and settled back into our home. Several months after the training we brought our two other dogs there and boarded all three for about a week. Again, nothing but good things to say. Our dogs were cared for and came home clean and tired from their adventures at ACS. If you’re serious about getting your dog some formal training you cannot go wrong with ACS.

Joe the owner and lead trainer runs a professional ,clean, and amazing environment for dogs of all sizes to get trained . The staff is kind and devoted to each pets individual needs. We sent three breeds all quite different in temperament and bad habits that needed correction . I could not be happier with the results and it makes having all three dogs more enjoyable and easy to manage . Advanced Canine Systems is the place to take your dog for training they truly are second to none . I have taken my dogs to other training places and they do not compare not even close . Quality , Nurturing and results is what to expect from ACS. As a testament to the care and training when we bring dogs back for refresher they are excited to arrive . Despite the discipline that is required to maintain their training they actually welcome it. Having all three dogs speak the same language and commands has made life at this household much better for the dogs and us humans . An amazing shift in lifestyle for the better.

I've been following Joe and the ACS team on Instagram for almost 2 years. Like many, I am the proud owner of a "pandemic puppy". My Labrador is very environmentally reactive and socially awkward (barks at people and unknown sounds around our home). I wish I had reached out to Joe sooner. I scheduled a virtual behavioral assessment/consultant over Zoom with Joe. In the weeks leading up to our meeting, I staged and recorded several clips of my dog performing the nuisance behavior. Joe provided me useful and actionable feedback. It was technically a consult, so I did not go into it expecting any formal training advise, but I received a wealth of information during my scheduled time. Joe helped me understand what was going on, what I needed to do to manage it, and how I could better prepare my dog for certain situations. Joe outlined ways that I could build resilience and confidence in my dog and recommended several things I could do right away to begin working towards my goals. Again, I wish I had done this sooner. Looking forward to getting her to the ACS facility for in person training.

1) They communicate very well. This is VERY hard to find in the dog training world. Most dog trainers are very very poor at communicating, and they flake a lot. Not this team, they are always there for you. They sent me pictures and videos of my dog's progress at their training camp as it was happening. 2) They LISTEN and incorporate it into trainings. All too often trainers tend to not gather all the info/context surrounding your dog and areas for improvement. This team does it right. 3) Easy Transparent Payment. They have a system set up to make it really easy and transparent to schedule, pay, go through history, etc. 4) They know how to deal with ALL dog types. I have a Belgian Malinois and if you know anything about this breed, they are NOT easy to handle. I can trust these guys to handle him completely. 5) Facility and Options. They have a fantastic, open, clean, quite, facility in a very nice area with plenty of different training/boarding options to suite your needs. They work with you to help you decide what those are. Give them a shot. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

I've been going here for years. I tried other places but always come back to them. We tried another company (not advanced canine systems) that allowed the dogs to play together but my dogs stained multiple bite injuries from other dogs, including one incident with an employee's dog attacking my Vizsla. I tried a different company with water features which ended up with a bill for eye infections and a water born parasite infection. So all roads always lead back to advance canine systems where my two boys have always been well cared for. I have been using them for over 11 years with no issues. Great staff and happy dogs. Brody and Jager say thank you.

I came across Advance Canine Systems (ACS) in desperation of finding a training facility that knew what they were doing and can help us with Bear. Bear is a six-year-old German Shepherd with a long history. Bear comes from never having any sort of structure or training and has always roamed free within 5 acres of land with all sorts of animals around him. Mistake after mistake I knew that something needed to be done. Understanding that Bear is a bit older and has some health issues around how much his body can take I now know and understand that it does not mean that he can’t be held accountable for his decisions. I came to a point where I didn’t know what else to do. We had our initial intake through zoom with Joe and from the very first session I knew that is where we needed to take Bear for training. I had tried three different training facilities but felt like we were getting nowhere. Understanding there was a lot of work to be done and with no hesitation Joe validated and reassured us that him and his team could help. Through the entire process ACS team were right there to answer any and all questions we had. I have come to understand to my core is that dogs need structure and boundaries and as a dog owner you take full responsibility in making sure you set the foundation for your dog to succeed, something that I have learned the hard way. We truly can’t be more thankful from what we have gained through taking Bear with ACS. Advanced Canine Systems have completely changed our lives and have saved Bears. You will not be disappointed in the outcome that you will receive from this stupendous team of individuals. Thank you ACS family!

Very friendly, and knowledge staff

Advanced Canine Systems has provided an unlimited knowledge resource in regards to the world of dog training. Each and every individual has opened my eyes to different details of proper techniques in raising, training and owning a dog of the working breed. They've all helped take part in opening up new doors with the rehabilitation of deep routed issues we had with both our Malinois' and our American Bulldog, previously owned by our Grandparents. We discovered ACS via Instagram, being impressed from the start with the progress of some their board and trains, but the focus and bond with their adolescent puppies on up to Judo was what really drew us to them. Not long after following, we made appointment for the initial meet and greet. When we left we knew we'd finally discovered the help we needed in raising our dogs. Joe’s approach is unlike any previous trainers. He wastes no time in making it clear that you must set goals for yourself and your dog. You don’t lose site of the process with his guidance, he calls you out on your mistakes, he is clear and direct on how to correct them. In the short amount of time I've been going to ACS I've built a personal friendship with everyone there. The integrity level as a whole is through the roof. Everyone is as trustworthy, honest, kind, respectful & professional as they come.  It’s very rare you find a place like this, I'm happy the search is over and we have found a home away from home. ❤️

Awesome service boarding both my dogs and my cat.

I’ve been working with Joe for years now. I fly or drive cross country just to train with he and his crew, I’ve also watched them grow and I’m stoked with what they are doing and the direction they are going. They are all in on each dog in their care, nurturing them and coaching them to be the best they can be, in every way. I recently left my young pup with ACS for two months with specific goals for sport. Not only did they meet expectations, they crushed them! ACS is Rex’s second home and he adores it there, my whole crew does. When we pull in they all get jazzed, that tells me all I need to know. They love it there! Keep doing what you’re doing, it’s top notch! Anyone would be a fool to go elsewhere. Much love to whole ACS family!

Five stars isn’t enough! I came to Joe with a 16 week old Belgian Malinois puppy. Mind you this was my first puppy and I had no idea what to do with her. She was a sweetheart, but she barked at every passing dog, human, loud noise etc. no matter how hard I tried to get her to listen to me, nothing I was doing was working. She was stubborn, spirited, and was growing so fast that she would soon be too strong for me to control, as well as keep her safe, and others safe from her. Whenever I tried to take her on walks, she pulled on her harness constantly to the point where we had to stop going on walks at all. Joe completely turned this around. Through his guidance and dedication, he helped me learn how to communicate effectively with my puppy. He is so amazing at what he does! He has helped me to form a connection and a bond with my dog that I would've never had otherwise. She is now motivated to listen, train, and work. I’ve introduced her to multiple friends and family members and the results have been fantastic. I can also tell how much happier she is now that training is a daily part of our life. I can not recommend Advanced Canine Systems enough! Joe and everyone on his staff cares tremendously for the dogs that come to them. They are passionate about the service they provide and spend a great deal of time educating us humans so that we can have a strong, fulfilling relationship with our furry friends! Also, when I’m not in LA to train with Joe personally, I set up sessions over zoom to keep up on my education. Thanks Advanced Canine Systems!

Prior to ACS our dog lacked focus, had become reactive towards other dogs, and obeyed commands when she felt like it. After talking to Joe, we chose to drive halfway across the country for the ACS full immersion program. Hands down it was …

I recently worked with Joe at ACS to help me with my 8 month old GSD. I've done hours and hours of research, visited facilities, had a few lessons with other trainers. Joe and the ACS facility blew them all away. I'm a wheelchair user and …

I have known Joe since 2014 when I first entered the world of dog training and owning working dogs. I worked with Joe at least once a week for the better part of two years; Joe is passionate about his profession and an expert in his field. He gave me the knowledge and tools I needed to be able to continue working and training my dogs after I left California. Even though I no longer live there, Joe always makes himself available to answer questions and provide guidance when I encounter a problem. He genuinely cares about his clients and their dogs. Joe is an innovator in his field and an excellent trainer and teacher. Even if I am living overseas on the other side of the world, Joe is the only person to whom I will send my dog.

If you want unmatched PROFESSIONAL dog training this is definitely where you need to go! Joe and his team at ACS are awesome and the training for both dog and owner is truly top notch! You won’t be disappointed!

Absolutely amazing team. Would recommend their services to anyone looking for a respectable dog training facility.

I do not have enough good things to say about ACS. We adopted Luna, a two year old husky mix, in January and she had several serious issues (mostly her extreme reactivity toward dogs... snapping, barking, pulling, etc). We were recommended to ACS by a friend and could not be more happy with the results. Luna did a five week board and train program at ACS in the spring, and there are not even words to describe the difference. I used to be extremely anxious to interact with her at all, but now working with her is one of my favorite things to do. I even look forward to practicing around other dogs, which used to be a huge trigger for her and something I would dread/actively try to avoid. Having a challenging dog can be really, really hard. We still practice daily and go up to ACS for lessons, but Luna's major behavior issues are resolved... and overall, our lives are MUCH happier. I'm so thankful we found ACS and would recommend them to any dog owner.

I feel so lucky that I came across this dog training facility! I always thought that I would be able to effectively train my new pup by just watching youtube videos and talking to other dog owners. Was I wrong. I had a 5-month-old 60 pound German Shepherd that was pulling on his leash when we walked around the neighborhood (Im 5ft tall and 105lbs) and barked at everything that moved. I was sooooo frustrated and was beginning to understand why people throw up their hands and give their dogs away. One day I ran into a neighbor who had the most well-behaved dog Scout. Scout walked calmly by his owner, listened to his commands, his behavior was what I wanted Enzo to be like. . I asked his owner where he had him trained and he said ACS with a glowing review. I made an appointment right away and I am so happy I did. They offered weekly training sessions, but because of my work schedule and how far I live from the facility, I opted to enroll my pup Enzo in the 5-week training retreat. It seemed like a long time, of course, to be away from him but I was desperate. Honestly it flew by and with how it changed Enzo for the best I would do it again in a heartbeat. My son and I went to several training sessions while he was there, to learn how to communicate with him when he went home with us and that was so fun! Enzo came out the same sweet pup that went in to training but had matured. It seems like a miracle that he is the same dog. It has now been a month since Enzo has been home and we are enjoying the time we are with him. He doesn't pull on the leash, doesn't bark at other dogs, and rests calmly when he is in the house. I've taken him with me to Mammoth and on short hikes and dog beaches and people are always commenting on how well behaved he is. I can't thank the amazing staff enough. Alli at the front desk is super sweet and knowledgeable and all the trainers there as well. They all seem to just adore their job and dogs that are there and that means a lot to us owners. The main trainer/founder Joe...I just can't say enough about him. His training style blows all the other trainers in the area away. He has checked in with us since Enzo has been home and is just a phone call away if we have any issues. He encourages us to call him if we have any problems to nip any issues in the bud, right then and there. I can't thank this team enough. Sign up with ACS! I promise you will not regret it :)

We adopted our 6 year old pittie mix from a local shelter and did not have all his history/background. Over the years since we adopted him he had developed a few habits that were concerning to my wife and I. After looking around for a bit, we came to ACS on a high recommendation from a family friend who had been bringing her dog to train with Joe. We could not have been more happier with the decision. Joe and all the staff at ACS very kind and knowledgeable. They truly do care about the animals and give you a welcoming feeling from the get go. After only a few sessions we had seen improvement in our dog. He not only helped train him but also us humans as pet owners. Joe will be completely honest with you and help you and your dog achieve your goals. Highly highly recommend using ACS if you are searching for a great team to help you train your dog. We will be continuing to work with ACS and recommending them to all our family and friends

If you are looking for a dog trainer in LA county even outside of LA if you want amazing trainers and facility look no further. Joe and the whole team at advanced canine put 100% effort and work into our puppy from the very beginning. We originally started with just private lessons with our pup but then saw HUGE progress from one week of train and board so decided to commit and send our pup Stevie for a the full train and board. WOW, let me tell you...this was 1000% worth our money and time. After train and board Stevie came back so much more mellow and ready to work. Since we receiving her back we’ve been able to keep up her training, walk her off leash on walks, hikes and overall just have a more well trained dog. I kid you not, we don’t go anywhere without getting compliments on her training. You won’t regret taking your pup here and I can genuinely tell you the next dog we get will go through the same training with Joe and team because they are that good and they really care!

Hugo’s story... we adopted Hugo (Mal/ Dutch Shep) from an animal shelter when he was 8 weeks old. He started obedience training right away. As he matured we noticed his leash reactivity getting worse and behavior toward other animals was aggressive. We had a trainer come to the house to work with him. Hugo worked through some issues but not the most important ones. He was introduced to a muzzle because he wouldn’t stop growling at the trainer. Moving forward... I knew Hugo needed immediate intervention with a professional trainer in a board and train situation. After tons of research I reached out Advanced Canine Systems (ACS) for guidance. I can honestly say from the moment I contacted ACS they have always been up front with excellent communication about Hugo. Joe and Hugo clicked right away. During the evaluation Hugo chose Joe over me. Hugo stayed with ACS for a month, my husband and I visited several times to train with Joe and Hugo. Joe broke the training down into understandable task. During our last visit Hugo trained with a goat, Chihuahua and toddler running around, none of which fazed him. Hugo’s been home for a week and we’re still test driving him. We’re committed to the work that Joe has accomplished with Hugo and will continue to train. Joe has reached out numerous times in the recent days to get Hugo updates and answer all my questions. Hugo’s focus is excellent. He’s not easily distracted by his surroundings like before. What Joe and his team was able to accomplish in a month was amazing. Hugo’s definitely a work in progress. Hugo will be visiting ACS in the future to board and train while we are on vacation. Along with periodic update training. Training with Joe is well worth the three hour drive from San Diego.

After doing a ton of research online we decided to take our new German Shepherd puppy to Joseph and team at Advanced Canine Systems. While he isn’t aggressive, he has terrible separation anxiety that made us feel trapped at home. We also …

Joseph and the entire team are solid human beings that are AMAZING with your puppers. You want quality, this is it. None better for even the simplest of doggos.

You’re not alone…Advanced Canine Systems is the answer. We were struggling with our boy and getting desperate for a solution. He is our third Doberman and he was exhibiting behaviors ranging from extreme reactivity, leash aggression, bullying, and nuisance barking. Once he was fixated on something, there was no regaining focus. Walks were no longer productive or pleasant because he would start hunting for things to lunge at and it frequently ended up in a big, loud, out of control scene. He even redirected his reactivity towards us and pinned our other dogs on several occasions. We were crushed that our beloved pet was so unpredictable and unreliable.  He was quickly becoming a liability to himself, to us, and to others. We even realized that we were beginning to modify our own behaviors around his. Something had to be done and quickly. Joe came highly recommended to us and we immediately saw that we were in the right place. Joe was extremely patient, thorough, and honest in his assessment of our boy. He spent a lot of time breaking down the behaviors in what he observed and worked with us to develop a customized strategy to address them. Even in our consult with Joe, we saw immediate changes in behavior in our boy. We regained hope and confidence that we could bring out the best in our boy. Within 24 hours of implementing what we learned with Joe, the edgy craziness that our boy was exhibiting evaporated. He started to focus through distractions like barking dogs on the other side of the fence. It was something that he just couldn’t do before. The change was obvious and our boy finally looked comfortable, relaxed, and calm.  We felt the same sense of calmness over the entire house. We were reminded of the potential that he has in him and with Joe’s help, we’re learning how to bring out the best in our dog. Couldn’t be prouder of our boy and can’t wait to continue making progress. Joe is amazing with the dogs he works with and he truly cares. He works to establish a healthy relationship between dog and owner so that the dog’s potential and well-being are maximized. Furthermore, he focuses on creating a reliable foundation that you can build on and trust that the results are dependable. Joe has the perfect blend of expertise, knowledge, and compassion.

Joseph and his team are top notch! I was recommended to Joseph by a coworker. To give some context, I got my Dutch Shepherd when he was two years old and he had a lot of poor habits from his previous owners. He would often chew/destroy small items, was not good on a leash and would pull a lot, and was always aggressive around small dogs! When I first met Joseph he walked me through the process of starting from scratch and making sure to start with a good foundation and erase all his negative habits before building strong new habits. After just a short period I was able to see vast changes in the temperament and behavior of my dog. My dog is now the talk of the neighborhood and people can't believe how well behaved he is when I take him on walks. I could not be more happy with the progress Joseph and his team have made with my dog! We are both much happier. Not only does Joseph train the dogs but he also works with me to make sure that I know the proper handling and ongoing training to make sure my dog doesn't revert to his old ways. It is rare to see someone who cares so much for the animals he takes care of which extends to his coaching of the owners! When I go out of town I will leave my dog with Joseph as he is the only facility I trust. Josephs Malibu facility is truly a special place that my dog and I love visiting.

When I decided to get a dog, I deliberately went to a high-kill shelter, where I found Sirius. While we bonded immediately, Sirius scared all my neighbors, earned a bite history, and some of my neighbors were muttering that he should be put …

I was introduced to ACS and Joe through two different friends who have had their dogs trained there, one for protection and the other as a pet. Even before I purchased my pup I knew that I would bring her to his facility. My dog, Luna, is a tamaskan wolfdog, a notoriously independent and smart breed. I brought her there at 10 weeks and left her with ACS for two months. She returned to me an amazing dog, even at her young age she excels at tasks and commands most adult dogs struggle with. She is also amazing with kids , thanks to the exposure she received with Joes children. We will continue to bring Luna back to ACS when we go on vacation or away on business to continue to develop her as she grows up. The support you receive from ACS doesn't end when you pick up your dog, they are available at all times for tips, questions and they ask genuine updates on how the dog is progressing at home. They are a wealth of knowledge and happily will teach you as much as you wish to learn. I truly can't imagine having a dog without ACS.