Testimonials

Below, you will find just a few of our trained dogs. Dogs by Andy guarantees that your dog will graduate our course trained. If your dog needs a leash, it's not trained. When your dog leaves here, you can walk your dog off leash through a shopping center! We guarantee it!

Have a testimonial you'd like to share? Let us know!

Also, don't miss Andy training "Bella" from the TLC show, "Miami Ink." Check out he photos here. Also, check out Andy's appearance on "It's Me or the Dog" on Animal Planet. You can find those photos here.

Written Testimonials:

VEGA

This is one our dogs, K-9 Vega, who works for the Monroe County Sheriff's Office in I.A.

K-9 Vega was asked to come to the post office to do a package search. She alerted on a box that contained these cookies witch were baked with Marijuana.

The cookies were then delivered to the addressee who was arrested. Interesting fact -- the package was sent from her MOM.

ASKEM

Askem was called in by US Customs to search containers at a port in Riviera Beach and Mangonia Park, FL. Askem had been sold to the local Police Departments by Andy Hanellin.

Officer Klubens currently works with Askem. Askem came up with 3,500 lbs hidden behind a false wall in a container. Askem was bread, trained and sold by Andy of Dogs by Andy K-9 Services.

Michael and I wanted to thank Andy for all of his expertise and professionalism with training our dog Miles.

Miles is a large rottweiler mix and wanted to be alpha dog from the very start, until we met Andy. Not only did he train Miles he also trained us by showing us how to handle, correct and reward Miles.

Our dog is now 6.5 years old and 140lbs. He is a breeze to walk and handle. He is very gentle with our 2 daughters and listens great while off his lead. I do not think we would have been able to handle Miles without Andy's help.

We are very thankful for our great dog trained by Andy!

Dr. Denise M. Trayford
Chiropractor

Andy worked with our very large GS puppy for obedience training. Within the first hour, Trooper was obeying his commands and transferred his desire to please to us and our nine year old daughter. We've had months of enjoyment and have had people make comments about how well-trained he is. I would highly recommend Andy to anyone!

J. Sloan

"Katie" is my 3yr old Portuguese Water Dog. 4 months ago I had Katie entered in an AKC Obedience Trial. She started developing aggression towards other dogs and I had to pull her from competition. I was told by a Dog Behaviorist and a few other people that I would never be able to compete Katie in any shows. I would not accept this and went to look for some help. I found Andy He evaluated Katie and said she had Fear Aggression towards other dogs. After 6 weeks of training with Andy I noticed a huge improvement in Katie's confidence and her attention on me. She was working completely off leash even with other dogs around. I continued with follow up training sessions with Andy and also worked with Jenna who also helped Katie and I a lot. I decided to test Katie on how far along we had come with her training and entered her in her first AKC Obedience Trial May 31st in Fletcher, NC. Katie did great. Out of 11 dogs she got 4th place. And the best part was that she never reacted to any dog. Her attention was totally on me. Katie and I still have some work to do before her next trials in the Fall but we are on the right track. I cannot thank Andy and Jenna enough for helping me with Katie. They helped me develop Katie into the great working dog I knew she could be.

If you are looking for a trainer to help you with training your dog I highly recommend Dogs by Andy!!!

S. McKee

Andy and team,

I wanted to take a minute and thank you ALL from the bottom of my heart for everything you have done for Deacon and I. I brought Deacon in because he could not be trusted off leash and he needed basic obedience training and I knew I was not capable of teaching him the things he needed to know. The second he would see someone or something across the street, off he would go. Not only is this embarrassing, but this is dangerous. I would command him, and he would turn the other way and do what he wanted to do. Knowing the type of dog he is, a loving, happy and friendly dog, I knew this was not being done out of spite. We were just unable to communicate with each other effectively. Dogs by Andy changed all of this. Deacon is still the same loving and happy dog, but now he is more self assured because he knows what is expected of him. I have complete trust with him off leash, where ever we go. I can honestly say that the in-kennel training not only changed his life, but mine as well. Life is more enjoyable with him now, and I did not think that was possible.

Thank you ALL for treating him like your own and changing our lives forever!

Molly and Deacon

Thanks guys for helping me become the human my dog needs. At first I thought Arley was too much dog for me, but how wrong I was. He is the perfect dog. He has become my confidant, my shoulder to cry on, my best friend. I can count on him not only to protect me, and to help me get around, but knowing he has my back if I fall at home to help me up, or if I need the phone to call 911 is more comfort than I ever imagined. You were patient with me and helped me gain the confidence I needed to know I can handle him. Special hugs to Ashley for the hours she listened to me and worked with me, and to Andy for all the questions he asked to fit me with the right dog... I will keep in touch.

Lynn

When my son wanted a German Sheppard puppy, I said sure. No idea that we would end up with Spike, a high energy German Sheppard who needed a lot more help than the local pet store could provide. Once we completed basic puppy training we were told he needed obedience training. Based on acquaintances recommendations we took him to Highland Kennels in Statesville, NC. After completing their course Spike's behavior was good for a while, but then started to deteriorate and he started to demonstrate aggressive behavior. Spike is very protective of my family, especially my sons, I was concerned he would bite someone and we would have to put him down. When we requested help from Highland they told me; a.) Put a muzzle on him and b.) We would need to pay per training session. So, before spending money for training that did not work the first time, we looked for a new trainer. Our Vet for 13 years, North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital, recommended Dogs by Andy. A close friend had worked with Dogs by Andy also recommended him. What we found out was Andy and his team care about Dogs, and they immediately cared about Spike. He guaranteed the training. Whenever Spike starts to misbehave and we need help we call and do a quick session. Spike is a great dog thanks to Dogs by Andy, and now I can take him with me to my Son's soccer practices without fear he will hurt someone. We have since purchased a fully trained Belgium Sheppard from Dogs by Andy, Rocket. She is a joy. She is so well trained she is going everywhere with my husband, who is a contractor. I can't say enough good things about Dogs by Andy. When people remark on how well behaved my dogs are, I tell them "Dogs by Andy" is due all the credit.

K. Prentiss

Andy,

My husband and I want to thank you so very much from the bottom and top of our hearts for making our Mandi so happy. We also appreciate you sending these videos and keeping in touch. It really warms my heart to see her playing with other dogs like that. I guess after you are told so often that "your dog is dog aggressive", you start to believe it. THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to see her. I know you are very busy so I won't keep you. Please know that I am extremely greatful!!!!! Look forward to seeing you, your team, and Mandi very soon.....

S. Green

Thanks for a great dog. Thank you also for making it right before I knew anything was wrong. Doing the right thing and professing a mistake is unheard of these days, particularly when you were the only one who knew the mistake. This speaks volumes about your integrity and character. You have proven to be a man of your word and you have demonstrated this over the last few months with your actions.

I have to say I didn't understand the question and answer session when we first met. But your assessment of what I needed versus what I thought I wanted was spot on. My entire family couldn?t be happier. Your knowledge and genuine concern are welcomed attributes.

Chloe and I look forward to continuing to learn from you. We appreciate your kindness and patience. Chloe is very responsive to all current commands (a few new) and is eager to learn more. She is truly more dog than I had anticipated and I appreciate you going above and beyond.

Sincerely,
Fred Akins

Andy,

I just wanted to write a long overdue thanks to Joanne Lewis and to the training program you have put together. My wife and I own two German Shepherds and have tried many other training classes from clicker training to choke collar. While we did get some results from these classes I wouldn't have considered our dogs by any means trained or well-behaved. I had someone in my office mention Dogs by Andy and how she had seen your dogs work before. After our oldest GSD showed mild signs of aggression protecting a sock she had we decided it was time to finally train these dogs.

Joanne was the absolute best trainer and worked so well with both our dogs. Our oldest, Uma, is a very strong-willed dog and she responded beautifully to Joanne. After our sessions with Joanne Uma would be sad that she left. We saw immediate progress in both dogs and by the end of the 12 week program we had dogs that were getting compliments everywhere we went on how well behaved they were. We can now have guests over and put them in the "place" position and again enjoy entertaining at our house. We regularly take them to the dog park and they always come when they are called and get plenty of compliments on their behavior. There isn't an aggression issue anymore and we just love owning trained and well-behaved dogs all because of your program and Joanne. We always recommend Dogs by Andy any chance we get to talk with other dog owners.

Sincerely,

Chris and Emily Halloran

I would like to send you a quick note to give you an update on Megan. Let me start by thanking all of you for your work with Megan. She is doing great and has yet to be on a leash even in the most congested areas. She has never once broken heel, sit or a stay for that matter. I cannot walk more then 50 feet without someone commenting on how well mannered she is. It is truly amazing how your team has transform her in such a short amount of time. I was able to house train her in under 4 days, without one mess up in the house. I know that with continued work she will remain the dog that I always wished for. I would like to send my sincere thanks to you and your team for all that you done for Megan. John could not have been more helpful when I have called for a few suggestions over the last week.

Megan has the tools to enjoy life and explore all the things around her, thanks to you all. I will send anyone I know your way in the future.

Thanks again for exceeding my expectations.

Blair

Dear Andy,

I have had Tuli at home for a week now and the difference in her behavior is amazing. She is a much happier dog in every way. When I left her with you guys she was a sweet dog that loved to play but that was about it. At home she could never be trusted and had to be on a leash constantly when not in a fenced in yard because if she saw something she wanted she would take off after it with disregard to what Anne or I would say and wouldn't come back unless she wanted to. You know the story... she chased cats , squirrels, other dogs and anything else that moved. She was a real handful to say the least. I watched how you worked with her and you really know you your stuff. I noticed everyone who works with you is happy at what they are doing and love working with and teaching dogs, it just shows on their faces.It also shows when you look at the dogs working with you they are excited and happy to do so. Your whole staff treated each dog as if it were their own. Also as a restaurant owner I can't believe how clean you keep the kennels and the whole grounds for that matter . Everything in its place all the time, all kennels washed everyday, it was just amazing and very impressive. I liked seeing all kinds of different dogs being trained too.

Now that we have Tuli at home it's a whole different experience. We can take her anywhere now without a leash or worry of her running away and with her dragging us around and you can tell she just wants to please us. She doesn't grab our shoes in the house anymore or chew on anything other than her toys. Watching Anne take her on a two mile walk thru the neighborhood and town is just amazing and rewarding. I remember how nervous Anne was that Tuli wouldn't remember us or loose her sweet attitude, well when she saw us after three weeks she was so excited and happy we were there and when we got her home she remembered only the good things like where her toys were and favorite places to be but no more jumping on people and running around the property barking at stuff and she is still as sweet as ever and still does all the cute funny stuff she did before, she is still the same dog but the difference is now she is obedient and patient. Anne myself and my kids are forever gratefull for the wonderful service you and your staff provide.

Thanks Andy!

Rob and Anne Trunz

My long-time life partner died unexpectedly a few years ago, my two grandchildren that were with me constantly have grown up and don't require "baby sitting" (which I loved) and I found myself growing very lonely when not working. A six-week old dachshund entered my life when she was rescued in nearby Gastonia and has quickly become that missing link for which I was searching. I had always resisted having a pet due to the many long hours I worked and the travel that was required... but when I saw those sad eyes in the photo a friend sent, she won my heart... she had to be mine!

Even though she had my heart, I found that having a "puppy" was a very challenging undertaking. I accredited some of the problems to previous abuse and sickness she suffered; but found that I just could not deal with all the puppy mischief and activity. Almost ready to find another home for her, the son of a good friend told me about Dogs by Andy. John Postene with Dogs by Andy saved my puppy and her owner.

After completing the weekly training sessions, it is absolutely amazing what joy Maizi now brings to my life and how proud I am to take her anywhere knowing that she is well behaved. John not only created an unbelievable transformation with Maizi, but also most importantly trained me so that I now know how to deal with the previous problems.

I really did not know what to expect; but from the initial evaluation meeting John made me feel very confident that he could train us to overcome the current issues in addition to learning to obey commands I never even knew existed. Even though I was very insecure at times during the training, John was very sensitive to my hesitations and sometimes spent more time training me than Maizi. I truly appreciate his understanding along with the professionalism and the sincere caring he exhibits for both the dog and their owner. And, yes, both Maize and I can now walk off-leash through a shopping center and actually survive the experience... I never thought I would see that day.

It has been a pleasure working with John these last couple of months and I know that I am going to miss his reinforcement. However, I have been reassured that he and Andy will always be there if problems arise.

Thank you again for giving me a well-behaved one-year old miniature dachshund that has become a very important, treasured part of my life.

Joyce Lail
Hickory, NC

I had been looking for a dog for a few months after moving to Mooresville. I finally found what seemed to be a great dog to adopt online. I had contacted Andy after seeing his website and he immediately and so generously offered to come evaluate the dog with me. We went all the way to Hickory to meet this dog and as it turned out the German Shepherd Dog, Baby, is a great dog and a lucky find. I immediately enlisted the help of Andy and his expert staff to do some formal training with her. They were great through the whole process. Now, due to the help of Andy and his amazing staff, I am the proud owner of the best, most obedient dog I have ever owned! The best money I've ever spent!!

Jeff Vargo

Jochen came to me in January, I had lost my last dog in November and was desperate to love again. When Jochen arrived he was eight months old and already weighed more than I did. To say he was a handful would be an understatement. I quickly realized it had been a long, long time since I had dealt with a puppy. I wanted to do everything right with him, I immediately thought of Andy who I had met briefly a couple of years ago while my Luciano was still alive. Driving up to meet with Andy that first time with Jochen I was having serious anxiety, wondering if I had done the right thing in getting Jochen. He was so different than Luciano, he was so much more work than Luciano ever was, nothing was easy anymore. Within five minutes of talking with Andy and John that day I noticed myself already more at ease. I felt like they had the answers I needed. I remember leaving there and turning around and looking at Jochen and telling him I thought we were going to be ok. 10 short weeks later we aren't only OK... we are FANTASTIC! They transformed this wild puppy that I had no control over into the most well behaved dog I have ever seen. We haven't used a leash in longer than I can remember. He had his first modeling job last week and he was the only dog there that didn't have to be held on to by a handler. He just sat or lied down, whichever was required, and never moved. Everyone commented on how well trained he was and wanted to know who had done his training. I very quickly handed them one of Andy's cards and told them he can work miracles. Jochen has become my most loyal and trusted friend and I don't think any of that would have been possible without Andy. Thank you Andy and John for all your hard work and we look forward to seeing where we will go from here!

Kristine Nelson

I just wanted to thank Andy. I was trained by Andy to train Cooper 16 1/2 years ago. After only 5 weeks, Andy told me Cooper was ready for trials, but I never entered him. I wanted to thank Andy for helping to make Cooper the wonderful dog he was. I never had worries about him, and trusted Cooper in all situations. I recently put Cooper down. He was almost 17 years old. I can't thank Andy enough for helping me to make Cooper the perfect dog.

Arthur Bamel

We got a dog, Doberman, male, 1 1/2 yrs. old, fully trained Andy Hanellin, got the exact right one for us. We are an older couple and wanted a dog who would not ware us out, and one that would be a sourse of enjoyment. Andy found the dog for us, Otis. Otis is more than we imagined a dog could be. He is sweet, healthy, and happy. He is so obedient, and I am doing more walking which is great for my health. We could have any number of dogs, but we made the right decision in listening to Andy about getting a trained dog. We have know him since he was a teenager and so he knows us and our needs. There isn't a more perfect marriage than Otis and the Trunz's.

Thanks so much, Andy. We are loving every minute of having Otis.

Gail Vonroeschlaub Trunz

Bebkin is a three year old rescue dog, and spent three and a half weeks with Andy and his team in June and July of this year, and was boarded with them for a week in October, both at the Mooresville location. He is a great dog, and Dogs by Andy, especially Amanda, did a great job training and reinforcing his training. I am in a wheelchair, and Andy's team actually used a chair to train Bebkin. I make every effort to work with "B" every day, and the great thing is that he obeys much better, and has never lost his terrific personality.

I have no reservations about recommending Andy and his team to any dog owner.

Thanks Guys, John and Bebkin

We have just finished the 10 session course with Dogs by Andy and it is still hard to believe just how successful this program has been. Successfully walking off leash was a highlight, but so was the confidence gained by both dog and owners during the process. My wife & I also learned how very important praise was in the training of our dog. Nobody give praise like Andy. Matt was the perfect trainer for our 2 1/2 yr old Boykin Spaniel "Maddie" (and for my wife & me) and he will always be a part of her.

We could not be more pleased with the program and its results.

Bob & Denice Bowman

Andy,

I wanted to write you a quick note in saying thanks! We have had Jack for over a month now and he has fit in with the family since we let him out of the car. I've been gone all month and it is a great feeling knowing that Jack is protecting Theresa and the boys. Our older boy is bonding with Jack quicker than Theresa and I had ever thought. He is always bringing Jack up to his room and outside to play. We really knew that they had a bond when our son invited Jack into his playhouse (which he never did with our old dog). Jack is great in the house and extremely gentle with both the boys. Theresa and I can't thank you enough.

Thanks!

Tony Scigliano

Police K-9s