Nathan Woods, Dog Trainer - Santa Barbara Pet Services - Santa Barbara, California

Arielle R. P.

Nathan helped us with our coonhound who we would have never felt comfortable having off leash before (scent hound, crazy prey drive). Now he can safely walk with us off leash on the beach and in the park, no problem! We are so thrilled with our pup’s progress all thanks to Nathan.

Michelle B.

I have always wanted a dog to heal, on and off leash. I finally have that. We started with the 8 session package and switched to the VIP sessions half way through. We have really enjoyed working with Nathan and watching our dog mature in to a really well behaved dog. He explains the techniques and the reasoning behind it, which I really enjoy. I also appreciate not treat-training. Nathan is always encouraging positive reinforcement, not treats, which really works for us.
At our last session, he mentioned that she is still a puppy and I actually forgot - she is so well behaved. We don't have any issues with recall or heal, even at the dog park. I am having so much fun with her, we are so grateful for Nathan and all his work.

Tamara M.

My husband and I had a wonderful experience with Nathan. He really helped us bring out the best in our sweet-yet-fearful little rescue terrier, Nina. She used to pull on leash, lunge and bark aggressively at other dogs, and if you wanted her to come when you called... forget about it! At first we had some mixed feelings about using a chain collar, until he helped us understand that the sound of the chain rubbing against itself when pulled is what helps get Nina’s attention and focus her (which was so true). And we trusted him completely because he’s clearly such a dog lover and was so kind and patient with our girl. Now Nina is more confident with other dogs and a very happy camper! She’s great on leash and her recall is beyond what we ever expected. We highly recommend Nathan — he’s 100% Nina-approved. 😀

Barbara T.

Nathan Woods is absolutely one of the best dog trainers you can find. I have known him for over 10 years and has trained my American Bulldog who had behavioral issues after an illness as a puppy and being displaced from a 2009 wildfire. He helped integrate her to society and she became a very friendly and sweet dog to everyone she came across.
Nathan is now training my German Shepherd since she was 2 months old and she has surprised many in terms of her nature and behavior.
I highly recommend Nathan and we call him the “ dog whisperer “ of Santa Barbara

My German Shepherd will be 2 years old on April 5th, 2020 and she has gone through and beyond Obedience Level 2 training with Nathan Woods. She has earned her Canine Good Citizen Certificate and she is currently working as a Service Dog. She travels with her handler, she goes on Airplanes and Restaurants with him. At the same time Nathan Woods has taught her to pick objects (medicine bottle) off the ground and retrieve them back. He also has shown us not to allow her to integrate with strange dogs so that she never experiences any sort of aggressive reactions. In return, when she goes to play with other dogs at Loose Pooch, all who have been interviewed by Nathan she can play happily with them with no fear.
Nathan continues to follow up with her and is always there for us whenever we have any concerns.

Paige C.

I highly recommend Nathan Woods as an excellent dog trainer! Nathan Woods taught US to train our dog. As a result, our dog is a pleasure to be around. His 8-session training package is organized and thorough. Nathan is available to answer questions as they arise in person at your sessions and by phone. After following his methods, we have a calm and tuned-in dog.

At each session, Nathan works by meeting with you for 35 minutes to an hour and teaching you the new skill to work on with your dog. You leave the session with a new spreadsheet of skills to practice methodically over the next week or weeks. Then, once those skill are mastered, you meet up with Nathan for a new set of skills. His methods are not treat-based. He teaches everything on a 6-foot leash, eventually graduating our dog to an e-collar to be used in off-leash areas.

If you are willing to put in the effort at home, his methods work. Go for it!

Anca T.

Our experience with Nathan was a wonderful one!
He offered structure and very good training to our husky! He’s truly a professional and he’s very dedicated to what he’s doing.
He was always there for us with answers and support to all our questions.
Great job, Nathan!
It’s been a pleasure to meet and work with you and congratulations to your great achievements with the dogs! We all know that what you’re doing is not easy!

Toni C.

Before coming to Nathan, I was super frustrated and felt like a bad dog owner. My young beagle was stubborn and independent, and the typical puppy classes at the SPCA didn’t help much. I never thought she would be able to be the off leash dog I wanted. We enrolled in Nathan’s VIP program and it changed everything. I will never forget going to the crazy crowded dog beach with Nathan and him letting her off leash, and her not taking off and coming back when prompted! I couldn’t believe my eyes. Nathan stands behind his work and always makes himself available for support and guidance, during AND after the program. I feel so assured that if daisy and I ever need a refresher, I can give him a call. Thank from a dog who can happily explore off leash and an owner who doesn’t have to worry or feel embarrassed!

Sara H.

We adopted a wonderful dog and found out she is mostly Great Pyrenees. It is a very sweet breed but they are not the easiest to train. Nathan has worked with her and us to make sure we know how to best interact with and train our dog. He is passionate and knowledgeable and has made our lives way easier. We feel really confident and consistent with how we interact with her and it has made a huge difference. I can't recommend Nathan enough.