Major K9 | New Jersey Dog Trainer
28 Days To A Dog You’re Proud To Take With You Everywhere
Get a calm, well-behaved companion that you’ll love taking on trips, adventures, and more! How? Through a done-for-you board-and-train or private dog training experience.
5-Star Overall Google Rating
Go From Worry & Embarrassment to Pride In Your Well-Trained Dog
Hi! We’re Troy Sarro and Barb Taylor, owners and trainers at Major K9. We love helping New Jersey dog owners train their dogs to become calm, respectful, and obedient companions. If you’re at your wits’ end with your dog, our dog training services can help you realize the well-behaved dog you’ve always dreamed about.
Chances are you got a puppy or adopted a dog because you want a best friend and adventure buddy. You imagined going hiking with them, taking them to the lake, and walking along the boardwalk. But right now, their behaviors make those trips impossible. You’re not just disappointed, you’re stressed and frustrated because you can’t get your dog to do anything you want them to do.
Maybe you’re anxious about getting pulled down the street when you go for a walk. Maybe they’re tearing up your furniture or clothes. Or maybe, they’re aggressive and reactive with people, other dogs, or cars, and you’re always afraid something will set them off. It’s miserable for everyone to bring them with you, but you’re also nervous about what they’ll do alone in the house, and you can’t leave them alone.
We’re here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be this way.
Your dog can become a well-trained canine citizen that:
✓ Listens no matter where you are, on or off-leash.
✓ Understands your expectations and respects them.
✓ Behaves around guests, kids, or the person watching your house while you’re on vacation.
✓ Walks calmly and relaxed by your side no matter who or what walks, runs, or drives by.
✓ Settles in and contributes to a calm and peaceful environment at home.
This is the kind of experience we’d love to help your family create!
✓ Training Style:
Balanced, Personalized To Your Dog
✓ Availability:
Now Accepting New Clients
✓ Location Served:
Burlington, Atlantic, Ocean, and Monmouth Counties, including Medford, Voorhees, Mount Holly, Cherry Hill, Jackson, Toms River, Manchester, Browns Mills, Monroe, New Egypt, Cook’s Town, Fort Dix, Forked River, Lacey Town, Chatsworth, Ulbridge, Manalapan, and Lakewood.
✓ Free Evaluations
✓Certified:
Experience in Security, Fire, and Professionally Certified In Dog Training
✓ Discounts:
$150 off any of our advanced programs
10% for military and first responders.
Start Today & Get $150 Off Our Advanced Training Packages
The first step in the process is to book a free evaluation. Plus, if you schedule with us before December 31st, you’ll receive $150 off any of our advanced training packages. We’re excited to meet you and your dog!
Chris Bennett
“From problem puppy to a whole new dog.”
I cannot recommend it enough! The work they did is incredible, it’s like we have a whole new dog. They managed to fix all the problems we had with our boy—from reactivity and counter surfing to on- and off-leash walking—without turning him into a robot or diminishing his sometimes-goofy personality.
Services & Specialties
From Overwhelming Energy to Calm Companionship
Every dog and family has their own unique needs and goals. Your dog’s training should be unique too! That’s why we offer a variety of services to make sure your dog gets the help they need to become a calm, well-behaved member of your family.
Basic & Advanced Obedience Training
Did you just get a new dog? Our basic and advanced obedience training is perfect for dogs who need straightforward obedience. We can help take your dog from sprinting and barking at every thing that moves to calmly walking or sitting by your side. This program is perfect for people who want a more hands-on approach working with our trainers. When we’re done, you’ll be able to take your dog with you anywhere and get compliments from all the other dog owners you meet!
Board and Train Programs
Do you want your dog to be the best-trained canine on the block and maybe even your entire city? Don’t have time or skills to train them beyond the basic “sit”? In our board and train program, your dog will spend 2-4 weeks with our lead trainer, Troy. He’ll give them the dedicated attention and expertise from his decades of experience in police, fire, and training family dogs. Drop them off, and when they come home, you’ll see the difference and start getting compliments on the first walk you take them on!
Service Dog Training
You need your dog to be there for you in a bigger capacity than just a fun family friend. Do you need them to guide you in the world, help you manage a health condition, or provide emotional stability? We can help you train a skilled, reliable service dog. Our service dog program covers:
1. Basic obedience
2. Task-specific skills
3. Real-world practice
…so your dog comes home ready to help. From pet to family member, and then family member to working partner, we’re excited to help you train the dog who will help you get by better in the world.
Behavior Modification
Is your dog aggressive or reactive towards humans or other dogs? Are you terrified they’ll hurt someone? Are you worried that you’ll have to rehome them or even put them down? Message us first! No dog is too far gone.
Unlike other trainers who don’t do reactivity or aggression work, we love supporting owners with dogs who have been labeled “too violent to train.” We work with your dog to find the root cause of the behavior and then teach them appropriate ways to react around their triggers. No matter how far gone they seem today, your dog will learn to calmly exist around humans, dogs, or whatever else they’re scared of now.
Are You Embarrassed or Frustrated With Your Dog?
When you brought your dog home, you imagined all the amazing things you would do with them. But right now, your dog feels more like an anchor than an adventure friend.
Taking them anywhere is stressful when they’re barking, pulling, and lunging at everything they see. They’re destroying things or marking in the house. They steal food right off your plate and have no respect for your kids’ toys. You don’t want to invite guests over because your dog’s out of control behavior is embarrassing. Maybe they’re aggressive and reactive with people, other dogs, or cars, and you’re always afraid something will set them off.
Maybe you’ve taught them some basic skills like sit, down, and stay, but beyond that, you can’t get them to do anything you want. Maybe you’ve even tried other “purely positive” training methods that just don’t work. You’re completely overwhelmed by their energy levels, and you’re wondering if you can give them the life that they deserve.
It doesn’t have to be this way.
Go On Adventures With A Dog You’re Proud To Own.
Imagine a life of adventures, outings, and peace and calm inside your home.
Imagine feeling proud of your dog’s obedience anywhere you take them.
Imagine going on a walk or run, leash hanging loosely in your hand.
Imagine hiking and letting them sniff and run around off leash, knowing they’ll come back when called.
Imagine inviting over guests and family and trusting your dog to greet them politely, without jumping!
Imagine going on vacation with them—no more guilt of leaving them behind!
This is the kind of experience we love helping owners create! The answer is our personalized private lessons and board-and-trains!
K9 Scouts Of America
Feel Even More Proud Of Your Dog As They Continue To Grow Their Skills
Once your dog’s training is complete, you’ll gain exclusive access to K9 Scouts of America, a unique program only available at Major K9. This program is designed for owners who want to have amazing adventures and teach their dogs super-cool skills. It lets you and your dog enjoy activities like camping, hiking, and movie nights—just like scouting with your kids.
We host two meetings and four events each month, and you’ll feel proud as your dog earns badges and builds new skills. Go on adventures, meet new people, and trick out your dog at K9 Scouts, only available for dog training customers of Major K9!
4 Features That Set Major K9 Above The Rest
Free Evaluation
Our goal isn’t just to put you into the highest-priced program and then get you out the door as quickly as possible. Every dog is different, and different types of training will work best for your dog and family. Our evaluations are free to ensure we understand your dog’s specific needs and can create the best plan for them.
Tailored Training
We tailor your dog’s training to their personality and the activities you want to do with them. Want to take your dog on long walks along the river? Or have them sit calmly at a restaurant? Need them to work well with other animals? Do you need a service animal? We tailor their training to your specific needs and preferences.
Discounts on Continued Training
We want to become part of a community of owners who are all living their best life with their dogs! That’s why we offer opportunities and discounts on continued training. We want you to keep growing with your dog after you’ve completed an entry program with us.
Discounts for Public Servants
Troy, our lead trainer, is no stranger to public service. Troy spent decades learning how to handle and de-escalate difficult situations with people. He was a former Fire Official, Lieutenant, and Fugitive Recovery Agent. These skills translate very well intodog training. Troy knows how difficult and thankless these professions can be. That’s why we’re honored to offer a 10% discount to all military and first responders who bring their dogs to us. Thank you for your service!
BENEFITS
6 Benefits of Working With Major K9
Calm
Be relaxed and at ease everywhere you take them.
Peace of Mind
Never worry about your dog running away, acting aggressive, or causing chaos in the home.
Confidence
Feel more knowledgeable about how to handle your dog and respond to problems with confidence.
Freedom
Take your dog with you anywhere and get compliments on their amazing behavior.
Happiness
Enjoy a dog that listens to you and behaves in any situation.
Companionship
Grow your relationship with your dog. Set clear expectations and have better communication.
Where We Train
Based in New Jersey, we provide dog training services in Burlington, Atlantic, Ocean, and Monmouth counties. This includes the cities of Medford, Voorhees, Mount Holly, Cherry Hill, Jackson, Toms River, Manchester, Browns Mills, Monroe, New Egypt, Cook’s Town, Fort Dix, Forked River, Lacey Town, Chatsworth, Ulbridge, Manalapan, and Lakewood, and anywhere in-between.
Burlington
Medford
Voorhees Dog Training
Mount Holly Dog Training
Cherry Hill Dog Training
Toms River Dog Training
Browns Mills Dog Training
Monroe NJ Dog Training
Fort Dix Dog Training
Manchester Dog Training
New Egypt Dog Training
Cook’s Town Dog Training
Forked River Dog Training
Lacey Town Dog Training
Chatsworth Dog Training
Manalapan Dog Training
Lakewood Dog Training
From Terrified to Trusting: How Our Training Calmed a Reactive Dog
T-Bone was an 8-month-old, 110-pound Rottweiler. AKA, he was not a small poochie, and what was worse was that he was reactive to any car that drove by. When a car would pass, he would get nervous and anxious and then redirect all that anxiety to bite his owner. He even bit Troy, our lead trainer, during the first couple walks!
Fortunately, Troy knew how to handle him. We worked with T-Bone in behavior modification and exposure training.
Through this, we showed him that cars wouldn’t hurt him and trained him in appropriate reactions. By playing with him every time a car drove by and he didn’t react, we made the experience fun and set clear expectations. Now, T-Bone calmly keeps walking as cars of every shape and size drive by, and his owner doesn’t have to worry about being bit. Neither does Troy, which we’re also thankful for!
How Ghost Went From an Overwhelming Puppy to a Top-Tier Service Dog
Ghost was a high-drive German Shepherd puppy with absolutely no manners. She never listened, had zero recall, charged the door whenever she saw an opening, and yanked her owner up and down the block. All of this was especially difficult on her owner, a disabled veteran with limited mobility.
Initially, Ghost’s owner came to us just wanting basic obedience. But after seeing how much progress she was making with us, he decided to have her go through our service-dog training. Now, Ghost is a fully-certified service dog. She was an an out-of-control menace and a danger to her owner.
Now she’s a skilled and reliable companion who can be depended on anywhere…even the grocery store!
Dog Owners Love the Major K-9 Training Approach
“Peace of mind for our anxious golden retriever.”
We did a one-week boarding with Major K9 and cannot recommend them enough. Our four-year-old golden retriever, Finn, has intense separation anxiety, and Barbara and Troy went above and beyond to ensure he was well cared for. They sent multiple updates throughout the week, and it seems Finn couldn’t have had a better stay. It is hard to find professionals you feel comfortable with when it comes to your dog, and Troy and Barbara are both truly passionate and well-versed in what they do. We will be using their services again and would highly recommend them to anyone!
Nick Taylor
“Training my best friend to be my service dog.”
My dog, Sgt. Ghost, and I started working with Troy and Barbara six weeks ago. She gets so excited to train every day, and we saw a difference in just a few sessions. We also started using the food from their website and have noticed a difference in her energy level; we can tell she is starting to lean out. Anytime it’s time for chow, she’s waiting by her bowl, drooling. I’m a disabled veteran, and we are training Ghost to be my service dog. I am so happy that I found Major K9. They make everything easy and break down every step along the way, making me a better pet owner as I go through this journey with my best friend. Thank you for everything you have done for Ghost and me.
James Kennedy
“My shepherd now walks alongside me without pulling.”
Troy is currently helping me with my Shepherd’s walking behavior by directing me on the correct path. My dog now walks alongside me without pulling. We are also working on controlling my dog’s barking at other dogs, and I am seeing more positive results with Troy’s technique compared to other trainers I have had. I highly recommend Troy at Major K9. You will be happy with your results.
Migdalia Feliciano Ortiz
“From problem puppy to a whole new dog.”
We opted for the two-week board and train for our seven-month-old German shepherd, and I cannot recommend it enough! The work they did is incredible, it’s like we have a whole new dog. They managed to fix all the problems we had with our boy—from reactivity and counter surfing to on- and off-leash walking—without turning him into a robot or diminishing his sometimes-goofy personality. Barbara and Troy were polite and professional from the very start. We received regular updates on their progress throughout the two weeks, and they always answered any follow-up questions we had. If we ever get another dog, I’ll be sure to use Major K9 again, and I’ll recommend this program to anyone looking.
Chris Bennett
“So much more than just basic training.”
Major K9 is absolutely the best place to go for dog training, paws down! I took my rescue dog, Rizzo, here for basic training and got so much more. After the one-week training, Troy came to my house several times for additional one-on-one training to help reinforce what Rizzo learned and to help me with his training as well. Major K9 is highly recommended!
Eric Henderson
“Our puppy’s resource guarding issues are gone.”
Major K9 is wonderful. We left our six-month-old lab puppy for their two-week board and train and came back to a new puppy. They handled things so well. We received pictures and videos every day and knew that she wasn’t being pushed too hard; she was part of their family while we were away. Our puppy also struggled with resource guarding objects and food. They tightened up her obedience, and we do not struggle with that fear anymore. I wish we could give them six stars. They worked so hard with our girl, and we are so grateful for the time and energy they dedicated. Thank you so much.
Renee Lieb
“A solid foundation for my rambunctious pup.”
Troy and Barbara really know what they’re doing. My pup was a bit rambunctious before I brought her to them, and I couldn’t believe her progress after she finished training. Troy provided updates, addressed all of my concerns, and set me up for success to continue the training at home. I trust them with my dog and know that they’ve established a solid foundation so that my dog can be the best version of herself. I’m so thankful for them and would recommend their training to anyone.
Courtney Lyman
“Huge improvements where other trainers had failed.”
Our trainer was great and helped us make huge improvements in our dog’s behavior. We tried other trainers, but none were as good as Major K9. I highly recommend them.
Naomi Levecchia
Major K-9 Dog Training
The Life You Imagined with Your Dog is One Message Away
Are you tired of not living the life you always wanted with your dog? What adventures do you wish you could take them on? Going on long walks along the river? Going on a road trip and watching them stick their head out the window? Sitting at a coffee shop while they sit calmly at your feet?
This kind of life is possible, and it’s the kind of life we help our clients create every day.
So, what are you waiting for? Schedule your free evaluation now! But don’t wait. If you send a message before December 31st, you can get $150 off any of our advanced training packages. We’re excited to meet you and your dog!
– Troy & Barb, Lead Trainers at Major K-9 Dog Training
About the Trainers
Proven Expertise You Need to Stop Worrying and Start Training
Hi! We’re Troy and Barb, owners and lead trainers at Major K9. For over a decade, we’ve dedicated our lives to the art and science of training dogs and helping owners in New Jersey.
Before stepping into dog training, Troy served as a Fire Official and Lieutenant for the East Newark Fire Department. He was also a Fugitive Recovery Agent, where he learned to handle and de-escalate difficult situations. These skills translated wonderfully to dog training, helping dogs and their owners handle stressful situations calmly and with ease.
Barb has always had a passion for animals. She was a former emergency vet tech at VCA Animal Hospital and a dog groomer at Pup Hollywood. She ensures that whenever your dog comes to train with us, they’ll be well cared for, healthy, and comfortable.
We know how much you care about your dog’s safety, comfort, and quality of life. We love helping owners train their dogs to be calm, respectful, and joyful companions for life!
So, send us a message before the end of the month, and get $150 off any of our advanced dog training programs! Our little gift to your family and dog.
About the Trainers
Proven Expertise You Need to Stop Worrying and Start Training
Hi! We’re Troy and Barb, owners and lead trainers at Major K9. For over a decade, we’ve dedicated our lives to the art and science of training dogs and helping owners in New Jersey.
Before stepping into dog training, Troy served as a Fire Official and Lieutenant for the East Newark Fire Department. He was also a Fugitive Recovery Agent, where he learned to handle and de-escalate difficult situations. These skills translated wonderfully to dog training, helping dogs and their owners handle stressful situations calmly and with ease.
Barb is the yin to Troy’s yang, and she has always had a passion for animals. She was a former emergency vet tech at VCA Animal Hospital and a dog groomer at Pup Hollywood. She ensures that whenever your dog comes to train with us, they’ll be well cared for, healthy, and comfortable.
We know how much you care about your dog’s safety, comfort, and quality of life. We love helping owners train their dogs to be calm, respectful, and joyful companions for life!
So, send us a message before the end of the month, and get $150 off any of our advanced dog training programs! Our little gift to your family and dog.
Troy’s Certifications
A Lifetime of Study Dedicated to Training & Protecting Your Beloved Dog
Troy’s expertise goes far beyond traditional dog training. His background in public safety, emergency response, and martial arts all combine into a unique skillset. All coalesce wonderfully into training dogs!
✓ Canine & Behavioral Expertise: Troy’s foundational training includes certifications in dog training. He is an Approved AKC Evaluator for several programs, including S.T.A.R. Puppy and Canine Good Citizen. This has created a nuanced understanding of canine development and behavior. Troy’s training will ensure your dog’s training is a success for life!
✓ De-escalation & Stress Management: Troy has training in Verbal Judo, De-Escalation Techniques, and Confrontation Management. He understands how to stay calm and control a situation. This is crucial for behavior modification with reactive or aggressive dogs. In behavior modification, the key is staying calm, in control, and leading your dog into the appropriate behavior. You never want to react to their outbursts!
✓ Emergency & First Aid Expertise: Troy is a certified First Responder. He has a background in emergency medical services like First Aid, CPR/AED, and Blood-borne Pathogens. Our foremost concern is to keep your dog safe and uninjured. However, in the event something does happen, your dog could not be in better hands than Troy’s!
F.A.Q.s
Is your dog obedience training really going to work?
We understand that you need your dog’s training to work. Dog training can be expensive, and most owners have had at least one bad experience with a trainer. The good news is we’re the trainers people come to when others fail.
We’ve built our entire program to help owners get lifelong obedience from their dog. We also incorporate continued training such as bite or sniff work or K9 Scouts. We know that growing the owner-dog relationship is the key to lifelong training. Finally, if a problem persists, we’ll bring them back at no more cost to you to finish their training.
Do you use e-collars? I’m uncomfortable with shocking my dog into submission.
We do use e-collars, and we’re also uncomfortable with the idea of shocking a dog into submission! That’s not how we use them. An e-collar is not a submission tool, it’s a communication tool. We use them for small, targeted taps to get the dog’s attention and then to direct their behavior and reward them. Think of it like a tap on the shoulder. When you want to get someone’s attention and they’re not listening, sometimes it’s easier to use touch than noise. This is what the collar allows from a distance. You can tap them, break their focus, give a command, and reward them when they obey. Using e-collars this way is no different than giving your dog a little tug on a long leash when you want their attention. It’s simply much easier than being tethered to them all the time.