I’ve always been fascinated by the Belgian Malinois breed—their drive, intelligence, and athleticism are truly unmatched. But I also knew from the start that owning one would come with its own unique challenges, and I made a promise to myself that if I ever brought one home, I’d do it the right way—with guidance from a reputable trainer. That’s what led me to ABC Training and Akin. From the beginning, Akin provided the kind of structured, knowledgeable support I needed. We’ve worked on everything from focused heeling and reliable on- and off-leash walking to positive e-collar training and foundational house manners like door control. Our sessions also covered vital impulse control skills such as “place,” and we’ve made huge progress in teaching my dog how to hold commands like sit and down without breaking. With Akin’s support, we’ve laid the groundwork for tracking, which has been a great introduction to the IGP sport I’ve been so eager to explore. Akin’s training methods have been incredibly effective—always clear, purposeful, and rooted in positive, proven strategies. He’s helped build not only my dog’s discipline but also my confidence as a handler. I first met Akin last fall at an obedience seminar, where I was immediately impressed by his passion for the craft and his ability to connect with both people and dogs. I began taking private lessons with him and my Border Collie to better prepare myself before diving into the Malinois world. What stands out most is his ability to tailor each session to the individual dog and owner. No cookie-cutter solutions—just thoughtful, customized training that brings out the best in every team. I cannot recommend ABC Training Kennels and Akin highly enough. Professional, passionate, and incredibly skilled—definitely a 5/5 star experience!

Lauren