Business Details
26 Years
experience
Expert Dog Training & Products in Dallas, TX
Canines First was founded in 2000 by Susan Strough, a certified pet obedience trainer and behavior consultant with over two decades of experience. Our mission is to simplify dog ownership through personalized training programs and innovative products designed to foster harmony between pets and their owners. Susan's expertise in canine behavior has made her a trusted resource for Dallas-area pet owners seeking practical solutions to training challenges. We specialize in assessing each dog's unique needs to implement effective, individualized training methods that emphasize positive reinforcement. In addition to private training sessions, we offer a curated selection of training tools, including our patented City Leash, which addresses common urban walking difficulties.Susan regularly shares her knowledge through seminars for pet care professionals and has been featured in regional and national media outlets. Our approach combines gentle yet assertive techniques that respect both the dog's personality and the owner's lifestyle. We serve dogs of all breeds and sizes, believing every pet deserves clear leadership and understanding. With a focus on education and accessibility, we provide virtual consultations for clients outside our local service area. Our commitment to continuous learning and adaptation ensures clients receive the most effective training strategies available.
Services
Dog Training
Behavior Consultation
City Leash
Remote Training Collars
Virtual Consultations
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in canine behavior and training
- Our patented City Leash solves urban walking challenges
- We provide personalized training assessments for each dog
- We offer virtual consultations for remote clients
- Our methods combine positive reinforcement with practical solutions
What people say
Best leash I've had
Great service needed
Loved the training
Conquered potty training
Versatile tethering system
Services
Private Training
Personalized in-home dog training sessions address obedience and behavior issues. Susan Strough's expert guidance helps owners develop effective communication with their pets. Services include basic commands, leash training, and problem behavior modification for Dallas-area clients.
City Leash
Patented 4-foot leather leash designed for city walking challenges. Features a versatile tethering system for multi-dog control and hands-free convenience. Solves common issues with traditional leash length and material discomfort during urban walks.
Virtual Consultation
Remote training sessions via phone or video call for clients outside Dallas. Covers behavior assessment, training plan development, and progress tracking. Provides accessible expert guidance using digital communication tools for nationwide support.
Behavior Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of dog behavior patterns and learning needs. Identifies specific training requirements through observation and owner consultation. Forms the basis for customized training programs that maximize effectiveness and efficiency.
Training Seminars
Educational sessions for pet care professionals on canine behavior principles. Covers practical training techniques and behavior modification strategies. Designed for boarding facilities, pet sitters, and veterinary staff seeking advanced dog handling knowledge.
People
Susan Strough
Owner & Lead Trainer
Certified dog trainer with 20+ years experience in canine behavior. Inventor of The City Leash and former US Hero Search and Rescue K9 consultant. Featured in Home and Heritage magazine and Good Morning Texas.
Questions
What training services do you offer?
We provide in-person private training sessions in Dallas for obedience and behavior issues, plus virtual consultations for remote clients using video or phone sessions.
What makes The City Leash unique?
Our patented 4-foot leather leash features a versatile tethering system that allows hands-free use and better control of multiple dogs in urban environments.
Do you serve areas outside Dallas?
While in-person services are limited to Dallas south of I-635, we offer virtual training consultations for clients nationwide through digital communication platforms.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, ApplePay, Zelle, Venmo, and major credit cards for both training services and product purchases through our online store.
How do I schedule a training session?
Use our online scheduler for Dallas-area appointments Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm. For virtual sessions or other inquiries, contact Susan directly via text or email.
Reviews (7)
Anna Calka
Jan 31, 2022
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Amazing place to shop for your dogs and cats. My dog and two cats are crazy about their new raw treats.
Hashtag Brownkatt
Jan 29, 2022
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This has changed our lives - I went from a picky poochon that wouldn't eat for days at a time with the best food from petsmart etc. - to my dog jumping on me when I prepare her raw food! I'm just happy my pooch is eating twice a day and I can tell she's totally satisfied! She also lovesssss her new treats! Get what you pay for, totally worth the investment of giving the highest quality food to my princess!
Kathryn Clark
Aug 30, 2021
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I love the staff here at RAW! I don't visit too often because it's a bit further from me, but this is my go-to location for all of my big nutrition questions! I was there yesterday trying to find a better kibble (and hopefully a freeze-dried raw) option for my pup, and Alex was so helpful and patient with the millions of questions I ask! My pup loves coming here, and everyone is always so sweet to us!
Ashley Doutaz
Mar 16, 2020
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Stumbled into this shop while walking our new pup. With COVID my SO stayed outside with the pup while I ventured in. Our pup is teething and we wanted to get a soft toy (already had a lot of rope, balls, and kongs). Greg was extremely kind and helpful! He even peeked out the window to gush about our new pup! My first impression was great and I can't wait to come back with our new pup to pick our more toys and treats to spoil her! Thank you again, the new toy is a hit!
Sean Jones
Oct 27, 2019
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One of the best pet stores I have ever been to. The staff are extremely knowledgable about pet nutrition and all pet products on the market. This store has a collection of superior brands and offer free delivery! An awesome store. Locally owned and operated too!
Robyn Schmidt
Mar 13, 2019
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I love RAW! Friendliest staff and the canine food is great. I have a shar pei with skin allergies and she has been on a RAW kibble diet for six weeks. Her coat and skin look 10 times better than when she was on another (quite expensive) brand of food. I'm so impressed and I will never go elsewhere for my dogs dietary needs! I highly suggest Raw by Canine to anyone searching for a new brand of dog food.
Joules Kessen
Feb 17, 2019
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Excellent customer service! great shop. 12 bags of dog food purchased. Your 13th one is on the house! Just do it! They even offer delivery! Your pet and your wallet will thank you!
