Why we do what we do
Gagan Majathia
Milo, Lhasa Apso
Board & Train
We used Wagabond for training and boarding on 2 occasions for 2 weeks each. Sharmila and Sandeep at Wagabond were very professional with training and provided an amazing environment for boarding.
Our dog Milo had resource guarding, anxiety and aggression issues. Sharmila and Sandeep were able to quickly identify the issues and find a solution for us going forward. When we got Milo back after 2 weeks, he seemed like an entirely different dog that obeyed commands and made strides in resolving his issues. Wagabond have been amazing in terms of following up with us to see how Milo is doing and gave is a clear roadmap for handling Milo's issues going forward.
Both times when our dogs stayed with Sharmila and Sandeep - we were given regular updates with pictures. Our dogs loved stayed there and we will definitely be choosing Wagabond again for boarding and training going forward. Highly recommended!
Siddarth & Lakshmy
Sharmila and Sandeep were absolutely spot on in regards to what was needed based on our Golden Retriever puppy Whiskey's behavior. Despite being located remotely - they were immediately able to recognize what was needed and were able to install exercises and corrections in place to enable the right reactions and as a result we saw instant positive changes.
They also helped us understand Whiskey's triggers and were very patient with all our questions and concerns not just giving us what we asked but always explaining the root cause.
I cannot recommend Wagabond Dog Training enough and consider our time with them the best investment for our pups' future.
Whiskey, Golden Retriever
Board & Train
Aarushi
Kobu, GSD
Board & Train
At 9 weeks of age, it can be quite overwhelming as first time dog owner with our GSD puppy Kobu. We were unable to understand his behaviour and mindset as well as why he would do the things he did. We were clueless, and unable to figure out what to do with Kobu.
Around this time we came across Wagabond and Sharmilla, coming in contact with her. She analyzed and consulted us about his behaviour over a 1 week training course. She kept in contact about his conduct and training progress. When Kobu returned he seemed much more confident and comfortable with others.
Thanks to Wagabond we are currently continuing with our training at home, still in touch with Sharmilla. We highly recommend Wagabond for their professionalism, support and quality of training. Thank you Wagabond, Kobu says hi!
Stephanie Miletic
Freya, Doberman
Board & Train
The team at Wagabond is top notch and frankly saved our relationship. Our Doberman puppy at 12 weeks, was severely biting, could not be controlled despite our best efforts (and we tried to the best of our knowledge), and could not settle down during the day so we could do our day jobs. We are so grateful that we worked with Sharmila to help us with our puppy Freya.
Sharmila went above and beyond and both trained Freya but more importantly, trained us to be able handlers so we could takeover and continue the training and development for our dog.
Throughout the entire process, Sharmila guided us through with patience and poise. We were quite concerned that we could not ‘fix’ our wee dog so she managed two very ‘dedicated’ fur baby owners. During the training process, she checked in and answered any of our questions and continually went above and beyond. Sharmila assessed Freya on day one and we saw progress following the very first training session.
Now, we are at 16 weeks and Freya is calm and collected in the house, walks calmly and controlled, and the nipping has reduced dramatically. Moreover, we are better handlers to continue to work with Freya as she continues to test us (she is very determined and also teething). We enjoy our time with Freya now (vs avoiding getting bitten) and love taking her for walks and seeing her grow and develop. She also respects us as owners and listens to our directions. We are constantly told in public how well behaved she is.
Do not hesitate to contact Sharmila. She is worth every penny. I know many dog owners may choose a cheaper group option or take the dog to puppy day care to run off the energy. The results and costs in the long run are worth it 100%. Our dog was constantly chewing the furniture, our shoes, and ripped our clothes at every opportune moment. This does not happen anymore and she is learning to be independent and ultimately on her own in our house without causing damage. Our dog is becoming the dog everyone wants and quickly.
Vishuv Sethi
Dobby, Chihuahua
Board & Train
We got our Chihuahua pup 2 months back and as it's our first pet, it got very irritating at times with his biting habits and stubborness.
We decided to get him trained early on and were searching for a reliable trainer to help us when we came across Sharmila's Wagabond dog training.
After the first analysis, Sharmila suggested a mix of board and train followed by classes at our place.
With the training now done, we are amazed with the results. The foundation training for the little guy has been phenomenal and he is so well behaved both inside and outside the house. Follows our commands, behaves nicely and is now a gem to be with.
He even got a chance to socialize with Sharmila's doberman Maya, and is now very playful around other dogs as well.
All thanks to Wagabond training. Highly recommended!!
Nipunika Sunil
Cookie, Labrador
Board & Train
As a first time puppy owner, I'm quite overwhelmed and so grateful to have found Wagabond. My puppy, Cookie boarded and trained with Sharmila and the results have been phenomenal.
The resources the trainer she shared with us helped us understand why our dog was pulling the leash, and the simple techniques she introduced now have our dog walk better on leash, and moving on without a fuss. She helped us master commands like Sit-stay, down-stay and recall.
The most important factor that Sharmila focuses on is the breed of the dog, basic behavior and then commits to how long she’s going to take to train the dog. We were initially hesitant because we were only considering this as an expense and now we realize how training dogs in the right age is an investment!
With this kind of commitment and most importantly- our dogs comfort with Sharmila, we’re going ahead and booking Wagabond every time we plan a vacation!
Varna R
Reina, Indie
Private Training
We were lucky enough to meet Sharmila Jayaram when she was first training with Woodstock Dog Training School in Chennai when our then puppy Reina started her foundation training. We then had a second level of training with Sharmila.
Sharmila takes her time to engage and bond with the dogs. She spends time explaining each of the exercises with the family and asking that if possible everyone participate. If you have special issues, she customizes it to the particular dog’s behavior. She bonded quickly with Reina and I know even now (age 5) would be excited to see her.
When we decided adopt a second dog, Sharmila was the first person I contacted to get her opinion as we were making a decision. Even though she had just moved away from India, she looked at videos and gave us her insights and helped us ask and answer the right questions. She will go the extra distance in caring for your dog and your family. Our dog was learning how to go with us to places and become comfortable in a social setting, Sharmila met us at a local restaurant that allowed dogs and talked to us about how to make it a good experience for everyone.
Anyone considering Wagabond Training should know that it worthwhile investment for all the members of your family. The training our dogs have received is something that is used every single day.
Aude Fitzek
Lucky is a very big dog, extremely stubborn, would jump at people and continuously mouth people who came home until they left.
We really enjoyed working with Sharmila, she was very dedicated and professional in her work.
There has been a sea change in Lucky ever since the training. We now enjoy having Lucky by our side when guests come over, he also listens to all our commands immediately.
We have just begun training Gloria, Lucky’s daughter with Sharmila, who is as stubborn as her dad!
Lucky & Gloria, Great Danes
Private Training
Sharmila has done a great job in coming up with a course that suited our dog the best.
There has been a great improvement in Dusky’s general temperament after the training program. He walks very well on the leash without pulling and also up/down the stairs without pacing.
We thank Sharmila for her guidance throughout the training program which has helped us in having a wonderful companion.
Chandramohan
Dusky, German Shepherd
Private Training
Vaishnavi
Bolt & Ginger, Indies
Private Training
Sharmila has been amazing in understanding and appreciating our dogs’ personalities, and we appreciate the care in putting together a schedule that suits each the best.
From respecting the dog’s identity to bonding with great ease, her commitment and enthusiasm has been exceptional. We also admire how every session started in time, and how she communicated promptly, making the process easy and pleasant.
Thank you Sharmila for being a part of our family.
Bharath
Fido, Labrador
Private Training
Sharmila is a professional trainer. Initially, I was not sure on whom to approach for training so I did lot of research and met few trainers but still was not satisfied. Then I came across Sharmila, finalized her for training.
I am happy that Fido is in safe hands and the training has brought lot of changes in Fido wherein his aggression has reduced and he is turning obedient 👍
Mridula
Optimus, Rottweiler
Private Training
Optimus was very hyper, jumpy and never listened to anything I would say. Sharmila's training sessions were extremely useful to me. She helped me become more assertive and a better leader for Optimus.
Thanks to Sharmila, Optimus is now very calm, well behaved and immediately listens to commands. His general temperament has improved and he has also become less jumpy.
Claudia
Ben, Indie
Private Training
Dear Sharmila
Thank you for training me! Sorry for being naughty and not listening.
Love Ben XXX,
(and Claudia and Neil)
P.S. See you at Crufts!
P.P.S. Woof!!