About the Kennels

“A friend had given me the website for Gunnison Kennels. I contacted James and got an immediate response and set up a meet and greet. It was a great experience meeting and setting up my first lesson. James took the time and helped me with an issue I was having with my Malinois. You can tell he truly cares about the dogs and keeping at it to help me with a positive outcome. I boarded my dog for the day a week later and before I had a chance to see how she was doing he had already sent a text to let me know how she was getting along. Our second lesson was fun and informative. It really is a joy working with James. I would recommend him for whatever your training needs are.”

“Gunnison kennels has been nothing but wonderful from the first meet and greet with my pup (Kai). Kai has improved significantly in obedience and confidence after attending the board and train. Being a nurse I work long hours 3 nights a week and it is wonderful to know that I have a safe place for kai to go and play as well as continue with his training. James has a deep love for animals and it shows! He has gone out of his way helping Kai by taking him into public places with my permission to work on his socialization and barking in public places. Daily photos with updates on how Kai is doing or the newest pup he has made friends with! Overall I can't recommend Gunnison kennels enough to anyone that has a dog!”

“James has a love for animals that runs deep in his soul. You can feel how much he truly cares about the animals the minute you speak to him. We have two lab husky mixes that were quite unruly at times. We did a board and train session with James and the change is phenomenal. They were primarily outside dogs but they are inside with us now that they are so well behaved. Their recall is greatly improved, I have them outside on our acreage with no leash and rarely have an issue. They used to be the Houdini of escape artists but now they are content to just run around like crazies and then come back inside to take a nap. When I am asked about trainers James is my first and only recommendation. I will forever be grateful for the new and improved fur babies I got back. Red and Rosie are sweet as can be these days.”

“James has been great to work with! My puppy has made incredible progress with obedience, confidence, and overall behavior. The training sessions were fun, positive, and easy to follow. When our puppy stays with James for socialization and other training, he send lots of photos and videos. We definitely recommend Gunnison Kennels!!”

“We are so grateful to have found this trainer for our 5-month-old Malinois! From the very first session, it was clear how knowledgeable, patient, and passionate James is about working with dogs. He tailored the training to fit our dog's unique personality and needs, helping us build a strong foundation in both obedience and bite work. We've seen incredible progress in such a short time-our pup is more focused, confident, and well-mannered, both at home and out in public. The daycare and boarding services have also been a lifesaver. It's such a relief knowing our dog is in a safe, structured, and enriching environment when we can't be there. The trainer keeps us updated and always takes the time to answer our questions, making us feel supported every step of the way. We truly appreciate the positive, professional approach and the genuine care shown for our dog's well-being and development. Highly recommend to anyone looking for expert training and top-notch care for their canine companion!”

“I have a high energy 6 year old GSD who needed basic training as well as socialization with other dogs. James has been fantastic with both my dog and with showing me how to interact with my dog effectively. For me, his training has been easy, logical and kind. My dog did a 5 day stay at his kennel as well. James did daily walks with her and took her out for play and practice several times each day. I would highly recommend James Johnson and Gunnison Kennels.”

“James and Gunnison Kennels is an important find in dog care and training. I take my German Shepherd Dog to James weekly for playtime and training. James is passionate and an exceptionally talented trainer with years of experience. I recommend Gunnison Kennels 100%.”