Legend Acres - Dog and Horse Training Solutions - Surprise, AZ
At Legend Acres Dog and Horse Solutions, we pride ourselves on being an award-winning, veteran-owned business delivering exceptional pet services across the United States. With over a decade of experience, we are dedicated to providing affordable, kind, and evidence-based training solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your beloved pets. Our comprehensive services include private in-home sessions, engaging group classes, and board and train dog training programs. We specialize in behavior modification, trick classes, therapy and service dog training, and even offer live interactive online sessions for your convenience. Our team of professionals is committed to helping pets of all ages and breeds thrive.
Our credentials speak for themselves, establishing our credibility as a trusted pet service provider. We are American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluators (AKC CGC), American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified, and Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainers (ABCDT), to name just a few. Our team also includes Certified Veterinary Technicians and CHA Certified Riding Instructors. We are bonded, insured, and actively participate in esteemed organizations such as the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the Pet Professional Guild (PPG). Whether you're seeking dog obedience training, canine fitness, or equine structural therapy, our certified experts are here to ensure exceptional care and results.
We understand that life can be unpredictable, which is why we offer flexible mobile services to accommodate your busy schedule. Our commitment to excellence and personalized care has earned us the trust of countless pet parents. Registration is now open for both online and in-person group classes, offering a variety of packages to fit any budget. Ready to get started? Book us through Petworks today and experience the unparalleled service that Legend Acres is known for!
- Licensed
- Certified
- Bonded
- Insured
- BBB Accredited
- Online Sessions
- Mobile Services
Pricing Packages
Schedule a Phone Call to learn more about Legend Acres Services and how we can help you with your dog or horse training needs!!! Make sure you have your phone on at the time of your scheduled call as one of our team admins will be calling you at the number that you provided.
Schedule a Phone Call to learn more about Legend Acres Services and how we can help you with your dog or horse training needs!!! Make sure you have your phone on at the time of your scheduled call as one of our team admins will be calling you at the number that you provided.
Our tailored 1.5-hour Behavioral Sessions offer personalized solutions for dogs exhibiting resource guarding, fearful, reactive, or excitable behaviors, including those stemming from trauma or anxiety. Led by experienced trainers, these sessions are available both virtually and in-person, providing flexibility and accessibility. Through a holistic approach, we delve into the root causes of your dog's behavior and implement practical techniques to foster positive change. Whether your dog struggles with resource guarding, fearfulness, reactivity, or excessive excitability, our sessions are designed to empower both you and your furry friend towards a happier, more balanced life.
Join us for our comprehensive Legend Acres Fundamentals Course, a 6-week program that seamlessly blends basic obedience training with targeted behavioral solutions. Whether you're a new pet parent looking to establish a strong foundation or seeking to address specific behavior challenges, this course offers a holistic approach to canine training. Led by experienced trainers, sessions are available both virtually and in-person, providing flexibility to suit your schedule and preferences. Throughout the course, you'll learn essential obedience commands while also tackling issues such as resource guarding, fearfulness, reactivity, and excitable behaviors. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to foster a harmonious relationship with your canine companion and overcome behavioral obstacles. Join us on this transformative journey towards a happier, well-balanced life for you and your dog.
How do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Animal Behaviorist
- Puppy Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
- K9 Training
- Service Dog Training
- Private Dog Training
- Dog Behaviorist
What training tools do you use?
- Back-clip Harness
- Barriers
- Clicker
- Head Collar
- Leash
- Long Line
- Martingale Collar
- Muzzle
- Praise/Affection
- Toys
- Treats
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Dogs
- Horses
Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?
- Detection Dog Training
- Dog Agility Training
- Dog Obedience Training
- Dog Therapy Training
- Pet Behavior Modification
- Service Dog Training
What licensing do you have?
- Business License
- Licensed Veterinary Technician
What size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Pet Certifications
- American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
- American Kennel Club Temperament Test (ATT) Certified
- American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
- Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
- Balanced Equine Structural Therapy Certified (BEST)
- Certificate in Canine Studies (CCS)
- Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT)
- Certified Integrative Aromatherapist
- Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI)
- Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
- CHA Certified Riding Instructor
- Fear Free Certified Professional
- FitPaws Master Trainer (FP-MT)
- Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
- The Family Dog Private Trainer Certified
Bonded and Insured
- Bonded
- Insured
Proud member of...
- American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- Animal Behavior Society (ABS)
- International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP)
- National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)
- Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
Education
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
What year did you begin serving pets?
How did you hone your craft?
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
kristi may
SERVICE AREA: Any distance, including Throughout the Unites States via online consultations, and locally Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Avondale, Goodyear, Buckeye, Fountain Hills, Litchfield Park, El Mirage Arizona
Distinction
Customer Reviews
I am so grateful for Legend Acres. I rescued a 6 week old puppy and she's been training since she's 10 weeks old. Started in home training then moved to group training. My puppy is now turning 10 months old and is such a loving well behaved puppy. I learned so much about how to train my pup and myself. Their fear free force free approach is such a great way of training. I will recommend Legend Acres and Kristi May to anyone I know who needs a dog trainer. - Surprise, Arizona
- Rebecca RIf you need a good professional dog trainer, Legend Acres is the place. I adopted a male 6 year old German Shepherd and he is my first dog. I didn't have any knowledge about dog but my dog is a really difficult dog for the entry level dog handler for his rough past. I started working with Kristi for 7 months now. I just followed her curriculum and advice. I also sometime fascinated Dog trainer youtuber like dog daddy... Well She is the professional and give a realistic and suitable training tools. My dog changed a lot. Even my neighbors ask me how I trained him. - Surprise, AZ
- Heysun YLegend acres! Kirsti is so good she understands. Our dog knows how to train us to work with her. She has improved so much in six weeks. I’m so grateful. I highly recommend them.
- Loretta VLegend Acres training is so effective, and has made an incredible difference in my dog, and in my relationship with my dog. It has been a game changer in our lives, and I will be forever grateful. Kristi’s unique background and experience makes her training work wonders.
- Elizabeth JHow do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Animal Behaviorist
- Puppy Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
- K9 Training
- Service Dog Training
- Private Dog Training
- Dog Behaviorist
What training tools do you use?
- Back-clip Harness
- Barriers
- Clicker
- Head Collar
- Leash
- Long Line
- Martingale Collar
- Muzzle
- Praise/Affection
- Toys
- Treats
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Dogs
- Horses
Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?
- Detection Dog Training
- Dog Agility Training
- Dog Obedience Training
- Dog Therapy Training
- Pet Behavior Modification
- Service Dog Training
What licensing do you have?
- Business License
- Licensed Veterinary Technician
What size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Pet Certifications
- American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
- American Kennel Club Temperament Test (ATT) Certified
- American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
- Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
- Balanced Equine Structural Therapy Certified (BEST)
- Certificate in Canine Studies (CCS)
- Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT)
- Certified Integrative Aromatherapist
- Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI)
- Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
- CHA Certified Riding Instructor
- Fear Free Certified Professional
- FitPaws Master Trainer (FP-MT)
- Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT)
- The Family Dog Private Trainer Certified
Bonded and Insured
- Bonded
- Insured
Proud member of...
- American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- Animal Behavior Society (ABS)
- International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP)
- National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)
- Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
Education
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
What year did you begin serving pets?
How did you hone your craft?
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
Customer Reviews
I am so grateful for Legend Acres. I rescued a 6 week old puppy and she's been training since she's 10 weeks old. Started in home training then moved to group training. My puppy is now turning 10 months old and is such a loving well behaved puppy. I learned so much about how to train my pup and myself. Their fear free force free approach is such a great way of training. I will recommend Legend Acres and Kristi May to anyone I know who needs a dog trainer. - Surprise, Arizona
- Rebecca RIf you need a good professional dog trainer, Legend Acres is the place. I adopted a male 6 year old German Shepherd and he is my first dog. I didn't have any knowledge about dog but my dog is a really difficult dog for the entry level dog handler for his rough past. I started working with Kristi for 7 months now. I just followed her curriculum and advice. I also sometime fascinated Dog trainer youtuber like dog daddy... Well She is the professional and give a realistic and suitable training tools. My dog changed a lot. Even my neighbors ask me how I trained him. - Surprise, AZ
- Heysun YLegend acres! Kirsti is so good she understands. Our dog knows how to train us to work with her. She has improved so much in six weeks. I’m so grateful. I highly recommend them.
- Loretta VLegend Acres training is so effective, and has made an incredible difference in my dog, and in my relationship with my dog. It has been a game changer in our lives, and I will be forever grateful. Kristi’s unique background and experience makes her training work wonders.
- Elizabeth J🐶 Certified Dog Trainers in Surprise, Arizona
Pet parents in Surprise and the surrounding Maricopa County area, including nearby communities such as Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Avondale, Goodyear, often look for a certified dog trainer who can help a dog and their people build a calm, trusting relationship. Trainers like Kristi May focus on positive, science-based methods that fit real life at home and in public. Whether the goal is leash pulling, anxiety, reactivity, or a well-mannered companion, a good trainer shapes each session around the dog’s personality, history, and learning style, so progress feels natural and sustainable.
❤️ Great dog training isn’t just about commands — it’s about connection.
Certified dog trainers work with you as the owner, not only with the dog. They help you read behavior, build clear communication, and set routines that hold up at home and in public. A trainer like Kristi is a coach for both of you.
✅ Training Support for Real-Life Challenges
From everyday manners to more complex behavioral concerns, certified dog trainers in Surprise commonly help with:
- Obedience and focus for home and public settings
- Leash training and more relaxed, enjoyable walks
- Reducing anxiety, fear, and reactivity
- Puppy and new dog foundations for long-term success
Sessions should feel encouraging, practical, and easy to carry into your daily routine. The services listed on this profile show what Kristi offers.
Recommended Certifications for Dog Trainers
When choosing a dog trainer, professional certifications are a strong indicator of expertise, experience, and commitment to ethical, science-based methods. Widely recognized credentials include the CPDT-KA or CPDT-KSA from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, which demonstrate mastery of modern training techniques, canine behavior, and learning theory. The KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner) highlights trainers skilled in positive reinforcement and clicker training, while the IAABC Certified Dog Trainer credential, recognized internationally, signals advanced knowledge in behavior modification and problem-solving. Membership or certification through the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) further reflects ongoing education and adherence to ethical standards. Many trainers also pursue specialty certifications in areas such as aggression management, behavior modification, or puppy development to address specific challenges.
For pet parents, choosing a certified trainer like Kristi May is one way to keep training grounded in science, safety, and compassion. Asking about credentials, and confirming them on the profile, is one of the best ways to make a confident choice.
⭐ Why Pet Parents Book Through PetWorks
Booking through PetWorks gives you more than a list of dog trainers in Surprise. It gives you a clearer way to choose.
A profile like Kristi’s lets you review a local professional, read feedback from other pet parents, and book securely through a trusted platform. Many trainers on PetWorks use force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in modern behavioral science. Pet parents often look for that supportive, judgment-free approach when they decide who to hire.
🦔 How Booking Dog Training in Surprise, AZ on PetWorks Works
Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On this page you can explore Kristi’s profile, read feedback from pet parents across Maricopa County, and either start a booking with "Book Now" or begin a conversation with "Get Custom Quote" or "Send Message".
Training works best when you begin at the right time. For puppies and newly adopted dogs, early training builds strong habits from the start. For older dogs, challenges like leash pulling, anxiety, or reactivity can improve with consistent, professional guidance, and many pet parents notice meaningful progress within a few sessions.
In Surprise and throughout Arizona, demand for experienced, force-free dog trainers often rises in spring and early fall, when routines shift and outdoor activity picks up. Booking a bit ahead can help you get a schedule that works.
Most dog training sessions across the U.S. typically range from $75–$150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and training type. On PetWorks, you can review the services on this profile and choose the option that matches your goals.
All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. Every booking also includes PetWorks Care Coverage, with a dedicated concierge team, added protection, and support throughout your experience. Once you connect, you coordinate scheduling, location, and training goals directly with your trainer.
❓ Dog Training FAQs
How many dog training sessions will I need? Every dog is different, but many pet parents begin to see progress within 2–4 sessions. More complex issues like reactivity or anxiety may take ongoing training and consistency at home.
Do dog trainers offer in-home sessions in Surprise, AZ? Many trainers on PetWorks offer in-home sessions, local meetups, or virtual coaching. Check the services on Kristi’s profile, or use Get Custom Quote, to confirm what is available.
Can dog training help with aggressive or reactive behavior? Yes. Positive, science-based training can be very effective for reactivity, fear, and certain forms of aggression. A certified professional helps keep that progress safe and lasting.
🐾 Start Building a Better Relationship With Your Dog
Training is an investment in your dog’s happiness, and in your peace of mind.
Explore Kristi’s profile, read reviews from pet parents across Maricopa County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog. Availability for trainers in Surprise can change week to week, so booking ahead is a good idea.