Client Testimonials

I recently had the pleasure of working with Clara Nykodym-Murphy who has completely transformed my dog’s behaviour and our overall relationship. From the moment I contacted her, her professionalism, expertise, and genuine passion for dogs was evident. 

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Clara's approach was truly outstanding. She took the time to understand my dog's unique personality, temperament, and specific behavioural challenges. This personalized approach was instrumental in creating a training plan tailored to my dog's needs. 

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Throughout the training sessions, I was impressed by her patience and ability to communicate effectively with both me and my dog. She utilized positive reinforcement techniques, fostering a trusting and respectful bond between my dog

and myself. 

I wholeheartedly recommend Clara to anyone seeking professional assistance in training their four-legged friend. Her passion, knowledge, and ability to establish a strong bond with both dogs and their owners makes her an exceptional choice. Investing in her services is an investment in your dog's well-being and the enhancement of your relationship with your furry friend. I am immensely grateful to Clara for the positive impact she has had on my dog's life and mine. 

Clara, is my doggy mentor extraordinaire!  

I used say longingly to my doggy friends ‘I wish my dog looked adoringly at me like yours.’ 

My standard poodle was aloof around and pulled away when I wanted to hug him, but I wanted a snuggle puppy! 

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What was wrong?  I worked harder and longer at training him, but no change.  

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Then I had an intervention from Clara, who lovingly and gently showed me how to turn my relationship with Mac around. It was in just a few days, a miracle, seriously!

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I now have a curly coated cutie for a hunting retrieving partner and an absolutely adorable cuddle bear. 

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Clara is a miracle worker, dog whisperer and canine scientist.  

My Spinone Italiano - is walking on a leash so well that folks are commenting. I am walking with intention, moving the leash from 5-7 and correcting when needed! Your instructions were so memorable   (because of humour and evidence and storytelling and little salty swearing ;-)  and clearly explained.  Thanks again. I LOVE hearing your thoughts and how you communicate them. Seriously entertaining and informative. Some valuable nuggets in there especially in that I’m, ahem not getting any younger.

Thomas and I also have been meaning to email in and let you  know just how wonderful and life changing Clara has been in our life and relationship with Maxwell.

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Clara's ability to communicate her knowledge, ask the right questions and give productive advice has been exactly what we needed. Each time that we had a meeting with her she made it relevant and personal to what we needed and were currently working on. That is much appreciated. 

"We appreciate the photos. They are beautiful. We are beyond fortunate to be connected to such a precious resource.... that being you, Clara. Thank you again!!!."

We have found Clara to be most excellent in assisting with a Jack Russel Terrier.. As many know, JRTs are often very headstrong and prone to not listening.. With Clara's help, we have a much more obedient dog who, while still being a JRT, is much more mindful and listening. We could not have done this without her valuable assistance

Fun, informative, excellent communication. Clara was respectful of me and my dog. She taught me to help, support and fulfil my dog's needs.  

I recently had the pleasure of working with Clara after getting a German Shepherd puppy. I had no previous experience with a strong breed like the German Shepherd and knew that seeking professional help would be essential in creating a good bond with my new puppy Remington. I have used Clara for both boarding as well as training services. From the moment that we met , it was evident that Clara possesses a deep understanding of canine behaviour and a true passion for helping both dogs and their owners. My family and I had 2 large trips planned during the first year of my new puppies life. I felt guilty having to leave him so soon and sought to find a place where I knew he would be taken care of without having any negative experiences that could potentially cause problems with behaviour or personality in the future. Clara has a beautiful boarding facility on a large property where the dogs have ample room to run around. It is obvious that she care greatly about her dogs safety and well being. Remi was at ease from the first time that I dropped him off. From the moment you meet Clara, it is obvious to see that she has a deep knowledge of dog behaviour and a great compassion for dogs. I later used Clara to help with training for loose leash walking and for recall. Clara possesses a profound understanding of the unique characteristics and needs of German Shepherds. I have learnt from Clara that German Shepherds thrive on structure and clear leadership. Clara skillfully taught me how to provide that while maintaining a positive and encouraging atmosphere. This approach not only expedited the learning process but also strengthened the bond between my German Shepherd and me. With Clara’s guidance we rapidly got a very reliable recall and I now feel confident in my ability to be able to take him out safely. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend Clara for both boarding and training. She is a lovely human being with great knowledge of dog behaviour and needs. She is great at training both the dog and the dog owner with compassion and positive communication. I don’t know what we would have done without her. Thanks to Clara, Remi has made amazing progress and we have a great bond. Even more importantly I now feel safe and confident with my four legged friend.

I am beyond thrilled with the training experience I’ve had with Clara at Joy Unleashed! My dog, and I have attended both private and group lessons, and every session has been phenomenal.

Clara’s personal and sincere approach to training sets her apart. She truly takes the time to understand the unique personality and traits of each dog, and her expertise shines through in every interaction. Her ability to explain techniques in a clear and approachable way has been so helpful for me, and the "homework" she provides is practical, actionable, and truly makes a difference.

Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable, but she also creates an environment that’s both supportive and empowering. I’ve seen my dog's confidence and obedience improve dramatically, and it’s been such a joy to see our bond grow stronger through Clara’s guidance.

On top of all that, her services are excellent value for money—she provides so much more than just training; she offers an entire framework for building a better relationship with your dog.

If you’re considering training for your dog, do yourself (and your furry friend) a favour and book with Clara at Joy Unleashed. It’s a hard YES from me. Thank you, Clara, for all that you’ve done for my dog and me!

Clara was more than helpful when it came to training me so I could manage my new puppy. I was not prepared for the field line lab I got but she gave me some tools to help me manage and lots of sound advice. She was instrumental in helping me develop my relationship with my dog and he wouldn't be the good boy he is today without her.

“For the past almost two years we have entrusted our Golden Retriever (Luce d’Oro) to Clara for obedience and manners training, exercise and overnight boarding. I can’t speak highly enough of the results Clara has attained with our girl.  Luce has become very well-mannered and knows her commands (sit, down, stay, stop etc.) extremely well.

It is also quite clear that Clara has developed an amazing rapport with Luce. Luce loves Aunt Clara and is always super excited to see her. 

If I was asked for a rating it would be 5 out of 5 or 10 out of 10 (or both).”

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Scout and I had our first walk this morning  after our training session. Scout is a pro and it was the best walk! We encountered that ‘bad’ dog again on the spit however it was a different experience today. When i saw them coming our way I called Scout over and leashed her we walked on then I stopped at the side of the path with Scout when I saw them approaching, I was in my calm confident stance with Scout beside and slightly behind me in a loose leash. As they got a bit closer I said to Scout ‘let’s go’ and we walked by them and said good morning and kept walking. Once past the dog and man Scout turned in front of me as to have a look back and I ‘popped’ her back to me and we carried on all the way back to the car with the best loose leash. Two things happened that I also noted, the other dog did not growl at us when we got close or walked by and Scout never whined or made a peep. It was the best walk ever!!!! Thank you so much!

I look forward to our next lesson.
Noelle

Within minutes of meeting Clara she improved my loose leash walking and educated me how to interpret Rainger’s subtle gestures. My back feels so much better!!
Main concern was my pup’s selective listening for recall at the lake and in high distraction situations. I was elated to see how quickly this was resolved.
The entire experience left both Rainger and I excited to learn.
More fun and classes with Clara’s
expertise and humour are in our future! Thank you.
“ Happiness “
W&Rainger

A forthright engaging professional! Clara, your clear instructions with Otis have already made a difference in handling him. Breakthrough!!

"As a first-time dog owner (with a giant breed to boot), Clara helped me gain the confidence I needed to be the best dog parent I could be. Through her wisdom and experience, Ruby and I learned to listen to each other. Watching Clara work with her canine crew is magical. Dogs connect with her quickly, with a perfect balance between respect and obedience.."