Emily Roach founded My Dog is My Rock in 2008 after her own frustrating experience trying to find effective help for her dog Koda's behavior problems. According to her site, she left veterinary studies to begin a three-year apprenticeship in dog behavior, working in both entertainment and rescue settings before launching her own practice.
The business operates from a ranch facility in Acton, California, where they run board-and-train programs, day-school, and boarding. Their site describes a particular focus on dogs that other trainers might consider difficult cases, they state that rehabilitating behaviorally challenged dogs is a specialty. Board-and-train options range from basic obedience packages covering five commands to longer programs that add off-leash work and in-motion commands.
For Los Angeles-area clients, they offer private lessons either in-home or at the ranch, along with a distance learning module designed specifically for young puppies between 8 and 12 weeks old. Day-school enrollment requires an in-person evaluation at the ranch first, and they provide valet pickup and drop-off service for clients who need it. Their website notes that all staff members are considered "trainers in training," which they frame as ensuring clients always work with someone actively developing their skills under supervision.
