The Puppy Academy grew out of founder Ricci's own difficult experience as a first-time puppy owner. According to their website, she adopted a puppy named Coconut in 2012, struggled significantly with behavior issues, and only found relief after working with a trainer. That transformation led her to open the Hermosa Beach facility in 2016.
Their site describes a school-style structure that differs from typical training classes. Rather than weekly sessions, puppies attend full days with limited enrollment, where trainers work on potty training, biting, crate comfort, and basic obedience through daily repetition. Owners are then coached to maintain these skills at home. They frame this as teaching puppies to be calm rather than just following commands—a distinction they emphasize in their blog content.
The business claims to have won awards, including being voted South Bay's favorite pet trainer, and mentions media features, though specifics aren't provided on their site. They also offer an online program built around what they call their "Puppyhood Made Easy" system, which includes weekly live Q&A sessions and a video library. Their guarantee claims suggest confidence in their approach, though as with any training program, results will depend on the individual dog and owner follow-through.