Blue Star Dog Training is a family-owned operation in Menifee run by John and Elke Barbao. Elke holds a CPDT-KA certification along with credentials as an AKC CGC Evaluator and Certified Nose Work Instructor, while John is certified through the Animal Behavior College. Their team includes additional certified trainers, with one staff member holding NePoPo Silver certification.
According to their website, the business operates from a facility they call their "Ranch," serving dog owners throughout the Inland Empire including Murrieta and Temecula. They describe their approach as going beyond basic obedience to address each dog's individual genetics and instincts, with an emphasis on teaching owners how to communicate with their dogs rather than just issuing commands.
The program lineup includes multi-week board and train options—a three-week foundational program and a four-week "Patio Pup" package—where dogs stay with trainers for daily work. They also offer private lessons sold individually or in six-session packages, along with puppy training and scent work classes. Their site states that board and train packages include lifetime follow-up support and access to group classes. Client reviews on their site reference work with anxious and reactive dogs, though the business lists behavior modification as a distinct service area.
