Beast Mode Dog Training operates out of Bernal Beast, a neighborhood pet shop in San Francisco's Bernal Heights district. The training program draws on considerable collective experience: one trainer, Steph, co-founded what the business describes as the city's first puppy-exclusive daycare and training facility back in 2005, while another trainer, Llyr Lauderback, holds a CTC certification and has two decades of experience working with dogs. A third trainer, Erika, has spent over ten years with San Francisco dogs and owners.
According to their website, the program emphasizes reward-based methods rooted in behavioral science, avoiding punishment or intimidation. They frame their approach as relationship-building rather than simply teaching commands, and they structure classes as a progressive series rather than standalone sessions. Their core curriculum moves through foundational work to more advanced skills like reliable recall and steady behavior in public environments. Classes are held indoors at the shop, with later levels moving outside for real-world practice.
The business notes they keep class sizes small—around four to six dogs—and offers ongoing support through refreshers, workshops, and social events after courses end. Options range from puppy foundations for dogs under 18 weeks to adult classes, single-session skill workshops, private consultations, and monthly small-dog socials. Their site displays a 2020 "Best of the Bay" recognition, and the owners describe themselves as longtime Bernal Heights residents who took over the pet shop when its previous owner retired.