We trust Lakota Creek Kennels for dog training and boarding. They did an awesome job training our 6 mo old puppy. We just sent our pup back for boarding and had another positive experience. The dogs go to play multiple times a day and take field trips to state parks. They post lots of pictures so you can see their adventures. Very clean kennel. Positive training methods. Josh and his team are highly experienced trainers and it is clear that they love dogs.
I purchased a Lab x GSP (Belle) from Lakota Creek Kennels about 3 years ago. I cannot say how happy we are with Belle! She has always been healthy, has great traits/characteristics, and is all around a good dog. Belle is so good around children, new people, and other dogs. With the help and guidance from Lakota Creek Kennels she has transformed into what any family would want as a companion. As someone who gets paranoid about boarding my dogs, I do not have to worry with Lakota Creek Kennels. They have a spacious and clean facility that allows me to be worry free and enjoy my time away from home. The staff is welcoming and genuinely care about every dog that comes through the door. 5/5 and would this organization to anyone.
We had friends refer us to Lakota Creek for behavioral dog training as we had a baby on the way. We sent one of our dogs for some basic training / commands as we were also having trouble getting him to walk with our other dog. He went for 6 weeks of training and came home a new and improved dog. We recently brought both of our dogs back for boarding and couldn’t be more at ease while we are gone. Josh and the team do more than what is asked and we know our pups are in good hands!
Josh and his team have been really great to work with. I like that my dog can get social time with other dogs but also gets opportunities to walk and get leash time. The facility is very nice and a lot more inviting than some larger boarding facilities. The training expertise and focus of Josh and the staff make me feel better about even boarding there.
The junebug always gets excited when she hears me say she’s going to stay at Lakota Creek!! Excellent staff, I never have to worry about whether or not she’s getting playtime, and interacting with other furry friends🥰! Josh is exceptional along with his staff, would highly recommend to anyone needing training, or boarding!
Reply from Lakota creek
Thanks Garrett! It's always fun watching her explore and play on our nature walks!
We were very hesitant on letting our dog be boarded at a place due to past experiences at other boarding facilities that had returned our dog to us sick and hurt, however when I found this place it was a perfect match and relieved all of our worries and stress! The owner genuinely cares for the dogs and gives them each personalized care! Chief was a very happy healthy boy when we picked him up from our vacation. The facility was very clean, great communication with updates, and we loved getting pictures of our pup! They took him on nice nature walks every day. We are thrilled to have found this place and feel relieved that we found a place that cares for our boy like we do! Highly recommend!
Reply from Lakota creek
Thanks Casey! I really enjoyed connecting with you and Kaleb! Hope you guys find a bunch of sheds this spring!
Our two dogs boarded at Lakota for 10+ nights over the holidays. During the stay, one of them developed an ear infection and needed treatment. Josh communicated every small step, took him to the vet, and kept up with care throughout the remainder of the stay. Communication was great and we experienced friendly and attentive staff that showed genuine care for the dogs and their safety. I would recommend Lakota to any family looking for experienced dog people with big hearts and pride in what they do.
Reply from Lakota creek
Thank you Erin! Quest and Jupiter are super sweet and loving dogs
We have been taking our dogs here for over a year and they get so excited when they get there! They get to go for long walks and really love running around in open areas! Highly recommended!
Reply from Lakota creek
Jake and Mac are such well behaved pups while here. I love that they have been regulars. Thanks again Shelly!
Highly recommend! Josh and his team are exceptional!! They treated our Belgian Malinois, Ranger, as one of their own. We struggled to find a trainer that was personable and flexible. We met with Josh and decided the board and train would be the best answer for Ranger. We loved the pictures and videos that we received during the training process to see how Ranger was doing. Ranger has excelled in his behavior since his time with Josh. Josh also extended training to our home and to assist our daughters with Ranger. Plus a bonus is the boarding they offer when we need to go out of town. A++
Reply from Lakota creek
Thanks Deb! I've really enjoyed connecting with you and Erik. Ranger is definitely one of my favorites!
Josh and his crew have done an amazing job training dogs to get ready for the real world! I have gotten many of Lakota Creek pups in to train and each of them have been great. Would recommend both their puppies and also their training!
Reply from Lakota creek
2025.12.24
Thanks Tyler!! Super happy we found you guys and the team work that has happened this last year
I was about to have my dog euthanized because of his aggressive behavior, I was at my wits end. I called Lakota Creek Kennels as a last ditch effort. Thank God I did. Josh worked with Bones and me to get to the root cause. Come to find out Bones wasn't aggressive but just protecting his resource which was me. Bones stayed for 2 weeks and came home a more confident behaved dog. We have more work to do but Im already amazed at the progress Bones has made. Thank you so much Josh.
If you need help with your fur babies or boarding I would definitely send you to Lakota Creek Kennels.
Reply from Lakota creek
Thank you Deb! Bones is great pup! Getting him out more to see the world will just open his eyes up even more and he will gain more and more confidence in himself
I found Lakota Creek kennel once we moved to the area a year ago. Contacted Josh who was so helpful in answering my many questions. I have a lively 7 year old pup who could provide enough power if he was ever on a treadmill. It took 2 trips out to the kennel for my pup to figure out where he was heading. He whines with excitement each time and can’t wait to get out of the car. They take him for walks during the week at different locations and post pictures. Great place and team to care for my pup when I need someone to watch him. Highly recommend .
Reply from Lakota creek
2025.12.20
Ha Chances energy is nothing but a blast while on our walks! He is always so curious!
Josh has been an invaluable resource every time I’ve come to him with dog training questions. Whether it’s behavioral challenges or fieldwork, he is exceptionally knowledgeable and well-versed in all aspects of training. He is always willing to help, and I trust his guidance thanks to the extensive courses he has completed, the certifications he’s earned, and—most importantly—the proven results reflected in his clients. I highly recommend Josh and Lakota Creek Kennels to anyone seeking reliable, skilled, and experienced support in their dog training journey!
Reply from Lakota creek
2025.12.20
I truly enjoy our conversations Mara! There is nothing better than to talk dogs with someone who enjoys them as much as we do
I called Josh on Monday after Finn, my two year old bernadoodle nearly dislocated my shoulder on our morning walk. Finn has been a puller all his life. I had tried various "no-pull" harnesses and training with no success. Josh was able to come to my house in Waukee on Wednesday and had Finn walking alongside me after only an hour! Thanks to Josh, Finn and I are both enjoying our walks now!
Highly recommend!