Every dog has a story. These are some of our favorites.

“As a professional behavioral dog trainer with nearly 20 years in this field, one of the biggest challenges I've consistently faced is finding people I would trust to care for my dogs. Not just handle them. Not just manage them. Truly understand them. That ends here. Most trainers are obedience-based. But far fewer truly understand the inner world of dogs—their nervous systems, their drives, their emotional states, and the nuance behind what they're expressing. I recommend Illya and Johanna at Topline K9 without hesitation. They get dogs. And more than that—they understand people. Because the human side of the equation is 90% of any 'dog training.' They see the full picture, and they work with both ends of the leash in a way that is thoughtful, structured, and deeply intentional. I have a diverse group of dogs—different temperaments, histories, drives, and needs—and I trust every single one of them in their care. Trust me—that's not something I say lightly. Once you're part of the pack, you always are. And if you ever need to skip town, having a place where your dogs aren't just cared for, but genuinely known… that's something special. Thank you, Illya and Johanna! ❤”

“I have owned Rotts for twenty-five years and I have finally found trainers that I completely trust with my dogs. Both of my current Rotties have been trained by Illya and they love him. This is NOT a trainer who keeps your dog in a kennel all day. They live with him and his wife as a family and learn all day. Mix that with group hikes and fun in the pool, and it's the perfect recipe for success.”

“Topline K9 Services, owned and operated by Illya Hardy and Johanna Barluenga in Perris, CA is top notch. The facility is located on 15 acres, which are cross fenced for safe dog hiking and after your poochie can swim, play and relax in their pool. They also have a separate grassy, fenced area for various types of training classes. We attended a class with our 2 RottN's, Sage and Rena, and enjoyed the comraderie of the handlers and Illya's critiques and training tips were easy to understand and effective. He has a way with dogs, and we admire the way he and Johanna have opened their hearts and doors in support of rehabilitating dogs in need. This is an excellent facility with super owners. We had a great time and will visit again.”

“I am a proud owner of a Rottweiler. I bought her at 6 weeks old, a beautiful puppy. I have worked sheep dogs and was on sentry dogs in Korea, so I thought I was equipped to train this beauty. Well, at about 4 months I sent Sassy to TOPLINE K9 SERVICES for one week. When she came home, she would come to a whistle or a voice command, sit, lay down, and heel. Sassy came back a lady. Sassy is 17 months old now, and she has had 3 more weeks of training, and has been shown by Illya in dog shows. We need 2 more points and Sassy will be listed as a champion.”

“This place is one in a million. Doggie paradise. Boarding/Daycare doesn't get better than this. I don't know any other boarding place that provides so much variety as Topline. Johanna and Illya are amazing and care for every dog like their own.”

“What a great training session we had. Illya is one of these trainers that is one in a million. He has the gift that makes even the most stubborn dog want to please him. Even though I've owned Rotties for nearly 30 years and have always trained my animals to be polite and gentle guests, I picked up several techniques from Illya that worked like magic! I would recommend Topline K9 Services and Illya and Johanna to anyone.”

“I can't say enough about Top line K9 services! Illya and Johanna are very professional and knowledgeable about the breed. They make you feel at home, but at the same time, drill you on areas that your dog needs work. Highly recommend them for training, swimming and boarding!”

“I come here almost every weekend and I drive an hour to get here, and sometimes 2 hours to get home, but it's all worth it. Illya works very hard with my dogs, he cares for them and he gives me a lot of advice. If your dog need obedience, bite work, protection work, socialization or daycare services call Illya. Johanna is awesome too, very caring and a hard worker.”

“Top care and excellent service is an understatement! Illya literally saved my pitbull from 'death row' after he became dog aggressive and I had nowhere to turn! He gave Patton the confidence, taught him the obedience and lead him on a path to excellence! We trained last week at a dog park. A DOG PARK!!! I am forever in debt to Illya and Johanna for all the training and love that they have provided. And most importantly, for training me to be a better and more understanding owner! I cannot thank them enough!”

“I have known Illya for 5 years, and Johanna for 2 years. We went hiking, horseback riding, and traveling together. Of course, the dogs were part of the pack on our trips and adventures. Illya and Johanna are very responsible, and always put the dogs' needs before their own. When I had to go to Europe for six months, I never worried leaving Libra with them. She loves them!”

“Meet and greet went well with my Retrievers. I could tell they knew how to handle my nervous Goldens. I know when I need their services I can feel very comfortable leaving my babies with them.”

“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you and tell you how much I appreciate you both. I originally brought my girl Mia to you for your Saturday morning groups just for socialization and to have her learn some basic puppy training but it has been such a blessing and turned into so much more. She absolutely loves coming there and runs to pick her up as she wants to stay and play with all her friends. I know she gets all the love and attention at your facility as she does at home and that makes me feel good about leaving her. She comes home totally worn out from playing and I love getting the pictures and videos throughout the day to see what she's doing. I can not even think of taking her anywhere else now.”

“Illya is an awesome guy and a great trainer. I could not have asked for a better trainer to take the time to work with my Rotty. I wouldn't hesitate recommending Illya as a first class trainer and providing a great place to board my dog!!”

“I took my 4 year old German Shepherd one session leash training. Changed my life. Took her on walk next morning, used the tools I was taught… NO PULLING AT ALL! I walked her for the 1st time in 4 years instead of her walking me! No yelling, pulling, getting upset, simple correction a few times, she was more alert and looked happier too! THANK YOU!!!”

“My Vizsla mix had an issue with my boyfriend's son and Illya and Johanna came home to assess the situation and gave us his professional advice and me knowing my dog's personality, noticed right away Illya and Johanna knew this breed was, and what was needed to train him the right way. Kobe spent three weeks at Topline K9 Services for behavior modification. He now walks next to us, checks in with us, makes eye contact, waits for direction, is way less impulsive than before, comes when you call him, and is more confident and less anxious. Illya is at the tip of your finger for support when needed. Where in Riverside are you going to find a daycare that takes your dog for a hike? NOWHERE. I give Topline K9 110%.”