Ocean View-based Lead The Way Dog Training has been recognized as the Best Dog Training Company in South Jersey by Insider Weekly, marking a significant achievement for the business that launched just five years ago in 2019.
The award acknowledges the company’s rapid growth from mobile training services to operating a fully equipped professional training facility with boarding capabilities. Founded by Russ Norcross, a retired Law Enforcement K-9 Sergeant with over two decades of canine training experience, the business has successfully bridged the gap between law enforcement K-9 training and civilian pet ownership.
Norcross brings exceptional credentials to the civilian dog training sector. During his law enforcement career, he trained more than 1,000 K-9 teams and established the first Bloodhound Academy, earning recognition as a pioneer in specialized canine training. His expertise was validated through competitive excellence when he secured first place in scent detection competition with his K-9 partner.
“We apply the same proven methodologies that save lives in high-stakes situations to transform family relationships,” the company states about their approach. This philosophy has resonated with dog owners throughout South Jersey who seek professional-grade civilian dog training that goes beyond basic obedience.
The training methodology employed by Lead The Way combines Classical and Operant Conditioning principles with an emphasis on positive reinforcement and clear communication. This science-based approach trains both dog and owner, empowering families to become confident leaders while building lasting bonds based on respect and understanding.
Since opening, the company has expanded its team to four dedicated members who maintain rigorous professional standards through a 2-year apprenticeship certification program. The comprehensive service offerings include individual training sessions, drop-off training, and board and train programs. The facility also provides specialized enrichment activities including scent work and agility training that cater to dogs’ natural drives and instincts.
Beyond his canine expertise, Norcross served his community as a volunteer firefighter, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to public service and safety that extends through the business’s community engagement efforts. Lead The Way actively participates in local events through sponsorships and partnerships while maintaining an exclusive alumni community for past clients.
The company’s mission focuses on building strong, foundational communication between dogs and their owners, enabling each client to lead with confidence and cultivate lifetime bonds based on the same principles that make working K-9 teams successful in the field.
This recognition from Insider Weekly comes at a time when demand for professional dog training services continues to grow across the region. The evolution from mobile operations to a dedicated training center with boarding capabilities positions Lead The Way Dog Training for continued expansion while maintaining the high standards that earned this prestigious award.
The Best Dog Training Company South Jersey award recognizes businesses that demonstrate excellence in service delivery, professional standards, and positive community impact. Lead The Way Dog Training’s unique combination of law enforcement expertise applied to civilian dog training has set a new standard for the industry in South Jersey.