Melanie Wonneberger
R.E.A.L. K9 Training Ridgway, CO
R.E.A.L. K9 Training is dedicated to science-based, positive reinforcement methods, fostering a lasting bond between owners, handlers, and their dogs. Owner and lead trainer Melanie is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), and the Pet Professional Guild (PPG).
While all these organizations promote professional development and standards, only the PPG takes a clear, uncompromising stance against the use of aversive tools and methods. The PPG does not support the use of tools such as prong and shock collars, nor intimidation-based tactics like leash pops or physical corrections. Its standards emphasize respect, choice, and welfare for both dogs and their people, and reflect Melanie’s deeper commitment to using only humane, evidence-based methods.
Melanie proudly incorporates these principles into every training session, helping families and individuals achieve lasting harmony with their canine companions.
*Travel fees may apply for locations beyond a 25-minute radius from our facility *
Melanie's Mission
Melanie founded her company driven by a deep passion for dogs and a commitment to fostering harmonious relationships within families. With a profound belief that a happy home involves a strong bond between family members and their pets, her mission is two-fold: assisting pet owners with their dogs and aiding those in need of a service dog.
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As a dedicated professional service dog trainer, Melanie is on a mission to enhance the lives of others by promoting better physical and mental well-being through the companionship of a well-trained service dog. Her goal is to uncover the potential within each dog and empower them to provide valuable support to their owners.
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Credentials and Affiliations
​Melanie has over a decade of experience training dogs, including service dogs, and holds the following credentials and affiliations:
• CPDT-KA Certified Trainer
• Atlas Assistance Dogs Certified Service Dog Trainer (Atlas CT)
• Fear Free Certified Professional
• Karen Pryor Academy Puppy Start Right Instructor
• Atlas Assistance Dogs Facilitator (Atlas FT)
• DWYD Certified Instructor
• AKC Evaluator for Trick Dog, S.T.A.R. Puppy, and CGC programs
• Snake Avoidance Instructor through Summit Dog Training
• Alert & Response Task Training through Cooperative Paws
• Working with Clients with Disabilities through Cooperative Paws/APDT
• The Retrieve through Cooperative Paws
• Getting Started in Public Access Training through Cooperative Paws
• Muzzle Mastery Made Easy through APDT
• Adult Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing
• PetTech CPR & First Aid
• Wilderness First Responder through Med Remote Medicine
• First Aid through Atlas
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Melanie is committed to staying at the forefront of science-based training methods. She continuously pursues continuing education (CEUs) to ensure her clients receive the most effective, ethical, and up-to-date training available for the client and their dog.
In addition to running R.E.A.L. K9 Training, Melanie is a Satellite Trainer for Pets for Vets, helping match emotional support animals with veterans.
A Personal Connection
Melanie’s journey into service dog training began with her own service dog, Rex, whose training not only improved her life but also ignited her passion for helping others. As someone living with disabilities, she understands firsthand the challenges her clients face and uses her experiences to provide compassionate, tailored support.
When She’s Not Training
Outside of training, Melanie enjoys life in Ridgway, Colorado, with her family and dogs. Her in-home service dog, Kona, and her retired service dog, Rex, are part of the pack, along with her husband’s German Shepherd and their son’s cat. Melanie’s hobbies include e-biking in the mountains, scuba diving, skiing, and traveling.
