EST. 2017
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My journey started with Rex—my first service dog—who gave me back my independence, calm, and confidence I thought I’d lost. Training him wasn’t just a solution. It was the beginning of something bigger.
My Why
Our Mission
I created REAL K9 Training™ to help people and their dogs find the same freedom I did—with a focus on ethical, science-backed methods and a whole lot of heart.
Some of my clients come to me exhausted from chasing a puppy around. Others need a reliable service dog to help them navigate daily life. And some just want a calmer home with their rescue dog. Every training plan is customized, but every one starts with respect, compassion, and results.
How I
Can Help
Certifications & Affiliations
You’re not just looking for someone who loves dogs—you need someone who knows dogs. I’ve built my career on science-based, ethical methods that respect the dog-human bond and produce real results.
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I founded REAL K9Training™ in 2017 after relocating from Georgia to Colorado, building on years of experiences working with rescue and nonprofit service dog programs. I continue to volunteer my time and expertise with nonprofit service dog organizations, provide ethical, science based training methods and education to help more teams succeed.
With over a decade of professional experience - and more than 20 years of hands-on dog work, I bring both deep knowledge and practical training skill to every session. I've titled my own dogs in CGC, CGCA, CGCU, and Kona holds several Trick Dog titles. I'm also certified in Pet CPR & First Aid through PetTech, ensuring your dog's safety is always a top priority.
As the most experienced and only certified Service Dog Trainer on Colorado's Western Slope, I offer clients specialized, professional dog training services built on ethics, education, and experience - because doing it right matters.
Whether you’re just getting started or feeling stuck, you don’t have to do it alone.
Let’s meet your dog where they are—and train for where you want to go.
Whether you’re just getting started or feeling stuck, you don’t have to do it alone.
Let’s meet your dog where they are—and train for where you want to go.
That's a common worry! When we train correctly, treats aren't a forever bribe — they're a teaching tool. We start with frequent rewards, usually high value food (or sometimes toys/play), so your dog builds a strong reinforcement history. If we use luring, that part is phased out quickly so your dog doesn't depend on seeing food first. Think of it like a paycheck: we don't work for free, and neither should your dogs. Once a skill is learned, we shift to a "surprise paycheck" system — kind of like a slot machine — where your dog never knows exactly when the next bonus will come. That unpredictability keeps them motivated.
Once the behavior is reliable, we move toward a intermitted reinforcement schedule — sometimes with treats, sometimes mixed with life rewards like access to people, dogs, sniffing, or play, if that's motivating for your dog.
Training isn't linear, though. In harder environments or when distractions increase, we go back to more frequent reinforcement to set your dog up for success. The goal isn't to cut out treats — it's to use them generously where and when they matter most, so your dog learns with confidence and responds reliably in real life. Research shows intermittent reinforcement prevents extinction (loss) of behavior and makes the response stronger!
It’s never too early—or too late—to start training. Puppies benefit from early guidance during their key socialization period, but adult dogs can absolutely learn new skills and improve old ones. We tailor our approach to your dog’s age, personality, and learning style.
We use science-backed, force-free training that’s built on trust, choice, and reinforcement. No fear, no pain—just proven methods that strengthen your bond and help your dog succeed in real-life situations.
Training is always customized, but I recommend weekly or bi-weekly sessions for the best progress. Monthly subscriptions are typically reserved for graduates who’ve met their original goals but want occasional maintenance or extra support. We offer both in-person and virtual sessions, and can coordinate with family members, doctors, or other professionals to ensure your dog’s training fits your lifestyle and goals.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers
Every dog, and every family, is different, which means your training journey should be too. Whether you’re wondering about treats, timing, methods, or how sessions work, we’re here to make things clear. Our FAQ covers the most common questions we get from clients so you can feel confident and informed before you start.