FDLE Certified Canine Instructor
Professional dog training in North Port & Southwest Florida
Dog Training Built on Honest Advice, Not High-Pressure Sales
Board-and-train obedience from a 20-year law enforcement officer who has spent 13 years training police K-9s. We serve North Port, Venice, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and Englewood.
Who trains your dog
Your dog is trained by a working police K-9 instructor
Chad Walker has spent two decades in law enforcement and more than thirteen years training police K-9s. That is not a marketing line — it is the job he does when he is not working with your dog.
- 20 years in law enforcement
- 13+ years training police K-9s
- FDLE Certified Canine Instructor
- Lead K-9 trainer for his agency’s unit
How we work
Every dog is different. Every family is different.
Before recommending a program, we take the time to understand your goals and tell you what we genuinely believe is the best solution—even if it isn't our most expensive option.
The most effective form of dog training is one that is tailored to your dog's unique personality and your individual goals. Training goes far beyond simply offering treats—it requires structure, consistency, and clear communication. Our role is to guide both you and your dog through this process, ensuring you build a strong foundation for lasting success.
Because every dog and household is different, we take the time to carefully assess your dog's behavior, your lifestyle, and your training objectives. From there, we design a customized training plan that leads to a well-mannered, confident companion you'll enjoy for years to come.
We're here to help dogs and their owners understand each other. By combining balanced training with owner education, we create lasting obedience and stronger bonds.
Programs
Two board-and-train programs, plus boarding for graduates
Both programs are a full-time stay with us, and both finish the same way: we bring your dog home and hand the training over to you in person.
4-Week On-Leash Program
Our 4-week on-leash program builds a strong obedience foundation for your dog.
E-collar sold separately from the program.
6-Week Off-Leash Program
Our 6-week off-leash program takes obedience to the next level, giving you reliable control and freedom with your dog anywhere you go.
Boarding for Past Clients
We proudly offer boarding exclusively for dogs who have previously completed training with us. This ensures your pup enjoys a safe, familiar, and structured environment while you’re away.
On pricing: every dog and every household is different, so we quote after we've talked. The consultation is free and there is no obligation — and if a cheaper program is the right one for your dog, that is the one we'll recommend.
What our clients say
Owners who got their dog back different
These are Google reviews, in our clients' own words.
From the first consultation, Kelly and Chad demonstrated deep insight into both dog psychology and owner communication. They tailored every session to my dog's personality, blending positive reinforcement with clear structure. The results were remarkable...
Picture a 75lb 6 month old puppy. That’s my Cooper and he was getting out of control. I’ve had dogs all my life but Cooper is a unique and powerful breed. I kinda gawked at the prices for training, all over the place. I knew Cooper needed special...
I honestly cannot say enough good things about K9 Walker Training, Chad, and Kelly. Before Tuna went to board and train, he was a handful. He jumped on me constantly, didn't listen, pulled me wherever he wanted to go, and was becoming aggressive with my...
These are excerpts as they appeared on our old review feed. Read each one in full, and the rest of them, on Google.
Read our Google reviewsThe dogs
Graduates of our programs
Real dogs from real Southwest Florida families, doing the work.
Common questions
Questions we get asked most
Will this training work for my small dog?
Regardless of size, dogs learn through the same core principles of focus and positive reinforcement.
Our training programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each dog, with progressions carefully adapted to ensure success—even for the smallest breeds.
Similar to learning a new language, consistency and immersion are key. With dedicated training over several weeks, you will build a stronger, more enjoyable relationship with your dog, supported by lasting results.
Can an old dog learn new "tricks" or behaviors?
Age is never a barrier to learning for dogs—we recommend training at any stage of life. Whether you have a young puppy or a more mature companion, starting training as early as possible is always beneficial.
Without proper guidance, dogs can develop unwanted habits that affect both them and their owners. Early training lays the foundation for long-term success, making it easier to instill positive behaviors from the start rather than correcting challenges later.
Is our boarding facility monitored 24/7?
Yes! Your dog will constantly be monitored during their stay with us.
Is my dog always required to wear his/her training collar?
During the first few months after training, it is important for your dog to wear the training collar while supervised. This ensures you have the tools necessary to reinforce good behavior and address any unwanted habits consistently.
For your dog’s comfort and safety, the collar should not be worn for more than 12–15 hours per day and may be removed during sleep or while crated.
If you have specific questions regarding collar use or best practices for your dog, we encourage you to consult directly with your trainer.
Where we work
Serving North Port and Southwest Florida
Located in Southwest Florida, City of North Port in Sarasota County
Tell us about your dog
The consultation is free, and we'll tell you honestly what we think your dog needs — even if that isn't our most expensive program.