---
title: Northern CA Aggressive Dog Rehabilitation & Training | Koru K9
description: Expert rehabilitation for aggressive dogs in Northern California. In-home lessons & board and train programs for real-world safety.
---
★★★★★ 4.9 from 1,200+ client reviews
Balanced dog training since 2013 · Serving 7 states across the US
Call us: [415-583-5412](tel:4155835412)
[](https://www.koruk9.com/?hsLang=en)
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[415-583-5412](tel:4155835412) [Book a Consultation](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
[Home](https://www.koruk9.com/?hsLang=en)› [Locations](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations?hsLang=en)› [California](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california?hsLang=en)› [Northern California](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/dog-training?hsLang=en)› Aggressive Dog Training
Northern California · Aggressive Dog Training
# Northern California *Aggressive Dog Training*
Our team of expert dog trainers in the Northern California area provide personalized and individualized programs to meet the unique needs of every pet and owner and pet.
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us/?hsLang=en) [Call 415-583-5412](tel:4155835412)
**3–8 week** programs **Max 5 dogs** per trainer **2×** weekly photo & video updates
★★★★★
“Whether we’re your first call or your last hope.”
**Programs from $3,600 · GPS collars · Max 5 dogs**
How does aggressive dog training work in Northern California?
Our board and train program is popular for dealing with aggressive dogs and even more challenging behavior issues, allowing us to set the foundation for success while preventing future problems. We also offer private, in-home training programs. At Koru K9, we take the time to help you understand your pet better so that you can build a relaxed, trusting relationship. Contact us today at 415-583-5412 or fill out the form to learn more about how our programs can help you get real results with your pet!
Problem behaviors we help with
## Behavior we work with in Northern California
If the reactivity, anxiety, fear, or aggression feels unfixable, we want you to know it’s not.
[Tell Us About Your Dog →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us/?hsLang=en)
### Aggression
Dog-to-dog aggression, Human aggression, Resource or food guarding, Dogs fighting
### Fear & Anxiety
Fear based behaviors, Separation anxiety, Generalized anxiety, Destructive behaviors
### Obedience Issues
Pulling on leash, Not coming when called, Jumping, Excessive barking
Our philosophy
## Let the *heeling* begin.
Ever wonder why some Northern California dog Board & Train programs promise quick fixes or take a one-size-fits-all approach, only to leave you with unreliable results and behaviors that come back? That doesn’t mean your dog is broken — it means they need a different approach.
At Koru K9 Dog Training in Northern California, our Board & Train programs are built for real-life success — not shortcuts. We focus on lasting behavior change through connection, consistency, and clear communication.
**Real-life training in real environments.** Each day includes structured sessions, field trips, and exposure to everyday distractions — city sidewalks, parks, and real streets, never a kennel run.
1–5
Client dogs per trainer — never more
2×
Photo & video updates weekly
GPS
Collars & secure home environments
0
Kennels — home-based, always
How it works
## How aggressive dog training works in Northern California
We treat every dog as if they were our own — because we know how much they mean to you.
1
### Pick-up day
Pick up and drop off are part of every program. Your dog travels safe and settles into their trainer’s home.
2
### Life in a real home
Your dog lives with a professional trainer — structured sessions plus playtime, exercise, and rest, never a crowded facility.
3
### Real-world training daily
City streets, parks, and field trips — with at least two photo/video updates per week so you follow the progress.
4
### Delivery & go-home lesson
We personally deliver your dog back and teach you everything they’ve learned — plus two follow-up lessons.
Your local team
## Koru K9 trainers serving Northern California
Local trainers who live and work where you do.
Dog Behaviorist, Michael Ellis School, AKC Evaluator
### Debbie Port
Northern California
Dog BehavioristMichael Ellis School +1
Debbie Port grew up riding and training horses professionally. She trained her own dogs on the side and over the years got interested in dog sports.
[Read full bio →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/aggressive-dog-training#bio-debbie-port)
Dog Behaviorist, Balanced School for Dog Trainers
### Becca Contreras
Northern California
Dog BehavioristBalanced School for Dog Trainers
Becca has been training dogs professionally since 2011. During that time, she has made the transition from a purely positive trainer to balanced training, after seeing the limitations of purely positive training, particularly…
[Read full bio →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/aggressive-dog-training#bio-becca-contreras)
Dog Behaviorist
### Jourdan Murphy
Northern California
Dog Behaviorist
Jourdan was born and raised in Santa Cruz County. Her passion and love for dogs started at a very young age. Jourdan has owned high drive, working breeds her entire life, and realized, at a young age, that she had a natural…
[Read full bio →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/aggressive-dog-training#bio-jourdan-murphy)
Dog Behaviorist
### Celeste Schmidt
Northern California
Dog Behaviorist
From the time she was young Celeste always had a deep passion for animals. Learning as much as she could and spending her free time with the family dogs.
[Read full bio →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/aggressive-dog-training#bio-celeste-schmidt)
Dog Trainer & Behaviorist
### Maddie Galati
Northern California
Dog Trainer & Behaviorist
Maddie has always had a passion for dogs. Aside from growing up with them, as soon as she graduated high school she was volunteering with a local German Shepherd rescue and shadowing a balanced trainer.
[Read full bio →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/aggressive-dog-training#bio-maddie-galati)
Dog Trainer & Behaviorist
### Izzy Gutierrez
Northern California
Dog Trainer & Behaviorist
Izzy has spent her entire lifetime surrounded by animals and was always the resident expert for all family and friends with pet questions. At an early age, Izzy began pet sitting and quickly became comfortable with a plethora…
[Read full bio →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/aggressive-dog-training#bio-izzy-gutierrez)
×
### Debbie Port
Northern California
Dog BehavioristMichael Ellis SchoolAKC Evaluator
Debbie Port grew up riding and training horses professionally. She trained her own dogs on the side and over the years got interested in dog sports. Over the past 15 years she has taken clinics and seminars to better her training for her dogs.
As she educated herself more she decided to switch from helping horse owners to having better relationships with their horses to helping dog owners to have better relationships with their dogs. She attended the Micheal Ellis School for dog trainers and is an AKC Evaluator for the Canine Good Citizens, Community Canine, Urban Canine and Tricks Dog certifications.
Committed to providing the most effective, convenient solutions to her clients dog training needs, Debbie advidly pursues ongoing continuing education and provisional development by attending several seminars per year and keeping current on all industry literature.
When not helping clients to enjoy easier lives with their canine companions, Debbie trains her own dogs in IGP (Schutzhund), ring sport, AKC obedience and dock diving.
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
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### Becca Contreras
Northern California
Dog BehavioristBalanced School for Dog Trainers
Becca has been training dogs professionally since 2011. During that time, she has made the transition from a purely positive trainer to balanced training, after seeing the limitations of purely positive training, particularly when it comes to behavior modification. Becca managed a successful daycare, and board & training facility in her home town of Chico, CA.
Her experience at this facility allowed her to gain invaluable experience in dog behavior through working with a wide variety of dog breeds in diverse environments. Becca’s own personal dog, Smokey, a German Shepherd mix, proves that, at 12 years young, it’s never too late to train! A year later Becca adopted an Australian Shepherd, named Bentley, who had resource guarding issues as well as reactivity towards people.
We are happy to report that, through balanced training, Bentley is a calm, cool, and collected guy, and is one of our staff dogs used to help other reactive dogs. Becca has continued expanding her training by obtaining her certification through the Balanced School for Dog Trainers.
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
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### Jourdan Murphy
Northern California
Dog Behaviorist
Jourdan was born and raised in Santa Cruz County. Her passion and love for dogs started at a very young age. Jourdan has owned high drive, working breeds her entire life, and realized, at a young age, that she had a natural affinity for training. The beginning of Jourdan’s career in canine training started with her seeking a higher level of training for her Australian Cattle Dogs.
She took them to an Obedience & Agility class at a local police K9 training facility. The facility owner had been training dogs fro over 30 years, and immediately identified Jourdan’s potential, and offered Jourdan her first apprenticeship.
Upon completion of this apprenticeship, Jourdan began private lessons, and group classes in obedience, protection, and agility, as well as board and trains for dogs with behavior issues, and for mobility and medical alert service dogs, and puppy raising. Jourdan’s interest for protection training and sports was peaked, and she began attending protection and obedience seminar or workshop she could.
Through these seminars and workshops, Jourdan has trained with some of the best, and most inspiring trainers in the world. She has competed at a national, and International level with her personal Belgian Malinois, and has trained and titled multiple dogs / breeds.
Jourdan who is forever a student of her craft, is happy to pass along her years of experienced, and education to her clients, and is excited to see her client dogs become happy, confident, engaged dogs.
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
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### Celeste Schmidt
Northern California
Dog Behaviorist
From the time she was young Celeste always had a deep passion for animals. Learning as much as she could and spending her free time with the family dogs. In her early teens she got her first dog Dakota, who had severe fear aggression towards people, and fear-based reactivity towards other dogs.
She reached out to local trainers to work with him. That turned into Celeste mentoring with those trainers and eventually becoming their assistant trainer. These trainers worked for an animal shelter, and Celeste assisted them in training and rehabilitating the shelter dogs that had behavior issues.
She learned the importance of timing, consistency, and balance, and worked Dakota through his behavior issues. Dakota was such a success story that he became their go-to demo and training dog! Little did Celeste know at that time that she would eventually end up fulfilling her mentors’ role, and become the lead trainer for the shelter.
Celeste was also responsible for evaluating the temperament of all the dogs at the shelter, giving her a tremendous depth of experience in dealing with a wide variety of breeds, temperaments, and behavior issues. In her spare time, she began training Dakota in sport work — successful competing with and titling Dakota.
It was through this process she discovered her passion for German Shepherds, and went on to compete with and title her first GSD, as well as train him up to be her Medical Service Alert Dog. Since that time, she has also gone on to start her own, successful breeding program for German Shepherds as well.
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
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### Maddie Galati
Northern California
Dog Trainer & Behaviorist
Maddie has always had a passion for dogs. Aside from growing up with them, as soon as she graduated high school she was volunteering with a local German Shepherd rescue and shadowing a balanced trainer. After that, she began working for a company that did behavior modification and working dogs.
From there, her passion grew for working dogs and she started working with detection canines in the school system and conservation detection canines that detect invasive species. Maddie was a competitor on Americas Top Dog Season 2 and is now working towards PSA (Protection Sport Association) titles with her Malinois.
When Maddie is not working with dogs she enjoys working out, traveling and hiking (dogs are typically still included here though!).
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
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×
### Izzy Gutierrez
Northern California
Dog Trainer & Behaviorist
Izzy has spent her entire lifetime surrounded by animals and was always the resident expert for all family and friends with pet questions. At an early age, Izzy began pet sitting and quickly became comfortable with a plethora of animals and animal husbandry techniques. As she continued to expand her animal care network, she remained close with her two family dogs, Scout and Sequoia.
Although her love for all animals persists, her true passion remains in dog behavior. Izzy began studying her own two German Shepherd’s behavior and researching operant conditioning and classical conditioning. Her German Shepherds sparked an ongoing curiosity obedience training and she was inspired by her dogs’ ever-present drive to learn and engage.
This continued interest in training led her to volunteer countless hours at the Humane Society of Ventura County. Her time working with high risk shelter dogs gave her the opportunity to work hands on with many difficult cases and observe behavioral changes brought on by a highly stressful kennel situation.
Her natural ability to read canine body language made her one of the few volunteers who could handle the more difficult dogs in the shelter. She committed to help as many reactive dogs as she could and make training her career. While seeking a training school, Izzy met Heather, an animal behaviorist with 10 years of experience and a degree in behavior and neuroscience.
Heather recognized Izzy’s natural talent and immediately took her under her wing and into her internship program. Under the guidance of a behaviorist, Izzy practiced training fundamentals with several dogs with varying degrees of reactivity. Over the course of her internship, Izzy worked with several challenging cases of human aggression, dog aggression, fear reactivity, resource guarding and more.
It quickly became clear, training dogs saves lives, and this constantly fuels her passion to learn more and grow as a behaviorist. Izzy continues her education by attending seminars and seeking her perfect working dog companion who will most likely be another German Shepherd. Once she finds her future working dog, Izzy wants to continue to expand her knowledge of the field by competing in PSA, GRC and scent work.
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
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More reviews
## Results from families like yours
Verified reviews from clients across every market we serve.
★★★★★
“We trained our 2 fur babies with Will Greenway. One is an 8 year old Australian Shepherd and the other a 3 year old Rough Collie.”
DW **Danielle W.**Verified client review
★★★★★
“I got the package with 3-sessions of private training (with one 1-2 hour consultation on top of that) and my trainer was Alex.”
AB **Avyla Barrett**Verified client review
★★★★★
“Walks used to be stressful, with constant pulling and lack of focus—but Halley A. has transformed that experience completely.”
MM **Marisa Madrid**Verified client review
[Write Us a Review Today](https://www.google.com/maps?cid=16938504931794498991)
Questions
## Northern California aggressive dog training FAQs
What types of dog aggression do you treat in Northern California?+
We specialize in all forms of aggression, including human aggression, dog-to-dog aggression, leash reactivity, resource guarding, territorial aggression, fear-based aggression, and sibling rivalry. Reach out to our team today to get help for your dog.
Can a dog with a bite history really be rehabilitated?+
Yes. At Koru K9, we believe that almost any dog can improve with the right structure, clear boundaries, and appropriate training tools. We evaluate every dog on a case-by-case basis to create a realistic, safe, and effective rehabilitation path. Call us to discuss your dog's history.
How many dogs does each trainer work with?+
Each trainer works with just 1–5 client dogs at a time, ensuring your dog receives focused attention, personalized dog training, and plenty of affection in a real home environment. This small, intimate setting allows our expert trainers to tailor each session to your dog's unique personality and behavior challenges—whether it's leash reactivity, separation anxiety, or basic obedience. Your dog isn't just trained—they're cared for like family.
How much attention will my dog get?+
Your dog will receive exceptional care, personalized training, and plenty of individual attention throughout their stay. In our Board & Train program, each trainer works with only 1 to 5 dogs at a time. This intentionally small size ensures your dog receives the focused support they need to succeed. Each day includes multiple one-on-one training sessions, play, physical exercise, and rest. Your dog will live in the trainer's home—not a kennel—and will be treated like one of their own. We don't just teach commands, we help your dog build confidence, trust, and the skills they need to thrive at home and in the real world.
How do you keep my dog safe and secure?+
Your dog's safety is our top priority at Koru K9. During our Board & Train program, your dog lives in a safe, structured, and supervised home environment—not a kennel facility. This allows for 24/7 monitoring, individualized care, and secure containment when dogs are not actively training or supervised. Each dog is housed in a crate when unattended, which not only ensures safety but also supports structure and calm behavior. Our trainers follow strict safety protocols to prevent injury, stress, or accidents. From controlled environments to professional handling, our training programs are designed to keep your dog safe, secure, and thriving throughout their stay.
Will my dog remember me after their board & train?+
Yes — your dog will absolutely remember you after completing their Board & Train program. Dogs are deeply bonded to their people, and that connection doesn't disappear during training. In fact, time spent apart often strengthens the bond. Rest assured you will be greeted with tails wagging, full-body wiggles, and all. Throughout the program, your dog is learning new skills, gaining confidence, and practicing calm behavior. When you reunite, you'll see not only a dog that remembers you, but one that is the best version of themselves. Our go-home lesson helps you step into your new role as the leader your dog needs, and we provide clear, personalized guidance to make the transition smooth and successful. With continued consistency at home, you'll build an even stronger relationship with your dog.
## Other dog training programs in Northern California
### Dog Board & Train
Dog Board & Train for Northern California dogs and their families.
[Explore Dog Board & Train →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/dog-board-train?hsLang=en)
### In-Home Dog Training
In-Home Dog Training for Northern California dogs and their families.
[Explore In-Home Dog Training →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/in-home-dog-training?hsLang=en)
### Dog Behaviorist
Dog Behaviorist for Northern California dogs and their families.
[Explore Dog Behaviorist →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california/northern-california/dog-behaviorist?hsLang=en)
## Your companion is worth it. Your peace of mind depends on it.
Whether we’re your first call or your last hope, Koru K9 will meet you — and your dog — where you are, and help you build the calm, confident companion you’ve been searching for.
[Book a Free Consultation →](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us/?hsLang=en) [415-583-5412](tel:4155835412)
[](https://www.koruk9.com/?hsLang=en)
**Koru K9 Dog Training & Rehabilitation**
455 Market St Ste 1940, PMB 999798
San Francisco, CA 94105-2448
[415-583-5412](tel:4155835412) · [woof@koruk9.com](mailto:woof@koruk9.com)
Office Hours: Monday–Friday 8am–5pm PST
#### Services
[Board & Train](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-training-services/board-train?hsLang=en) [In-Home Training](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-training-services/private-in-home-training?hsLang=en) [Hybrid Training](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-training-services/hybrid-training?hsLang=en) [Puppy Training](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-training-services/puppy-training?hsLang=en) [LunaDog AI — Online](https://www.koruk9.com/lunadogai-dog-training-app?hsLang=en)
#### Locations
[California](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/california?hsLang=en) [Washington](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/washington?hsLang=en) [Oregon](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/oregon?hsLang=en) [Colorado](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/colorado?hsLang=en) [Texas](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/texas?hsLang=en) [South Carolina](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/south-carolina?hsLang=en) [North Carolina](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations/north-carolina?hsLang=en) [All locations →](https://www.koruk9.com/dog-trainer-locations?hsLang=en)
#### Resources
[Behavior Guides](https://www.koruk9.com/guides?hsLang=en) [Blog](https://www.koruk9.com/blog?hsLang=en) [FAQs](https://www.koruk9.com/about-us/faqs?hsLang=en) [Become a Trainer](https://www.koruk9.com/become-a-trainer?hsLang=en) [Careers](https://www.koruk9.com/careers?hsLang=en) [Contact](https://www.koruk9.com/contact-us?hsLang=en)
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