★★★★★  4.9 from 1,200+ client reviews
Balanced dog training since 2013 · Serving 7 states across the US
Call us: 415-583-5412
Home Locations Oregon Portland
Portland, Oregon

Dog Training in Portland

Reactivity. Fear. Aggression. Obedience Issues. It might feel overwhelming, but the right dog training can change everything.

3–8 week programs Max 5 dogs per trainer weekly photo & video updates
★★★★★

“Whether we’re your first call or your last hope.”

Programs from $3,600 · GPS collars · Max 5 dogs
What dog training does Koru K9 offer in Portland?

We help you rebuild trust, restore calm, and create a better life with your dog—starting today. Whether you’re dealing with aggression, reactivity, fear, anxiety, or just need help with puppy or obedience training, Koru K9 provides professional dog training that delivers real results—at home and in the real world.

Programs in Portland

Dog training programs in Portland

Every program starts with a free phone consultation.

Dog Board & Train

Dog Board & Train in Portland — matched to your dog's needs and your family's goals.

In-Home Dog Training

In-Home Dog Training in Portland — matched to your dog's needs and your family's goals.

Aggressive Dog Training

Aggressive Dog Training in Portland — matched to your dog's needs and your family's goals.

Dog Behaviorist

Dog Behaviorist in Portland — matched to your dog's needs and your family's goals.

Our philosophy

Let the 'heeling' begin.

Ever wonder why some Portland 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 the Portland Bay Area, 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
Photo & video updates weekly
GPS
Collars & secure home environments
0
Kennels — home-based, always
Your local team

Your Portland training team

Koru K9 trainers who live and work in the Portland area.

Rhys Cervantes

Portland, OR
Certified Behaviorist

My name is Rhys, I'm a professional dog trainer who has been working with dogs since I was 16 years old. My approach to training is relationship based.

Rob Russell

Portland, OR / Seattle-Tacoma, WA
Certified BehavioristCGC Evaluator

Rob grew up in a family that always had dogs. His lifelong passion for canine companions was sparked by a unique experience with Nanook—a majestic Malamute/Timberwolf mix.

Lindsey Estabrook

Portland, OR
Dog BehavioristTom Rose School

Annette Johnson

Portland, OR
Dog BehavioristKoru Master Program Graduate

Maloree Campbell

Portland, OR
Dog Behaviorist

Natalie and Lee Lane

Oregon Coast / Portland, OR
Dog Behaviorist

Natalie and Lee Lane are a husband-and-wife team on the Oregon Coast. Natalie holds a B.S. in Biology and is a Registered Veterinary Assistant; a dog named Jack jump-started Lee's venture into dog training. They offer in-home and Board and Train from Lincoln County.

More reviews

Portland success stories

Verified reviews from clients across every market we serve.

★★★★★

“I am SO happy we invested in Koru K9. We got matched with Natalie and Lee as our trainers and they have been INCREDIBLE.”

TL Tasha LaRueVerified client review
★★★★★

“Rob was professional, flexible, and had many resources he was happy to share! Thank you for your time!”

V VickieVerified client review
★★★★★

“I took my 1 1/2 year old 'hyper' aussie doodle, Gigi for a 3 week board and train with Irini.”

AM Annemarie M.Verified client review
Questions

Portland dog training FAQs

Dogs can learn at any age! We offer dedicated puppy programs starting as early as 8–12 weeks to build early foundation habits, as well as behavior modification and obedience programs for adult and senior dogs.
Unlike commercial kennel facilities where dogs spend most of their time in runs, our Board & Train programs are fully home-based. Your dog lives directly in the trainer’s home, receiving continuous supervision, real-world exposure, and individualized instruction in a comfortable, structured environment.
Koru K9 offers three primary dog training programs in Portland, Oregon: Private In-Home Training, Board & Train, and Hybrid Training. Private sessions focus on hands-on owner coaching at home, Board & Train provides immersive training in a professional trainer's home, and Hybrid combines both for maximum real-world reliability.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Explore programs in Portland

Dog Board & Train

Dog Board & Train for Portland dogs.

Explore Dog Board & Train →

In-Home Dog Training

In-Home Dog Training for Portland dogs.

Explore In-Home Dog Training →

Aggressive Dog Training

Aggressive Dog Training for Portland dogs.

Explore Aggressive Dog Training →

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.