Seattle Dog Board & Train

Halley is a dedicated canine trainer who has a diverse background working in the animal industry. She has been working with dogs for eight years, and over the past four she has discovered her passion for understanding dog behavior. Her journey in dog training started after she attended an apprenticeship, where she learned the basics of dog training and understanding the “why” behind dog behaviors.

When she graduated from the apprenticeship, she was assigned 10-15 dogs at a time to focus on daily. She not only learned how to rehabilitate their behaviors but also helped build their confidence and create neutrality in their world. She now works as a Dog Behaviorist and Balanced Trainer, helping build dogs’ confidence while coaching owners and their companions to thrive together.

Though some cases are similar, no case is ever the same, which has led her to believe that there are many techniques to help bridge the gap of communication between a dog and their owner. Halley spends a lot of time going on hikes, cliff jumping, spending time on the beach, going to car events, and camping with her two-year-old Pit/Corgi mix named Percy.

She resides in a home with a 4yr old German Shepherd, a 9yr Goldendoodle, and a 6yr old Orange Tabby cat. If you want to spark an easy conversation with her, you can’t go wrong bringing up cars.

Keith is a dedicated canine trainer and enthusiast with a diverse background. Growing up in Washington surrounded by dogs, he developed a passion for animal companionship early in life. After serving eight years in the Navy, stationed in Hawaii, Keith and his wife welcomed their first dog, a Chihuahua mix, into their family.

Upon returning to Washington, he transitioned to a career driving armored vehicles while pursuing his education in HVAC/R. During his eight years in the trade, Keith adopted a Malinois puppy and recognized the importance of proper training. He sought out online resources and engaged with a local trainer, where his exceptional bond with his dog was noticed, leading to a job offer.

With three and a half years of hands-on experience under his belt, Keith further honed his skills by completing a six-month master trainer course at Tarheel K9. He is currently an active member of a local IGP and American Schutzhund club, training two of his dogs for competition, and continues to share his passion for canine training with the community.

Damian grew up in Northern Indiana, playing sports and spending as much time outdoors as possible. After high school Damian started an apprenticeship at an automotive paint and repair shop where he excelled at the trade and spent almost 10 years honing those skills and positioning himself for a successful career however, he soon realized that his chosen trade was not fulfilling and he had to try something different.

So he put in his notice and spent the next two years traveling the country with his 3 German Shepherds. Damian hiked to the top of mountains in Colorado, boated the Great Lakes, and even rafted rapids in Wisconsin, the whole time his dogs were right next to him. The bond he developed with his “pack” was the reason he pursued a career in dog training.

Damian wants every dog owner to have a bond and relationship like he had with his dogs — and the best way to achieve that is through structure and opening up communication between pet and owner.

Damian started his dog training education through mentorship with one of the most passionate and knowledgeable trainers in the country, and continues to develop and learn through continued mentorship, weekly club, and any other opportunity he can grab. Damian is a decoy for various protection sports.

Listen to Damian, Shane and Koru K9 co-founders, Ray & Bridget, on their monthly Trainer Talks discussing dog training advice, information, and debunking dog training myths and misinformation: https://youtu.be/cu5X_inEDUQ

Kym has been working in the canine industry for eight years. Her experience started in the U.S. Navy as a Military Working Dog Handler, searching for narcotics and explosives, along with training patrol work. She’s spent her newly gained civilian time learning to work with and train companions, service animals, and their owners.

She believes there are multiple ways to succeed with your companion and adapts techniques to work best for everyone. Kym spends her free time out hiking, paddle boarding, and camping around the PNW with her own dogs. Her household includes a six year-old Golden-Doodle, a three year-old Belgian Malinois, a one year-old German Shepherd, and a four year-old orange Tabby Cat.

If you're looking for a great conversation starter, try discussing the Star Wars universe with her!

I am a certified trainer who has worked with various breeds from pet dogs, working dogs, and competition dogs. A graduate of the Top Tier K-9 Trainer School with advanced certifications in pet and working dog programs. Owner of 4 dogs, including 3 Belgian Malinois and a Whippet mix.

I am committed to developing my skills and utilizing training methods for getting the most out of each dog and their owner. I believe that each dog and owner has an individual learning style that requires a customized approach.

Hi! I’m Mikayla. My dog training journey started on my 11th birthday with a Golden Retriever puppy named Penny. Penny was my first introduction to the world of canine behavior, training, and competitive obedience, and was a loving adventure buddy for many years.

After graduating from college, I decided to rejoin the dog community and adopted an Australian Cattle Dog rescue named Miracle. What was supposed to be a smooth entry back into the dog world quickly turned into a crash course in aggression rehabilitation and behavior modification.

Seeing the changes and improvements in Mira’s quality of life was incredibly rewarding, and inspired me to continue learning and developing my training skills.

I’ve trained in a variety of disciplines including competitive obedience, detection and nosework, and trick training. I am what’s called a “balanced trainer,” which means that I use a combination of training methodologies and tools (including slip leads, toys, prong collars, long lines, e collars, pedestals, and balance equipment) to teach and communicate with my dogs.

I strongly believe that owners must understand what tools to use, when and how to use them, and why to use them in order to communicate effectively with their dog. My training style is rooted in the NePoPo® approach, with emphasis building rapport, structure, and advocacy into the relationship between dog and owner.

I regularly pursue continuing education opportunities and study the latest advancements in behavioral research in order to expand my knowledge and best meet the needs of the dogs in my care.

When I’m not training, I can be found enjoying too many cups of coffee, spending time with my family, or lounging in the yard and reading a good book.

I’m Terry, and working with animals has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up raising and showing horses, primarily Arabians, and began raising and training Pit Bulls when I was 18. Those early experiences taught me the importance of understanding each animal as an individual and approaching training with patience, consistency, and clear communication.

My Malinois, Farrah, has been a major part of my more recent training journey. Together, we’ve worked on everyday obedience as well as PSA sport, and I’ve been involved with a PSA club for the past two years. Farrah and I recently competed in our first WDA trial, where we placed fourth in the FO.

I’m also the owner of Northwest K9 Solutions in Kent, where I work with dogs and their owners to build practical, reliable skills for everyday life. This includes leash manners, recall, confidence, impulse control, and staying calm and focused around distractions.

I completed Duke University’s Dog Emotion and Cognition course, which further strengthened my interest in understanding how dogs think, learn, and communicate. I enjoy getting to know each dog as an individual and helping owners better understand their dogs while building the confidence and skills they need to succeed together.