1. Independent businesses only
No franchises or national chains. We list local trainers who own their business and answer for their own results.
How K9PN vets dog trainers
We hold the trainers in our network to a high standard: independent, humane, certified, insured and checked. Here is exactly what we look at.
Our eight standards
A trainer must meet every one to be called a K9PN Vetted Trainer.
2. Humane treatment of dogs
We ask how the trainer works with fearful, reactive and aggressive dogs, and which tools and methods they use and why. Abusive handling, intimidation and unnecessary pain or fear are disqualifying.
3. Certification and real experience
An applicable certification or a documented professional track record, with years of hands-on work we can verify. We look for the most experienced trainers in each area, not the newest.
4. Google reviews we actually read
We check the rating and the volume, then read recent reviews for patterns: results, communication, safety and how complaints were handled.
5. Follow-up from K9PN
We contact the clients we refer to ask how it went. Trainers who do not respond to clients, or whose clients report poor results, are removed from the network.
6. Living conditions
For board-and-train and boarding, we review where the dogs stay: clean, secure, safe, climate-controlled, with enough space, supervision and rest. No overcrowding.
7. A written safety plan
Emergency and incident procedures: vet partner, escape and bite response, weather and fire, transport, and how and when owners are told.
8. Insurance on file
Current professional liability insurance, plus care, custody and control coverage for trainers who keep dogs overnight. We keep the certificate and re-check it every year.
How the process works
1. Apply
The trainer submits their business details, certifications, insurance and safety plan.
2. Verify
We check certifications, insurance, years in business and Google reviews.
3. Interview
A live conversation about methods, handling of difficult dogs and how they communicate with owners.
4. Facility review
Living conditions reviewed by video tour or visit for any trainer who boards dogs.
5. Approved
Only trainers who meet every standard are marked K9PN Vetted Trainer on their city page.
6. Ongoing
We follow up with referred clients, and re-vet every trainer each year.
Are you a trainer who meets this standard?
We are building a small, trusted network of the most experienced trainers in every state, one for each city and nearby towns.
Vetting: FAQ
What does K9PN Vetted Trainer mean?
The trainer has passed every standard on this page: independent ownership, humane methods, applicable certification and experience, strong Google reviews, current insurance, a written safety plan and, where dogs stay overnight, reviewed living conditions.
Does K9PN guarantee results?
No. Vetting lowers the risk of choosing a trainer but cannot guarantee how any dog responds. Ask the trainer what to expect for your dog.
Do trainers pay to be vetted?
The badge is earned by meeting the standards, not bought. Any paid placement on a K9PN page is labeled as paid.
How many trainers are in each state?
We build the network gradually, a small number of the most experienced trainers per state, each covering a city and its nearby towns.
I am a trainer. How do I apply?
Email mike@k9pn.com with your business name, city, certifications and insurance and we will start the process.