Who is K9 Pathways?

Hi there! My name is Elise and I am the owner and trainer at K9 Pathways. My journey into dog training started with (surprise!) a dog. My own service dog, now happily retired, was the one who opened my eyes to just how profound the relationship between a dog and their handler can be. Training her wasn't just about commands and cues. It was about building trust, communication, and a partnership that genuinely changed my life. She's the reason I believe so deeply in what good training can do, not just for a dog's behavior, but for the bond between a dog and the person who loves them.

From there, my passion only grew. I went on to assist in the training of several other service dogs, work hands on in kennel and daycare environments, and pursue formal education through both CATCH Canine Trainers Academy and Bergin College of Canine Studies; two programs that have shaped the way I think about dogs, learning, and what it means to be an effective trainer. Every dog I've worked with has taught me something, and that curiosity and commitment to learning has never stopped.

At K9 Pathways, I use a balanced training approach centered around positive motivation while also utilizing boundaries and fair corrections. I strive to meet each dog where they are and use the tools and techniques that work best for that dog as an individual. I believe there's no one size fits all solution when it comes to dogs, and I'm committed to finding what clicks for your pup specifically, whether they're a brand new puppy, a nervous or reactive dog, or a driven dog looking for more of a challenge.

Whether you're a first-time dog owner feeling a little overwhelmed, or an experienced handler looking to sharpen your dog's skills, K9 Pathways was built for you. My goal is simple: to help dogs and their people understand each other better, one team at a time.