About ak9 dog training & behavior solutions
My Story & Commitment to You
Amanda Kranz: Founder and Head Trainer at AK9 Dog Training
I got my start in animal behavior in 2008, when I set out for my Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science. I wanted to study equine behavior and become a horse trainer. In my sophomore year of college at SUNY Cobleskill, I adopted a very difficult dog. Elsa, a two year old Rottweiler/Pit Bull mix, came to me with dog aggression, leash reactivity, severe separation anxiety, and a plethora of destructive and dangerous behaviors. Sound familiar? Through my desperate attempt to help her, I found my passion for dog training.
I know firsthand what it feels like to be frustrated, feeling hopeless and out-of-options. The good news is, there is hope. The desire to help others find their way out of this rut is what drove me to open AK9 Dog Training.
Along my way, I was fortunate to work alongside a variety of trainers and behaviorists, with different methods and techniques, giving me a variety of tools to work with.
I spent several years working in dog-rescue, where I learned most of what I know about behavior modification. I am passionately committed to helping dogs find peaceful and harmonious relationships in their lives.
Through my unique approach to teaching and training, I can help transform your relationship with your dog. Whether you have a brand new puppy, have recently adopted a shelter dog, or have a dog with more serious behavior issues, I have a solution for you. Rooted in compassion and an unparalleled love for dogs, I use a balanced method of training to help you communicate clearly and efficiently with your dog.
Before long, you’ll have a dog that walks calmly at your side, comes back when you call him, ignores distractions, and politely greets guests.
If you’re committed to the process, I’m committed to helping you and your dog reach your goals.
Am I the Right Trainer for You?
There are so many dog trainers our there with different approaches to training. I am, what I’d like to call, a “balanced trainer”. This means that I use a combination of positive reinforcement (rewards such as treats or praise), along with corrections for unwanted behavior.
It is extremely important that you are fully aware of the tools I use in training, and are comfortable with them.
Depending on the dog, program, and issue at hand, I will use any combination of martingale collars, prong collars, and modern E-Collars. These tools allow me to communicate gently and clearly with your dog, for maximum results.
Unsure of what these tools are, and how they work? Check out my video on my methods of training.
To me, dog training is not an event, but rather a process. Once our program has come to an end, the hard work really begins. You, as the owner, need to be fully committed to the work and changes necessary for your dog’s continued success. I will not fool with you with gimmicks or false promises. Dog training is hard work and commitment from both parties: the trainer, and the owner(s).
I will be your biggest cheerleader in this process, but I will also be honest. I owe this to you, and to your dog. I may recommend making changes in your lifestyle that you do not like. I understand how difficult it can be to make these changes, because I have been where you are.
I will always put the dog’s best interest first.