Forte K9 Academy

I’m a big believer that dog training is an investment—not just in your dog, but in yourself and your relationship with them. While it can be expensive, the right training means less time feeling frustrated with your dog and more time actually enjoying and bonding with them. And not all dog trainers are created equal. In my experience over the last decade adopting and fostering Malinois, I’ve seen both good and bad trainers. Forte K9 is absolutely one of the good ones. 🙌 Leah took the time to have an in-depth phone call with me before training to really understand Poppy, her needs, and what we were struggling with. Throughout the two weeks, she consistently sent photos and videos so I could see Poppy’s progress, which gave me so much confidence in the process. I saw an immediate improvement in Poppy’s separation anxiety and her ability to settle into her crate. Before Forte K9, Poppy was a total crate escape artist. She would break out, destroy things around the house, and even cause noise complaints from our neighbors. Since coming home from her two-week board and train, she has completely changed her relationship with her crate. Forte K9 taught her that it’s her safe space, and now she genuinely loves it. I can leave the house without worrying that I’m going to come home to shredded curtains or a stressed-out dog. I also specifically asked Forte K9 to work with Poppy on her dog aggression. She still has plenty of work to do, and I never expected two weeks of training to completely resolve that, but they gave her—and me—the tools and foundation to continue working toward neutrality. She is already much better at disengaging from other dogs, doesn’t lunge like she used to, and has learned not to bark at dogs along our fence. Those are huge improvements that make everyday life much easier and give us a much better foundation to build on. On top of the two things I was most concerned about - crate separation and dog reactivity - Forte K9 also helped Poppy dial in her basic obedience. She’ll actually stay in a down now when I walk away and she heels beautifully on and off leash. I would wholeheartedly recommend Forte K9 to anyone looking for a trainer who genuinely understands dogs and takes the time to understand the individual dog in front of them. I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again if I ever got another dog. Five stars all around! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Leah helped us train our two dogs Nala and Luther. We could not be happier with the level of knowledge and skill that Leah presented to us. Luther being a young pup with a laid back personality responded well to the tasks we taught him. Nala being 3 and a half years old with some aggressive behaviors was more of a challenge. That being said Nala is now able to be fully off leash near other people and dogs. She heals and comes when you call her even while getting distracted with a deer or wild turkey. Our new found skills and knowledge that Leah taught us will ensure that we continue to have well behaved dog’s. We highly recommend Forte K9 Academy.

I cannot recommend Forte K9 Academy enough. Working with Todd and Leah has been an incredible experience for both me and my dog, Whiskey. Without sharing too many personal details, Whiskey had developed some difficult behavioral issues over time, including aggression, biting, and severe separation anxiety. I often felt overwhelmed and wasn't sure how to help him or where to turn. After completing their two-week board-and-train program, I noticed an immediate difference. Whiskey came home calmer, more focused, and much more responsive to commands. It was clear how much time, patience, and care Todd and Leah invested in him. They also took the time to teach me how to continue building on his training, giving me the confidence and tools I need to help Whiskey succeed going forward. One thing that stood out throughout the entire process was the genuine care they have for the dogs they work with. I always felt confident that Whiskey was safe, well cared for, and in the best hands possible. Whether your dog needs help with behavioral challenges or you're looking for a solid foundation in obedience, I wholeheartedly recommend Forte K9 Academy. Todd and Leah are knowledgeable, patient, compassionate, and truly passionate about what they do. I am incredibly grateful for everything they've done for Whiskey and excited to continue this journey with him using everything they've taught us.