Nitro K-9 LLC

Good tattoos aren't cheap, and neither are good dog trainers. This isnt the type of place where you pay for a few lessons and you are done (I mean I'm sure you could do that but thats like going to the library for one book and never returning). This is a place for long term growth and building a robust skillset. We've always had large dogs and worked well with them but doodles are different (apparently). After a disabling diagnosis and five years of struggle we needed some new tools to use with our Newfiedoodle. Before Nitro, Gamgee had interacted with his vet and our family. No one else. Honestly, being that we've had large dogs, it was embarassing to not have a handle on this fluffy panda. He was reactive and his mind is constantly going (which sounds cool but is alot to handle). Most trainers were reluctant to consider working with a 90lb unsocialized dog that could get mouthy. Not Steve. Steve met him and immediately knew what Gamgee needed. In fact his entire team has figured out our oaf of dog. While they are firm and clear about expectations, they are also affectionate and kind. Thats a tough balance. Their consistency and immediacy are unmatched in terms of training skill. If you understand behavioralism and dogs, then their methods will make sense to you. We've always used prong collars because they are similar to the correction a lead dog would give to a younger dog, so that doesnt bother me. We used a prong with Gamgee but quickly learned we were not using it correctly. Truthfully, these are the only people that I would trust to teach us to use an e-collar. I know they arent going to light my dog up and zap him like Dr. Frankenstein. They love dogs. We've had lessons with Steve, Natalie, and North. All wonderful dog people. You can see it in everything they do. They teach you the tools to support your goals. We've had 5 lessons and will continue with them for sure (I'll update after 5 more). Gamgee's reactivity (more like attention to all the things) improves with every lesson. People pet him and love on him with no issues. His heel is coming along too. We live in a dog populated area which can make it challenging to work with Gamgee but they are teaching us how and problem-solving along the way. Need a house visit so your dog doesnt eat your friends? They'll arrange it. Need distractions while your dog trains to simulate real life? Done. They've got a parade of dogs to support your training needs. Looking for healthy dog food? Theyve got you covered. Need to board? Sure they do that too. Yes, you pay for these services AND you get what you pay for, which is great quality. I'm still adjusting to my limitations and when something comes up that I struggle with (like I suddenly cant squeeze the nail clippers), they help figure it out. To me, its embarassing to not have the ability to do certain tasks with my dog, but they genuinely get it. That's the best part of all of this, when we walk in the door I know I have a resource and a community that will help both my dog and my family grow.

I am extremely grateful for the outstanding training services provided by NitroK9. Steve is an exceptional trainer, and his staff are equally professional and skilled. They assisted me with my two-year-old German Pinscher, Seti, who came to me from Alaska to become my PTSD service dog. Although he had some prior training, he required significantly more, and NitroK9 delivered results beyond my expectations. What impressed me most was their commitment not only to training my dog, but also to coaching me as an owner. They focused on strengthening our partnership, and they took the time to educate me on Seti’s diet, health, and overall well-being. Despite having a flexible schedule in retirement, unexpected events still arise. NitroK9 consistently demonstrated understanding and flexibility, accommodating appointment changes and make-up sessions when needed. Their professionalism and empathy truly set them apart. I also appreciated the additional summer training opportunities they offered at various locations free of charge. Watching Seti participate—especially during the Psychiatric Dog Night training—was both informative and enjoyable. As a single-dog household, it was wonderful to see him interact and socialize with other dogs. Having begun training in late May, I am amazed at the progress we have made and how quickly we have reached this stage. If you are seeking meaningful results, expert guidance, and a team that genuinely cares about your dog, NitroK9 is an outstanding choice. I am deeply grateful for everything they have done for both Seti and me. They have truly become part of our extended family, and I know I can rely on them whenever support is needed. Monica Matthews

Truly Life-Changing Training Experience I cannot recommend Nitro K-9 highly enough. Steve and his entire team have been absolutely incredible in helping me train my service dog, Taako. From day one, they met us exactly where we were—no judgment, no pressure—just a genuine willingness to understand our needs and help us grow together. What stood out most is that the process wasn’t just about teaching Taako behaviors and tasks. It was equally about teaching me how to work with him, communicate clearly, and move past my own mental blocks. Their approach is thoughtful, supportive, and tailored to both the handler and the dog. Taako has learned so much, but so have I—and that’s what makes the partnership stronger. Every trainer we worked with brought patience, expertise, and true passion to each session. Steve sets the tone with his depth of knowledge and his ability to break things down in a way that clicks instantly. The rest of the team follows that same standard of excellence. Thanks to Nitro K-9, Taako and I are more confident, more connected, and better equipped for the work we do together. If you’re looking for world-class training from people who genuinely care, Nitro K-9 is the place to go.