Becoming a Dog Trainer Career FAQ

Founder & Lead Instructor – Western States K9 College
Dog Trainer | Behavior Specialist | International Consultant

I’m Joe — a master dog trainer, behavior expert, and founder of Western States K9 College. With over 25 years of experience and more than 10,000 dogs trained across the globe, I’ve built my life around one core mission:

Helping people build meaningful, profitable careers doing what they love with dogs.

But my journey didn’t start in a fancy training school — it started in a life most people wouldn’t believe. I grew up in Utah, sometimes homeless, always hustling. I sold garage door remotes, worked in retail and vet clinics, and clawed my way into entrepreneurship. When I discovered dog training, everything clicked — and I never looked back.

🎓 Credentials & Specializations:

• Trained over 10,000 dogs in obedience, behavior modification, sport, and protection work

• AKC Certified Evaluator (Canine Good Citizen, S.T.A.R. Puppy, Community Canine, Urban CGC, and temperament testing)

• Specialized in complex behavior cases referred by veterinarians and rescues

• Experienced in police and personal protection dogs, scent detection, herding, agility, rally, and more

• International clientele (U.S., U.K., Costa Rica, and beyond)

From running a German Shepherd rescue to building a six-figure dog training business entirely on referrals, I’ve walked the walk. I’ve had dogs featured on reality TV, led behavior seminars across the country, and helped students from every background earn their first $10K+ doing what they love.

👩‍🏫 What I Do Today:

At Western States K9 College, I teach aspiring trainers to master not only the art and science of dog training — but the business skills that build real careers. When you enroll, you’re not just watching videos. You’re learning directly from me with real mentorship, coaching, and support.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up your career, I’ll meet you where you are — and help you grow into the confident, capable professional you’re meant to be.

Business Director – Western States K9 College
Entrepreneur | Small Business Mentor | Operations Strategist

I’m Shannon — the engine behind the systems, strategy, and support that power Western States K9 College. With over 20 years of experience in the pet industry and a deep background in business operations, I help aspiring trainers turn their passion for dogs into sustainable, profitable careers.

I’ve built and managed everything from small-town startups to seven-figure service businesses. I’ve led cross-functional teams, built systems that scale, and coached business owners across the country in operations, marketing, and client success.

Today, I bring all of that expertise to our students.

🧩 What I Bring to the Table:

• Two decades in the companion animal industry

• Built and scaled 7-figure pet businesses from the ground up

• Expert in operations, project management, and marketing strategy

• Mentor to hundreds of dog trainers and entrepreneurs

• Creative leader with a background in design, education, and team-building

I don’t just talk about business — I’ve lived it. I know the pressure of balancing passion with profitability. I know what it takes to build a career in the dog world that doesn’t just look good on paper — but actually supports your life, your family, and your future.

At Western States K9 College, I help our students build real businesses — the kind that create freedom, not burnout. Whether you’re launching your first side hustle or scaling your services to six figures, I’ll help you craft the systems, strategy, and support you need to grow with confidence.