About AK9 Canada
AK9 Canada is a team of dog trainers with hands-on experience across a wide range of disciplines, including IGP (Schutzhund), competitive obedience, rally, tracking, protection, service dog training, search and rescue, and military and police dog work.
We offer both group and private training in obedience (all levels), tracking, agility, protection, tricks, and service tasks. Our programs follow recognized standards, including those of the Canadian Kennel Club and the German Shepherd Schutzhund Club of Canada, and can prepare teams for trialing and competition.
Our approach is structured, practical, and results-driven. We do not just teach commands—we build relationships and lay the foundation for reliable behaviours that hold up in real-world situations.
Our trainers actively train and compete with their own dogs, staying current, sharp, and accountable to the same standards we set for our clients.
We have worked with a wide range of breeds, ages, temperaments, and goals. Whether you are starting with the basics or pursuing advanced training, we bring the experience and clarity needed to help you and your dog make real progress.
Trainers
Ala Krivov
Ala Krivov brings over 20 years of international experience in professional dog training across three countries. Her work includes Military K9s, Search and Rescue (SAR), and Therapy Dogs, giving her a uniquely broad perspective on canine behavior.
She specializes in working with challenging and primitive breeds such as Akitas, Chows, and Huskies — dogs often considered “difficult” — helping owners transform problem behaviors into reliable, competition-level obedience.
In addition to her PhD from Western University, Ala is a Certified IGP club-level helper and an active mentor to aspiring dog trainers. She has also led non-profit rescue efforts focused on severe behavioral cases and organized volunteer demonstration teams for hospitals and hospices.
Her work bridges academic insight and hands-on experience, with a focus on practical, lasting results for both dogs and their owners.
Bernie VanPelt
With over 45 years of professional experience, Bernie VanPelt is a highly respected leader in the dog training community. His career spans Police K9 work, operating a professional training school, and leading elite demonstration teams across the US and Canada.
As a high-level IGP (Schutzhund) coach, Bernie has guided numerous teams to national and international success, including serving as Team Captain for Team Canada at the 2022 World Championships in Switzerland.
In addition to his work on the field, Bernie is a recognized expert witness in dog behavior, providing professional testimony in legal cases involving canine incidents.
His approach combines decades of real-world experience with a deep understanding of canine behavior, helping both working dogs and family companions reach their full potential.
