About AK9 Canada

A group of dogs sitting in line next to their owners

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.

Reviews

Natalia Popolov

2024-07-09 | via Facebook

It is the second summer when my Scottish terrier takes courses with Ala. Or, it would be right to say, that the whole family takes courses. We learned to understand our dog, respect his space and teach him to understand and respect us. Ala’s advice is always professional and on spot. This year we took Tracking course and, seriously, are considering it our new hobby  🙂 It is a new level of a quality time with your dog when you learn to work together, trust each other, read each other’s signs. Our dog loves what he’s doing. He gets great intellectual stimulation and feels worthy when he’s on the mission! 

Tina Loosey

2024-11-22 | via Facebook

Ala and Bernie are amazing dog trainers with lots of knowledge and experience. I had my 2 Shih-tzus in the 6 week beginner obedience course and have seen progress with both of them. Ala and Bernie take their time helping each handler in the group with their dog and give great feedback to then practice at home. I am looking forward to continuing with the intermediate course and can’t wait to see how much more my pups progress over time. Definitely recommend taking their class!!

Jim Foster

2025-04-15 | via Facebook

Just completed the beginner training with my 4 year old rescue. He was afraid of almost everything. I was uncertain how he would react. He steadily improved his focus and comfort as the classes progressed. Now, guests who he would have never approached previuosly are commenting on how much more relaxed he is and his willingness to come in for some pats.
Still working on what we've learned. It was a great experience and I would highly recommend  AK9 if you need some help with your pup.
Jim
 

Nancie Elayne

2025-12-10 | via Facebook

I highly recommend AK9 (Ala & Bernie)!
I just finished the six week beginner obedience classes with my new rescue 6yo French bulldog “George”. 
He can be quite reactive/aggressive towards dogs & people. We are learning recall, heeling & how to appropriately manage the reactivity & aggression. 
Both Ala & Bernie have a wealth of knowledge and experience and it shows! They are clear, kind & firm in their teaching. They are absolutely approachable and willing to listen & help. They were very encouraging & reassuring during the classes... I am already looking forward to ongoing training with Ala & Bernie! 
Nancy Collver (Rigutto).
 

Gideon Bloch

2025-12-10 | via Facebook

I’ve owned dogs for over 50 years. I’ve finally met trainers that have helped me make sense of the command “heel”. For me, at least, that’s HUGE!  Will definitely continue learning from Ala and Bernie

Lindsey Howard

2026-02-12 | via Facebook

Petey And I have learned so much from these training classes. Ala and Bernie are honest with you and correct things when they see something that isn’t quite correct. I love that. Price is very reasonable. Petey needs to learn being around and close to other dogs, as do I. It has been a great experience and I’ll continue going in the future.