Success Stories and Reviews

You aren’t alone in your training journey. Whether you're managing a fearful rescue or a high-energy breed, explore stories from handlers who found confidence and clarity with AK9 Canada.

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! See original

Chris Allan

2024-10-09 | via Facebook

My Daughter gave me a gift - she registered me in Ala's very excellent beginner course. Ala and Bernie are very knowledgeable and provide followup written instructions.
Even in a group lesson they focus on individual needs (both owner and dog).
I'm a retired senior - I mention this because its important to know that you are never too old to learn a new skill.
For all the people who watched my daughter and I training my dog in the park and said they wished they could do that - sign up for training with Ala.
I can't wait for my next session...
See original

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!! See original

Shaz H. Ahmed

2024-11-27 | via Facebook

Thank you so so much to Ala! Lorenzo and I just completed our beginner obedience classes with her and I can really see a difference from that very first class to now! Ala is not only an amazing trainer but a wonderful person as well. She truly cares. Lorenzo wasn't listening to me in one of our earlier classes so I privately reached out to her and when I voiced my concerns Ala was very knowledgeable, sympathetic, and responsive in what would help both of us succeed going forward. She checked in with me often after that and made sure we were both doing okay. Lorenzo and I put the work in and had a lot of fun these past six weeks. I highly recommend Ala and her classes! ☺️ See original

Namisha Puniani

2025-03-15 | via Facebook

Ala and Bernie are the best! I’m so happy to see Kenzo improve and learn so much—his progress has been amazing. I only wish I had taken him sooner! They are patient, knowledgeable, and truly care about every dog they train. The sessions are well-structured, and their techniques are both effective and positive. See original

Sandra Feenstra

2025-04-09 | via Facebook

AK9 training classes break the steps into manageable but meaningful pieces, and enforce building a strong relationship with your dog. They send out detailed homework to support practices between classes and I've seen great progress in our dog. I opted for my 10 year old to be the dogs primary trainer and she has been very successful through the lessons. See original

Jim Foster

2025-04-15 | via Facebook

Just completed the beginner training with my 4 year old rescue. He was afraid of almost everything, but steadily improved his focus and comfort as the classes progressed. Now, guests are commenting on how much more relaxed he is! It was a great experience and I highly recommend AK9. See original

Sandy Kiersons

2025-07-17 | via Facebook

I’m 70 and I was exhausted trying to train my year and a half Springer/ doodle, being pulled on walks. 6 weeks later he knows how to heel, walk properly and has stopped barking and pulling when cars go by. Walks are fun again! See original

Michelle Mason

2025-11-25 | via Facebook

I took my 9 month old Golden Retriever Beau to this fall session. He was very reactive to other dogs, a jumper and a wicked leash puller. We were given great feedback every session specific to our own unique dog in addition to practice homework. Ala and Bernie were very helpful with their tips and tricks on how to work with the dogs.
I’m very proud to say by the end of the session, Beau was no longer dragging me through the neighborhood and comes when called.
I highly recommend them and will return for more sessions. See original

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 left each class feeling energized & more hopeful that the relationship I am building with my dog will only improve as time goes on.
Nancy Collver (Rigutto). See original

Gideon Bloch

2025-12-10 | via Facebook

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

Lindsey Howard

2026-02-12 | via Facebook

Petey and I have learned so much! Ala and Bernie are honest and provide corrections when things aren't quite right—I love that. The price is very reasonable, and it’s been a great experience for Petey to learn how to be around other dogs. See original