Best decision ever! I debated dog training for about a year and, if I’m being honest, I tried other options that just never worked. I found Walker K-9 through a friend, and it has truly been the best thing for my dogs! My dogs needed help for different reasons (nuisance barking, jumping, being uncontrollable on a leash, reactivity etc) and Chad and Kelly took them on and gave them back new and improved! I loved that they kept in touch, sent videos, and kept me updated every step of the way. My favorite part, though, was the time they took to make sure I felt comfortable taking over where they left off. The in-home training when the dogs came home was amazing. They made sure they gave me all the tools and knowledge necessary to set us up for success. I truly feel like I have an open door to reach out to them anytime with questions if I need help. I can actually enjoy my dogs now! I think they even like having the structure, and I can finally take them out for walks and actually enjoy the experience instead of feeling stressed the entire time. The commitment and investment is a lot, but I would do it again in a heartbeat. If you’ve been on the fence about doing something like this, take this as your sign and DO IT! Thank you so much, Walker K-9! We are furrever grateful! 🐾💚 🐾🩷
FDLE Certified Canine Instructor
Professional dog training in North Port & Southwest Florida
Dog Training Built on Honest Advice, Not High-Pressure Sales
Board-and-train obedience from a 22-year law enforcement officer who has spent 16 years training police K-9s. We serve North Port, Venice, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Rotunda, South Gulf Cove and Englewood.
Who trains your dog
Your dog is trained by a working police K-9 instructor
Chad Walker has spent two decades in law enforcement and more than thirteen years training police K-9s. That is not a marketing line — it is the job he does when he is not working with your dog.
- 22 years in law enforcement
- 16+ years training police K-9s
- FDLE Certified Canine Instructor
- Lead K-9 trainer for his agency’s unit
How we work
Every dog is different. Every family is different.
Before recommending a program, we take the time to understand your goals and tell you what we genuinely believe is the best solution—even if it isn't our most expensive option.
The most effective form of dog training is one that is tailored to your dog's unique personality and your individual goals. Training goes far beyond simply offering treats—it requires structure, consistency, and clear communication. Our role is to guide both you and your dog through this process, ensuring you build a strong foundation for lasting success.
Because every dog and household is different, we take the time to carefully assess your dog's behavior, your lifestyle, and your training objectives. From there, we design a customized training plan that leads to a well-mannered, confident companion you'll enjoy for years to come.
We're here to help dogs and their owners understand each other. By combining balanced training with owner education, we create lasting obedience and stronger bonds.
Programs
Two board-and-train programs, plus boarding for graduates
Both programs are a full-time stay with us, and both finish the same way: we bring your dog home and hand the training over to you in person.
4-Week On-Leash Program
Our 4-week on-leash program builds a strong obedience foundation for your dog.
E-collar sold separately from the program.
6-Week Off-Leash Program
Our 6-week off-leash program takes obedience to the next level, giving you reliable control and freedom with your dog anywhere you go.
Boarding for Past Clients
We proudly offer boarding exclusively for dogs who have previously completed training with us. This ensures your pup enjoys a safe, familiar, and structured environment while you’re away.
On pricing: every dog and every household is different, so we quote after we've talked. The consultation is free and there is no obligation — and if a cheaper program is the right one for your dog, that is the one we'll recommend.
What our clients say
Owners who got their dog back different
5 stars from 96 Google reviews, in our clients' own words.
Walker K9 Training is the best! We have an 80 pound pitbull jumper and an hour of training with Chad has changed me and my dog so much! Highly recommend!
Chad is wonderful! Walker K-9 is family first and we love that. He has trained 3 of our babies. A mastiff who had dog aggression an Aussie for standard training and a toy poodle who liked to dart out the door including the car door and not coming when called. Chad has made all our life’s much better with his training. He had his work cut out for him with Milford the poodle!
The dogs
Graduates of our programs
Real dogs from real Southwest Florida families, doing the work.
Common questions
Questions we get asked most
Will this training work for my small dog?
Regardless of size, dogs learn through the same core principles of focus and positive reinforcement.
Our training programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each dog, with progressions carefully adapted to ensure success—even for the smallest breeds.
Similar to learning a new language, consistency and immersion are key. With dedicated training over several weeks, you will build a stronger, more enjoyable relationship with your dog, supported by lasting results.
Can an old dog learn new "tricks" or behaviors?
Age is never a barrier to learning for dogs—we recommend training at any stage of life. Whether you have a young puppy or a more mature companion, starting training as early as possible is always beneficial.
Without proper guidance, dogs can develop unwanted habits that affect both them and their owners. Early training lays the foundation for long-term success, making it easier to instill positive behaviors from the start rather than correcting challenges later.
Is our boarding facility monitored 24/7?
Yes! Your dog will constantly be monitored during their stay with us.
Is my dog always required to wear his/her training collar?
During the first few months after training, it is important for your dog to wear the training collar while supervised. This ensures you have the tools necessary to reinforce good behavior and address any unwanted habits consistently.
For your dog’s comfort and safety, the collar should not be worn for more than 12–15 hours per day and may be removed during sleep or while crated.
If you have specific questions regarding collar use or best practices for your dog, we encourage you to consult directly with your trainer.
Where we work
Serving North Port and Southwest Florida
Located in Southwest Florida, City of North Port in Sarasota County
Tell us about your dog
The consultation is free, and we'll tell you honestly what we think your dog needs — even if that isn't our most expensive program.