Pooch Playoffs Sponsor Spotlight: Valiant Canine Training
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS! WHAT DO YOU DO, AND WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS UNIQUE?
"I’m a professional dog trainer and the owner of Valiant Canine Training, where I help dogs and their owners develop clear, effective communication built on trust, structure, and engagement. My board & train programs are designed to meet each dog’s individual needs, whether it’s setting a strong foundation for puppies, improving obedience and off-leash reliability, or addressing behavioral challenges with a structured, thoughtful approach.
What sets my training apart is my deep understanding of how dogs think, act, and learn. Training isn’t just about teaching commands, it’s about shaping behavior in a way that makes sense to the dog, setting them up for long-term success. I also believe that as a trainer, my education should never stop. I continually seek out learning opportunities, from seminars and courses to studying the latest research in canine behavior, ensuring I provide the best, most effective training possible.
My programs are unique because they go beyond just basic obedience. Dogs are fully integrated into my daily life. This allows me to reinforce behaviors in real-world settings, ensuring dogs are confident and reliable in various environments. My Puppy Kickstart Program focuses on building a strong foundation during the most critical learning stage, while my Unlimited Potential Board & Train creates well-mannered, go anywhere dogs. For those struggling with fear, anxiety, or reactivity, my Behavior Modification Program provides the structure and guidance needed to help dogs work through challenges in a way that fosters confidence and trust.
I also believe training is about more than just the dog, it’s about empowering owners with the knowledge and skills to maintain and build on their dog’s progress. My goal is to make sure you feel confident, capable, and excited about your dog’s future. Every dog has untapped potential, and with the right guidance, they can truly thrive!
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SUPPORT POOCH PLAYOFFS AND FUR ETERNITY RESCUE?
Supporting my local community and giving back to dogs in need is something I’m truly passionate about, which is why I’m excited to be part of Pooch Playoffs and support Fur Eternity Rescue! As a trainer, I’ve seen firsthand how rescue dogs, just like any dog, can thrive when given the right guidance, structure, and care. Every dog deserves a chance to reach their own full potential, and rescues like Fur Eternity are doing the important work of giving these dogs that opportunity.
Events like Pooch Playoffs bring communities together in such a fun, engaging way while also raising awareness and support for rescue dogs in need. I love being part of something that not only celebrates our amazing canine companions but also helps give more dogs a chance at a better life.
DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS OF YOUR OWN? WE’D LOVE TO HEAR ABOUT THEM!
I do! My 10 year old German Shepherd, Piper, is the reason Valiant Canine Training exists. When Piper was younger, we faced some incredibly difficult challenges. After a few bad off-leash dog encounters, she became highly reactive to both dogs and people. Walks became stressful, outings felt overwhelming, and I often found myself defeated and unsure of how to help her. I knew she wasn’t a “bad” dog, she was struggling, and she needed someone who could learn how to better communicate and provide the clarity she needed.
That journey led me down the path of learning everything I could about dog behavior and training. I took classes, attended shadow programs, and eventually made the leap into professional dog training with Grunt Style Canine Training in Mobile, Alabama. Piper challenged me, but she also taught me patience, problem solving, and how rewarding it is when you put in the time and effort to truly connect with your dog. She’s my reminder to never stop learning and to always meet each dog where they are.
Then there’s Kino, my 3 year old Belgian Malinois, who keeps life exciting! He’s fun, driven, and full of personality, constantly pushing me to refine my training skills. He reminds me why structure and engagement are so important, especially for high energy working breeds!
Both of my dogs have shaped not only my journey as a trainer but also my understanding of what owners go through, the frustrations, the triumphs, and the deep desire to have a better relationship with their dogs. They inspire me every day to help others build that same trust and connection with their own dogs!
What’s one thing you’d like people to know about you or your business?
One thing I’d love for people to know is that I’ve been where you are. I know what it’s like to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to help your dog. But I also know just how amazing it feels when everything starts to click, when you and your dog finally understand each other, when training becomes fun instead of frustrating, and when you can truly enjoy life together.
That’s why I started Valiant Canine Training, to help people and their dogs build strong, trusting relationships and to help bridge the communication gap between dogs and their owners. Every dog is capable of learning, growing, and thriving, and I’m here to guide you through that journey. My training isn’t just about obedience, it’s about giving you the tools and confidence to create the best possible life with your dog.
So if you’re struggling, feeling stuck, or just want to bring out the best in your dog, you’re not alone! I’m here to help!
Where can people find you? (Website, social media, location, etc.)
You can find me and all things Valiant Canine Training on our social media accounts! Check out my website for more information on programs, services, and how to get in touch. You can also follow along on social media to stay updated with fun training tips, behind-the-scenes training with clients, and a peek into our daily adventures!
Website: www.valiantcaninetraining.com
Facebook: Valiant Canine Training, LLC
Instagram: @valiant.canine
Phone: (810) 705-0437
Email: info@valiantcaninetraining.com
Location: I’m based in the Mackinaw City/Cheboygan area, but I work with clients locally and beyond, so feel free to reach out to schedule a consultation or just to chat about your dog’s needs!
