Meet James
Hi, I’m James, founder and CEO of Controlled K9, based in Gainesville, Virginia.
My passion for dog training began the day I brought home Sky, my German Shepherd. She was four years old, completely untrained, and honestly, a bit of a wild card. Through consistent effort, patience, and dedication, I transformed her behavior—turning her into a calm, focused, and well-mannered companion. That transformation didn’t just change her life—it changed mine. It sparked a deep passion for training that has since become my entire world.
One day, I stumbled across something called Schutzhund during an online deep dive. Schutzhund—now commonly referred to as IGP—is a challenging sport developed to evaluate a dog’s tracking, obedience, and protection skills. It was originally designed as a breed suitability test for working-line German Shepherds, but it’s grown into a respected discipline for a wide range of working breeds.
Once I got Sky involved in Schutzhund, everything clicked. The structure, the precision, the bond it builds—it all resonated deeply with me. From that point forward, I dedicated myself fully to mastering the art and science of dog training.
That passion led to the founding of Controlled K9, with a clear mission: to be proudly different from other training companies. We’re not here to offer cookie-cutter solutions or quick fixes. Our goal is to provide high-quality, results-driven training, rooted in clarity, consistency, and real communication between dogs and their owners. We focus on building strong foundations and adapting our training to each dog’s needs and personality. We don’t just train dogs—we teach owners how to lead, understand, and truly connect with their companions.
Since diving into Schutzhund, I’ve gone on to certify as a protection decoy under multiple organizations, which has given me the privilege of working with dogs and trainers operating at the highest levels possible . This experience from both sides of the leash continues to push me, challenge me, and deepen my commitment to the craft. I don't do dog training only as my career, it's also my hobby, and I'm incredibly lucky to shape doing what I love into my job.
At Controlled K9, we hold ourselves to high standards because our clients—and their dogs—deserve nothing less. We believe in doing things right the first time. We believe in being thorough. And most importantly, we believe in making a lasting difference, not just for the dog, but for the entire household.
There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a dog reach its full potential or helping an owner build a bond they never thought possible. That’s what makes this all worth it. I would know!
We look forward to working with you, and hopefully spark the same passion with you and your dog.
Meet Kenzie
I’m Kenzie, a Northern Virginia native, and my life has always been rooted here—but my path with dogs started long before this became a profession.
At seven years old, my grandparents brought home a dog-reactive German Shepherd named King that they couldn’t control. Instead of being intimidated, I was fascinated. I spent hours watching Animal Planet, trying to understand what made him think, react, and behave the way he did. That curiosity never left.
As a teenager, I helped train their next German Shepherd—and that experience solidified everything. I wasn’t just interested anymore, I was invested. Shepherds, behavior, structure, training—it all clicked in a way that felt natural.
That foundation led me to my first working dog, Kyoto. Training and titling him in IGP introduced me to a higher standard—one built on precision, clarity, and a deeper level of communication between dog and handler. From there, I immersed myself in the world of working dogs, dog sports, and breeding, shaping the way I approach every dog I work with today.
For nearly a decade, I’ve specialized in severe behavioral cases—the dogs that are often labeled as “too much” or “too far gone.” Those are the dogs I’m drawn to. They require a different level of understanding, structure, and commitment—and when done correctly, they’re capable of becoming something exceptional.
Alongside training, I run a small German Shepherd breeding program focused on producing stable, capable, and clear-headed dogs. Outside of work, I’m still training—most of my time is spent working dogs in IGP/Schutzhund. My life revolves around this craft in every sense.
My goal is to give clients access to the same standard I hold for my own dogs: animals that are not only well-trained, but dependable, stable, and able to integrate seamlessly into real life. Just as importantly, I aim to prevent the loss of a family dog when it’s avoidable—by providing the structure, education, and training that so many dogs never receive.
Isis
Hey, my name is Isis! I have been training dogs for about 5 years - I work hard every day to continue my professional growth not only for myself, but for my training dogs and their families! Pet dog obedience and reactivity cases are my specialty!
I started training when I got my female German shepherd, Cheyenne - she is the light of my life and what inspires me to be better! I also have male German shepherd, Falkon, who I train in IGP/Schutzhund. We actively compete in the sport and hope to achieve great things! My experience with both of my dogs inspires me to be diverse in my training methods. I am always open to learning new things and expanding my education. Dog training is a major part of my life and I couldn’t be happier doing anything else!
Kelia
Hey, I’m Kelia! I have been in the animal industry for well over a decade with my primary focus becoming dog training over the last four years. For every dog under my care, my goal is helping them and their owners build clear communication and reliable behaviors in real-world settings. I’ve worked with a wide range of dogs across different breeds and temperaments, though I have a particular soft spot for working breeds due to my hobbies...which also involve dog training!
Outside of helping people enjoy their dogs, I love enjoying my own! I have a Standard Poodle named Jinx who competed and titled in AKC sports, and a Giant Schnauzer named Bishop who actively competes in IGP (Schutzhund), and is enjoying his show career to its fullest capacity. We also have a new addition, Codex, who will hopefully be following behind his brother's footsteps as my next IGP competition dog. My experiences on the trial field continue to shape and form my approach and standards as a trainer - as far as I am concerned there are many ways to teach a behavior so there is always something new to learn. It is my duty as a trainer to have as many tools at my disposal so I can help any family that comes my way. I have always had a drive for helping owners and their dogs grow their knowledge, confidence and relationship with each other.
I look forward to working with you to support you and your dog being your best selves individually and for each other. After all, life with dogs is meant to be enjoyed!
Lexie
Hi I’m Lexie! I got into dog training after getting my dog Harley from a shelter in high school. I learned after she settled in with us for a few weeks that she was severely dog reactive. It was difficult to take her out or include her in our lives outside of our home, which was hard on us as we wanted to bring her out with us. Through a lot of time and effort after meeting Kenzie and learning from her, I was able to teach Harley and understand how to help her and she ended up far beyond my initial expectations. Now she goes on trail rides with my horse and I, and comes everywhere I go, something I never thought would happen for her. With this breakthrough I have enjoyed her out hiking, kayaking, festivals, patio dinners, and agility competitions. I often think of what a gift it is to be able to include her in everything I do and have such a well behaved companion. I want to give that gift to other people and their furry friends.
I also have a Belgian Malinois, Dizzy, that I am competing in IGP with. She is a sweetheart that ended up in a shelter from a puppy mill hoarding case. I have loved seeing her progress through the precision of IGP structure, and how much she enjoys all of it.
I also have an extensive background working with horses in which I compete in eventing and dressage! Horses can be hard for a lot of dogs to understand, so I really appreciate having all of my dogs trained to a high standard to be able to join in on any adventure life offers, while keeping them safe and happy.
Outside of animals, I also am an avid crossfitter and runner. I can easily be convinced to join a game of pickleball or to walk around and explore.
Julie
Hey, I'm Julie! Dogs have always been more than pets to me — they’ve been a passion, a lifestyle, and ultimately my purpose. My journey into dog training started from a deep desire to better understand dogs and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners. While working at a kennel, I had the opportunity to watch professional trainers work hands-on with dogs of all breeds, temperaments, and behavioral challenges, and that experience inspired me to pursue training myself. Through working with dogs and training my own, including my Pitbull Biggie and my Belgian Malinois Nessie, I discovered how much structure, communication, and trust can transform a dog’s confidence and behavior.
What keeps me passionate about dog training is helping dogs and owners succeed together. My goal is to create a manageable, balanced life for both the dog and the owner while building confidence, trust, and reliability. At the end of every program, I want owners to feel confident taking their dog anywhere and truly enjoying life together.
Transforming Dogs into
Well-Behaved Companions.
At Controlled K9 we strive for results and treat each dog as if they are our own. Our clients trust us with their dog’s training, safety, care, and future - and we do everything we can to set each and every dog up for success. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your dog settle in at home.
We’d Love to Hear from You
Contact us today to start your journey. Work with us to learn how dog training works and see real results fast!