San Diego & Minnesota
Dog Training

Schedule a Free Evaluation TodaySchedule a Free Evaluation Today

Private Training

Personalized focus unique to private lessons

Group Training

Group setting obedience training

Board & Train

Comprehensive board-and-train program

About 61K9 Dog Training

Expert dog training with unmatched dedication.

At the heart of 61K9 Dog Training is Octavio, a veteran K9 handler and expert trainer with an impressive background that includes seven years as a special forces K9 handler. Octavio's tenure in the military saw him deployed on numerous occasions, where he honed his skills in some of the most demanding environments imaginable. His journey through the world of canine training is not only inspiring but also distinguished by a deep commitment to excellence.

Professional Dog Trainers

Behavior Modification

Off-Leash Training

Public Etiquette

Discover more Discover more

₊

US SF K9 Handler

San Diego Dog Training Services

Programs We Offer

Puppy
Programs

Early training helps puppies avoid bad behaviors and grow into confident, well-adjusted dogs.‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎

Lifetime Support
Class

Our classes provide ongoing training and support, ensuring your dog's lifelong progress as part of the 61K9 Family.

Personal
Protection

Choosing a Protection K9 offers a loving guardian and pet, supported by our specialized training for your family's needs.

Scent
Training

Scent training boosts dog confidence and focus, enjoyable for all breeds and addressing behavioral issues.

About 61K9 San Diego Dog Training

How we can help your pets properly

Customized Training Pathways

Tailored training programs by 61K9 Dog Training ensure your dog reaches its full potential, from puppy to professional.

Happiness in Every Command

61K9 Dog Training crafts adventures tailored just for your pup, ensuring they grow through positive reinforcement and games that spark joy and confidence.

Learn More About Our San Diego Dog Training Company Learn More About Our San Diego Dog Training Company

our gallery

Checkout the lovely pets photoshoot

why we’re good

Why choose our pets care company?

Strengthen your bond with every command

Enjoy stress-free outings with a well-behaved dog

Boost your dog's confidence and ease.

Create a peaceful home with trained behaviors.

What age should I start training my dog?

The best time to start training a dog is as early as 8 weeks old. Puppies are highly receptive to learning at this young age. However, it's never too late to start training a dog, as dogs of all ages can learn new behaviors and commands with the right approach and consistency.

How long does it take to train a dog?

The duration of dog training varies widely depending on the goals, the dog's age, personality, and the consistency of the training. Basic obedience commands can often be taught within a few weeks, but more advanced training or correcting behavioral issues may take several months or longer. Consistency and patience are key.

Can I train my dog myself, or do I need a professional?

Many basic training commands and good behaviors can be successfully taught by dedicated dog owners. However, a professional dog trainer, like those at 61K9 Dog Training, can provide expert guidance, especially for solving complex behavior problems, advanced training, or specialized skills. They can also offer valuable insights into your dog's behavior and tailor training techniques to suit your dog's personality.

What's the most important command for my dog to learn?

While all commands are beneficial, the recall command ("come") is often considered the most important for safety reasons. It ensures that your dog will return to you when called, preventing them from running into dangerous situations. Other foundational commands include "sit," "stay," "down," and "leave it," all of which are essential for everyday discipline and safety.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 48 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Joshua Paape 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Octavio provided great care and really instrumental foundational training for my rescue puppy. Initially, she was so terrified (of everything) that she wouldn’t stand. After a few weeks she was comfortable with me and we could go on walks but would lay down in fear if a person or dog was near. I brought her to Octavio at this stage and he worked with her for ~4 weeks building a confidence and trust that I couldn’t do on my own. He is passionate about his dogs and their emotional development. Highly recommend, especially if you have a dog with high anxiety, fear, or aggression.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   CJ KELLY 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great experience. Koda was a freight train when he first came home, made some progress, but he was still pulling. Then he got attacked and became reactive to large dogs when on a leash. Octavio turned everything around for us, and has even helped with some of Koda's service tasks. 100% recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   sleepless artist 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. had an amazing experience with 61K9 TRAINING  My dog went from anxious and reactive to calm and responsive in just a few sessions. (we own a BELGUM MALINOIS) The traineria very firm  but patient, knowledgeable, and really took the time to explain everything.
“Before training, my dog was out of control — jumping, barking, and not listening at all. After working with Octavio everything changed. Now my dog listens, stays calm, and I feel confident taking him anywhere. Truly life-changing! thank you 61K9 training
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Antonella Hoffecker 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I did the 9 week training with Octavio for my reactive dog and it was wonderful. Octavio helped me to understand the experiences my dog was having that would cause her to become reactive and learn practices that would make her feel more comfortable. We went from having issues walking in the neighborhood to practicing off leash regularly. Octavio is very knowledgeable and skilled and I would recommend definitely him to anyone, especially those with reactive dogs. Not only will the behavior change but you will develop a deeper understanding with your dog.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Shaira Salvador 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Octavio is AMAZING! He did super well with our dog who was reactive to other dogs. We did a 21 day board and train and it worked wonders! Our dog can now pass other dogs without reacting, he’s still a dog so things will happen every now and then of course but he is SOOO much better. We can’t thank Octavio enough.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Katalina Aguilar 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great experience with 61k9 Training! Octavio was super knowledgeable and easy to work with. After the two-week program, Andi came home a completely different dog. She was calmer, more focused, and it was obvious she really liked being with him!

Communication was great the whole time. Octavio sent updates, gave honest feedback, and always let us know how she was doing. I appreciated that he was straightforward but still positive about her progress.

We also realized a big part of the process was training us as owners. He explained everything clearly and took the time to answer all our questions. We came away feeling confident about keeping up the work at home!

Overall, we’re really happy with the whole experience and definitely recommend 61k9 Training and Octavio!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Stephanie Taylor 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had such an amazing experience working with Octavio! We rescued our dog 4 years ago and over the years he’s become more reactive to dogs and some people. We did the 3 week board and train and Octavio made the whole process so easy. He takes the time to get to know the dogs he is training and to understand what their triggers are. The difference in our dog’s behavior is very noticeable. His reactivity out in public is like night and day! We can actually take him places now and not have to stress out about him getting too crazy. We highly recommend working with Octavio!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Andrew Clark 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Octavio was fantastic with my stubborn Rottweiler. I can’t recommend him enough. I’ve had half a dozen trainers over the past two decades and 4 dogs and he’s by far the best and most aware of the dog’s individual needs. He’s the best
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rosario Mendoza-Fletcher 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Octavio is an amazing dog trainer. Thanks to his patience,consistency, and positive approach, my dog Max
Has grown from a playful handful into a confident, well mannered therapy dog. Octavio not only trained Max beautifully but also taught me how to keep his progress going at home. I’m so grateful for his expertise- truly the best trainer out there🐾
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Juan Carlos Aguilar 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Without a doubt Octavio proved me wrong after we got our dog she spent two weeks with him.
Andi now it’s a totally different story, much loving and caring dog.
She follows our commands and listens to what we tell her what to do.
Octavio you are the best dog trainer ever.

Thank you.

JC.
  
 
  
  
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more