About Us

Trainer

Barbara White-Willner

Before becoming a professional trainer, I trained my own dogs — often at local at programs, even showing in area AKC events to earn Companion Dog titles — as well as for family and friends. I stayed busy at Lincoln High as an English teacher, also completing a master’s degree.

Later I searched out not only classes, but numerous trainers to help with one of my own more challenging dogs, but found no satisfactory answer. As a career change, I looked for a more effective way of training dogs.

I chose the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers' master trainer program in Columbus, Ohio. Six grueling weeks later, I returned trained in basic and advanced obedience, scent detection and retrieval, tracking, protection, service/assistance dog work, puppy development and temperament testing, and behavior modification and more.  In 2011 I had enough years of experience to complete the IACP's standardized test for certification of dog trainers so now I am doubly certified (IACP-CDT).  Owners should look for trainers who are not only professionally trained but who regularly keep up their education. 

In addition to training, I enjoy helping owners select the right dog for them. Not only can I help select the appropriate breed/mix but, once the breed/litter is chosen, I can do temperament testing to find the perfect puppy for the individual/family. Just like people, puppies are born with certain personalities and while these can be influenced, they will not be completely changed.

I am a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator for the AKC (American Kennel Club); certified as a pet partner for pet therapy & R.E.A.D (Reading Education Assistance Dogs) with ComForT Companions for Therapy and Delta Society; an associate member and CDT with IACP (International Association of Canine Professionals) and member of NK9DTA (National K-9 Dog Trainers Association). 

Training Partners

Paxton

Paxton is a very energetic German Shepherd with whom I have done personal protection. She is my personal dog, as well as my demonstration dog, having attended National K-9 too. Yet she is by no means a robot or a remote control dog. She is also doing some physical therapy and together we have learned how to incorporate this into obedience work.  Like every other trained dog, Paxton takes continual work to keep up her various areas of training.

Emerson

And Emerson has been fully trained here at K-9 SOS from Puppy PreSchool through Obedience.  She has certified as a therapy dog and my new pet partner with ComForT Companions for Therapy and R.E.A.D. She and I look forward to many hours of visiting and smiles!