Obedience · Private · Puppy · Santa Barbara

K-Nine Solutions Dog Training

K-Nine Solutions Dog Training is a veteran-owned and operated dog training business based in Santa Barbara, California. Voted Best Dog Trainer in Santa Barbara multiple years running, the company offers a comprehensive range of services from puppy classes and basic obedience to behavior modification for issues such as aggression, separation anxiety, and destructive behaviors. Their approach blends positive reinforcement with humane correction techniques, fostering an environment where dogs are motivated to learn while feeling respected and safe. The team takes a holistic approach that extends beyond training sessions, teaching owners how to manage their dogs in any environment for lasting results. K-Nine Solutions also runs popular weekly pack walks at various Santa Barbara locations, providing clients with ongoing socialization and training practice opportunities. Eric Smith is a U.S. Army veteran with over 10 years of dog training experience in Santa Barbara, 5 years in Boston, and 4+ years working with dogs for the U.S. military. He founded K-Nine Solutions and leads a team of trainers who take a holistic approach to dog training and behavior modification, focusing on practical skills that owners can work into their daily lives.

Recommended by members
No one yet
Bark ScoreSilver Rated Trainer
3.8 / 5
Reputation
4.8
Ethics
3.6
Credentials
2.8
Service breadth
3.4
Training methods
Balanced
How the score works

K-Nine Solutions Dog Training reviews

Public reviews

K-Nine Solutions Dog Training’s reputation score is 4.8 out of 5, worked out from the star rating and number of reviews on their Google Business Profile. That’s higher than 96% of the trainers we list.

Read their Google reviews

How is K-Nine Solutions Dog Training rated?

Four parts, each out of 5, weighted into one score. Member reviews never change it. How we score

Reputation 30% of the score
4.8
From the star rating and number of reviews on their Google Business Profile.
Ethics 40% of the score
3.6
Balanced. They combine rewards with corrections. This scores in the middle.
Credentials 25% of the score
2.8
No recognised credential is listed. Ask what training they’ve had.
Service breadth 5% of the score
3.4
3 ways to train (private 1:1, group class, pack walks), and help with 9 kinds of problem.

How does K-Nine Solutions Dog Training compare with other Santa Barbara dog trainers?

Counted from the 7 trainers listed in Santa Barbara.

What to ask K-Nine Solutions Dog Training before you book

  • What does a typical session look like, and what happens when a dog gets something wrong?
  • What does a session or programme cost, and what’s included?
  • What training or qualifications do you have?
  • How many dogs are in a class, and how many trainers?
  • What will I need to practise between sessions?

More questions to ask about reactivity

About K-Nine Solutions Dog Training

Helps with
Basic obedience, puppy, recall, leash, AKC CGC Test Prep, behavior modification, aggression, separation anxiety, destructive behaviors
How they train
Private 1:1, group class, pack walks
Owner
Eric Smith
Established
2013
Service area
Santa Barbara, CA & surrounding Santa Barbara County areas
Good to know
Veteran-owned; Opened in Santa Barbara in January 2013; Also operates organized weekly pack walks via Meetup; Recently moved to a larger location at 733 Carpinteria St.
Achievements
Voted Best Dog Trainer in Santa Barbara multiple years in a row; Veteran-owned and operated business; Over 10 years of experience in Santa Barbara
Opening hours
Mon–Fri 9am–6pm
Address
733 Carpinteria St, Santa Barbara, California 93103
Phone
+1 805-451-2458

Sessions

Private Dog TrainingOne-on-one customized training sessions addressing your dog's specific behavioral challenges and training goals. Includes personalized plans for lasting results.
Group ClassesStructured group training covering obedience, socialization, and skill-building in a controlled environment with other dogs and owners.
Puppy TrainingFoundation training for puppies during their most formative period, covering socialization, basic commands, and proper manners with other dogs and humans.
Behavior ModificationSpecialized programs for dogs with problematic behaviors including aggression, separation anxiety, reactivity, and destructive behaviors.
Pack WalksOrganized weekly walks at scenic Santa Barbara locations where clients can practice training skills and dogs can socialize in a controlled environment.
Board & TrainImmersive training program where dogs stay at the facility and receive daily training from the K-Nine Solutions team. All tools included in 2-week and 3-week+ programs.

Questions and answers

What training approach does K-Nine Solutions use?

K-Nine Solutions uses a balanced/humane approach, blending positive reinforcement with humane correction techniques. They focus on clear communication between owner and dog, teaching practical skills for real-world situations.

Do I need to participate in my dog's training?

Yes. K-Nine Solutions believes strongly in owner involvement. They teach owners the skills needed to communicate with their dogs effectively, ensuring success lasts well beyond the training sessions.

What are the pack walks?

K-Nine Solutions runs organized weekly pack walks at locations around Santa Barbara including Leadbetter Beach and Chase Palm Park. These walks help clients continue training in a fun, controlled environment with opportunities for socialization and real-world practice.

Is K-Nine Solutions veteran-owned?

Yes. K-Nine Solutions is a veteran-owned and operated business. Owner Eric Smith served in the U.S. Army where he gained experience working with dogs before founding the company.

Can I observe a training session before enrolling?

Yes, potential clients can request to observe a training session before making a decision to enroll their dog.

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