About Sound K9
Our Relationship Based Dog Training Philosophy
At Sound K9, we believe that a strong bond between you and your dog is the foundation of effective training. Our relationship-based approach prioritizes understanding, communication, and mutual respect. We see training as more than just teaching commands—it's about fostering a deep connection that allows both you and your dog to thrive together.
Dogs are unique individuals with their own personalities, emotions, and choices. We don't view them as programmable beings but as sentient companions capable of learning and growth. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that learning should be enjoyable and continuous, with a focus on positive experiences that encourage your dog to make good choices. We aim to create a harmonious relationship where both human and canine can coexist happily and enjoy each other's company.
We tailor our training plans to suit the needs of both you and your dog, taking into consideration your lifestyles and preferences. By blending your personalities and understanding each other's needs, we help build a genuine partnership that honors your dog's natural behaviors and individuality. At Sound K9, we are committed to nurturing this relationship, ensuring that both you and your dog can communicate effectively and enjoy a fulfilling life together.
Areas We Serve
For in-person private obedience and behavioural training, we use our facility in Kirkland, WA. For boarding and board & train services, our team members host your dog in their own homes. We are also open alternative training locations based on your specific needs. Please feel free to reach out to explore options that work best for you and your dog.
Our Team
Micah Tutt
Founder & Director
Pet & Working K9 Trainer
Certifications:
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Police K9 Decoy & Trainer
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Dog Cognition and Animal Welfare from Duke and Edinburgh University
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Completed courses offered by The Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers
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Completed courses offered by Ivan Balabanov
Micah has been training dogs for over a decade, with his journey growing organically.
In the early days, Micah learned the foundational skills for dog training and leash work, focusing on pet dog training. As he progressed on his journey, his passion for working dog breeds and challenge-seeking personality unlocked a new avenue of bite work. Currently, he not only offers services for pet owners but also works directly with police and navy canine divisions.
Many trainers adopt a comfortable style that works for enough dogs and then cease progressing. This is where the saying, "The only two things dog trainers agree on is that the third trainer has no idea what they're doing," originates. For Micah, however, the journey is ongoing; despite his extensive experience, he continually seeks out new methods and techniques. In the constantly progressing field of dog training, he believes that each new skill adds to his ever-growing toolbox, allowing him to evolve and excel as a dog trainer.
Stephanie Welch
Pet Trainer
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Stephanie has been with Sound K9 since the beginning. She has over a decade of expierence working with and training animals. Stephanie was a horse training before getting into dog training. We are truly lucky to have her as a founding member of our team.
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Stephanie trains both pets and working dogs and is primarily doing board and training for Sound K9. She is highly selective on the dogs she takes on.
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Stephanies results, recommendations and wait list speak to the level of training she provides.
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Dave Dubinin
Pet Trainer and Boarder
Certifications and Experiences:
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Psychology B.A. and Product Design B.S. Dual Degree from Stanford University
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Completed courses offered by The Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers
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Certification from Duke on Dog Cognition and Animal Welfare
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Puppy Trainer at Seattle Humane Dog Shelter
Dave's journey into dog training began with a deep passion for dogs and a commitment to understanding their behaviors. With a strong academic background in psychology and product design, he combines scientific principles with practical training techniques. Dave has gained hands-on experience through volunteering at dog shelters and working with behavior specialists, where he learned to read canine body language and develop effective training methods.
His personal experience with his dog, Tyson, a once-under-socialized pup, ignited his passion for training. Dave's dedication and compassionate approach led to Tyson's remarkable improvement, showcasing his ability to work with challenging cases. As a dog boarder, he has earned a stellar reputation for providing a safe and nurturing environment, consistently receiving top ratings and reviews from clients.
Dave continues to learn and grow in the field, always eager to explore new techniques and insights. His goal is to prevent dogs from ending up in shelters by empowering owners with the skills to manage their pets' behaviors effectively. Dave's blend of academic knowledge and practical experience makes him a promising and passionate dog trainer and boarder.
