The K9 Commander

The K9 Commander way utilizes unique balanced dog training methods that are designed to help create a well balanced pet and strengthen the bond between owner and dog. Operating out of Youngsville, NC, and the surrounding areas, we offer a full line of training services for the working dog to the family companion.

 

Our ServicesSchedule a Consultation

The K9 Commander Way

About The K9 Commander

 

K9 Commander owner/trainer/instructor, Tim Crane, retired from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Department in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with 25 years of experience. In addition, Tim is a retired Master Sergeant from the military with over 20 years of service in the US Army, US Air Force Reserve, and Pennsylvania Air National Guard.

Tim has over 17 years experience working with narcotics detection police K9s.  As a certified K9 instructor from Shallow Creek Kennels in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania, and Strategic Law Enforcement K-9 Training Inc. AWDA (American Working Dog Association).  Tim has trained explosive/narcotics and patrol police K9s, teams, and continues to actively certify police working dog teams throughout the United States.

As a member of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police K9 Unit Training Staff, he has had the privilege of certifying, training, and maintaining many street-certified police K9 teams.  Teams consisted of all Pittsburgh Bureau of Police K9 handlers and several outside municipal police agencies, including but not limited to Wilkinsburg, Robinson Township, Butler City, Uniontown, Whitehall Borough, Pittsburgh Public School Police, as well as Allegheny, Beaver, and Mercer County Sheriff K9 teams in both explosive, and narcotics detection and patrol.

Training Options for Everyone

Our Training Services

Our training classes are not designed for dogs with past human bite interactions or aggression.
If you need specific help in one of these areas please contact us for training options.

Board and Train

 

The K9 Commander is now offering Board and Train for puppies to mature dog with training or behavioral issues.

Chris Farr will be our Board and Train director. Chris will be handling all of the Board and Train training at his location in Wake Forest. Chris has many years of experience competing in French Ring Competitions and training.

Call 412-913-6285 for Board and Train availability

 

Adult Dog Board and Train

 

In Home Private Training

 

Consultations

 

*Package prices are per dog, a 2nd dog will receive 40% off of the listed package price, 3rd dog and each dog thereafter will receive 50% off of the listed package price.

**Additional mileage charges may apply depending on location.

Advanced Working Dog training options are also available, although Working Dog training is very specific and personalized to the type of training, as well as to the dog and family. Please email directly to inquire about Working Dog training options here.

What Drives Us

Our Mission

K9 Commander believes training should be fun, fair, and firm.

Behavior modification starts with understanding and assessing what you have done in the past to address the problems and doing something different going forward.  Improving the relationship between the dog, the owner and members of the family starts with the dog knowing his rank within the pack; dog must not portray a higher rank than any human in the pack.  It is important to find the right balance between obtaining results on the right timeline and working at a pace and with tools that the owner and dog are comfortable with.  K9 Commander’s mission is helping to empower owners with knowledge of training tools and techniques and giving them confidence to put them in action proactively even in the absence of the trainer.

Tim understands that all dogs are unique and may benefit from different training methods and is very open to the owner’s input and involvement.  Tim understands a good trainer is an effective teacher/communicator for both humans and dogs and does not sacrifice a dog’s well being for results.  He believes in always learning and incorporating new information, techniques and tools into their program in order to improve results.  He does not make an owner feel guilty for a lack of knowledge or past failures but instead tries to motivate them to do better in the future.

Lastly, a good trainer is honest and recognizes when they are not equipped to deal with a certain behavior or dog, and does not take on a client if they are not confident in their abilities.

Some of our Feedback

What People are Saying

Henry

We first called Tim because our ball of lovable energy lacked impulse control. He so badly wanted to see and meet people that he was running the risk of hurting someone with his level of energy. Tim quickly started his training with US, and teaching us how to better help Henry. The training is having mind blowing results, and Henry is always Happy to see Tim and his training sessions. We cannot thank The K9 Commander enough for his continued help in creating the relationship and environment we had always envisioned with our Henry!

– Shane Dalziel

Leila, Lexi & Sofi


I am the proud owner of two very big white labs and one precious French bulldog. As much as I love my babies sometimes their behavior is not so becoming. We have spent a lot of money on training to no avail. All I wanted was them trained to walk on a leash but the trainers just never really focused on that concept. Then the most professional trainer I know named Tim came into our lives. So I signed them up for one more training. This was it. No more money spent on training even if this didn’t work and sorry to say but after so many failures I really didn’t expect much. Well, do you know it took him one, yes that is one day and he had Lexi walking beside him on a leash. Eventually he could walk her without a leash. I could not believe my eyes. I was so proud of her and of him for his very intellectual training. He knew instantly how to handle her. Then there was Sofi and the bulldog Leila. Sofi now walks without pulling me everywhere, and my little Leila walks now even though she’s the fierce one of the bunch. So if your at a point where you have accepted the fact that you are going to be mistreated every time you walk your dogs don’t give up. Call Tim, I can promise you, your dog will be a new dog and you will pick up a great friend. Tim the k9 commander trains with love and respect. He was the best decision we have made.

– Vicky Stevens

Willy

Tim Canine is by far one of the best puppy/dog trainers in the area. His experience is shown through his extensive knowledge of dog behaviors. He quickly identifies what the problem is and how to correct it. He has been working with our puppy Willie, teaching him to walk on a lease properly instead of him walking us. He also is excellent in giving tips on house breaking. He offers great tips to minimize barking! He makes training very simple and is very effective. Tim is considered a “dog whisperer” and we are lucky to have someone with his expertise in our area.

– Marty and Donny Knell-Bell

Daisy

Within 45 minutes of first visit Daisy was walking on my left without trying to pull. Tim disconnected the leash and she continued on my left even when making 90° turns across the street. Well done Tim

– Dan Romanelli

Mia

My wife and I fell in love with a rescue dog who had great obedience to us but just could not control her reactivity on walks when she saw another dog. It was difficult for other family members to control Mia and feel safe taking her for walks. It was also embarrassing for everyone when we could not control her bark at all. Tim taught us how to effectively communicate with our dog and reinforce positive behaviors. Tim was always prompt and valued our time when we had a session scheduled. Mia’s behaviors have progressed to a level of confidence we didn’t think was possible. It is a joy to walk Mia and see her become more and more confident. Our family is so grateful for Tim and the services he provided our family.

– Joseph and Taylor Glassbrenner

Scout

I was so happy to meet Tim and have him train my boy, Scout and myself.  Tim helped to identify the behaviors we needed to work on. In such a short time, Tim had Scout walking so great on lead and off lead. Scout truly bonded with Tim and Tim is one of his favorite people in the world.  Tim is the dog whisperer as he has such a great connection to the dogs he trains.  I am looking forward to working with Tim again. You will not find a better trainer than Tim. Thank you for working with my sweet boy.

– Margaret

Bo Peep

Wow does Tim know his stuff! I was thoroughly impressed with the in-home training we did for our puppy French bulldog., Bo Peep. He even met with us prior to picking out our pup and gave us tips on things to look for when choosing from a littler and how to react with the kids and we brought her home. We have been to other dog trainings before with our previous dog however this in-home session was a game changer for one on one teaching of not only our pet but for us and the kids!! Would highly recommend him for any dog stage you may be experiencing.

– Katie Semon

Jolie

My experience with Tim has been amazing. Little Jolie was nick named “Baby Shark” by my friends but after 4 private sessions with Tim she has become a much more disciplined girl. I gained so much knowledge and as I continue modifying MY behavior I know Jolie will continue to modify hers. Tim worked a miracle for us!

– Carrie Bloom

Gremlin & Olivia

These two look like they wouldn’t hurt a fly, but they were the terrors of the neighborhood with other dogs (including my sister’s and parent’s dogs)! Tim did such an AMAZING job helping me understand WHY they were acting out this way! I can’t thank you enough for being so patient and understanding how spoiled rotten my “kids” were…okay…are. They now listen to me and walk with me so much better! I am SO thrilled to see them get along with my family’s dogs too! Finally! THANK YOU!!!! You are the BEST! I would recommend Tim to everyone!!

– Sherle Page

Lillian, Athena and Mojo

During my search for a second family dog, I decided to foster 2 puppies. Needless to say I am a foster fail, adopted both puppies and found myself with a pack of dogs.
They are all  smart dogs but owning a pack comes with a different set of issues. After a number of unsuccessful attempts to find the right trainer I stumbled upon Tim Crane’s name. I read his website and was beyond impressed. His resume and credentials are outstanding and I knew he was the trainer for us! His extensive background and passion  for animals is beyond what I have ever experienced with other trainers. He was able to immediately identify the troublemaker in my pack. With one session he had my boxer mix calmly walking by other dogs without reacting and lunging like a bucking bronco. My beagle mix spent a session working through her fearful issues and is now able to accompany me to dog friendly stores. My Shepard mix has improved her indoor manners. Tim is gifted and able to recognize a problem and has an immediate solution for it. He has been an absolute miracle worker for my pack! (I think I was more difficult to train than the dogs!) If you are looking for a trainer who has a passion for helping people and animals than Tim Crane, The k9 Commander,  is for you!

– Sharon Casper

Snoop

Without hesitation we would recommend The K9 Commander to anyone in search of a dog trainer. Tim’s firm, fair, and fun approach to training had Snoop behaving like a different dog on day one. In just four training sessions we learned the tools necessary to help Snoop continue on his path to becoming a well-rounded dog. Our confidence not only grew in his abilities, but also our own!

– Amanda Shirely and Gene Whit

Morris

Our experience with Tim was great. The first meeting was very educational, and he spent time explaining everything we would learn and go through. Morris is a very friendly, excited dog that thinks everyone is alive to give him attention!! This made it difficult to take him on walks and around other people or dogs without him getting too excited to control! Once we began training with Tim and using the training collar, Morris realized quickly what behavior was appropriate and what wasn’t. He is still excited and playful, but in a controlled manner. We will continue to use the tips and tools Tim taught us to enjoy our fun-loving dog!

– Jenifer Otto

Bella

Tim has a wonderful way of putting both dogs and people at ease.  Our dog responded very well to him, and he quickly gave us some tips to solve some key concerns, even during just the initial consultation.  As we progressed into the actual lessons, he gave both our dog and us positive feedback and constructive correction to make our communication and expectations clear and fair to our dog.  Tim is very honest about what he can help with, and he is skilled at tailoring the training to meet your goals.  We’re glad to have found him and are enjoying the benefits of his guidance and experience!

– Traci Hawkins

Chief

Fantastic training offered by Tim Crane, The K9 Commander! He trained my GSD, Chief, for two weeks. Prior to training, he contacted me to obtain background information on Chief, asked questions, addressed concerns, etc. He stopped by our house before Day 1 to meet Chief and assess him in his element in person. During drop off on the morning of Day 1, he reassured me that Chief would be taken care of during the training course and at no time would he be harmed. He checked in via FaceTime, and sent photos and videos of Chief’s progress daily. Due to needing Chief trained specifically for PTSD-related proactive and reactive responses, Tim customized Chief’s training so that I could be trained right along with Chief since he will be going most places with me. With Tim’s military and law enforcement background, he immediately understood and could relate to my needs for Chief. I was pleased with the training services Tim provided and look forward to signing Chief up for advanced skills.

– Angela Amidon

Riley & Ty

I recently reached out to Tim Crane for help with my 17 month old Boxer and my 9 month old Wheaton Terrier and am so glad that I did. Always personable and professional, Tim gave me a number of effective strategies that have resulted in them walking better, coming when I call them and not running to the door and jumping on people whenever the doorbell rings. Tim clearly loves dogs and is able to establish dominance over them without being cruel or rigid. Tim was always on time and never watched the clock. Unlike other trainers, he allowed me to determine the focus and was always willing to help me with the things that I felt were the most pressing. As difficult as it is to train one dog, working with two is quite challenging but Tim never flinched and always knew exactly what to do. I highly recommend the K9 Commander whether you need a lot of help or a little in getting your dogs to behave the way that you would like.

– Pam Jerro

Ace

There are few words I can think of to adequately express our gratitude for the work that Tim with The K9 Commander has done with Ace, our 3-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier. I found Tim on Google and saw there were many very positive reviews.

I made an appointment with Tim for the free consultation and knew immediately after meeting with him that we would be training with him. Tim’s love and understanding of dogs is obvious and his passion for training them is even more so. Not only is Tim great with the dogs themselves but he is also very personable making him very easy to talk to about training. He is always eager to answer any and all questions during the entire training process – before training begins, during training and even after making himself available via phone and email. The change in Ace’s behavior is AMAZING to say the least – and it didn’t even take many sessions! It is so easy to take our dog out, he is now friendly with other dogs and no longer jumps on people. Walking him is a joy where before it was painful – literally. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

– Debra Olevsky

Koda

The K9 Commander is the best! Tim is highly knowledgeable and affordable. He truly trains not only the dog but it’s owner sharing tools, techniques and advise so your dog can live its best life! Tim met us in many different locations for training in real life scenarios and was always on time and never cancelled or rescheduled a training session. If you are looking for a trainer that trains because they love what they do and loves dogs, The K9 Commander is the trainer for you.

– Debbie Kolmo

Tucker

I would like to commend Robin from The K9 Commander. She was helping out with another area trainer(on loan from Tim) and I had the great pleasure and opportunity to work with her in training my two year old GS, Tucker.
Robin was so amazing and Tucker immediately took to her! I was so impressed with her professionalism, encouragement and genuine love for what she does. I never felt uneasy with Tucker when we took him for outings to stores and parks because she made us both feel confident. Tucker had struggled with being reactive around people and other dogs, but with Robin he never gave either one a second glance and walked confidently by my side. Robin was always observing and would praise Tucker when he did well, she taught me how to correct any behavior that was unacceptable, but she always ended our sessions on a positive note with a sweet scratch behind his ear and telling him what a good boy he was. All of these things are important to pet parents as most of us see them as family, yes even as our children, so just as we would want our child to have a good, knowledgeable and loving teacher we want the same for our fur babies.
For anyone looking for an amazing trainer I would 100% recommend Robin from The K9 Commander, I’ve had several dogs over the years and several different trainers and she has far surpassed any and all others I’ve worked with!

– Linda Wheeler

ProfessionaLly Trained and Certified

Tim’s Professional Credentials

Tim Crane

Tim Crane

Owner, Operator, Master Certified Instructor

 

Tim Crane is a proactive member of the K-9 training community, and actively works to expand his knowledge, and experience.

Tim is currently an active Master Trainer/Certifier with the American Working Dog Association (AWDA) for Police K-9’s in the disciplines of: Patrol, Narcotics, as well as training and certifying PTSD Service Animals.

Pittsburgh Police Master Patrol Officer, K9 Handler & Instructor

Tim Crane proudly spent over 24 years in service with the Pittsburgh Police Department, serving as Master Patrol Officer, K9 Handler, and K9 & Handler Instructor

Pittsburgh Police K-9 Unit

American Working Dog Certified Master Trainer

Tim Crane is nationally recognized to Train, Evaluate, and Certify Law Enforcement/Police K9’s and Law Enforcement/Police K9 Teams throughout the United States.

AWDA – American Working Dog Association

Herm Sprenger K-9 Prong Collar Training - 2023
Tim Crane successfully completed the K-9 Herm Sprenger Collar training course, 2023.

K-9 E-Collar Training - 2021

Tim Crane successfully completed the K-9 E-Collar training course, 2021.

NAPWDA – North American Police Working Dog Association

Law Enforcement K-9 Operations - 2018

Tim Crane successfully completed 16 hours of Continuing Education in Law Enforcement K-9 Operations, 2018.

NAPWDA – North American Police Working Dog Association

Patrol & Narcotics Training - 2017

Tim Crane successfully completed the 7 week Instructor Development Course for Strategic Law Enforcement Training Patrol & Narcotics Course, 2017.

NAPWDA – North American Police Working Dog Association

Law Enforcement K-9 Operations - 2017

Tim Crane successfully completed 16 hours of Continuing Education in Law Enforcement K-9 Operations, 2018.

NAPWDA – North American Police Working Dog Association

Dual Purpose Police K-9 Trainer's Course - 2014

Tim Crane successfully completed the Shallow Creek Kennels, Inc. Dual Purpose Police K-9 Trainer’s Course, 2014.

NAPWDA – North American Police Working Dog Association

ProfessionaLly Trained and Certified

Robin’s Professional Credentials

Robin Henderson

Robin Henderson

Trainer

*Robin is currently on maternity leave.
Until she returns, Don will be servicing her current clients.

K9 Commander adjunct trainer Robin Henderson is the newest member of the K9 Commander team. She received her nationally accredited certification in Canine Training, Canine Behavior and Enrichment, and Canine Nutrition through Animal Behavior Institute in 2021. In addition to completing her certifications, Robin has been in an ongoing mentorship with Tim since 2019.

While Robin is still relatively new to being a professional dog trainer, she has three years experience working with dogs of all ages, temperaments, and energy levels in the daycare and boarding industry. She also has 5 years experience as a dog handler in confirmation shows and ground trial competitions through the Triangle Hunt Club, and is very active in community outreach and dog rescue.

Herm Sprenger K-9 Prong Collar Training - 2023

Robin Durham successfully completed the K-9 Herm Sprenger Collar training course, 2023.

K9 Training - 2021
Robin Henderson successfully completed the ABI 234 Canine Training course from Animal Behavior Institute, inc. in 2021

K9 Behavior & Enrichment - 2021

Robin Henderson successfully completed the ABI 271 Canine Behavior & Enrichment course from Animal Behavior Institute, inc. in 2021

K9 Health & Nutrition - 2021

Robin Henderson successfully completed the ABI 312 Canine Health & Nutrition course from Animal Behavior Institute, inc. in 2021

Herm Sprenger K-9 Prong Collar Training - 2023

Robin Durham successfully completed the K-9 Herm Sprenger Collar training course, 2023.

K9 Training - 2021
Robin Henderson successfully completed the ABI 234 Canine Training course from Animal Behavior Institute, inc. in 2021

K9 Behavior & Enrichment - 2021

Robin Henderson successfully completed the ABI 271 Canine Behavior & Enrichment course from Animal Behavior Institute, inc. in 2021

K9 Health & Nutrition - 2021

Robin Henderson successfully completed the ABI 312 Canine Health & Nutrition course from Animal Behavior Institute, inc. in 2021

Robin Henderson

Robin Henderson

Trainer

*Robin is currently on maternity leave.
Until she returns, Don will be servicing her current clients.

K9 Commander adjunct trainer Robin Henderson is the newest member of the K9 Commander team. She received her nationally accredited certification in Canine Training, Canine Behavior and Enrichment, and Canine Nutrition through Animal Behavior Institute in 2021. In addition to completing her certifications, Robin has been in an ongoing mentorship with Tim since 2019.

While Robin is still relatively new to being a professional dog trainer, she has three years experience working with dogs of all ages, temperaments, and energy levels in the daycare and boarding industry. She also has 5 years experience as a dog handler in confirmation shows and ground trial competitions through the Triangle Hunt Club, and is very active in community outreach and dog rescue.

ProfessionaLly Trained and Certified

Chris’s Professional Credentials

Chris Farr

Chris Farr

Trainer / Board and Train Specialist

 

Chris began training and competing in dog sports in Phoenix, AZ around 2002. Within two years he was regularly winning high in obedience and high in protection in tournaments all over the west coast. Soon after he started competing and placing at the national level. He spent several years attending training seminars and continuing education seminars under the most sought after dog trainers and coaches in the world. Through his years of experience, Chris Farr has known great success in competitive and pet obedience. He has received multiple High in Trial Obedience Awards in several sports. He has titled a number of breeds in various competitive dog sports, including PSA, Schutzhund, and French Ring. Chris has a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and has blended behavioral theories with real world dog training techniques to create a training theory and program with proven results. Having made dog training a part of his life for nearly twenty years, Chris partnered with his wife Olivia and in 2019 began business full time with Best By Farr Dog Training. After enjoying years of helping local families with their furry family members, 2023 the two relocated their family to Wake Forest, North Carolina and started a second location of Best By Farr Dog Training and teamed up with The K9 Commander LLC. to cover his Board and Train Program.

ProfessionaLly Trained and Certified

Don’s Professional Credentials

Don has been training in martial arts since 1962. He has trained many champion sports fighters. However, he soon began to focus on police defensive tactics, which led him to become badge 1 with the Burbank Police Department. His assignment was to assist them in developing a powerful defensive tactics program. He also was an instructor at the California Association of Force Instructors. Don was featured in two top-selling police defensive tactics videos that Inside Kung Fu magazine produced. By 2009, Don was inducted into the Masters Martial Arts Hall of Fame. It was in 1991 when he was invited by Bridgette Jacobsen to train shepherds for security and police work. He combined combat self-defense with protection dogs. Don specialized in Schutzhund-trained shepherds imported from Germany (levels 1, 2, and 3), which included training them on and off leashes, obedience, protection, and search. Don continued to refine their training until they were sent to clients, including police departments, security companies, and private citizens. Don was responsible for the protection of many famous Hollywood stars, including Steve Allen, Ronn Moss, Jerry Dunphy, and Jay Leno. He was a technical advisor to various production companies such as Disney, Warner Brothers, Paramount, and MGM. Today, his goal is simple: he wants doggies and doggie owners to get along and fulfill each other’s needs as mutual, lifetime companions.

Don Baird

Don Baird

Trainer

Don Baird

Don Baird

Trainer

Don has been training in martial arts since 1962. He has trained many champion sports fighters. However, he soon began to focus on police defensive tactics, which led him to become badge 1 with the Burbank Police Department. His assignment was to assist them in developing a powerful defensive tactics program. He also was an instructor at the California Association of Force Instructors. Don was featured in two top-selling police defensive tactics videos that Inside Kung Fu magazine produced. By 2009, Don was inducted into the Masters Martial Arts Hall of Fame. It was in 1991 when he was invited by Bridgette Jacobsen to train shepherds for security and police work. He combined combat self-defense with protection dogs. Don specialized in Schutzhund-trained shepherds imported from Germany (levels 1, 2, and 3), which included training them on and off leashes, obedience, protection, and search. Don continued to refine their training until they were sent to clients, including police departments, security companies, and private citizens. Don was responsible for the protection of many famous Hollywood stars, including Steve Allen, Ronn Moss, Jerry Dunphy, and Jay Leno. He was a technical advisor to various production companies such as Disney, Warner Brothers, Paramount, and MGM. Today, his goal is simple: he wants doggies and doggie owners to get along and fulfill each other’s needs as mutual, lifetime companions.

Being Social Isn’t Just for the Dogs

Follow Us on Social Media

We couldn’t be more honored

Accolades

 

SECOND PLACE!

BEST DOG TRAINER

 

 

SECOND PLACE!

BEST DOG TRAINER

 

RECOGNIZED BY

MARQUIS’ WHO’S WHO

Thank you all so very much that took the time to vote. We are truly humbled and honored by your continued support. The communities that we pride ourselves on getting to be a part of have welcomed us as their own in a way that is indescribable. We are proud to share these awards with all of you!

 

Where to Find Us and How to get Scheduled

Schedule Your Training Today

Or call:
Office: (919) 263-1461
Cell: (412) 913-6285
for more information

The K9 Commander operating out of Youngsville NC and proud to serve the surounding areas.

Get in Touch