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About
Hello! This is Kevin Shaffer, owner of Kevin's K-9 Academy, LLC. I'm a Certified Canine Training Specialist that loves helping dogs and owners speak the same language in efforts to not only live but thrive harmoniously together. Prior to dog training, I was a successful sales representative but over the years I began to seek a more meaningful and fulfilling career. This journey started with me volunteering at a local Humane Society and quickly resulted in the realization that my passion is being an advocate for dogs. I have always been a dog owner (I have 3 rescues myself- Chloe, Bailey and Brady) so a career in dog training was the perfect fit.
I am a relationship based balanced trainer/behaviorist and a graduate of the Charlotte, N.C based The Dog Knowledge. My primary goal is to ensure that I set both you and your dog up for success so my approach is always customized to your specific need(s). This will include step-by-step instruction for obedience that will leverage motivating techniques such as food, verbal praise, gentle touch, toys, etc. as well as variable reinforcement and wean methods. Various approaches are also used for problem/unwanted behaviors in efforts to address resource guarding, jumping, bolting out the door, etc. such that your dog and/or a family members remain safe.
I remain dedicated to you and your dog only during our time together and I keep you fully informed with daily communication that includes video journals outlining your dog and the techniques they are learning which will serve as a valuable resource for you to maintain consistency for long-term success. Depending on your specific need(s), I offer day camps, board & trains and private lessons.
I look forward to the opportunity to help you and your dog speak the same language as nothing is more satisfying to me than hearing back from satisfied clients how their relationship is more fulfilled.
Overview
Hired 82 times
3 similar jobs done near you
Background checked
1 employee
10 years in business
Business hours
Sun8:00 am - 7:00 pmMon8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2020
2019
2018
Services offered
Dog training package
Dog size
Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs)
Small (16 - 25 lbs)
Medium (26 - 40 lbs)
Large (41 - 70 lbs)
Dog training type
Private lessons
Board and train
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, professionalism, and work quality.
Exceptional 5.0
87 reviews
5
95%
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5%
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Read reviews that mention:
TyShianna S.
Mar 27, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Kevin did an amazing job at training my German shepherd mix . Within the first day I had already seen so many good improvements in my dog! he was patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what he does. He took the time to understand my dog’s personality and behavior, and tailored his approach in a way that actually worked—not just quick fixes, but real, lasting results and i feel more confident as an owner because of the tools Kevin taught me. I would absolutely recommend Kevin to anyone looking for a skilled, reliable, and dedicated dogtrainer. The results will speak for themselves.
Details: 6 - 12 months old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Patricia B.
Jun 21, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
A Grateful Heart and a Happier Dog – Thank You, Kevin!
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Kevin and his K9 Academy for the incredible support, guidance, and transformation he’s helped bring to both me and my beloved dog, Tango. From the very beginning, Kevin showed patience, professionalism, and punctuality — qualities that made each session feel focused, safe, and encouraging.
When we started, walking Tango was incredibly challenging. He would pull on the leash, react to other dogs, and make our outings feel more like a tug-of-war than a peaceful walk. But with Kevin’s expert help, everything began to shift.
Kevin didn’t just train Tango — he empowered me. One of the most valuable lessons he taught me was that I need to be the leader. Through his calm and confident teaching style, I began to find that leadership and confidence within myself. Kevin saw what Tango needed, but more importantly, he saw what I needed — and he guided us both with such insight and care.
Thanks to Kevin, I now walk Tango with joy and ease. I’m no longer dreading our time outside — I’m looking forward to it. I believe there are many happy days ahead for Tango and me, and I truly owe that to the knowledge and confidence I gained through Kevin’s guidance.
Thank you, Kevin, for helping us build not only better behavior but a better bond. 😉
With gratitude,
PB n Tango 🐾
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • I'm flexible • Aggressive behavior modification • Leash pulling • Barking • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Kenya F.
Apr 30, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Kevin spent two days with our French bulldog, Kobe, to help him stop barking at people. He’s a very friendly dog but can seem intimidating by his barking. Now we’re comfortable taking him out in social scenes and not worrying about him barking randomly at strangers. Kevin sent us videos throughout the day of Kobe’s progress along with tips and pointers for us to use going forward. We would highly recommend Kevin for anyone looking for guidance & assistance in training their dog.
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Barking • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Deanna V.
Feb 1, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Kevin was pretty amazing with our girl Lilith. He got her to stop pulling on the leash and thought us some tricks to use at home as well with stopping our dog from jetting out of the house.
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • I'm flexible • Aggressive behavior modification • Leash pulling • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Jim o.
Oct 16, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Excellent training but didn’t take him to places that he encounters in this neighborhood. I definitely would recommend him
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • Barking • Destructive behavior • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Credentials
Background Check
Kevin Shaffer
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
We would cater the program and pricing to meet the need(s) of the client.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I typically speak with them over the phone so I can determine what the issue is and whether I am the best fit to help meet their need(s) of their dog. If initially I determine that I could help, I would then email them a consultation form to fill out so I can learn a little more about the client, dog and main goals they want to accomplish. I would collect this information and we would meet and chat in person . Then we would decide on the best method(s) and training program to accomplish the goal(s).
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a Certified Canine Training Specialist graduating from an intensive program at The Dog Knowledge in Charlotte NC. I have extensively trained service dogs within this program that were placed with war veterans' for obedience and special needs. "Trusty" is one of the dogs pictured in a profile picture (Golden Retriever).
