Hello

Welcome to Apex K9! I’m Jennifer, owner and trainer. My lifelong passion for dogs motivated me to create a supportive environment where you and your canine companion can thrive together. With my experience in dog sports and love of dog training, I can help you strengthen the bond with your dog and unleash its full potential. Let’s embark on this journey together!

My Story

I recently retired from 25 years in law enforcement and grateful to now be able to focus full-time on training dogs. It feels like a natural evolution for me as dogs have been a part of my life since childhood and I've always enjoyed teaching them new skills. Five years ago I ventured into dog sports with my working line German Shepherd to further develop my dog training skills and explore a deeper bond with my dog, similar to the incredible bonds I've often observed and admired among working K9 teams.

I'm a current Scent Work Judge for the American Kennel Club (AKC) and have successfully trained, trialed, and titled my dog in Agility, Barn Hunt, Dock Diving, IGP (formerly Schutzhund, a three phase sport comprised of Tracking, Obedience, Protection), and to the highest levels in AKC Scent Work and the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW), earning the AKC's pinnacle Scent Work Detective (SWD) title and NACSW Elite Champion (ELT-CH).

My dog's titles include SWD, SWM, NAP, NJP, ELT-CH, RATChX, CZ8B, REMX, CAA, FDC, FCAT, ACT1, ACT1J, IGP3, TC, DN, CGCA, CGCU, TKA, CW-ScR1, CW-SD.

My most recent achievement is placing in the Top 10 at the 2025 German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA) IGP National Championship, thereby qualifying for the World qualifier. I'm currently focused on advanced tracking skills and preparing to title my dog in AKC Tracking.

Perhaps my greatest achievement as a dog trainer is not a particular title but in my dog's success despite a Veterinary Behaviorist diagnosing her with anxiety and deeming her incapable of competing in dog sports. I was told she needed medication, to rehome her and consider getting another dog. This sparked a journey of education, discovery and insight that enhanced my understanding of dog behavior and provided options to help my dog reach her true potential. It demonstrated the power of a balanced, relationship-based approach to training which remains my core philosophy.