Most dog owners don’t need more information—they need the right information, delivered clearly and rooted in real-world experience.
If you’ve ever walked out of an obedience class still unsure how to handle your dog’s pulling, reactivity, or lack of focus at home, you’re not alone. Traditional obedience classes often skip over the why, water down the how, and leave owners feeling stuck.
That’s why I created this space.
Why This, Why Now
I’m a reward-based, balanced dog trainer based in Edmonton, Alberta, working hands-on with everyday dogs and their people. I’ve seen firsthand how confusing and polarizing the dog training world has become—especially online.
Owners are overwhelmed by conflicting advice, tool-shaming, and “quick fix” gimmicks that don’t hold up under real-life distractions. At the same time, they’re hungry for structure, clarity, and real guidance they can apply at home, in the yard, and on the street.
So I’m using this Substack to pull back the curtain.
Here, I’ll share what works—from leash skills and behavior modification to play, mindset, structure, and more. I’ll take you behind the scenes of client sessions, training routines with my GSD Piper, and the principles that shape lasting change.
The Community I’m Building
Fire Team K9 is more than a dog training service—it’s a mindset.
This space is for owners who are ready to:
Think critically about how dogs learn
Build real-world reliability through play, structure, and clarity
Train the dog in front of you utilizing the tools and methods available to you—not just the trendy ones
Share the journey honestly, including the messy middle
Support each other without judgment
Whether you're training a puppy, managing a difficult behavior, or working toward off-leash freedom, this community is for people who care about doing it right—not just looking good on Instagram.
What’s Coming
In the weeks ahead, I’ll be sharing:
A full puppy development roadmap
A 30-day Loose Leash Walking Challenge
Mini-lessons on the psychology of training, how to use tools properly, and how to build better habits
Case studies from client dogs and training sessions
And real answers to the questions your obedience class may have skipped over
If that sounds like something you need in your life, hit subscribe and stick around. I’d love for you to be part of this.
Let’s train better dogs—and become better handlers—together.
– Karl MacPhee
IDTP, CPCC, PCC
FireTeam K9 Trainer/Coach