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About Valor K9 Academy®—Veteran-Owned Boise Dog Training

Balanced dog training since 2014—real training, real results.

Valor K9 Academy® was founded on a simple mission: to raise the standard in Boise dog training through integrity, experience, and proven results. Since 2014, we've helped thousands of families, veterans, and working dog handlers build stronger, calmer, more obedient relationships with their dogs. 

As a veteran-owned and operated business, we bring military discipline, clear communication, and real-world experience to every training program. We don't believe in gimmicks or quick fixes—and we're not a "positive-only" training company making promises we can't keep. We use balanced, respectful methods rooted in trust, structure, and motivation—because that's what works. 

Whether you're raising your first puppy or fine-tuning your service dog, we're here to guide you with honesty, care, and a proven system that works for all breeds, all ages, and all lifestyles. 

Explore Boise Dog Training Programs

Why Choose Us?

  • Veteran-Owned & Operated - Discipline. Leadership. Integrity.

  • Thousands of Dogs Trained - Puppies, pets, service dogs, working dogs.

  • Balanced Training that Works - No shortcuts. No confusion. Just clear progress. 

  • Boise-Based - Our in-person programs are offered exclusively in the Treasure Valley.

  • Online Courses Available - Access our full training method from anywhere.
Valor K9 Academy®
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Our Mission—Transforming Dogs & Families in Boise

At Valor K9 Academy, our mission is to create lasting transformation in Boise-area dogs and families. Through a balance of structure and compassion, we help build confident, well-mannered dogs and empower their owners to lead with clarity, trust, and connection. We also believe in giving back — since 2014, we’ve donated over $62,500 in equipment and training to support our local communities, including veterans, non-profits, animal rescue groups, teachers, and first responders.

Balanced, Results-Driven Training Philosophy

At Valor K9 Academy®, we believe in results-driven, relationship-based training that respects both the dog and the owner. We don't waste time on cookie-cutter programs or empty promises—we use what works. 

We start every dog off with a strong foundation built on trust, respect, communication, and motivation. For young puppies, that means reward-based training—lots of positive reinforcement to build engagement, confidence, and clarity. 

As dogs mature (typically around 6 months of age), we thoughtfully introduce training tools like prong collars, E-collars, and gentle leaders when appropriate. These are not shortcuts—they're used with skill, fairness, and purpose to enhance communication and keep dogs safe. 

When working with behavior issues, we focus first on meeting the dog's core needs: exercise, structure, leadership, and boundaries. We rebuild trust, restore balance, and help dogs become calm, respectful, and stable companions. 

Our methods are balanced, humane, and designed to get lasting results—delivered through our expert Boise dog training methods. We're not just training dogs, we're training families for real life. 

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Meet the Owners—Justin and Amy Pishner

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Amy Marie Pishner

Founder & Head Trainer, Valor K9 Academy®

Amy Pishner is the founder and head trainer of Valor K9 Academy®, where she leads both in-person and online training programs focused on structure, relationship, and real-world results. A veteran of the Air Force and Wisconsin Air National Guard, Amy brings discipline, integrity, and a mission-driven mindset to every dog she trains.

With triple certifications and over a decade of experience, Amy has successfully trained thousands of dogs—including family pets, service dogs, and working dogs—across the U.S. Her balanced methods are rooted in trust, motivation, and clear communication.

Beyond training dogs, Amy mentors professional dog trainers worldwide and is currently publishing her first book, set for release in January 2026, to help more dog owners experience the life-changing impact of honest, effective training.

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Justin Pishner

Co-Owner, Valor K9 Academy®

Justin Pishner brings over 15 years of elite military experience to Valor K9 Academy® as a former SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) Specialist in the United States Air Force. He served in multiple wartime deployments and continues to train high-risk personnel in critical survival skills. 

At Valor K9 Academy, Justin co-leads operations with a focus on curriculum development, HR, boarding, and training. His background in high-stakes instruction, leadership, and resilience helps shape training programs that are structured, practical, and performance-driven.

Justin retires from the Air National Guard in fall 2025 and now applies his passion for teaching and leadership to strengthening the bond between dogs and their handlers—on and off the field.

Join Our Team

At Valor K9 Academy, excellence is our standard. We meticulously select our trainers and provide instruction in our proven methodologies, ensuring they align with our high standards. Our commitment doesn't end there; we continue to mentor and support. Experience is not required; we welcome trainers associated with organizations like APDT.

Submit Your Resume
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Ready to Start Training?

Whether you're raising your first puppy or building a future service dog, we're here to help. Explore our in-person programs or start training from home with our online courses. 

Explore Our Boise Dog Training Programs