9 Years of Valor K9 Academy: Veteran-Owned Leader in Balanced Dog Training
or On April 14, 2023, Valor K9 Academy proudly marked nine years of serving dogs and their owners with integrity, excellence, and heart. Founded by U.S. Air Force veteran Amy Pishner, Valor K9 Academy is more than just a dog training company—it’s a mission-driven, values-based business built on a foundation of discipline, structure, and trust.
With locations in Chattanooga, TN, Spokane, WA, and Boise, ID, Valor K9 Academy has become a go-to name in balanced dog training—a proven, relationship-based method that blends fairness and clarity to get lasting results.
What Balanced Dog Training Means to Us
Accordingly, at Valor K9 Academy, balanced dog training is more than a buzzword—it’s a philosophy that shapes every lesson, every interaction, and every result. We believe in using the right tools at the right time to clearly communicate with the dog. Our methods blend positive reinforcement with accountability and structure, helping dogs become confident, obedient, and happy members of their families.
This approach works for puppies and adult dogs, family pets and working dogs, mild manners and serious behavior issues. It’s adaptable, humane, and grounded in real-life application.


Veteran-Owned, Values-Driven
As a veteran-owned business, Valor K9 Academy reflects the discipline, integrity, and work ethic that founder Amy Pishner brought with her from the military into the dog training world. These values are embedded into every part of our company—from how we train dogs to how we train our team.
Over the past nine years, Amy has hand-selected and personally trained dozens of professional dog trainers, ensuring each one reflects the Valor standard: grounded, skilled, and service-minded. We don’t franchise or outsource. Instead, we lead from within.
Our Services
We offer a full range of training options to meet the needs of dogs and owners from all walks of life:
- Private Lessons
- Group Classes
- Board & Train Programs
- Puppy Head Start
- Workshops & Seminars
- Virtual Coaching
- Trainer Retreats
- And our Online Training Platform, launching in 2024!
From local families in Boise to dog owners across the globe, we offer personalized, results-driven training rooted in balanced dog training.
The Dogs We’ve Helped
We’ve trained thousands of dogs—from Labs and German Shepherds to Doodles, Frenchies, Cane Corsos, Huskies, and more. Our clients travel from across the United States, and through our virtual training options, we’ve helped dog owners from around the world.

A Reputation Built on Results
With hundreds of five-star reviews and a loyal client base, Valor K9 Academy is trusted by families, working dog handlers, and even other trainers. Our commitment to ethical, effective dog training has earned us recognition across platforms and communities.
Looking Ahead
Above all, we’re wrapping up nine amazing years and are so grateful for everyone who’s been part of the journey. Thank you to the clients who trusted us, the dogs who taught us, and the team who stood by us. We remain committed to balanced dog training and proud to be a veteran-owned business. We’ll continue to be a resource for dog owners everywhere.
Here’s to the journey—and what’s to come in Year 10 and beyond!
Looking for balanced dog training from a team you can trust?