About K9Army Inc
29 Years. One Mission.
Helping owners enjoy their time with their dogs!
29+ Years
Certified Experience
Bryan Armstrong The Trainer Behind K9Army
I fell in love with dog training and handling in 1997 when I started working my first search dog Bascoe. He was one of the first cadaver detection dogs in Ontario, assisting police services province wide with human remains detection. I did this on a strictly volunteer basis as a member of OVERT, a respected local search and rescue team based in Durham Region. Already working as a sworn police officer in the Province of Ontario, I knew exactly how I wanted to spend my career. In 2004 I was selected to join a highly sought after position within my police services K9 Unit. Over the next 18 years I had the honour of working 4 separate police service dogs, Mako, Vegas, Axel and Six, in a variety of disciplines including general purpose, drug, firearm and cadaver detection. in 2017 I took over the trainer position for the unit assisting other officers with training their police service dogs. Over the years I conducted thousands of K9 searches both in training and on the streets. Recently retired, I am now focusing my efforts on pet dog training and detection dog training.
I now offer dog owners my knowledge to assist with a wide range of pet dog issues. From as simple as leash manners, reactivity, basic to advanced obedience, off leash recalls to so much more! Whether your dog is a high drive, energetic breed or a laid back couch potato, all issues can be fixed with training tailored to your dogs personality. For sport detection dog folks I can assist with anything from starting your dog on scent (imprinting), search fundamentals, scent behaviour, indications at source and any issues or problems you and/or the dog may have.
my Training Philosophy
I use methods that have been honed over years of learning from police, military and other dog training experts from all over North America. The methods utilize both positive and negative reinforcement. No dogs get hurt, in fact your dog will enjoy the training sessions! These methods work just as well on pet dogs as they do on police and military K9s. I have trained numerous pet dogs including my female yellow lab Ali on these methods and she comes everywhere with me (off leash) with no issues! I have extensive experience with all types of pet dogs with constant successful outcomes.
Dogs are dogs
Dogs are not people. Dogs think like dogs, we have to tailor the training to that mindset. From the high drive working dog to the pet couch potato, dogs are mostly wired the same way. I assess your dog on the first session to tailor training to his/her particular personality.
Science-Backed Methods
My approach draws on proven behavioural science — clear communication, consistent structure, and positive reinforcement where it counts. Most pet dogs don't get consistent clear communication from their owners. This results in unwanted behaviours. I will show you how to give your dog clear and consistent information taking the confusion from their mind.
Owner Education
Training doesn't end when the session does. I equip owners with the knowledge and tools to maintain results for life. One of the most important factors here is that the owner put in the work so the dog understands clearly what you are asking the dog to do or stop doing.
Honest Assessment
I tell you what your dog actually needs — not what you want to hear. That honesty is what gets real results. It is never criticism! It's respectful and matter of fact. Exactly what your dog needs from you!
- Canadian Police Canine Association Trainer Accreditation
Ready to Work Together?
Book a consultation and let's talk about your dog.