Training DOGS Since 2003
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EARS-UPK9
NICK HAS BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TRAINING OF HUNDREDS OF DOGS ON FOUR SEPARATE CONTINENTS. NOW, LET HIS EXPERIENCE BE OF SERVICE TO YOU.
MEET NICK
Nick was born in Monroe, North Carolina and served his country for over 21 years in the United States Navy, 16 of which were in the Military Working Dog (MWD) program as a K9 Handler, Regional Trainer and Regional Kennel Master. He was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom with his assigned MWD. He later served as Regional Kennel Master/Trainer for Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia as well as a Regional Trainer for the East Coast, responsible for hundreds of Military Working Dog Teams (MWDT) training and proficiency requirements. Additionally, he has served on Presidential and Secret Service task force operations as well as multiple K9 combat deployments.
U.S. Navy Regional Kennel Master/Trainer/Handler
Nick has been responsible for the training of hundreds of dogs on four separate continents. Now, let his experience be of service to you. He believes in fostering respect between owner and dog.
“PROFESSIONAL, EXPERT KNOWLEDGE ON HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DOGS. QUALITY TRAINING IS A MUST FOR ALL DOGS. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.”
– PAMELA ARCENEAUX
During Nick’s service in the U.S. Navy as a Handler, Regional Trainer, & Regional Kennel Master, he was featured in numerous publications to include: Dogs Who Serve: Incredible Stories Of Our Canine Military Heroes.

POPULAR TRAINING PACKAGES
2 WEEK BOARD AND TRAIN
3 WEEK BOARD AND TRAIN
3 WEEK E-COLLAR BOARD AND TRAIN
4-6 WEEK BOARD AND TRAIN
ONE-ON-ONE PRIVATE LESSONS
EXERCISE. AFFECTION. RESPECT. SUCCESS.
EARS-UPK9 TRAINING PHILOSOPHY
EXERCISE: Not only physical in nature. Walking your dog or letting them run the yard isn’t going to cut it. Run your dog, but also MENTALLY stimulate them. A 10 minute mental workout will supersede a physical one any day. Teach your dog’s new things, keep their minds engaged and it’ll pay dividends.
AFFECTION: We all love to love on our dogs. It’s something that comes natural. However, an over abundance can also result in your dog having problems with separation anxiety, destructive behavior and lack of confidence.
RESPECT: Not to be confused with fear. Respect is not only earned from your dog to you but is a two-way street. With clear communication and proper engagement with your dog, the path to “success” will make your bond unbreakable.
SUCCESS: The result of instilling proper, foundation, structure and overall sound leadership between you and your 4-legged companion.
“Lady did a one week board and train with Nick. She, now, consistently waits for her food/water, waits in her kennel until released (even with the door open), goes into her kennel when told to and waits very well at all entrances. She is proficient in both her sit and down. Great recall work was done and a lot of progress with walking on leash. I am very happy with all the work Nick has done with her. He’s an amazing trainer with lots of background experience. He’s taught me a lot and in such a short amount of time of knowing him. Sad to see him relocate but any owner would be lucky to have him train their dog.“
“Nick had my French Bulldog puppy for a week! When I dropped him off he was a nut!! Ran my house and did what he wanted too. 1 week later he is so well disciplined and listens! Knows the commands sit, down, wait and come. Such a great experience! Great trainer!“
“I’ve known Nick for 16 years. I watched his knowledge in dog training grow tremendously over that time period. He truly has a passion for dogs, and takes a lot of pride in his work. I’ve referred him to numerous friends and clients, and they have nothing but good things to say about what he’s done for their dogs. What he lacks in size and stature, he certainly makes up for in heart. 😉 Always my go to referral!“
Can my female dog enroll in training if she is possibly close to her heat cycle?
No. You’re dog must not be in heat or coming into cycle at all during training.
What are your thoughts on harnesses?
We personally do not use harnesses unless a dog has trachea issues. Harnesses, in general, promote pulling and we teach dogs to walk on a leash with a flat buckle collar. Tools are also used for accountability, a harness makes that impossible.
When should I start training my dog?
Immediately. As early as 8 weeks, kennel training should be started.
When does the training stop for our dog?
Never. You should always be working with your dog on new things as well as the ones he/she already knows.
When my dog comes home, how much training will I need to do?
You get what you put in. After you go home you should spend at least 10-15 minutes a day working on commands taught or your dogs training will lapse.
EXERCISE.AFFECTION.RESPECT.SUCCESS
GET IN TOUCH
Contact US
Email: Nick@Ears-UpK9.com
Call: (865) 213-EARS (3277)
Serving the Greater Tennessee Valley