Play! K9 Academy
Embark on Fun-Filled Training Journeys
At Play! K9 Academy, we understand that every dog is unique, which is why we offer tailored training programs designed to bring out the best in your furry friend. Based in the heart of Bradenton, Florida, we’re dedicated to creating a positive and engaging environment where dogs can thrive.
About Us
At Play! K9 Academy, we believe that learning should be enjoyable for both dogs and their owners. That’s why we incorporate plenty of play and positive reinforcement into our training methods. After all, a happy dog is a confident dog!
One-on-One Sessions: Personalized attention for your pup’s specific needs. Our experienced trainers work closely with you and your dog to achieve your training goals efficiently and effectively.
Board and Train: Looking for intensive training? Our board and train program provide a structured learning environment combined with plenty of playtime to ensure your dog returns home well-behaved and happy.
Day Train: Our day train program offers a convenient option for busy pet parents who want their dogs to receive expert training while they’re at work or running errands.
Online Coaching: Can’t make it to our facility? No problem! Our online coaching sessions allow you to receive expert guidance from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re dealing with behavioral issues or simply want to teach your dog some new tricks, our virtual sessions are tailored to fit your schedule.
Puppy Programs: Start your puppy off on the right paw with our specialized puppy programs. From socialization to basic obedience training, we’ll help your puppy develop essential skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Join Our Email
List For Event Updates!
FAQs
Woof-Worthy FAQ: Answers to Your Top Questions
At Play! K9 Academy, we prioritize making learning enjoyable for dogs and owners alike through play and positive reinforcement techniques.
We offer personalized one-on-one sessions, board and train programs, day train options, online coaching, and specialized puppy programs.
Our experienced trainers work closely with each dog and owner to tailor training methods to their specific needs, ensuring effective and lasting results.
Play is essential because it engages a dog's natural instincts, making the learning process more enjoyable and effective. It also strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner.
Our ultimate goal is to empower dogs to become confident and well-behaved companions while fostering a strong and positive relationship between them and their owners.
Trainers
At Play! K9 Academy, our team of passionate trainers is dedicated to bringing out the best in every dog. With years of experience and a deep understanding of canine behavior, our trainers tailor each session to suit the unique needs and personality of your furry friend. From obedience training to behavioral modification, rest assured your dog is in expert hands with our compassionate and skilled trainers.
Nina
Hello! I’m Nina, I’m the co-owner and head trainer of PLAY! K9 Academy, which I run alongside my friend Rebecca. With 25 years of experience working with various species of animals, my journey in animal training began at a young age, influenced by my mother, a veterinarian.
I was born in Belgrade, Serbia, a city with a significant stray animal population. From a young age, I had a passion for rescuing and caring for animals. This passion followed me when my family moved to Vancouver, Canada. Although our apartment didn’t allow dogs, I trained our two cats in basic commands when I was just nine years old. At 13, we moved to Bradenton, Florida, where I got my first dog, a Shiba Inu named Teddy. I trained Teddy in Serbian, English, and hand signals, teaching him various commands and tricks.
Throughout my twenties, I trained numerous rescue dogs in basic obedience. My interest expanded into the world of exotic animals, leading me to volunteer at an exotic animal sanctuary. There, I worked with aggressive birds, primates, and livestock, gaining invaluable insights into animal behavior.
My professional dog training career truly began with Nova, a German Shepherd rescue. Nova, the most reactive dog I’ve ever encountered, introduced me to behavioral modification and dog sports. She is now my demo dog and has earned titles in numerous dog sports.
A pivotal moment in my training philosophy occurred when Nova and I tried herding. Herding relies on the relationship and interaction between handler and dog, rather than treats or toys. This experience reshaped my approach to training, focusing on a genuine connection rather than repetitive behavior-reward cycles. I believe training should be fun, with dogs in a positive emotional state, fostering clear communication and allowing dogs to be themselves.
In addition to my work with PLAY! K9 Academy, I continue to be deeply involved in rescue, particularly with high-drive working dogs. I place these incredible animals in sport, working, and active pet homes where they can thrive and utilize their unique skills and energy.
Currently, I share my life with several amazing dogs: Nova, my loyal German Shepherd; Nitro, another rescued German Shepherd; Nyx, a Belgian Malinois excelling in IGP; Nala, a rescued Shiba Inu; and Nerys, an agility-trained Papillon. Additionally, I have a number of rescue cats who add to the joy and diversity of my household.
Now, with PLAY! K9 Academy in full swing, I am excited to create lasting bonds with my clients and transform lives. Don’t hesitate to reach out – I am here to support you without judgment. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge to understand your dog better and build an unbreakable connection!
Rebecca
Rebecca Paige is the co- owner and head trainer at PLAY! K9 Academy with over two decades of experience in training and rehabilitating dogs.
Much of her experience has been assessment and behavior modification for rescued Dobermans with Kansas City Doberman Rescue (KCDR). She uses her skills and knowledge to form meaningful and holistic relationships with all of the dogs she trains and believes building confidence is essential for every dog.
Rebecca’s early learning came from her grandmother, Ginny, who helped start KCDR the year she was born. At four years old she was teaching foster dogs cute tricks like sit, down, and shake and she even taught a few to jump through hula hoops, roll over, speak, and play dead. When she was nine, Grandma enrolled her and a new foster dog in an obedience class with a well known and accomplished trainer, Dan Miles. That class cemented her love and passion for training. Dan was impressed with her calm maturity and authority and said she was a natural with the best timing he had ever seen in someone so young. What an ego boost for a little girl who wanted to learn more. She needed to understand the “WHY?” behind everything and questioned anyone who was willing to share knowledge about dogs and how they think as well as reading books and articles about dog behavior and training.
She continued learning and training while working with KCDR foster dogs into her twenties and became the one to call for anyone who had a dog with behavior problems. She freely gave her time and experience to family, friends, and strangers while teaching the owners as well as the dogs that good dog behavior can be accomplished through training and consistency. Now she has turned her lifelong love of helping dogs and their owners into a business. She genuinely loves helping people understand their dogs’ behaviors and thoroughly explaining the reasonings behind everything she does. Rebecca loves dogs of all breeds, temperaments, and sizes and she believes each dog is unique and deserves a tailored approach to training for the best results!
I've had the pleasure to work with Nina and it was an incredible experience! She is so kind, personable, and cares about your dog. My dog is chaotic, with a very big personality, and Nina took it all in stride! It was awesome to connect with a trainer that geniunely cares about your dog's happiness and doesn't do the same cookie cutter approach.
Chris Arana
Get A Quote
Ready to start your dog’s journey to better behavior and a stronger bond? Fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you with a personalized quote tailored to your needs.
