cHOOSE BY FIT – NOT BY THE HIGHEST LEVEL
Every program starts with an evaluation. Duration is a guide, not a guarantee.
Training services in Sarasota and Manatee County
BASIC OBEDIENCE
On-leash control and everyday reliability for a safer, easier dog at
home and in public.
-Recommended guide: 4 weeks.
-Heel and loose-leash walking.
-Automatic sit when the handler stops.
-Sit-stay and down-stay under control.
-All breeds and sizes evaluated individually.
Advanced Obedience
Higher-level control for qualified dogs, plus structured reinforcement
for previously trained dogs.
– Advanced guide: approximately 4 weeks.
– Off-leash heel, distance, duration and recall.
– Stronger focus around distractions.
– Refresh guide: approximately 2 weeks.
– Final program determined after evaluation.
PUPPY TRAINING /
FOUNDATION OBEDIENCE
Build confidence, structure, engagement and clear communication
from the beginning.
- Recommended guide: 3 weeks.
- Leash introduction and calm-walking foundation.
- Name recognition, engagement and handler focus.
- Sit, down, place and recall foundations.
- Evaluation required before enrollment.
MEET OUR EXPERT K9 TRAINERS
Uncompromising standards, real-world experience, and dedicated care led by our founders in Myakka City, Florida.
ALBERTO
“Protecting what matters most: built on nearly two decades of real-world experience, family devotion, and absolute discipline.”
Alberto’s journey into elite K9 protection began on October 3, 2006—the day his son was born and his home was broken into. That turning point defined his mission: ensuring his family’s safety through reliable, clear-headed protection dogs.
Driven by necessity, he partnered with his founding protection dog, Figo, and spent the next two decades mastering working dog development, drive management, and high-level obedience.
Key Milestones & Expertise
- 20+ Years of Field Experience: Hands-on expertise in developing, handling, and conditioning personal and family protection dogs with uncompromising standards.
- Co-Founder of Alpha K9 FLA: Joined forces with Clay in 2024 in Myakka City, combining deep industry experience and shared integrity to raise the benchmark for working dogs in Florida.
- Custom K9 Matching: Specializes in evaluating drive, stability, and household compatibility—ensuring each dog fits the specific lifestyle, security needs, and expectations of the family.
- In Memory of Figo: Inspired by his first K9 partner, Alberto’s philosophy centers on loyalty, control, and real-world dependability for clients across Sarasota and Manatee County.
Alberto’s Philosophy
“The dog must fit the person—not the other way around. At Alpha K9 FLA, we don’t just train dogs; we build balanced, trustworthy companions designed around temperament, control, and the safety of your home.”
CLAY
“Developing potential, building partnerships, and creating dogs built on trust, discipline, and absolute control.”
Clay’s journey into professional dog training began in 2017 after becoming a father. Driven by the desire to protect his family, he sought to develop a powerful, dependable companion capable of real-world protection without sacrificing stability, trust, or obedience.
In 2019, Clay turned his passion into a full-time career, dedicating himself to working dog sports, off-leash obedience, behavior modification, and advanced drive development.
Key Achievements & Expertise
- PSA PDC Certified Handler: Clay and his Presa Canario, Tyson, earned the prestigious Protection Dog Certificate (PDC), placing Tyson among a select few Presa Canarios in the world to achieve this milestone in modern protection sports.
- Working Dog Sports & Performance: Competed and achieved titles across multiple disciplines in advanced obedience, protection, athletic performance, and temperament testing.
- Presa Canario Specialist & Breeder: Founder of First Class Kennels, Clay advocates for responsible breeding, structural stability, and clear-headed temperaments in working breeds.
- Tailored K9 Development: Specializes in custom training plans—from household companion obedience to advanced off-leash control and executive protection—exclusively for clients across Sarasota and Manatee County.
Clay’s Philosophy
“A great dog isn’t defined by appearance or power alone—it’s defined by the complete package: temperament, soundness, confidence, and absolute control. My goal at Alpha K9 FLA is to empower owners with the knowledge and confidence to maintain that bond long after the training ends.”