starkey k9
The Dog You Can Take Anywhere.
Hi, I’m Garrett Starkey, and I help dogs become calm, confident, and ready for any adventure.
services
board & train
The fastest, most effective way to build the ultimate companion dog.I only take up two (2) dogs at a time—this means your dog gets daily structure, focused training, and lives as part of my family during their stay.Each board & train includes a fully conditioned e-collar as well as the most appropriate training collar for your dog.You only need to bring food—everything else is provided.After training is complete, I include 2–3 private sessions with you to ensure you're fully up to speed.BOARD & TRAIN IS IDEAL IF:
-You want a well-trained dog without having to do the heavy lifting yourself
-You’re looking for the kind of dog you can take anywhere—on hikes, to patios, or on road trips
-You want long-term results and are committed to maintaining your dog’s progress
PRIVATE SESSIONs
During private sessions, I come to you—so we’re training in your real environment.Each session is fully personalized to your dog, your needs, and your goals.It’s like having a personal trainer—for both you and your dog.PRIVATE SESSIONS ARE IDEAL IF:
-If you’re motivated and want to be hands-on in your dog’s transformation
-You want to learn the “why” and “how” behind your dog’s behavior
-You’re ready to put in the time and consistency to build new habits
-You’re looking to deepen the bond and communication with your dog
(805) 835-2811
[email protected]
about me
Hi, I’m Garrett Starkey. I’ve spent most of my life training and competing at a high level—as a professional pole vaulter and now as a coach at Arizona Pole Vault Academy, which I co-own with my dad. I’ve worked with athletes of all ages for nearly a decade, and I’ve always loved the process of helping someone unlock their full potential.But everything changed when I got Maza—my first dog. She’s a primitive breed, deeply independent, and not the kind of dog who’s naturally eager to please. Training her wasn’t just a hobby—it became a full-on obsession. I dove headfirst into learning everything I could about dog behavior, motivation, and communication. I wanted to understand not just how to make her behave, but how to build a relationship that worked for both of us.That journey led me to a mentorship with Devon Zander at Triumph Dog Training, and ultimately to starting my own dog training business. What began with Maza has grown into a real passion: helping other people and their dogs experience that same kind of transformation—where training isn’t just about control, but about freedom, trust, and a better life for both of you.
training philosophy
No two dogs are the same—and I don’t believe in cookie-cutter training. My approach is rooted in the idea that we should train for the dog in front of us, not just follow a formula.I use a balanced training method, which means I start by teaching new behaviors with positive reinforcement—using food, praise, or play. I want your dog to truly enjoy what we’re asking of them. That joy and willingness to work is the foundation of everything I teach.But positive reinforcement alone isn’t always enough—especially when you want a dog who listens in the real world, not just in perfect conditions. That’s where accountability comes in. Once your dog understands what’s expected, I layer in consequences that are fair, consistent, and clear—so they learn to follow through, even when distractions are present.The goal isn’t just obedience. The goal is reliability, freedom, and trust—a dog you can take off leash, out in public, on hikes or vacations, and know they’ll be safe and responsive. That kind of freedom isn’t something most dogs get to experience. But with the right structure and communication, it’s absolutely possible.I also believe strongly in setting both dogs and owners up for success. Whether I’m training your dog directly or working with you in private lessons, I’m not here to slap a Band-Aid on a behavior. I’m here to build a relationship—one where your dog knows exactly what’s expected, feels confident in their place in the world, and learns to love being part of the team.
(805) 835-2811
[email protected]