Now booking founding clients · Limited spots

Results

The proof is in the dogs.

Every dog here came in with something that wasn’t working. Real clients, real problems, real outcomes.

A group obedience boot camp session: handlers spaced across a clearing holding their dogs in place-and-stay positions.
Group Obedience Boot Camp · San Antonio

Training Footage

See the work.

A reactive dog on leash at the start of a training session, before settling

Reactive to calm

A dog walking on a loose leash beside two handlers in an open field

Loose-leash walking

Bruno holding a focused heel beside his handler

Bruno — focused heel

Gia, a brindle Cane Corso, holding a sit-stay on a loose leash in a grassy field beside her handler
Gia · Private 1-on-1 — reactive Cane Corso learning neutrality
Reggie working an obedience position outdoors with his trainer
Reggie · Boot Camp — shelter dog learning basic obedience after living in a kennel
Sasha settled and attentive to her owner during a lesson
Sasha · Boot Camp — from pulling hard to walking softly on a leash
A toddler in a strawberry-print dress hugging River, a German Shepherd, on a front porch
River · Family

In Their Words

What owners say.

Firm Foundation K9 Academy has been a lifesaver for my family. We have two big boys, ages 2 and 3, who desperately needed Rusty's help. The two-year-old is anxious, afraid of people, and shows his fear through aggression. He is also not a fan of other dogs and loses his mind, which is our primary issue for our 3-year-old as well. Rusty has been patient with our boys and with us, demonstrating proper techniques, advising on what we are doing well and what we can improve upon, and helping us realize our bad boys can be good boys. With his help, their listening has improved and they are calmer, which means the world to us. We are excited to continue on this journey with the Firm Foundation K9 Academy family.
Shaunte M.Fear-based aggression and dog reactivity
I can't say enough good things about this program. As a business owner, my dog is around customers every day and has always been very protective — barking and rushing toward people as they walked into the shop. After attending just one session, I walked away with meaningful insight and practical techniques I was able to start using immediately. The class was concise, well-organized, and I left feeling confident and equipped. What really sets them apart is their genuine love for both dogs and people. I wholeheartedly recommend him.
Juan B.Protective dog around customers
Thank you, Rusty, for completely transforming my dog and making me a better handler and dog parent. Our walks are enjoyable now, and we get complimented all the time when we go out in public.
James S.Leash manners
Rusty is amazing. I highly recommend Firm Foundation K9 Academy. Our Shepherd mix, Smoke, knew some basic obedience but was very inconsistent, and his recall was nonexistent once he got distracted. We now have a well-mannered boy that we can let off leash and know he will come when called every time.
Monica G.Recall and off-leash reliability

Let’s meet your dog.

Forty-five minutes, no obligation, and no pitch at the end. You’ll leave knowing exactly what your dog needs — whether or not you hire us.

Or call/text Rusty Nokes directly — 210-201-2760