By Nino Drowaert | STSK9

How do you apply advanced training principles to the everyday pet owner?

That’s one of the most common questions I get — and the truth is, nothing really changes.

A dog is still a dog.

The only thing that changes is the format and the energy. You can have a big dog, a ...

At STSK9, we have the privilege of witnessing incredible transformations every day. But some stories resonate on a deeper level, reminding us of the profound bond between humans and dogs, and the power of dedicated training. This is the story of one of our Master View Path graduates.

He always had ...

When Nima joined the MVP Program, he didn’t have much, except belief.

He invested every cent he had, every ounce of energy, and all of his faith into the journey.
Living in Iran, surrounded by skepticism, he faced comments that would discourage most people.
They told him it wouldn’t work. They laug...

If you’ve been struggling to control a high-drive or reactive dog, you’ve probably heard the typical advice: avoid distractions, calm your dog down, reduce excitement. But that approach only scratches the surface.

At STSK9, we train differently.

Instead of avoiding your dog’s obsessions, we teach ...

There’s something incredibly powerful about hearing a training journey straight from the student—no filters, no fluff, just real honesty about the challenges, doubts, and triumphs along the way.

When Svenja first joined our program, she came with years of dog sport experience, a sharp eye for techn...

I've spent my career helping thousands of dog owners and handlers transform their dogs' natural enthusiasm into ultimate partnership and performance. One of the key exercises we emphasize is contact heeling - the fundamental obedience exercise that lays the groundwork for advanced heeling styles lik...

Yep, you heard that right. Getting your dog to "look at you" is not achieving what you think. In fact, we believe that traditional dog training has it quite wrong. Demanding eye contact is actually causing the opposite of what you are being told to seek. Stop creating disengagement and frustratio...

Puppies, especially larger breeds, often face challenges with coordination in their early stages. Addressing these challenges early can prevent frustration and help them transition smoothly into adulthood.

Understanding Puppy Development
Clumsiness is a natural part of a puppy’s growth. Their bodie...

I've just returned from a remarkable event in the US, filled with energy, enthusiasm, and insightful interactions. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who made the effort to join us—it was truly a phenomenal experience. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, and the opportunity to int...

When training a dog for advanced obedience or competition levels, the focus often lands heavily on technical skills such as heeling, turns, and position consistency. However, an often overlooked but critical aspect of dog training is cardiovascular fitness. This component is not only essential for t...

Training a dog is much more than teaching basic commands or performing tricks; it involves understanding and harnessing the innate drives that motivate your dog. Building and channeling your dog's drive and focus, is one of the most challenging aspects of training.

The Myth of the "Gifted Dog"

Man...

In the world of dog training, the philosophy guiding my work and the STSK9 programs is rooted in a deeply held belief in collaboration and cooperation. This principle isn't just a tagline; it's a commitment to inclusivity and unity, extending an open hand to all, regardless of their background or ex...

In an era teeming with distractions, where genuine connections are increasingly rare, the relationship between humans and their dogs stands as a testament to authenticity. Recently, Nino had the opportunity to host an MVP coaching call with Mario Verslype, an esteemed figure in dog training, who boa...

Understanding how to cultivate confidence in a fearful dog involves more than just exposure to the outside world; it's about starting from a place of comfort and gradually expanding their boundaries. Here's a look at how we approach this important process, keeping in mind the unique nature of every ...

Embarking on the journey to welcome a pup into your life isn't just an act of selecting a pet; it's about forging a bond that aligns with your spirit and lifestyle. This process transcends the simplistic view of choosing a dog based on breed or aesthetics. It's a profound search for a companion that...

Let's set the record straight – dog training is not merely about appearances. It encompasses a holistic approach that emphasizes the development of both the handler's skills and the dog's skills. When it comes to addressing behavioral issues in dogs, the key always lies in enhancing your skills. Whe...

Why Would You Want Your Dog to be Basic?

Dogs are far more capable and intelligent than we often give them credit for. As a passionate advocate for canine training, I firmly believe in setting the bar higher than just the basic commands. Let's delve into why "basic" should not be your objective fo...

Forget everything you think you know about learning and dog training. I did. In my journey, I discovered that one of the secrets to exceptional dog training is self-analysis. It's not just about command and response; it's a deep dive into the talents and drivers of both handler and dog. Let me walk ...

In a world riddled with skepticism and limitations, my students stand as beacons of inspiration and are a testament to the power of belief. Their transformations from eager students to full-time professionals aren't just about career changes or sports trophies; they're breaking barriers and exceedin...

In the world of dog training, the battle between innate talent and hard-won competency is more than just talk. It's the critical edge that shapes a trainer's approach and their real-world success. Let's dive into this gritty dynamic and how it transforms a trainer’s journey.

Talent: The Instinctive...

The speed of learning is attached to age, but it is also attached to the energy levels and drive that the dog can produce. So, if a dog is 5-6 years old but is very motivated to do whatever, they are still going to learn very fast.

The question is, what have you done with this previously? Let's jus...

Here is a really powerful statement that I'm going to make. If you are ever going to attempt an out, which you should at some point, because if your dog is really into his game, he's loving it. He's enjoying what you do, but then obviously you're going to create a connection, because if he's loving ...