Who We Are
Cole K9 is built on a passion for working dogs, and balanced training methods that create confident, reliable companions. Every dog we work with is approached as an individual, with clear communication and structure at the core of our philosophy.
Our Mission
Our mission is to produce dogs with sound temperaments, responsive commands, and the ability to succeed in everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a family companion or a working-capable dog, we focus on clarity, confidence, and trust.
Protection Training
At Cole K9, our protection training is built on structure, clarity, and respect for the working dog. We specialize in working-line dogs and develop protection skills by channeling natural drives into controlled, reliable behavior. Our focus is on confidence, stability, and obedience—ensuring each dog works with purpose and clear intent, rather than uncontrolled aggression.
Equally important to the dog’s training is the education of the handler. We place strong emphasis on proper handling, management, and a clear understanding of protection behaviors, ensuring dogs are worked safely and responsibly. Handlers are taught to read their dogs, maintain control under pressure, and apply protection skills only when appropriate.
Every dog is evaluated individually, and training is tailored to its genetics, temperament, and intended role. All protection work at Cole K9 is conducted ethically, with safety as a top priority for the dog, the handler, and the public. The result is a well-rounded working dog capable of performing serious protection work while remaining a stable, trustworthy companion.
Meet the Owner
Mike Cole
Dogs have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. At just six years old, I grew up alongside our family dog, Sassy—a 100+ lb mastiff who was always by our side and fiercely protective of our family. That early bond sparked a deep respect and appreciation for dogs, even though I never imagined it would one day become my career.
As I grew older, the desire to work with high-level dogs never faded. At 18, my fiancée (then girlfriend) and I took ownership of Kujo, a sable working-line German Shepherd with deep roots in protection work, border patrol, and other demanding K9 roles. Kujo embodied true working-dog drive—no wall, task, or challenge stood in his way. Whatever he was asked to do, he did with maximum effort and unwavering commitment.
That experience pushed me to fully immerse myself in the world of dog training. Since then, I’ve spent time shadowing and training with police departments, attending numerous seminars to continue my education, and working hands-on with clients. My experience spans protection training, behavior modification, and foundational obedience, always with the goal of building reliable, confident dogs.
I’ll never claim to be the world’s best dog trainer—but I can say with absolute certainty that I will never stop pursuing my goal of helping dogs reach their full potential.
What Sets Cole K9 Apart
- Balanced training focused on real-world reliability
- Clear communication between handler and dog
- Honest guidance before, during, and after placement
Our Commitment
At Cole K9, we don’t believe in shortcuts. Every dog is given the time, structure, and consistency needed to succeed. Our goal isn’t just trained dogs — it’s confident owners and lasting results.