Best Friend Forever K9
Service area: Serves Gig Harbor, WA and surrounding areas within Pierce and Kitsap counties.
Service Overview
Types of Dog Training
- Family Dog
- Service Dog
- Behavior Modification
Specialty Focus Areas
- Basic Obedience
- Puppy Training
- Leash Pulling
- Reactivity / Aggression
- Recall
- Separation Anxiety
- Stealing Food
Training Formats Offered
- Private Lessons
- Group Classes
- Private Facility
- Board and Train
- Day Training
Program Formats
- One-Time Consultation
- Sessions Package
- Ongoing Weekly
- Intensive Program
Types of Dogs
- Herding
- Sporting
- Working
- Doodles
Age of Dogs Trained
- Puppy (<1 year)
- Adolescent (1-2 years)
- Adult (2-8 years)
- Senior (8+ years)
Dog Training Methodology
Methods:
- ✓ Positive Reinforcement Only
- ✓ Balanced Training
Equipment:
- ✓ Food Rewards
- ✓ Harnesses
- ✓ Flat Collars
- ✓ E-Collars
- ✓ Obstacle Courses
Training programs include 4- and 8-week private lessons, weekly group classes for puppies and adults, and intensive 2-, 3-, or 4-week board-and-train programs. Board and train includes daily training with distractions, park and store outings, pack walks, daily photo/video updates, and a 2–3 hour handover session with the owner. AKC certification prep classes (S.T.A.R. Puppy, CGC, Community Canine, Urban CGC) are 6-week group programs ending with an official AKC test. Day training offers 15 consecutive days of one-on-one training. All programs emphasize positive reinforcement, clear communication, and real-world exposure.
Pricing & Policies
Pricing Summary
One-on-one lessons: $300 for 4 sessions, $600 for 8 sessions. Puppy class: $75. Group classes (AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, CGC, etc.): $150. Daycare: $35–$60 depending on duration and add-ons. Boarding: $50–$140/night depending on package. Board and train: $2,750 (2 weeks), $3,750 (3 weeks), $5,000 (4 weeks). Day training: $2,500 for 15 days. A 20% non-refundable deposit is required for boarding. Late pickup after 10am incurs a $45 daycare fee.
Policies
A 20% non-refundable deposit is required to book boarding. Late pickup after 10:00am incurs a $45 full-day daycare fee. Refresher lessons must be used within 6 months of completing a board and train program. No mention of cancellation or rescheduling policies for training sessions.
Testimonials
Our 9 month Lab was struggling with reactivity, leash walking, commands. 2 weeks later and he is a different dog! I have not left my dog with anyone, a tad overprotective. I was very comfortable and confident he was in good hands. Mandy is excellent and you c a see he is happier with his new skills. I would highly reccomend that you work with this trainer to invest in your fur baby!
– Tara Graph
My 10 month old mini American Shepherd (or Mini Aussie) Autumn went for a 2 week board and train and did amazing! Mandy is very sweet and encouraging in her training method, Autumn had a lot of fun. While Autumn is extremely smart, she has a lot of anxiety and can be stubborn. With 2 toddlers and a newborn on the way, I just didn’t have the time to set a side training her for leash manners and reactivity… Communication was always on point and she sent updates on Autumn’s progress all throughout with pictures and videos. My other high anxiety Aussie will be starting his board and train soon with Mandy and I’m super excited and less worried this time around. I trust Mandy will do her amazing work with Copper and that my baby is in good hands!
– Client
Dear Mandy and the team at Best Friends Forever, I’m writing to you again because the more I think about everything you did for Kimber, the more grateful I feel… You treated my pet like your own, and that personal guidance helped me make the best decision for him. The care you gave was extraordinary, and the fact that you did not charge for your time or effort is a testament to your character… I will forever be thankful for everything you did.
– Max Eli
About the Trainer
Best Friend Forever K9 is a dog training business based in Gig Harbor, WA, offering personalized training, daycare, and boarding services to help dog owners build strong, joyful relationships with their pets. They specialize in positive reinforcement and balanced training methods, focusing on clear, consistent communication to meet each dog’s individual needs. Their certified trainer provides one-on-one lessons, group classes, and intensive board-and-train programs that teach basic obedience, leash manners, reactivity management, and advanced skills like recall and heel work. Dogs also enjoy structured daycare with indoor/outdoor play, nap times, and enrichment activities, while overnight boarding includes daily training sessions, lick mats, bedtime treats, and GPS tracking via AirTag for peace of mind. The business is certified in dog and cat CPR, holds a Behavior Science Degree, and is a Method K9 Certified Level 1 trainer and Certified E-Collar Trainer. They also offer AKC CGC, S.T.A.R. Puppy, and Urban CGC certification prep classes.
They serve dogs of all ages—from puppies as young as 8 weeks to senior dogs—with programs tailored for anxious, reactive, or service dog candidates. Their 2-, 3-, and 4-week board-and-train programs include daily video updates, a 2–3 hour handover session, and one free refresher lesson within six months. They offer discounts for military and first responders and prioritize compassionate, reward-based training with treats, toys, and praise.
Additional services include cat boarding, pet boarding, and day training. Clients can book services online or by phone, and the facility operates daily from early morning to evening.
Accomplishments
Trainer holds a Behavior Science Degree, is Method K9 Certified Level 1, Certified E-Collar Trainer, and CPR certified for dogs and cats. They are an AKC CGC evaluator and offer AKC certification programs. They are a Pack Pro Graduate.
How to Get Started!
Client engagement begins with a phone call or online booking to schedule an initial consultation or select a training program. Board and train clients receive a customized plan after assessment. Group classes require calling or emailing to check availability and location.

Contact Information
Availability
- Weekdays
- Weekends
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
Hours
Monday: 6am-7pm
Tuesday: 6am-7pm
Wednesday: 6am-7pm
Thursday: 6am-7pm
Friday: 6am-7pm
Saturday: 8am-6pm
Sunday: 8am-6pm
Certifications
- Credentialed
Associations
- AKC
Languages
- English
Other Services Offered
- Dog day care center
- Pet boarding service
- Pet trainer
Location
5720 144th St NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332Listing Tools for Trainers
For Best Friend Forever K9 Only
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