Blackwood Canine

Blackwood Canine offers five core programs: 1) Puppy Jump-Start — a 2-week board-and-train for puppies 8–20 weeks old, includes 2 private lessons; 2) Private Lessons — 8-session packages held at their Scappoose facility or in-home; 3) Immersion Program — 4–6 week board-and-train with daily training and follow-up lessons; 4) Behavior Modification — 6–8 week intensive program for reactivity, anxiety, or mild aggression; 5) Advanced Re-conditioning — 8–10 week program for severe aggression, bite histories, or complex behavioral issues. They also offer day training and limited group classes upon request.

Pricing Summary

Private lessons include an 8-session package with additional sessions priced at $125–$165 each. Board-and-train programs range from 2 weeks (Puppy Jump-Start) to 10 weeks (Advanced Re-conditioning), with pricing not publicly listed but available via consultation. Immersion programs include follow-up private lessons as part of the package.

Blackwood Canine is a dog training business based in Portland, Oregon, founded by Karin and David Wright, who bring over a decade of combined experience in canine behavior and training. They offer personalized training solutions tailored to each dog’s unique needs, focusing on clear communication, consistency, and behavior-based results—without gimmicks or bribery. Their services include private lessons, in-home training, board-and-train immersion programs, puppy jump-starts, behavior modification, and day training. They specialize in helping families build strong, lasting relationships with their dogs through structured, science-backed methods. Their immersion programs are ideal for dogs with reactivity, anxiety, aggression, or poor socialization, while their puppy program provides a strong foundation for young dogs. Trainers work directly with both dog and owner to ensure long-term success, and all programs include follow-up private lessons to reinforce progress at home.

They serve clients across Portland and surrounding areas including Beaverton, Hillsboro, St. Helens, Scappoose, and beyond, offering flexible scheduling and training in the client’s home, their Scappoose facility, or during board-and-train stays. Their approach is grounded in understanding canine psychology and adapting to each dog’s temperament, making them a trusted choice for families seeking real, lasting change.

Accomplishments

Karin and David Wright have trained hundreds of dogs since founding Blackwood Canine in 2018. Both have over a decade of experience individually, with Karin starting her business in 2010 and David in 2014. They have led seminars nationwide, competed in national dog events, and own additional training businesses. Their clients include families, sport teams, and professionals seeking behavior solutions for challenging dogs.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a 60-minute in-person evaluation to assess the dog’s personality, temperament, and goals. After the evaluation, clients receive a customized recommendation for the most suitable training program. The evaluation is scheduled via their booking portal.