BTK9

BTK9 offers private lessons, 2- to 4-week board and train programs, and behavioral modification. Private lessons are customized and held at the facility, dog parks, or homes. Board and train includes intensive one-on-one training, environmental exposure, socialization, and behavioral modification, followed by a take-home lesson and three private follow-up sessions (two at facility, one at home). Daycare offers half-day or full-day socialization with agility and obedience work. All programs include a detailed drop-off meeting and ongoing owner education.

Pricing Summary

Private lessons: $650 for 5 sessions ($150 for a single session, with balance due at second lesson). Board and train: $2,000 (2 weeks), $2,800 (3 weeks), $3,500 (4 weeks). Daycare: $25 for half-day, $35 for full-day. Boarding: $40 per night. All programs require consultation before enrollment.

Policies

Board and train programs require continued owner involvement post-program to prevent regression. Daycare and boarding require a prior consultation before registration. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated.

BTK9 is a veteran-owned dog training business based in Sandwich, IL, serving the Chicago suburbs. Founded by Beau and Traci Bartulis, the company offers personalized dog training using tailored philosophies for each dog’s needs, combining positive reinforcement, operant conditioning, and tools like e-collars when appropriate. Owners are actively involved in the training process, ensuring they learn as much as their dogs. Services include private lessons, board and train programs, behavioral modification for aggression and reactivity, daycare, and boarding with access to turfed and grass play yards, swimming ponds, and added activities. Their facility provides a home-like environment, unlike traditional kennels, and they emphasize long-term success through follow-up lessons after intensive programs.

Beau, a former U.S. Air Force military working dog handler with 10 years of service, brings extensive experience with diverse breeds and environments. Traci, a former high school teacher with a degree in Technology and Engineering Education, applies differentiated teaching strategies to dog training. Together, they focus on building confidence, adjusting behavior, and creating stable, happy dogs for families.

They serve dogs of all ages and sizes, including reactive, fearful, or aggressive dogs, and provide specialized programs for puppies, adolescents, and adult dogs. Their board and train programs range from 2 to 4 weeks, with structured follow-up lessons to ensure retention. Daycare and boarding options include socialization, agility work, and private pond swimming.

Accomplishments

Beau Bartulis is a 10-year U.S. Air Force veteran and former military working dog handler with experience across multiple states and countries. Traci Bartulis holds a bachelor’s degree in Technology and Engineering Education and has over a decade of teaching experience in public schools before transitioning to dog training in 2018.

How to Get Started!

Begin with a consultation to assess your dog’s needs. Contact via phone or email to schedule a drop-off meeting for board and train, or to arrange a private lesson. Daycare requires a consultation before registration.