Canine Karma Training – Texas

Canine Karma Training offers intensive Board & Train programs (40–45 days), JumpStart Puppy programs, In-Home Lessons, and Day Training. Board & Train includes daily updates via photos and videos, behavior modification for aggression, fear, or reactivity, and owner education for post-program success. In-Home Lessons are tailored to the household environment. Day Training provides structured training during business hours. Monthly group classes are available to clients who complete a Board & Train or 3 private lessons. All programs emphasize building a strong owner-dog relationship through communication and positive, balanced methods.

Pricing Summary

Pricing not explicitly listed. Offers Law Enforcement and Military discounts on all Board & Train programs. Programs include 40–45 day Board & Train, in-home lessons, and day training with customized pricing based on dog’s needs and program length.

Canine Karma Training – Texas is a professional dog training business based in Killeen, Texas, specializing in relationship-based, balanced dog training. Founded by David Herbert in Virginia and expanded to Texas by head trainer Sierra Elsmore, the company focuses on transforming the bond between dogs and their owners as the foundation for lasting behavior change. Their approach emphasizes clear communication, psychological understanding, and empowerment over punishment, rejecting dominance-based methods. Services include Board & Train, JumpStart Puppy, In-Home Lessons, and Day Training, with a strong focus on behavior modification for issues like leash reactivity, separation anxiety, fearfulness, and aggression. They offer personalized programs that educate owners to continue training successfully at home, ensuring long-term results. They also provide daily updates during boarding programs and follow-up support to reinforce progress.

Sierra Elsmore, the Texas-based owner and lead trainer, has over 8 years of experience and is certified as an AKC Evaluator & Instructor. She apprenticed under David Herbert, a former special education teacher and behavior therapist with 13+ years of experience and advanced degrees in psychology and special education. Their system is rooted in the principle that “relationship dictates behavior,” not repetition, and integrates play, positive reinforcement, and balanced techniques to maintain the dog’s joy while achieving obedience. They serve clients across Central Texas and offer virtual consultations through the Virginia location.

Additional services include monthly group classes for clients who complete a Board & Train or 3 private lessons, and they offer discounts for Law Enforcement and Military personnel on Board & Train programs.

Accomplishments

Sierra Elsmore is an AKC Evaluator & Instructor with 8+ years of experience and completed an apprenticeship under David Herbert, founder of Canine Karma Training. David Herbert holds an M.S. in Special Education and B.S. in Psychology, is a NYS Certified Special Education Teacher and Behavior Therapist, and has 13+ years of experience. Isabela Herbert, co-owner in Virginia, is a Certified Canine Nutritionist with a B.S. in Biological Sciences. The program has trained tens of thousands of dogs worldwide and is recognized for its successful Board & Train outcomes.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must apply via the online application form on the website. After submission, they are contacted to discuss their dog’s needs and select a program (Board & Train, In-Home Lessons, etc.). Follow-up includes scheduling an evaluation and beginning training with personalized guidance.