Cape Fear K9

Cape Fear K9 offers a range of comprehensive training programs designed to achieve optimal results. Their Board & Train Programs are structured to deliver the best outcomes in the shortest possible time, with training tailored to each dog’s unique personality, traits, behaviors, and challenges. Owners are actively involved through training sessions during the boarding period and additional lessons after their dog returns home. These programs include options from 1-week puppy development to 4-week off-leash training and specialized behavior modification.

Private Lesson Packages provide a personalized 1-on-1 setting where staff guide owners and their pups through a customized training plan based on specific needs and goals. These packages range from foundational puppy training to advanced skills, including the correct use of e-collars for clear boundaries and consistent behavior.

Behavior Modification programs address extreme behavioral challenges such as severe anxiety, fear, aggression, snarling, snapping, lunging, or biting. The staff is trained to handle even aggressive cases, working closely with families to effectively change their dog’s behavior. Personal Protection training focuses on teaching protection skills and proper control, ensuring the safety of the K9, home, property, and family through positive reinforcement for obedience, environmental awareness, and appropriate responses to pressure. Cape Fear K9 also offers fully trained protection K9s for sale.

Working K9 Programs cater to specialized needs, including Law Enforcement/Military (providing fully trained single and dual-purpose K9s and handler courses), Search & Rescue (training K9s and handlers in scent methods, Human Remains Detection, obedience, tracking, and area search), and Service Dogs (training dogs for tasks such as PTSD mitigation, medical alert, and mobility assistance). All programs emphasize real-world training, with skills tested in various social environments to prepare dogs for daily life scenarios.

Pricing Summary

Cape Fear K9 offers various pricing structures for their programs. Board & Train programs range from $1,400 for a 1-week Puppy Jump-Start to $4,800 for a 4-week Off-Leash program, with equipment included in most. The 4-week Behavior Modification Board & Train (Rehabilitation Program) is priced at $4,500, with equipment not included.

Private Lesson Packages vary from $650 for a 5-lesson Puppy Package to $1,500 for a 10-lesson Advanced Package, all including equipment. For current and previous clients, “Temp Stays” are available as refresher courses, costing $395 for 3 days, $625 for 5 days, and $850 for 7 days. Financing options are available for all Board & Train Programs.

Cape Fear K9 is a veteran-owned and operated dog training business dedicated to strengthening the bond between dogs and their owners. They aim to bring out the best in dogs while educating handlers, emphasizing relationship building and modern training techniques. The team prides itself on understanding dogs and their behaviors deeply, helping owners comprehend the reasons and emotions behind their dog’s actions to foster stronger relationships.

Cape Fear K9 offers tailored programs for all breeds, ages, and challenges, striving for long-lasting results through positive reinforcement and a value-based training approach. They operate a 4,000+ sq/ft training facility and focus on real-world training, conducting sessions both at their facility and in various social environments. Their services include Board & Train programs, Private Lessons, Behavior Modification, Personal Protection, Working K9 programs, and Puppy Development. They also provide “Temp Stays” as refresher courses for existing clients.

Accomplishments

Mike Chambers, CEO and Lead K-9 Instructor, is a Wilmington, NC native who served four years in the United States Marine Corps in various leadership roles, including the Presidential Support Program and Infantry Squad Leader. After an honorable discharge, he pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Security Management from AMU and attended the American K9 Interdictions (AK9I) Patrol/Detection Dog Trainers Course before founding Cape Fear K9.

Farrah Whitacre, General Manager and Dog Trainer, is an American Kennel Club (AKC) Evaluator. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from UNCW and has three years of experience in veterinary medicine, including two years as an emergency veterinary technician. Farrah joined Cape Fear K9 through a trainer apprenticeship and has a passion for K9 protection and scent detection.

Tara Chambers, Director of Marketing, is a digital product designer with experience since 2016, working for UNCW Athletics, UNCW Campus Recreation, and local businesses. She specializes in graphic design, content creation, photography, and videography. Tara holds an A.A., a B.A. in Communication Studies, and an M.Ed in Educational Leadership.

How to Get Started!

To begin training, clients are required to schedule a consultation. This assessment evaluates the canine companion to determine the most suitable training solution that aligns with the collective needs and desired outcomes of the dog and owner. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Cape Fear K9 to schedule their assessment and start their training journey.