F.M. K9

Training programs are intensive, facility-based, and range from 4 to 7 weeks depending on specialization: 4 weeks for Narcotics only, 5 weeks for Explosives only, 6 weeks for Utility/Narcotics, and 7 weeks for Utility/Explosives. Each program includes minimum 40 hours per week of field training, written tests, oral discussions, and a training manual. Certification is available through IPWDA. Dogs are housed on-site during training. Pre-training preparation is recommended 30 days prior to class start.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is not publicly listed; available upon request for training classes and pre-trained dogs. Housing is included in the price for dogs during training. Free lifetime training refresher courses are offered for teams trained by F.M. K9.

Policies

Offers a two-year health guarantee on all canines, with x-rays verified by veterinarians. Provides a one-year guarantee on training after successful class completion. Offers a satisfaction guarantee on all canines sold. Free training refresher courses are available for the working life of the team. No cancellation or rescheduling policies are specified for clients.

F.M. K9 is a U.S. Veteran-owned dog training business specializing in professional canine training for law enforcement, government agencies, and private security teams. They offer intensive facility-based training programs for working dogs, including Basic Utility, Narcotics Detection, Explosive Detection, Cadaver Detection, Decoy Training, and Scenario-Based Training. Their trainers have over 25 years of combined law enforcement and canine handling experience, including former SWAT commanders and certified instructors. They provide pre-trained dogs and green canines from breeds such as Malinois, German Shepherds, Labs, and Dutch Shepherds. Clients receive a two-year health guarantee, free lifetime training refresher courses, and ongoing phone/online support. Training includes 40+ hours per week of fieldwork, written exams, and certification through IPWDA. They also sell branded apparel and equipment through their online store.

While primarily serving professional handlers and agencies, their services include comprehensive training for working dogs in patrol, detection, and protection roles, with no mention of services for general pet owners.

They operate from a dedicated training facility in Buchanan, Michigan, and offer housing for dogs during training.

Note: The business does not appear to offer training services for family pets, behavior modification, or general dog owners.

A concerning incident is documented: 18 police dogs suffered heat stroke in 2023 while in the care of F.M. K9 employees, resulting in 9 deaths.

They do not offer services for puppies, senior dogs, or non-working breeds in a pet context.

Their training is exclusively facility-based and intensive, with no home visits, group classes, or day training for pet owners.

Accomplishments

Owner Michael McHenry has over 25 years in the canine field, 18.5 years as a canine handler, 18 years supervising canine units, and is an expert witness in canine-related court cases. He is a U.S. Army veteran, holds a Master’s in Psychology, and is certified in DRE/SFST, Defensive Tactics, and Decoy Training. Trainer Nicholas Kruger has 14 years of canine experience and is an instructor at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. Trainer Flora McHenry is an active law enforcement officer and ILEA-certified instructor. F.M. K9 is an ILETSB and OPOTA approved training facility.

How to Get Started!

Agencies are recommended to select their canine 30 days prior to class start to allow for pre-training in obedience, tracking, and scent imprinting. Contact F.M. K9 directly for availability, pricing, and class scheduling.