Kim’s K-9

Private training includes one-hour weekly sessions with the owner and dog, focusing on real-world skills like sit, down, heel, recall, and leave-it. Between sessions, owners practice at home with guidance. Group puppy kindergarten is a 6-week class for puppies 12–18 weeks old, with weekly lessons and homework. Day training and bootcamp are intensive programs where trainers work with the dog daily, then teach owners how to maintain progress. All programs are tailored to the dog’s temperament and the family’s lifestyle.

Pricing Summary

Pricing is customized based on the dog’s needs and training goals. Private training, bootcamp, and day training programs require a consultation to receive a quote. No published fixed rates are listed.

Kim’s K-9 is a family-owned dog training and boarding facility in Kentwood, Michigan, serving the greater Grand Rapids area since 1987. Founded by Kim and Brian Steffes and now operated by Martha Wiltse since 2021, the business emphasizes personalized, relationship-based training using Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) principles. They offer private training sessions, group puppy classes, day training, and bootcamp programs tailored to each dog’s temperament and the owner’s goals. Their facility includes safe, clean indoor and outdoor play areas for daycare and boarding, with strict vaccine requirements to ensure all dogs’ health. Staff are professionally trained and focus on building long-term success for both dogs and their families.

Training is conducted outside the main facility during private sessions, while group classes and intensive programs like bootcamp occur on-site. They specialize in basic obedience, puppy socialization, leash walking, recall, and behavior modification for issues like jumping, barking, and separation anxiety. Their approach combines hands-on training with owner education to empower families to maintain progress at home.

In addition to training, they provide dog daycare, private boarding, puppy pre-school, and puppy kindergarten programs. The facility is open seven days a week with flexible morning, afternoon, and evening hours to accommodate busy schedules.

Accomplishments

Owner Martha Wiltse holds a LIMA certification and ensures all trainers follow consistent, compassionate methods. The business has operated for over 35 years, building long-term client relationships and a trusted reputation in West Michigan.

How to Get Started!

Interested clients must contact Kim’s K-9 to discuss their dog’s needs and training goals. A consultation is required to receive a customized quote and program plan before beginning any training service.