Texas K9 University, LLC – by appointment only

Training programs include Boarding School (2+ weeks, customized skills training with daily coaching), Day School (3+ weeks, drop-off training during business hours with owner coaching), and Private Coaching (1-hour sessions on-site or off-site for real-world practice). Specialized training is available for nose work, obedience, protection sports, CGC, therapy, and service dog work. All programs are tailored to the dog’s individual learning style and the owner’s goals.

Pricing Summary

Boarding School: $1,100 per week (minimum 2 weeks), includes 1 hour of private coaching per week. Day School: $125 per day (minimum 3 weeks), includes two 1-hour private sessions. Private Coaching: $125 per hour. Boarding: $50 per night for one dog, $40 per night for additional dogs in the same kennel.

Policies

Appointments required; no walk-ins. Boarding and training programs require advance reservation. Cancellation and rescheduling policies are not explicitly stated on the website.

Texas K9 University, LLC is a professional dog training facility located in Springtown, Texas, offering personalized training for dogs of all breeds, sizes, ages, and skill levels. Founded by Kim Cerio and Pat Cerio, the business emphasizes individualized training with no one-size-fits-all approach, ensuring each dog’s unique needs are met. They provide private lessons, board and train programs, and day school options to help owners achieve obedience, behavior modification, or specialized skills like scent detection, protection sports, or therapy dog certification. The facility features securely fenced play areas, pools, and accommodations for dogs with special needs, including medication management. They also offer pet boarding, dog placement assistance, and working dog services for law enforcement and public agencies. Their team includes certified K9s with real-world experience in detection, search and rescue, and protection sports, creating a highly credible training environment.

Kim Cerio, a retired Chicago Police Department officer and Master Texas Peace Officer, brings over 20 years of professional dog training experience, having trained police and detection K9s, including her retired Human Remains Detection Dog, Cooper. Pat Cerio, a retired US Department of Justice Lieutenant, contributes expertise in search and rescue and adaptive training methods. The facility is fully licensed by the State of Texas and holds a DEA license for narcotics K9 training, and is one of only 12 U.S. vendors authorized to supply explosive detection K9s to the TSA.

They serve dog owners seeking everything from basic manners to advanced working dog skills, with a focus on real-world reliability and owner education through hands-on coaching sessions. Their boarding program includes daily enrichment activities and no extra fees for walks or playtime, making it ideal for busy or traveling pet owners.

Accomplishments

Kim Cerio is a retired Chicago Police Department officer, the first female to receive the Carter Harrison Award for Bravery and Valor, and a Master Texas Peace Officer. She trained and handled nationally certified Human Remains Detection K9 Cooper and multiple police and detection K9s. Texas K9 University is one of only 12 U.S. vendors authorized to supply explosive detection K9s to the TSA and holds a DEA license for narcotics K9 training. Pat Cerio trained K9 LulaBelle, a certified trailing K9 for the Cook County Sheriff’s Police.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must contact the business by phone or email to schedule an appointment. An initial consultation is required to assess the dog’s needs and determine the appropriate training program.