The Canny Canine

Classes are small and purposefully limited for individualized attention. K9 Nose Work classes are ongoing and flexible, allowing clients to build their own schedule. Obedience classes (Canine Etiquette and CGC) resume in February 2026. An ongoing drop-in obedience group meets Sunday mornings with instructor approval. Private sessions and weekend workshops are available. Workshops are typically three hours and cover topics like trial stress, foundation building, and troubleshooting. All programs emphasize motivational training and handler-dog teamwork.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed. Clients must contact Carolyn directly for class rates, workshop fees, or private session costs. Registration requires creating an account and booking a minimum of 6 classes for K9 Nose Work and obedience programs.

Policies

Registration requires creating an account and booking a minimum of 6 classes. No specific cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated on the website. Clients are encouraged to contact Carolyn directly for scheduling questions.

The Canny Canine is a dog training business serving Gallatin Valley since 2013, led by owner and trainer Carolyn Murray. She specializes in K9 Nose Work® and obedience training, offering small, purposefully limited classes to ensure individualized attention. Carolyn is a Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI™) and a certified judge for the National Association of Canine Scent Work®. Her training philosophy emphasizes motivational methods, handler accountability, and building a strong, willing team between dog and handler. She works with dogs of all breeds and temperaments, with a special focus on sensitive dogs. In addition to group classes, she offers private sessions and weekend workshops across the western U.S. Her programs are designed for family pets seeking fun and engagement, not just competition. Carolyn also provides AKC certification testing for STAR Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, and Trick Dog programs.

Carolyn’s own dogs compete in K9 Nose Work and IGP (Schutzhund), reflecting her deep commitment to high-level training and canine welfare. She continues to learn from top trainers and integrates engagement-based methods into all her programs. Her inclusive community welcomes handlers at all levels, whether they’re competing or just enjoying time with their dogs.

She also offers an ongoing drop-in obedience group and flexible K9 Nose Work scheduling, allowing clients to build their own training pace.

Carolyn has trained and titled multiple dogs in multiple venues and has helped countless students achieve titles and high-in-trial placements in K9 Nose Work.

She is a member of AKC, NACSW, USCA, and other canine organizations, and holds certifications as a Trick Dog Instructor and Scent Work Judge.

Accomplishments

Carolyn Murray is a Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI™), AKC Scent Work Judge, AKC Farm Dog Judge, and Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI). She has titled multiple dogs in NACSW K9 Nose Work (NW3 level), IGP, and AKC programs. Her dogs have earned numerous titles including NW3, IGP BH-VT, and Trick Dog Champion. She is a Certifying Official and Trial Judge for NACSW and has trained students to achieve multiple titles and high-in-trial designations.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can select a class, choose a date, create or sign into an account, and book a minimum of 6 classes. For questions or private sessions, contact Carolyn directly via the Contact & Bookings page. Drop-in obedience requires instructor approval.