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MEET THE TEAM

The K9 Coaches
Behind BAMK9

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ABOUT BAMK9

Building Confident Dogs and Empowered Owners

Body and Mind K9 started with a simple idea— every dog deserves balance, and every owner deserves confidence. BAMK9's Founder, Charlie, started BAMK9 in Long Beach, CA, with a free community training class. Creating a space where owners could learn, connect, and grow alongside their dogs. What started as a local gathering quickly evolved into a thriving training business, offering private sessions, structured group classes, and the popular Adventure Academy. As demand grew, so did the vision.

 

Now, BAMK9 is expanding as a traveling training team, bringing real-world training to owners and dogs across the country.  Long Beach remains our home base, now led by K9 Coach Bella, who continues to run private training and community programs with the same heart and dedication that started it all. This growth has allowed Charlie to travel and bring BAMK9’s unique approach to new locations, starting with Austin, TX. Whether you train with us in Long Beach, Austin, or somewhere new, our goal remains the same: to help you transform daily struggles into confidence, trust, and real-world success with your dog.

We offer private training for personalized coaching, group classes for structured learning, and community events like pack walks and training hikes to build confidence in real-world settings. No matter the program, BAMK9 is here to guide you through a training experience that fits your life.

 

Not in Long Beach or Austin? Let us know where you want BAMK9 to go next! Join a growing movement of dog owners who are building stronger partnerships, one training session at a time. 

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Meet Austin's Head K9 Coach

Charlie

I’ve spent close to 15 years working with dogs in every setting you can imagine— nutrition, daycare, vet clinics, grooming, and training— and every experience has shaped how I approach helping owners and their dogs today. Training should feel clear, practical, and built around your life, not like a never-ending struggle. Whether you're dealing with leash pulling, reactivity, or just want a dog who listens in real-world situations, my goal is to help you understand how to communicate effectively so you can enjoy life with your dog, stress-free.

Before launching BAMK9 in 2022, I spent five years working under experienced trainers while developing my own training style. For the last three years, I’ve been working hands-on with clients under my own name, focusing on real-world training that meets dogs where they struggle most— crowded sidewalks, busy parks, dog-friendly patios, and anywhere life takes you. The goal isn’t just obedience- it’s confidence, trust, and a real partnership between you and your dog.

 I wanted to create a space where owners feel encouraged, where dogs can learn in a structured but enjoyable way, and where people can connect through hikes, pack walks, and shared training experiences. BAMK9 is built on a foundation of community with dog owners who support each other and have fun in the process. The more we invest in our dogs, the more they can be part of our lives, and that’s what BAMK9 is all about.

If you’re looking for training that goes beyond the basics and helps you truly enjoy life with your dog, I’d love to work with you.

Meet Long Beach's K9 Coach

Bella

Hi everyone, I'm Isabella! I joined the BAMK9 team in 2025 as the K9 Coach in Long Beach. I've worked with dogs for over five years, and my training career started as a volunteer for the Long Beach Animal Shelter. I love helping pet owners accomplish their training goals while having fun. 

 

Outside of training, I compete in dog competitions with my mini-me Bella. Together, we've won numerous ribbons in, AKC CGC, Rally, Fast Cat, Trick Dog, and many more.

You'll see me leading BAMK9's community classes each week in Bixby Annex, hosting group classes, and leading pack walks and hikes each month. 

 

If you're looking for training in the Long Beach area, I'd love to work with you and your dog! 

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Our Training Approach

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Train Where It Counts

Dogs don’t live in training rooms, so we don’t train in them. We focus on real-world environments like sidewalks, parks, and busy spaces to prepare your dog for everyday challenges. This ensures training translates into practical, reliable behavior in daily life.

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Communicate With Clarity

Training is about building understanding between you and your dog. We teach clear communication, structured routines, and practical techniques that create lasting change. When your dog knows what’s expected, progress comes faster and easier.

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Results That Last

Our goal is to empower you with skills that extend beyond training sessions. We focus on hands-on learning so you feel confident continuing training on your own. This ensures long-term success and a stronger bond with your dog.

Are you ready for a training transformation?

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“Charlie & his team are some of the best around. He has been such a tremendous help with your rescue “lab mix” (FYI…Charlie was the first to point out that most likely our “lab mix” wasn’t a lab at all & he was RIGHT!)

Charlie has been so patient, calm, and understanding with our boy. It’s been a welcome relief in the world of owning a misunderstood dog (aka reactive dog). I
have, and will continue, to sing Charlie & his teams praises!”

- Tricia V.

  • What tools do you use in training?
    We incorporate a variety of tools, such as slip leads, e-collars, prong collars, toys, and food rewards, depending on what best supports your dog’s learning. Our focus is on effective, ethical, and results-driven training.
  • What is the difference between Private Training, Group Classes, and Community Events?
    Private Training: One-on-one coaching tailored to your specific challenges, such as leash pulling, reactivity, or off-leash skills. Group Classes: Structured training focused on Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Trick Dog, and Basic Obedience skills in a supportive environment. Community Events: Donation-based classes, hikes, and pack walks designed to give owners a chance to practice training in a relaxed setting while connecting with others.
  • What if I have multiple dogs that need training?
    We can work with multiple dogs in both Private Training and Group Classes. If your dogs have very different training needs, we may recommend separate sessions for the best results.
  • Do you work with reactive dogs?
    Yes! We specialize in helping reactive dogs build confidence and learn how to navigate triggers. Our real-world approach helps dogs and owners handle distractions, other dogs, and unpredictable environments with ease.
  • What training methods do you use?
    We use a balanced training approach that focuses on clear communication, structure, and engagement. Every dog is different, so we customize our methods to fit their needs while ensuring they feel safe and motivated.
  • How long does training take?
    Training is a lifelong journey, but most owners see noticeable progress within the first few sessions. The timeline depends on consistency, the dog’s individual needs, and the owner’s commitment to practicing between sessions.
  • Do you offer off-leash training?
    Yes, we offer advanced off-leash training that focuses on reliable recall, engagement, and ensuring your dog is able to perform and engage with you in any environment.
  • How do I get started with BAMK9?
    Your first step is to book an Intro Session, where we assess your dog’s behavior, discuss your goals, and create a tailored training plan.
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ANY QUESTIONS?

GET IN TOUCH

Whether you’re ready to book a session or just want to learn more about our programs, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out today, and let’s start building a balanced confident partnership with your dog. Our team has your back through every step of your training journey. ​

@bodyandmindk9

@bodyandmindk9

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