WELCOME TO Downsouthk9academy

We are your trusted dog trainer in San Diego, CA, dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build strong, respectful relationships through positive learning experiences. At Downsouthk9academy, we believe that every dog is unique, and our customized approach ensures that each pet receives the attention and structure they need to succeed. From energetic puppies to mature dogs, we offer a wide range of dog training programs that focus on obedience, confidence, and clear communication. Our puppy training classes lay the foundation for success early on, teaching essential skills like socialization, leash manners, and basic commands. For more advanced training, we provide off-leash dog training that promotes trust and control in any environment. As a pet behavior specialist, we address challenges such as anxiety, jumping, or aggression with proven methods that create calm and consistent behavior at home and in public.

We also offer pet protection training for owners seeking a loyal, well-disciplined guardian, as well as dog potty services to help your pet develop reliable routines. Your convenience matters, which is why we provide after-hours service and schedule weekends by appointment only. Moreover, consultations are available for just $50, giving you the opportunity to discuss your dog’s goals and needs before starting a personalized plan. At Downsouthk9academy, our mission is to build lasting results through trust, patience, and teamwork—so you and your dog can enjoy a happier, more confident life together. Contact us today to get started.

Expert

EXPERIENCED TRAINERS


Trained professionals bring years of hands-on experience with all breeds, ages, and temperaments. Consistent guidance leads to dependable results.
Dedicated

COMPASSIONATE APPROACH


Our training focuses on respect, patience, and understanding to create a positive bond between dogs and their owners.
Comfortable

SAFE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT


Every session takes place in a calm, controlled setting designed to make dogs feel comfortable and focused.

GENTLE GUIDANCE, LASTING RESULTS, HAPPY DOGS

Training That Changes Behavior and Strengthens Bonds

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING

Dogs respond best to encouragement and rewards. Positive reinforcement builds trust, confidence, and lasting good behavior.

CUSTOMIZED TRAINING PLANS

Every dog has a unique personality and learning pace. Tailored programs ensure your pet gets the attention and structure they need.

FOCUS ON COMMUNICATION

Clear, consistent communication builds trust and helps dogs understand exactly what’s expected of them.

STRESS-FREE TRAINING

Gentle, reward-based techniques make learning enjoyable and help dogs stay relaxed during sessions.

GOAL-ORIENTED PROGRAMS

Each program focuses on achieving real-world results, from basic manners to advanced behavior control.

FUN AND ENGAGING SESSIONS

Lessons are designed to be enjoyable for both dogs and owners, making learning an exciting experience rather than a chore.

GUARD DOG TRAINING

Our guard dog training program focuses on developing a balanced and dependable protector. Each dog is trained with structure, discipline, and care to ensure they act appropriately in every circumstance. The training process begins with basic obedience and confidence-building exercises before introducing controlled guard work. Dogs learn to assess situations calmly and respond only when needed. The emphasis remains on obedience, loyalty, and self-control rather than aggression. Handlers are taught to work in harmony with their dogs, ensuring a clear understanding and complete command in protective tasks. This level of discipline creates not just a strong guardian but also a loyal and affectionate companion. Protect your home and loved ones with a well-trained dog that stands ready when it matters most. Reach out to us today for a consultation.

5

Days a Week Availability

3

Years in Business

10

Years of Experience

100%

Customer Satisfaction

FEATURED SERVICES

PUPPY TRAINING CLASSES

Early training sets the foundation for a happy, confident companion. Each session helps your pup understand boundaries, build trust, and learn through encouragement.

DOG POTTY SERVICES

Clear routines and consistency make house training easier for everyone. Simple guidance and repetition help your dog develop lasting good habits.

PET PROTECTION TRAINING

Structured lessons build confidence and focus while teaching your dog how to respond in real situations. Every step strengthens trust and awareness between you and your pet.

OFF-LEASH DOG TRAINING

Teaching focus and recall allows your dog to enjoy freedom safely. Calm, consistent direction helps maintain control without taking away their independence.

DOG MANNERS TRAINING

Gentle guidance turns daily interactions into learning opportunities. Positive habits form naturally as your dog learns how to stay calm and attentive.

PET BEHAVIOR TRAINING

Patience and consistency help replace unwanted habits with positive ones. Balanced training creates a more relaxed home and a stronger bond with your pet.

GALLERY

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MISSION STATEMENT

At Downsouthk9academy, our mission is to help dogs and their owners build lasting, trusting relationships through effective, compassionate training. Every dog deserves the chance to learn in a positive, supportive environment that encourages confidence, respect, and clear communication. We focus on understanding each dog’s unique personality and needs, creating training experiences that promote good behavior and strengthen the bond between pets and families. Through education, dedication, and care, we aim to make every training journey a step toward a happier, safer, and more connected life for dogs and the people who love them.


WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

    Lacey N.
    My experience with DSK9 has been phenomenal. In January 2025, we adopted a 1 year old female Belgian Malinois who had been found wandering the streets of downtown San Diego. From the moment she came home, she latched onto me and refused to leave my side, even guarding me from my own family. She was breaking out of every crate to escape and find us, jumping in front of moving vehicles, and slipping out of every harness and collar we tried. On top of that, she was showing serious people and dog aggression, which made everyday life feel overwhelming and unmanageable. After a couple of months of serious struggle and questioning if I had made the right decision, I stumbled across Down South K9 Academy. After seeing their success stories on Instagram, we scheduled an assessment. During the evaluation, Athena was jumping on me, growling at passersby, and completely disengaged from me. That day, I realized I could not handle her on my own. We booked a 15 day board and train program, and throughout that time, we received regular photo and video updates that eased my anxiety about having her away from us. We saw immediate progress through the updates, and when we were reunited with Athena, she was (and still is) a completely different dog. She no longer jumps, walks beautifully on a leash, can go into a down position with just a nod of my head, and her aggression toward people and other dogs is gone. The transformation was truly night and day. Now, with a happy, confident dog, and as a much more confident owner, Athena is living her most fulfilled life thanks to the training and confidence that Felix instilled in her. We cannot thank Felix and the DSK9 team enough for their dedication and expertise. We now meet regularly with the trainers and are pursuing bite work training as an outlet for her drive. Trainers Felix, Jesus, and Ricky are nothing short of the best in the field, and as long as we have dogs, they will always be trained by this incredible team.
    Diana D.
    Highly Recommend! I've been working with Jesus since my dog was 4 months old (she is almost 3yo), and the progress has been amazing. From behavior issues to sports training, they've helped so much. The training is positive and tailored to what we need, and now my dog is not only well-behaved but we also practice sports. Can't thank them enough for all the help and support. Highly recommend if you want to see real results!
    Naisey R.
    Couldn't find a better place for a day training program for my beautiful pup, the day program was the perfect fit for us since we didn't want to do the board and train, she would be picked up then dropped off at home getting her trained but not having to spend the night in another place, Ricky did an amazing job with Lola she learned so much and gave us great guidance to continue her training, also he loves Dobermans so that was a plus for me. Jesus also did amazing with the communication, any questions I had he made sure to promptly answer every single one.