HIGHEST QUALITY DOG TRAINING AND BOARDING​ WHILE OFFERING YOU THE BEST VALUE

CHANGE WITH YOUR DOG

Innovative Training System

Welcome to a new era of dog training—where compassion, adaptability, and understanding are at the heart of every session.

My name is Jim Blau, and I spent 30 years behind bars for shooting a very, very bad man–an act most said understandable and some said commendable–but which was nevertheless unfair, arbitrary, and against the law. I accepted my fate and did my time with Honor and Dignity. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Ohio University, taught myself guitar, helped others survive the system and prepare themselves for freedom, and worked in dog rescue programs for approximately ten years. I lived with seasoned, intuitive trainers and troubled dogs 24 hours a day for many years, using no tools but a leash and flat collar, learning from the best and working with dogs with severe mental and behavioral issues. It was a steep learning curve, but in helping these dogs find redemption, I found my own.

OUR UNIQUE TRAINING SYSTEM

I changed my life and have transformed the lives of thousands of families since earning my freedom by creating a flexible, real-time dog-training method called Dynamic Adaptation that recognizes every dog is unique and ever-changing. Just as no two dogs are alike, no single training session should ever be the same. We believe the secret to truly effective training is not just in the techniques you use, but in how well you read and adapt to your dog’s personality and current state of mind. This makes training exciting and fun for your dog and leads them into wanting to perform well for you. They learn at their own pace and according to their own needs.

We start by carefully observing your dog across key personality traits—energy level, confidence, sociability, motivation, sensitivity, and focus. These traits shape how your dog learns and what motivates them. For example, a confident, food-motivated dog may excel with fast-paced, reward-heavy sessions, while a sensitive or cautious dog will thrive with a gentler, slower approach.

Dogs change from day to day—even moment to moment. Before each session, we check in: Is your dog energetic or tired? Calm or anxious? Focused or distracted? We then adjust our training plan in real time, ensuring your dog is always set up for success. If your dog is excited and attentive, we introduce new challenges. If they’re anxious or distracted, we simplify and keep things positive.

We see training as an ongoing, two-way conversation. Your dog’s body language, enthusiasm, and attention are cues that guide our next move. We’re always ready to change rewards, break tasks into smaller steps, or find a quieter space—whatever helps your dog stay engaged and confident.

Our compassionate, individualized method builds trust, keeps learning fun, and helps your dog reach their full potential. Corrections are never punishments—they’re gentle communications designed to help your dog understand. This relationship-based, empathetic approach is not only more humane, but also highly effective, creating lasting change and a deeper bond between you and your dog.
 
Leash manners, basic commands, mouthing, jumping, puppy basics, recall (to come when called), pack structure, reactivity, aggression, separation anxiety, low confidence, and impulse control are a few of the subjects we cover, with a special focus on the behaviors which are important to you. What’s more–and so crucial to our system’s success–we show you the techniques to make these new behaviors stick at home and prevent the negative behaviors from returning. If you follow the included tutorial and coaching session recommendations, it will be the best investment you’ve spent on your furry friend.

Our mission is Redemption, which is why I call my trainers and everyone who puts their dog through our training programs. The Redemption Crew. This is my passion! Let’s work together to help your best friend maintain good behavior and adapt to your current lifestyle. Join The Redemption Crew by scheduling a free evaluation today!
Photo of our dog training facility

Our Mission

mid-michigan k9 academy

At MMK9A, our mission is to enrich the lives of our community members by fostering stronger, more rewarding relationships between people and their dogs. We are committed to offering top-quality dog training at an affordable price while delivering exceptional care and compassion for every dog we work with.

tRAINING pROGRAMS

REDUCE YOUR STRESS, HARMONIZE YOUR HOME

Protection Dogs

Elite Protection Dog Training & Sales

protection sales

Personal Protection Dog Program

Welcome to our Personal Protection Dog Program—where we help you create the perfect blend of safety and family companionship. Whether your current family dog has the right temperament or you’re looking for a new canine companion, our expert team can guide you through the process. If your own dog shows the potential, we can provide specialized training to help them become a reliable protector while remaining a gentle, loving member of your household.

Alternatively, if you prefer, we can source a suitable dog for you—one that is carefully selected for both temperament and protective ability. Our program is designed to ensure your dog is trustworthy around children and loved ones, while also being ready to safeguard your home and family. No matter which path you choose, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having a loyal, well-trained companion who is both a cherished family member and a dedicated protector.

What differentiates Us Versus other companies?

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

Our competitors

Training Techniques

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

We rely on the latest science-based training techniques and modern tools to create a personalized training program tailored to your pet’s unique personality and behavioral needs.

Our competitors

Many facilities still rely on outdated methods that overuse prong collars, e-collars (shock collars), or aversive tools like water hoses—methods that may suppress behavior without addressing root causes.

Experience

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

Family-owned and operated, with over 50 years of combined experience under the leadership of head trainer Jim Blau.

Our competitors

Many corporate franchise models employ trainers with limited hands-on experience or general certifications.

Training Frequency

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

Dogs in our program receive 8–12 personalized training sessions per day with compassionate, well-trained staff.

Our competitors

Most facilities only offer 3–4 generic training sessions daily.

Kennel Size & Comfort

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

Our kennels are spacious and on average twice the size of other training facilities. We also have kennels to fit all breeds and sizes of dogs, assuring maximum comfort for your furry friend, from the itty bitty pups to the great big ones! Did we mention our kennels are climate-controlled?

Our competitors

Most training facilities use “one-size-fits-all” kennels that are not specific to the breed or the size of the dog. Did we mention some of the training “facilities” are in garages?!

Cleanliness & Safety

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

We use only pet-safe products effective against kennel-borne illnesses like Kennel Cough, E. coli, Staph, and Parvo.

Our competitors

Sanitation protocols vary widely; not all facilities prioritize high-grade, pet-safe cleaning products.

Therapeutic Enhancements

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

Each kennel is outfitted with near-infrared light to reduce inflammation, improve skin health, and lower anxiety.

Our competitors

Few facilities offer therapeutic wellness features beyond basic care.

Calming Environment

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

We play calming music in the 40 megahertz range—scientifically shown to ease anxiety in both dogs and humans.

Our competitors

Ambient noise or lack of calming elements can lead to increased stress in dogs.

Holistic Wellness

Mid-Michigan K9 Academy

We partner with a local CBD/CBN distributor to provide natural, holistic options that help reduce anxiety.

Our competitors

Many facilities rely on pharmaceutical interventions to manage behavior, often without exploring natural or individualized alternatives or training.

Our Happy Customers

Client Testimonials