National K-9 Learning Center
About National K-9 Learning Center
National K-9 is one of Columbus's most established dog trainers — founded in 1975 — and unusually, it's both a training service and a state-regulated school that trains other professional trainers.
How they train
The philosophy favors hands-on, in-person instruction over videos or books — the value being the immediate feedback an experienced trainer gives in the moment. Obedience is on- and off-leash, any breed, customized to the dog–owner pair. The method is traditional rather than described in force-free terms.
Programs
For pet owners: obedience; behavior modification for socialization issues, anxiety, chewing, barking, possessiveness, and aggression; a Puppy Preschool for 8–16-week-olds (manners, socialization, problem prevention); and year-round boarding with bathing. The four-week Professional Obedience & Behavior course is the career track for aspiring trainers. At 221 Morrison Road, serving the metro and surrounding counties.
Experience & credentials
Approved by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools; graduates earn a Certified Professional Trainer (CPT) credential, and the school cites 2,500+ graduates across all 50 states and 50+ countries. Run by president Chris Altier. 614-864-8808 ·
Who it’s best for
Best for owners who value credentials, institutional track record, and structured methodology — and anyone considering becoming a trainer themselves. Less ideal if you want published pricing or a specifically force-free philosophy.
At a glance
Services
Specialties
Credentials
✓ Verified credentials were independently confirmed in the certifying body’s public registry (click to view). Other credentials are self-reported by the trainer; where an independent registry exists, use the verify link to confirm directly with the certifying body (CCPDT, KPA, IAABC, APDT, IACP, AKC).
Reviews
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My dog Ace did his puppy training at National K9 and 4 years later, he is still the best on walks! Even after moving away for 2 years of his life, the staff remembered him from his training. I typically don't board my pets, but when I have to NK9 is the best! My dog always comes home happy and sleepy. I appreciate the extra care they give my dog!
I love Cassie and Ahmed! They are my dogs' trainers and we like to move at a good pace, our training sessions have all been so fun and successful. My reactive dog is showing loads of improvement. She doesn't pull at the end of her leash anymore and we are building trust while strengthening our relationship. I'm so grateful for this place.
National K-9 has been absolutely life changing for my pups and I. After adopting my rescue and she began to settle in, her behaviors and reactivity began to show. Walking her was a nightmare, for being small she certainly knew how to drag me through my neighborhood. Barking and screaming every time she saw another dog, lunging and biting at my clothes anytime I tried to leave my home. After dropping her off for the 13-5 board and train with Cassie, she became a completely different dog. We worked hard in our follow up sessions, at home and even additional 1-on-1 sessions at N-K9 with Cassie. Now, we walk confidently outside and can enjoy walking together. I've learned how to continue to manage her reactivity through appropriate timing and proper exposure. She improves every day. Cassie and Elizabeth also trained my other rescue who now has appropriate manners inside and outside of the home. I am absolutely thrilled with how well my pups have done since training. Thank you to everyone at N-K9, we are so thankful!!
National K9 has been amazing for our dog Cincy. We started with puppy pre school and he just completed off leash training. He is coming up on a year old and is very well behaved. He loves going to National K9 and the staff there have been incredible with him. Elizabeth has been an amazing trainer for him and has been great with answering our questions. We have boarded here too as he enjoys it so much. Thank you so much for all of your help.
I highly recommend this place if you’re looking for a school to become a dog trainer. I was very pleased with the 3 week program. It pushes you hard but you learn so many things. It is a great start into the field of dog training.
10 month update: After continuing my education working with other trainers, and finding a company to work for. I look back every week and am reminded on where I got started. Funny to say, but the founder of the company I work for started at National K9. When discussing with people on where I attended school I am surprised by the countless times I’ve heard “ I know someone who attended there”. I can not thank National k9 and the staff enough for the education I received.
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15 people rated National K-9 Learning Center 2.9/5 on Yelp.
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