About Us

First Rate Canine is a veteran-owned, non-commercial training program built around structure, clarity, and real-world application.
Training is not approached as a one-size-fits-all process. Each dog is trained based on what they need to become clear, accountable, and reliable in everyday life.
The goal is not just obedience but creating behavior that holds up in your home, your routines, and your environment.
The First Rate Standard
Training is not limited to sessions. It is applied throughout the day.
Dogs are held to consistent expectations in real-life situations, not just controlled environments. This is what creates behavior that is repeatable, functional, and transferable back to the owner.
We focus on:
• Clear communication
• Consistency
• Accountability
• Real-world application
• Experience & Background
With over a decade of hands-on experience, First Rate Canine has worked with a wide range of dogs, from everyday pet dogs to high-drive and working breeds.
Training is not based on theory alone. It comes from years of working in real environments, handling real dogs, and developing practical solutions that hold up outside of training.
This experience includes:
• Professional training environments
• Shelter and rescue work
• Hands-on development of both pet and sport dogs
• Continued education through structured programs and seminars
Training is built on real-world application, not theory alone.

MEET THE TRAINERS
Trainer Chelsea








Trainer Chelsea is the owner and head trainer of First Rate Canine.
Her work with dogs began in 2009 through volunteer work with rescues and shelters while serving in the United States Marine Corps. During that time, she began studying animal behavior and developing a deeper understanding of training.
From there, she progressed through hands-on roles in kennel environments, training facilities, and professional
programs, building a foundation rooted in real-world experience.
Chelsea has been actively training dogs since 2010, began professional work in 2014, and has been fully dedicated to training since 2012, working as a full-time trainer since 2016.
her background includes:
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• Starmark Certified Canine Trainer & Behavior Specialist
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• Graduate of Tom Rose School Master Trainer Program
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• Former Co-Owner and Trainer at Modern K9s
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• Experience working with pet, sport, and working dogs
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• Personally titled dogs in both sport and performance venues
Training Approach
Training is tailored to the individual dog, using a balanced approach that incorporates positive reinforcement, clear communication, and accountability.
The focus is not just on teaching behaviors but making them reliable and usable in real-life situations.
Owners are shown how to maintain and apply the training, ensuring long-term success beyond the program.
