Small tan and white dog standing on autumn forest path with fallen leaves
Meet Kathy Shumway Lawton

Understanding the dog.
Supporting the person.

A lifelong love of dogs, a commitment to learning, and a belief that every dog deserves to be understood.

Five dogs of various breeds and colors sitting together on grass
The heart behind K-10 Dog Training

It starts with
seeing the individual.

Dogs have always been part of Kathy’s life. Living with different personalities, caring for rescues, and opening her home to foster dogs have shaped the way she approaches training.

Today, her family includes Strut, a little black rescue, and Bella, a Golden Retriever. Their unique personalities are a daily reminder that there is no single approach that fits every dog.

At K-10 Dog Training, the goal is a rewarding partnership: clearer communication, practical skills, and more confidence for you both. The business has been helping dogs and their families since 2010.

Kathy
The philosophy

Before changing behavior,
understand what’s behind it.

Learn

A thoughtful foundation.

Positive reinforcement helps dogs learn through rewarding experiences and clear communication.

Understand

The whole dog matters.

Family Dog Mediation considers Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self—the L.E.G.S. framework—to better understand behavior.

Connect

Your family. Your goals.

Private lessons give Kathy time to focus on the needs, routines, and challenges that matter to your household.

A commitment to learning

Compassion, backed
by education.

Kathy continues learning as the dog-training field evolves. Her background includes:

Karen Pryor Academy certificationCompleted in 2011
CPDT-KA certificationCertified Professional Dog Trainer — Knowledge Assessed
Service Dog Coach certificationCompleted in 2019
Aggressive Dog CourseCompleted in 2022
Family Dog Mediator educationCompleted in 2024
Ongoing professional learningContinuing education in behavior and training
Person walking four dogs on leashes in urban park setting
Your next chapter starts here

A little understanding.
A whole new connection.

Tell Kathy about your dog, your everyday challenges, and the life you’d love to share.