After a few years in the veterinary world, I realized I loved caring for dogs but wanted something deeper: a way to actually change their lives, not just treat their symptoms. Then came Nemo—my first puppy—and soon after, Bandit, a husky who taught me every lesson the hard way. Those two dogs humbled me, challenged me, and ultimately changed the entire direction of my life.

I trained at Starmark Academy, became a Certified Canine Trainer and Behavior Specialist, and spent years working with families and dogs of every breed and background. In 2017, NorthernBound K9 was born- a name that reflects both my roots and my purpose: guiding dogs and their owners toward a better direction, together.

I always knew I wanted to work with animals, I just didn’t know how. 

The Road That Led Here

Expertise you can trust 

  • Certified Canine Trainer & Behavior Specialist, Starmark Academy (2016)

  • 8+ years of hands-on training experience

  • Specialized in reactivity, anxiety, and puppy development

  • Active competitor in dock diving, FASTCAT, PSA, and French Ring

  • Balanced training methods focused on communication, clarity, and trust

  • Lifetime support for every client—because training doesn’t stop at graduation

I’ve been where you are. 

where my story meets yours

The frustration, the second-guessing, the “what am I doing wrong?” moments- I know them well. I train from empathy and experience. Every family, every dog, every story is different- and my job is to help you find the approach that works for yours. When we work together, you don’t just get a trainer. You get a partner who’s been through it, who knows what works, and who genuinely cares about helping you and your dog thrive.

"I can’t say enough good things about Jennifer. When I first brought home my puppy, Walter, I thought I was prepared. I quickly realized I was in over my head."

 "I felt overwhelmed and had no idea how to get Walter to listen or understand what I wanted from him. Jennifer came in like an angel. She calmly showed me how to approach Walter in a way that not only made him listen, but also made both of our lives easier and happier. Our relationship completely transformed after working with her. Walter is now the best little buddy I could ask for. What makes Jennifer special is her approach. She has the perfect balance of gentle care and firm, clear boundaries. Everything is based on rewards and positive reinforcement, never yelling or harshness. You can tell she truly cares about the dogs she works with.

I’m so grateful for the way she changed my life with Walter, and I honestly can’t recommend her enough. Whether you need full support with a new puppy or just a little help with corrections, Jennifer is the only trainer I would trust."

-Molly, with Walter

"Sunny is a new dog when it comes to walking - keeping pace with me and checking in throughout his walks."

"Our energetic excitable dog Sunny spent two weeks with Jennifer working on walking and his overall manners. I was very hesitant to send him away for so long but with a new baby in the family we wanted to get Sunny in a better routine. Jennifer was terrific to work with - we felt like Sunny was cared for, given love, and stimulated by her training. Sunny is a new dog when it comes to walking - keeping pace with me and checking in throughout his walks.

While he is still his excitable self, Jennifer taught us helpful tips which were straight forward and practical for us to implement and have been effective. Jennifer also was very flexible to work with which we really appreciated, and seems to be someone who is very dedicated and passionate about her work! Would definitely recommend for those who are struggling with certain behaviors!"

-Lisa, with Sunny

"I am convinced Jenn took my dog and gave me a stunt double in return. There's no way this is the same dog that went to training a few weeks ago."

" If you follow Northern Bound on socials you will see my boy, Atlas, and his journey with Jenn. Before Jenn, I had reached my limit and my ability to enjoy my dog had all but disappeared. He's a good boy, very sweet with a great temperament but A LOT - he struggled with impulse control, anxiety, walking nicely, reactivity.....you name it. Now, he can lie down next to me and just chill. He gets to place and stays there (for the most part) until released. Walks are a joy because he isn't pulling or crossing in front of me and just generally all over the place. I know he still has growing and maturing to do but he is remarkably different and improved. I can't express enough with words how grateful I am to Jenn for the hard work she put in with Atlas. I am so glad we chose her for board and train - it has completely reshaped my relationship with my dog."

-Marisa, with Atlas

what clients are saying

Start your TRaining 

Your story doesn’t have to be one of frustration- it can be one of progress, confidence, and calm. Let’s make life with your dog what you always hoped it would be.

Let’s get started