Our Team

Meet the Backyard Canine Team

Chris is the owner and founder of Backyard Canine Academy. He got his start in dog training when he got his first Malinois-X, Murphy In 2019. Chris believes that structure and disciple will breed positive and lasting results. He is a hands on trainer that strives to help clients understand the “why” of what they are doing and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. When he isn’t working with clients you can find him training his own dogs (Murphy- PSA-2 (1st Leg ) and Axel (PSA-1 (1st Leg) for the sport of PSA. While away from training dogs he loves spending time with his two daughters Ryley and Reagan and his wife Misty. Chris has earned several awards while competing in PSA to include high obedience, high protection, high owner trained club, 1st Place for Level 1 protection and 3rd place over all for 2022 PSA Nationals. Additionally, he is an AKC- CGC Evaluator.

Misty started her role with Backyard Canine by helping Chris start the business from the ground up. In the beginning she could be found booking appointments, handling finances and managing all of the administrative duties; all while being a full time mom of two girls. Since starting the business Misty also works a Dutch shepherd female named Koa who is training in PSA. Misty has a passion for working puppies and has since taken the lead on the puppy board and train program.

Both Chris and Misty practice what they preach! When they say dog training isn’t a one time thing, it is something you have to continue to upkeep and build on. Obedience is the foundation to any goal you have for your dog. Whether your goal is to take your dog to the park, out with you in public, or maybe you want your dog to serve a bigger purpose in their life…obedience is where it all begins. House pet, Sport dog and everything in between…it all starts there!