Hey there!

Traci Swearer, a proud Michigan native and devoted Coast Guard spouse, is the heart and soul behind Valiant Canine Training, LLC, where she serves as Owner and Head Trainer. Deeply committed to her home state, Traci is excited to share her passion and expertise in dog training with the Northern Michigan community.

Traci's journey in dog training spans the past seven years, ignited by her beloved German Shepherd, Piper. After experiencing multiple trainers with ineffective approaches, she was motivated to seek a better way. This quest led her to dive deeper into effective training methods, along with special interests in canine neuroscience and epigenetics—fascinating fields that explore how dogs think, learn, and adapt. 

Her formal learning journey commenced in 2017 during her time in the captivating Florida Keys. While there, she pursued a variety of courses through The Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers, further solidifying her proficiency.

In addition to her extensive education, Traci is a proud member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) and holds Pet Tech CPR & First Aid Certification, ensuring the highest standards of care and safety for every dog she works with. 

Traci's dedication has taken her across the country, where she learned from some of the industry's finest while honing her craft and gaining hands-on experience with a diverse range of dogs. Before her return to Michigan, guided by her husband's career in the United States Coast Guard, she found success working with Grunt Style Canine Training in Mobile, Alabama, which specializes in behavioral modification.

Traci is thrilled to embark on this new journey, working with prospective clients to create positive, lasting changes in their dogs’ lives.

Note from Traci:

"My passion for dog training is deeply rooted in personal experience. I've faced the challenges of owning a difficult dog, seeking solutions from numerous trainers, only to find no resolution and sometimes exacerbation of the issues. This firsthand struggle fuels my commitment to assisting dogs and their owners in cultivating a resilient and harmonious relationship. I'm devoted to ensuring that the positive impact of training extends beyond the sessions, allowing both dogs and their owners to thrive together in the long run."