Certified Trainers

 Marsha Durfee is a highly respected Master Certified Dog Trainer, AKC Judge, and K9 instructor with over 20 years of professional experience in dog training, behavior modification, and working K9 development. As the founder of K9 Paws Behavior Dog Training, Marsha has built one of the most trusted and award-winning training programs in the tri-state area, known for its commitment to safe, humane, and effective training methods.

Marsha holds four Master Dog Trainer Certifications through ASCTI, where she played a key role in shaping the organization’s certification standards by developing and demonstrating advanced training requirements for future professionals. She is an AKC-approved Judge for Farm Dog, ATT, and Fetch, and an AKC Fit Dog Instructor Levels 1–3, bringing exceptional structure, fairness, and expertise to every team she instructs or evaluates.

Her extensive skillset covers:

Pet Obedience (Puppy through Expert Level)

Off-Leash & E-Collar Training

Behavior Modification

Therapy Dog Training

Service Dog Training

Detection K9 Training

Search and Rescue (SAR)

Human Remains Detection (HRD)

Throughout her career, Marsha has earned a reputation as a leader in K9 education and working dog development. She serves her community through annual programs such as the Free Veterans Appreciation Dog Training Class, holiday pet food drives for no-kill shelters, and public education on service dog laws and responsible handling.

With unmatched dedication, hands-on expertise, and a deep understanding of canine behavior, Marsha continues to influence the future of both companion dog training and working K9 teams. Whether she is guiding a new puppy, preparing a handler for certification, or evaluating advanced K9 teams, her passion and professionalism shine in every session.

Marsha Believes Strongly in Staying On-top of Education this is why she is been working on her bachelor's degree Canine Behavioral Science, With London Hanover University- Online College of Zoological.

 With more than two decades of hands-on experience, Randy Durfee is a highly respected leader in canine behavior, obedience, and working-dog development. Known for his calm, clear communication style and exceptional handling skills, Randy has played a pivotal role in shaping K9 Paws Behavior Dog Training into the most award-winning dog training business in the tri-state area.

As the Lead SAR Tracking Trainer, Randy specializes in developing reliable search-and-rescue K9 teams. His instruction focuses on precision tracking, handler awareness, reading canine behavior, and building confident, mission-ready dogs capable of working in challenging environments.

Randy’s training philosophy is rooted in humane, evidence-based methods that prioritize trust, clear guidance, and the relationship between handler and dog. His expertise spans obedience, behavior modification, service dog development, therapy dog preparation, scent detection, SAR, and HRD K9 training.

Over the years, Randy has helped thousands of dogs and owners achieve success through safe, effective training tools and techniques—always demonstrating each method with his own dogs first to show clients exactly how and why it works. His commitment to transparency, ethics, and high-quality training has earned him admiration from both clients and fellow professionals.

Beyond daily training, Randy dedicates his time to community programs, including the annual Free Veterans Appreciation Dog Training Class, the holiday pet food drive, and public education on responsible dog ownership, service dog standards, and canine welfare.

Randy’s passion for dogs is matched only by his commitment to helping people understand them. His patience, expertise, and unwavering dedication continue to strengthen K9 Paws Behavior Dog Training as a trusted leader in the canine training industry.

 Tyler Hansen is a dedicated and highly motivated member of the K9 training community, known for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to continual growth. 

With a passion for working with dogs and helping teams succeed, Tyler brings both hands-on skill and a level-headed, detail-oriented approach to every training environment.

Tyler has developed a solid foundation in canine behavior, obedience, and working-dog fundamentals through consistent training, mentorship, and real-world experience. He is recognized for his ability to communicate clearly with both handlers and dogs, creating a focused and positive learning atmosphere. His calm presence, willingness to learn, and ability to adjust quickly during high-pressure training scenarios make him a valuable asset to every team he supports.

Driven by a genuine passion for helping K9 teams reach their full potential, Tyler continues to expand his knowledge in obedience, detection, tracking, and search-and-rescue disciplines. His dedication to professional development and his enthusiasm for the K9 world reflect his commitment to providing safe, effective, and reliable training support.

Whether assisting in the field, supporting structured classes, or working one-on-one with handlers, Tyler Hansen exemplifies the qualities of a dependable and forward-thinking K9 professional.