My passion for dog training began with my own dog, Forest. His struggles with reactivity inspired me to develop a deeper understanding of canine behaviour and how dogs learn.
At Thrive K9, I focus on building engagement, drive, and clear communication before expecting reliable obedience. When dogs are motivated, confident, and genuinely enjoy working with their owners, learning becomes faster, stronger, and lasts well beyond the training session. Every dog is unique, and my goal is to help each dog reach their full potential.
- Dog Trainer In Wellington
Meet The Team Behind Thrive K9
SUMIN
FOUNDER OF THRIVE K9 NZ
FOREST
THE CHALLENGER
Forest is the dog who inspired the creation of this business.
As a young dog, he struggled with reactivity, excitement, and impulse control. His training journey taught me that lasting results don’t come from quick fixes. They come from consistency, clear communication, and building a relationship based on trust and understanding.
Working through those challenges sparked my passion for learning about dog behaviour and developing practical training skills that work in everyday life. Watching Forest grow into a more focused, confident, and reliable companion reinforced my belief that every dog has the potential to succeed when they’re given the right guidance.
Today, Forest continues to be an important part of our training team. He reminds me that progress takes time, and that with patience, structure, and commitment, both dogs and their owners can achieve more than they ever thought possible.
FREYA
THE STEADY LEADER
Freya is the dog who shaped the way I train.
When I first started training her, I quickly learned that she wasn't a dog I could simply pressure into doing things. The more I tried to make her comply, the less she wanted to participate. Freya taught me that true engagement can't be forced it has to be built.
That lesson changed everything.
Instead of focusing on control, I began focusing on motivation, drive, and creating value in working together. As our relationship grew, so did her enthusiasm for training. She showed me that when a dog genuinely wants to be part of the process, learning becomes faster, clearer, and far more enjoyable for both dog and handler.
Today, Freya is still my biggest teacher. She reminds me every day that great training isn't just about teaching behaviours it's about building a relationship where your dog chooses to work with you because they love doing it.
Much of the approach I use with my clients today was shaped by the lessons she taught me.
BEAR
CURRENT FOSTER PUP
Bear came to Thrive K9 after two unsuccessful forever homes. He was a fearful young puppy who lacked confidence and struggled with puppy biting and everyday challenges.
Through patience, clear communication, and training tailored to his individual needs, Bear has transformed into a confident, engaged, and well mannered young dog.
His journey reinforces what I believe about every dog: with understanding, consistency, and the right guidance, they have the ability to learn, grow, and thrive.