Meet the Founder & Professional Dog Trainer Behind FurBabies & Friends in Glendale, AZ
Looking for a professional dog trainer in Glendale, AZ who delivers real results in real-life situations? You’re in the right place.
Kristie Halverson is the owner and founder of FurBabies & Friends, a trusted, licensed, bonded, and insured pet care company offering dog & puppy training, pet sitting, dog walking, and dog grooming services across the Phoenix West Valley. With over 200 5-star reviews and multiple local awards, Kristie leads a highly rated team while personally specializing in force-free, positive reinforcement dog training that creates lasting behavior change, not quick fixes.
Kristie Halverson is the owner and founder of FurBabies & Friends, a trusted, licensed, bonded, and insured pet care company offering dog & puppy training, pet sitting, dog walking, and dog grooming services across the Phoenix West Valley. With over 200 5-star reviews and multiple local awards, Kristie leads a highly rated team while personally specializing in force-free, positive reinforcement dog training that creates lasting behavior change, not quick fixes.
Why Pet Parents Trust Kristie
* 7+ years as a professional dog trainer in Glendale, AZ
* 200+ 5-star reviews from real pet parents
* 20+ years working with dogs, including rescue and rehabilitation
* Over 70 foster dogs trained and supported
* Licensed, bonded, and insured pet care professional
* Member of APDT, PPG, IAABC Foundation, IACP, and PSI
* AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy & Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
* Recommended trainer by Maricopa County Animal Care & Control
* Approved trainer through programs developed by Dr. Ian Dunbar
* Specializing in puppy training, obedience, and leash reactivity in real-world environments
* Award-winning pet care business recognized across Glendale and Phoenix
* Trusted by thousands of pet parents throughout the West Valley
When it comes to your pet's, experience, education, and accountability matter. Kristie’s background reflects a commitment to all three.
* 200+ 5-star reviews from real pet parents
* 20+ years working with dogs, including rescue and rehabilitation
* Over 70 foster dogs trained and supported
* Licensed, bonded, and insured pet care professional
* Member of APDT, PPG, IAABC Foundation, IACP, and PSI
* AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy & Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
* Recommended trainer by Maricopa County Animal Care & Control
* Approved trainer through programs developed by Dr. Ian Dunbar
* Specializing in puppy training, obedience, and leash reactivity in real-world environments
* Award-winning pet care business recognized across Glendale and Phoenix
* Trusted by thousands of pet parents throughout the West Valley
When it comes to your pet's, experience, education, and accountability matter. Kristie’s background reflects a commitment to all three.
A Science-Based, Fear-Free Approach to Dog Training and Pet Care
Dog training is not about control, dominance, or forcing compliance. It’s about communication, clarity, and trust.
Kristie uses force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in learning theory and real-world application. This means your dog learns what to do, not just what not to do.
This approach is guided by the RESPPPECT framework, a philosophy that emphasizes reward-based training, consistency, patience, and trust. These principles shape not only training sessions, but every service offered through FurBabies & Friends, including pet sitting, dog walking, and grooming.
In practice, this means focusing on:
* Teaching dogs how to make the right choices through reinforcement
* Building reliability through repetition, consistency, and clarity
* Developing calm, confident behavior in real-world environments
* Strengthening the relationship between dog and owner
* Ensuring consistency across training, pet care visits, and daily routines
Many training methods focus on quick results or suppressing behavior without addressing the underlying cause. While that may create short-term compliance, it often leads to confusion, stress, or behavior returning over time.
Kristie’s approach focuses on teaching, not forcing, and that consistency carries through every service. Whether your dog is in a training session, out on a walk, or being cared for during a visit, the goal is the same, clear communication, confidence, and long-term success.
Kristie uses force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in learning theory and real-world application. This means your dog learns what to do, not just what not to do.
This approach is guided by the RESPPPECT framework, a philosophy that emphasizes reward-based training, consistency, patience, and trust. These principles shape not only training sessions, but every service offered through FurBabies & Friends, including pet sitting, dog walking, and grooming.
In practice, this means focusing on:
* Teaching dogs how to make the right choices through reinforcement
* Building reliability through repetition, consistency, and clarity
* Developing calm, confident behavior in real-world environments
* Strengthening the relationship between dog and owner
* Ensuring consistency across training, pet care visits, and daily routines
Many training methods focus on quick results or suppressing behavior without addressing the underlying cause. While that may create short-term compliance, it often leads to confusion, stress, or behavior returning over time.
Kristie’s approach focuses on teaching, not forcing, and that consistency carries through every service. Whether your dog is in a training session, out on a walk, or being cared for during a visit, the goal is the same, clear communication, confidence, and long-term success.
Real-Life Experience That Shapes How I Operate & Train
My approach to dog training and running FurBabies & Friends is shaped by both my professional background and my personal experience with dogs.
Before starting my business, I spent 14 years in a corporate career where structure, communication, and consistency were critical to success. At the same time, I was raising and working with my own dogs, gaining hands-on experience that taught me patience, adaptability, and how behavior plays out in real life, not just in controlled environments.
Today, those two worlds come together in how I train dogs, support clients, and lead a team. Combining clear systems with a practical, relationship-focused approach that works in everyday situations.
Before starting my business, I spent 14 years in a corporate career where structure, communication, and consistency were critical to success. At the same time, I was raising and working with my own dogs, gaining hands-on experience that taught me patience, adaptability, and how behavior plays out in real life, not just in controlled environments.
Today, those two worlds come together in how I train dogs, support clients, and lead a team. Combining clear systems with a practical, relationship-focused approach that works in everyday situations.
Meet My Dogs, My Everyday Training Partners
These aren’t just my pets. They are the dogs that challenged me, taught me, and helped me refine the way I train in real-world situations. Currently, I share my home with four rescue bully mixes: Simba, Apollo, Tigger & Mella. Each dog has a unique story of resilience, reactivity, or medical need and each plays a role in helping me rehabilitate my clients dog and build empathy-driven training plans.
Nala, Stella, Baloo, and Zeke, my cherished furbabies that have passed, are honored as the original inspiration behind FurBabies & Friends.
Nala, Stella, Baloo, and Zeke, my cherished furbabies that have passed, are honored as the original inspiration behind FurBabies & Friends.
Brief Overview of Kristie's Current Furkids
Simba, a resilient American Bully, was Kristie’s 17th foster and third foster “fail.” When he was a puppy, he had trouble walking for unknown reasons while also surviving parvo. However, with time, love, and structured training, he now thrives. Today, Simba helps demonstrate calm behavior during leash reactivity training.
Apollo, a sleek black American Pit Bull Terrier, is Kristie’s go-to assistant for dog training sessions. His impeccable canine social skills and highly compliant obedience make him the perfect model during group classes and private trainings.
Tigger, a brindle pit/cattle dog mix, brings goofy energy while being a medical mystery. During puppyhood, a mass was found in his neck, was removed, but his prognosis was bleak. To everyone's amazement he has beat the odds and while his tumor returned, he brings life, energy and play to humans and dogs alike.
Mella, the youngest of the group, is a growing American Bully who is still learning the ropes, but already proving to be a quick learner and a joy to train.
Apollo, a sleek black American Pit Bull Terrier, is Kristie’s go-to assistant for dog training sessions. His impeccable canine social skills and highly compliant obedience make him the perfect model during group classes and private trainings.
Tigger, a brindle pit/cattle dog mix, brings goofy energy while being a medical mystery. During puppyhood, a mass was found in his neck, was removed, but his prognosis was bleak. To everyone's amazement he has beat the odds and while his tumor returned, he brings life, energy and play to humans and dogs alike.
Mella, the youngest of the group, is a growing American Bully who is still learning the ropes, but already proving to be a quick learner and a joy to train.
Dog trainer Kristie Halverson and her black American Pitbull Terrier and training demonstration dog Apollo.
Dog trainer Kristie Halverson and her black American Pitbull Terrier and training demonstration dog Apollo.
Kristie Halverson, positive reinforcement dog trainer in Glendale, Arizona, and her American Bully Puppy Mella.
Kristie Halverson, positive reinforcement dog trainer in Glendale, Arizona, and her American Bully Puppy Mella.
Kristie Halverson and her third foster failure, Tigger, a brindle pitbull cattle dog mix.
Kristie Halverson and her third foster failure, Tigger, a brindle pitbull cattle dog mix.
Glendale, AZ force free puppy trainer, Kristie Halverson, and her three bully mix furbabies.
Glendale, AZ force free puppy trainer, Kristie Halverson, and her three bully mix furbabies.
Simba, Kristie's fourth rescue dog, a fawn colored pit bull mix.
Simba, Kristie's fourth rescue dog, a fawn colored pit bull mix.
Dog Training Classes in Glendale, AZ for Perfect Photos
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See All Furbabies and Friends Reviews from Yelp, Google, and Facebook on one page
Peoria, AZ 5* Pet Service Provider for Dog Training, Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Basic Dog Grooming and More!
Peoria, AZ 5* Pet Service Provider for Dog Training, Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Basic Dog Grooming and More!
Kristie's third dog and rescue, Baloo, the blue nose pit bull.
Kristie's third dog and rescue, Baloo, the blue nose pit bull.
Pit Bull Puppy and Saved AHS Parvo puppy, Simba
Pit Bull Puppy and Saved AHS Parvo puppy, Simba
Passionate and Trustworthy animal lovers for pet sitting in phoenix
RESPPPECT - Trust Image 1
Nala and Stella celebrating New Years Eve.
Nala and Stella celebrating New Years Eve.
AHS Rescued Pit Bull Puppy Simba in Training in Glendale, AZ
AHS Rescued Pit Bull Puppy Simba in Training in Glendale, AZ
FAQ's for FurBabies & Friends Pet Care Service Provider in Phoenix, AZ
FAQ's for FurBabies & Friends Pet Care Service Provider in Phoenix, AZ
Contact Us Now for All of Your 24 Hour Pet Care Needs
Contact Us Now for All of Your 24 Hour Pet Care Needs
Llasha Poo, Stella, Kristie's second rescue dog.
Llasha Poo, Stella, Kristie's second rescue dog.
Kristie's first Christmas card, the one that started it all.
Kristie's first Christmas card, the one that started it all.
Training - Day Train BnT Detail Image
Kristie and her first two rescue dogs.
Kristie and her first two rescue dogs.
Each of my dogs has come with their own personality, needs, and challenges, from reactivity to confidence building to everyday life skills. Working through those experiences outside of structured sessions is what allows me to better guide clients facing similar situations with their own dogs.
Kristie's Current Furbabies (Left to Right): Apollo, Mella, 2023 Family Picture, Tigger & Simba
Gone but Never Forgotten: Nala, Stella, Baloo & Zeke
Rescue Work That Shapes How I Train
Rescue work has played a significant role in shaping how I approach dog training, behavior, and patience.
Through fostering and working with rescue organizations, I’ve had the opportunity to work with dogs experiencing fear, anxiety, reactivity, and major life transitions. These are not controlled, ideal training scenarios, they are real-world situations that require time, structure, and trust to navigate successfully.
Many of these dogs came with little to no training history, while others needed support rebuilding confidence and learning how to safely interact with people and other dogs. Working through these challenges has strengthened my ability to assess behavior, adjust training plans, and support dogs at every stage of their development.
Through fostering and working with rescue organizations, I’ve had the opportunity to work with dogs experiencing fear, anxiety, reactivity, and major life transitions. These are not controlled, ideal training scenarios, they are real-world situations that require time, structure, and trust to navigate successfully.
Many of these dogs came with little to no training history, while others needed support rebuilding confidence and learning how to safely interact with people and other dogs. Working through these challenges has strengthened my ability to assess behavior, adjust training plans, and support dogs at every stage of their development.
Foster Dogs and Real-World Experience
Each foster dog brings a different story, different needs, and different challenges. These experiences continue to shape how I approach training, giving me a deeper understanding of how behavior develops and how to support lasting change in a way that is realistic for both the dog and the owner.
Timone, a foster puppy from the Arizona Humane Society, adjusting to his new home during his first week in foster care.
Training - Puppy 101
This hands-on experience allows me to better support clients working through fear, reactivity, and adjustment challenges with their own dogs, using methods that prioritize trust, safety, and long-term success.
Over the last 9 years I have been fostering through the Arizona Humane Society. Prior to that I was a volunteer at a Duluth, MN Humane Society and also fostered with Canine Cupids in Milwaukee, WI.
Over the last 9 years I have been fostering through the Arizona Humane Society. Prior to that I was a volunteer at a Duluth, MN Humane Society and also fostered with Canine Cupids in Milwaukee, WI.
Professional Credentials, Standards, and Continuing Education
Dog training is an unregulated industry, which means anyone can call themselves a trainer regardless of education or experience. Because of that, choosing a trainer who follows established professional standards and continues their education is critical.
Kristie is committed to maintaining a high level of professionalism through ongoing learning, ethical training practices, and active involvement in respected industry organizations.
She is a member of organizations including the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, Pet Professional Guild, IAABC Foundation, IACP, and Pet Sitters International. These organizations emphasize professional dog training, continuing education, and ethical responsibility to both dogs and their owners.
* Member of APDT, Pet Professional Guild, IAABC Foundation, IACP, and PSI
* AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy & Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
* Licensed, bonded, and insured professional dog trainer & pet care provider
* Ongoing continuing education in dog training, dog behavior & pet care
Kristie is committed to maintaining a high level of professionalism through ongoing learning, ethical training practices, and active involvement in respected industry organizations.
She is a member of organizations including the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, Pet Professional Guild, IAABC Foundation, IACP, and Pet Sitters International. These organizations emphasize professional dog training, continuing education, and ethical responsibility to both dogs and their owners.
* Member of APDT, Pet Professional Guild, IAABC Foundation, IACP, and PSI
* AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy & Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
* Licensed, bonded, and insured professional dog trainer & pet care provider
* Ongoing continuing education in dog training, dog behavior & pet care
While dog training certifications can vary and are not required in the industry, Kristie prioritizes real-world experience, continued education, and proven results with clients. Her focus is on applying evidence-based methods that work in everyday life, not just in controlled training environments.
She continues to pursue advanced education and professional development opportunities to further strengthen her knowledge and skillset via industry conferences, online learning, & a network of mentors.
She continues to pursue advanced education and professional development opportunities to further strengthen her knowledge and skillset via industry conferences, online learning, & a network of mentors.
What It’s Like to Work With Kristie
Dog training should feel clear, supportive, and achievable, not overwhelming or confusing.
Whether you’re starting with a new puppy, working through reactivity, or building reliable obedience skills, Kristie focuses on creating a structured plan that fits your dog, your lifestyle, and your goals.
When working together, clients can expect:
* A customized training plan tailored to your dog and your specific goals
* Step-by-step guidance with clear expectations and practical exercises
* Real-world training that prepares your dog for everyday environments
* Support and communication throughout the training and pet care process
* A focus on long-term success, building a trusting relationship, not quick fixes or temporary results
Training is not just about what happens during a session. It’s about what happens between sessions, at home, on walks, and in everyday life. Kristie works closely with clients to ensure they understand the process, feel confident applying the techniques, and can continue building progress long after formal training ends.
This approach works best for clients who are willing to be consistent, engaged, and committed to the process, because lasting results require participation, not just instruction.
Not sure where to start? The first step is a professional dog training evaluation or complimentary pet care meet and greet to create a clear plan moving forward.
Whether you’re starting with a new puppy, working through reactivity, or building reliable obedience skills, Kristie focuses on creating a structured plan that fits your dog, your lifestyle, and your goals.
When working together, clients can expect:
* A customized training plan tailored to your dog and your specific goals
* Step-by-step guidance with clear expectations and practical exercises
* Real-world training that prepares your dog for everyday environments
* Support and communication throughout the training and pet care process
* A focus on long-term success, building a trusting relationship, not quick fixes or temporary results
Training is not just about what happens during a session. It’s about what happens between sessions, at home, on walks, and in everyday life. Kristie works closely with clients to ensure they understand the process, feel confident applying the techniques, and can continue building progress long after formal training ends.
This approach works best for clients who are willing to be consistent, engaged, and committed to the process, because lasting results require participation, not just instruction.
Not sure where to start? The first step is a professional dog training evaluation or complimentary pet care meet and greet to create a clear plan moving forward.
Ready to Build a Better Relationship With Your Dog and Confident Care You Can Trust?
Choosing the right professional matters. You’re not just investing in dog training, you’re trusting someone with your pet’s behavior, daily care, and overall well-being.
With over 200 5-star reviews, multiple local awards, and years of hands-on experience, Kristie has built FurBabies & Friends into a trusted, full-service pet care company serving Glendale and the Phoenix West Valley.
With over 200 5-star reviews, multiple local awards, and years of hands-on experience, Kristie has built FurBabies & Friends into a trusted, full-service pet care company serving Glendale and the Phoenix West Valley.
Recognized & Trusted in the Community
Backed by real client results, professional standards, and community recognition.
From puppy training and behavior support to pet sitting, dog walking, and grooming, every service is designed to provide consistent, reliable care rooted in trust, communication, and real-world experience.
Whether you’re looking to improve your dog’s behavior, find dependable care while you’re away, or create a more structured routine, the first step is understanding your dog’s needs and building a plan that works for your lifestyle.
Serving Glendale, Peoria, and the Phoenix West Valley with professional dog training and full-service pet care.
From puppy training and behavior support to pet sitting, dog walking, and grooming, every service is designed to provide consistent, reliable care rooted in trust, communication, and real-world experience.
Whether you’re looking to improve your dog’s behavior, find dependable care while you’re away, or create a more structured routine, the first step is understanding your dog’s needs and building a plan that works for your lifestyle.
Serving Glendale, Peoria, and the Phoenix West Valley with professional dog training and full-service pet care.