Hey there, fellow dog lovers!

I’m Kate Stone, founder of KSK9 Dog Training and Behaviour.

With almost 20 years of hands-on experience, my journey with dogs began long before I made it my profession. Now in my 30s, I’ve spent most of my life learning, growing, and working alongside animals — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I was raised around Border Collies, where dogs weren’t just pets — they were family. From an early age, I was fascinated by their intelligence and sensitivity, and I quickly became passionate about building meaningful, respectful relationships with animals.

My training approach is rooted in positive reinforcement and mutual trust. While my upbringing exposed me to more traditional, heavy-handed methods, I naturally moved toward a gentler, more effective style. Over the years, I’ve worked with many complex behavioural cases, including my own rescue dog, Flynt, who I adopted from Border Collie Rescue in Yorkshire back in 2010. I’ve previously supported the charity by carrying out home visits to assist with their adoption process, and although I don’t stay in touch as often as I’d like, I have huge respect for the incredible work Mike and Nicki do. The dedication they show to every dog is truly inspiring, and I continue to support them in any way I can.

I also spent three years as a socialiser for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, helping raise and prepare puppies for their future roles. During this time, I had the opportunity to work alongside one of the charity’s trainers to gain further hands-on experience and valuable insight into assistance dog training.

Earlier in my career, I worked in a busy boarding kennel, caring for up to 30 dogs at a time, each with their own personalities, behaviours, and needs. The fast-paced environment taught me how to read body language, manage group dynamics, and adapt to a wide variety of temperaments. The knowledge and experience I gained during this time were absolutely invaluable and laid a strong foundation for the work I do today.

Following this, and after the COVID-19 pandemic, I spent a further three years managing a well-known coffee shop in Bedford while building up KSK9 Dog Training in my spare time. Although I loved the community and fast-paced energy of the café, I eventually found it difficult to dedicate the time my clients and their dogs truly deserved. That’s when I made the decision to leave and pursue dog training full time — and I’ve never looked back.

I hold a Level 4 Diploma in Canine Management and Behaviour, I’m currently studying toward my Level 5, and I’m certified in Pet First Aid for Pet Professionals Level 3 (VTQ) — because your dog’s safety is just as important as their progress.

These days, I share my life with Chief, a young and spirited Border Collie who’s currently working through some on-lead reactivity. With time, I hope he’ll join me in client sessions as a calm and confident role model.

Helping owners build confidence, understanding, and a lasting bond with their dogs is at the heart of everything I do. Whether you’re just starting out or working through behavioural challenges, I’m here to support you with practical guidance, empathy, and proven techniques.

Let’s build something special — one paw at a time.