Tom Cronenwett

I have spent over 30 + years in law enforcement, with nearly half of that time working as a canine handler. Throughout my career I have trained, handled, and evaluated working dogs in high-pressure real-world environments. That experience shaped how I approach dog training today — clear communication, consistency, and leadership create safe and reliable dogs.

Over the years I recognized that many pet owners were struggling not because they didn’t care, but because they had never been properly taught how dogs learn and communicate. Professional K9 was created to give dog owners a place where they could get real guidance, honest answers, and practical training that works outside of a classroom.

I have served as a police academy instructor, physical training instructor, and currently evaluate and certify police dogs for the State of Ohio. Working with these teams has allowed me to see what reliable training truly looks like, and I apply those same principles to family dogs in a way that is fair, structured, and easy for owners to follow.

My goal has never been to simply teach commands. I want owners to feel confident handling their dogs in everyday life — walks, visitors, public outings, and home environments. A well-trained dog should bring peace to a household, not stress.

I am also the founder of The Central Ohio Canine Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports public safety K9 teams and assists military veterans in obtaining service dogs. Helping dogs serve a greater purpose, whether in a home or a community, continues to be one of the most meaningful parts of my work.

Professional K9 was built around a simple belief: training should be clear, fair, and understandable for both the dog and the owner. When people learn how to lead their dogs properly, behavior changes — and relationships improve.