# The K-9 Handler

> in-home dog training and behavior modification with owner Ira Smith, training dogs since 1974

- Trade: Dog Training
- Location: Las Vegas Valley (serves Henderson and Las Vegas Valley)
- Website: https://www.thek9handler.com/
- Phone: 702-882-3694
- 702 Alliance status: Claimed by the owner (2026-10-17)
- Profile: https://702alliance.com/members/the-k9-handler/

Ira Smith says he has been training dogs since 1974, when he served as a dog handler in the U.S. Air Force. His Henderson business, The K-9 Handler, teaches you and your dog together. His site says you learn the same commands and handling skills your dog does, so the practice continues between lessons.

## How he trains

Ira uses verbal guidance, coaxing and praise, with no shock collars and no food rewards. The first visit is a 2-to-3-hour evaluation and first lesson at your home, listed at $199 and included in every package. After that, lessons happen at home and in the places where the problems show up, such as on walks or when guests arrive.

- **Obedience:** sit, stay, down, heel, recall, release and place, on and off leash
- **Puppies:** the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program
- **Specialty work:** service dog, therapy dog and emotional support animal training, and group training

## Behavior modification

Ira says behavior modification therapy is its own field, separate from dog training. It changes behaviors such as jumping, digging, barking, pulling and chewing. The fundamental commands from training bridge the gap in communication so the behavior can change.

## Credentials, as he lists them

Air Force dog-handler certifications; AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator and S.T.A.R. Puppy instructor; National Tester/Observer for Alliance of Therapy Dogs; provider member of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners; and a UNLV bachelor's degree. His site also lists FAA flight-instructor ratings, which isn't what you'd expect from a dog trainer.

## Where

The K-9 Handler covers Henderson and the Las Vegas Valley, including Green Valley, Anthem, Inspirada, Lake Las Vegas, Boulder City and Summerlin. Call 702-882-3694 or use the evaluation request form.

## Contact The K-9 Handler

Henderson and Las Vegas Valley
702-882-3694
[Business website](https://www.thek9handler.com/)

Researched and checked October 17, 2026. [Source 1](https://www.thek9handler.com/) · [Source 2](https://www.thek9handler.com/about/) · [Source 3](https://www.thek9handler.com/services/obedience-training/). Behavior modification details from Ira Smith, October 17, 2026. For corrections or removal, email [cody@702alliance.com](mailto:cody@702alliance.com).

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From 702 Alliance (https://702alliance.com/members/the-k9-handler/), a free directory of independent Las Vegas Valley businesses. Corrections: cody@702alliance.com.