Welcome to Kismet K9
Strengthening the bond between dogs and their humans through trust, communication, and teamwork. We believe growth happens beyond the comfort zones, so we focus on guiding dogs through exploring new experiences, building confidence, and mastering essential skills no matter the environment. Our goal is to create well- rounded, resilient companions who can tackle any scenario- from the show ring to the couch.
Training Philosophy
At Kismet K9, we believe that confidence is the foundation for every successful dog, whether they’re a beloved family companion or a competitive show dog. Our training focuses on building trust, resilience, and self-assurance through clear communication and positive, structured experiences. We guide dogs beyond their comfort zones in a safe and supportive way, helping them master essential skills, overcome challenges, and shine in any environment, whether that’s at home, in the ring, or out in the real world. Our goal is to create a strong partnership between dog and handler, where teamwork, understanding, and confidence lead the way to success.
Working hand-in-hand with Mutts&Manners, we help dogs develop the skills they need to live balanced, happy lives. Together, we focus on more than just obedience. we teach dogs how to navigate the world with good manners, confidence, and emotional stability, ensuring they can handle life both at home and in public settings.
Our approach to training is balanced and adaptable, using a variety of proven techniques tailored to each individual dog. We believe in rewarding and reinforcing positive choices while setting fair boundaries that give dogs structure and clarity. This method allows us to communicate effectively, build mutual trust, and create a well-rounded, confident dog who can thrive in everyday life or excel in competition.
Services
On the Road Training & Socialization
Your dog joins us on a trip out of town for a few days at a dog show. This immersive experience blends travel, new environments, and exposure to the bustle of a show setting; helping your dog build confidence, adaptability, and solid manners in real-world situations. It’s a powerful add-on to a Mutts&Manners Board & Train or a standalone growth opportunity.
Dog Show Handling
We showcase your dog in the ring with professional handling that brings out their best. From grooming and presentation to smooth movement, we ensure your dog shines with confidence and polish under the spotlight.
Service Dog Evaluation
Before service training begins, we assess your dog’s temperament, focus, and resilience. Our evaluations determine whether your dog has the right qualities for the demands of service work, giving you clear direction on the next steps.
Public Access Training
Dogs preparing for service work need composure in every setting. We train and proof essential skills in real-world environments like restaurants, stores, and public transit so your dog can remain steady, reliable, and ready to work anywhere.
Meet the Trainer
Kristyna Gardner
Kristyna lives with her husband Austin and their 5 dogs in Aiken SC. She has always had a love for dogs, and after she completed her degree in psych, they started their training business, Mutts and Manners. As their pack grew, and their business blossomed, Kristyna started to show their German Shorthaired Pointer, Rip and their Great Dane, Fizz. Being on the road, Kristyna noticed gaps in some of their training dogs educations, and created her "on the road socialization program", teaching their training dogs adaptability and solid manners in the real world. She noticed it began building confidence for her training pups so they can be successful in their family's lives and future goals.
Kismet K9 Solutions goals align with Mutts and Manners, and when she is at home in Aiken SC, they both aim to create a better bond between dog and owner through solid and reliable communication.
Client Testimonials
Kristyna has been such a life changer for my German Short Haired Pointer, Bandit. When my rescue dog, Holly, started to show signs of aging I knew it was time to make a change and find her a buddy that would help her stay active. She recommended a breeder and helped me pick out a dog that would do well with my dog selective Holly! When I first picked up Bandit he fell in love with my farm lifestyle and Holly. I could not get him off the farm often due to the demands of my farm. I unfortunately created a dog that was afraid of life outside of the 100 acres. I knew the end goal for Bandit was getting him his champion show title and his Senior hunt test passed, and had made an uphill challenge for him. I sent him to Kristyna to take on the road to get him prepped to go ahead and start showing and it was a success. Bandit learned confidence and learned how to be comfortable in scary situations. I could not afford to take time off to make these big trips or show him these new and “scary” things. She’s really given him a new found confidence and a new view of his goofy silly life that has reflected in his winnings at his shows.
—Caroline Albright
Upcoming Show Schedule 2026
After Westminster, we will be scheduling a limited number of shows. Please contact us if you're interested in our programs!
Schedule Today!
Ready to transform your relationship with your dog? Contact Kismet K9 Solutions today to schedule your personalized consultation. Our team will match you with the perfect trainer and program for your needs.
Email
kismetk9solutions@gmail.com
Need more answers? Call or text!
(706) 832- 2790