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Paul Smikovecus

David Adams

Dec 2, 2025

Dog Trainers

Paul Smikovecus

Dog trainer in

#848 in United States, #15 in New Jersey

https://www.krushk9.com/

Service areas:

NJ - Trenton

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Paul, the owner and head trainer at KRUSHK9 Dog Training, is widely regarded as one of the premier dog trainers in New Jersey, thanks to his unmatched blend of extensive hands-on experience, intuitive understanding of canine behavior, and a proven track record of delivering transformative, lasting results for dogs and their owners alike. With over 23 years of dedicated professional experience serving dog owners throughout New Jersey-and close to 10000 training lessons, primarily in southern and central regions including all of Ocean County, Atlantic County, Camden County, as far west as Blackwood, north to Piscataway, and south to Cape May-Paul has established KRUSHK9 as a go-to resource for personalized, effective training. His passion for dogs runs deep, rooted in his early experiences with his first two beloved companions, Kora and Rush, whose names inspired the "KrushK9" brand. This personal connection fuels his relentless drive to elevate training standards, ensuring every session builds stronger, more loving relationships between dogs and their families. What truly distinguishes Paul as a standout in New Jersey's competitive dog training landscape is his exceptional ability to read dogs with remarkable accuracy and speed. He quickly pinpoints the root causes of behavioral challenges-whether it's leash reactivity, jumping, poor recall, aggression, fear, separation issues, or simple obedience gaps-and addresses them head-on with compassionate, results-oriented methods. Clients often describe him as a "miracle worker" because he achieves noticeable improvements rapidly, sometimes in the very first session, turning chaotic or fearful situations into calm, confident partnerships. Paul's expertise spans the full spectrum of canine needs and backgrounds. He excels with high-energy puppies and breeds like Weimaraners, Goldendoodles, German Shepherds, and German Shorthaired Pointers, helping them channel their drive into positive outlets. He has a strong history working with rescues facing severe past traumas, rebuilding trust and confidence where others have struggled. His skills extend to working dogs, sport dogs, police K9s, and even competition-level animals, where precision and reliability are paramount. A key highlight of Paul's credentials is his competitive background in dog sports. He has a flawless record of never placing lower than 3rd in various disciplines across multiple dogs he's trialed, demonstrating not just theoretical knowledge but elite practical mastery under pressure. This competitive edge translates directly to client dogs: he teaches advanced obedience, off-leash reliability, behavior modification for high-level aggression (after thorough evaluations and custom intensive plans), and socialization in real-world settings. Paul's training philosophy is relationship-centered and owner-empowering. Unlike impersonal "big box" programs, he prioritizes education-teaching owners the "why" behind techniques so they can maintain and build on progress independently. Sessions are flexible and convenient: he comes to you for in-home private lessons, puppy foundations, or on-location work, tailoring everything to your dog's environment and lifestyle. For faster breakthroughs, his board-and-train programs provide immersive, focused residential training, with dogs often returning transformed and deeply bonded to Paul during their stay. He also offers group classes to advance socialization and skills in controlled group dynamics. Client testimonials paint a consistent picture of life-changing impact. Owners rave about regaining control during walks ("Now I walk Bentley instead of Bentley walking me"), seeing once-reactive dogs thrive in public, and watching high-strung puppies become well-mannered companions. Phrases like "hands down the best trainer in New Jersey," "I don't know where I would be without him," "patience and guidance made for a happy puppy and happier owner," and "Paul changed our German Shepherds' lives" appear repeatedly across Google (4.9+ stars with glowing reviews for board-and-train and reactivity work), Vagaro, and his website. Clients appreciate his calm, patient demeanor, genuine care (treating families like his own), and willingness to go the extra mile-whether chatting on the phone for follow-ups or incorporating real-world outings like Home Depot trips for socialization. In a state filled with talented trainers-many excelling in northern counties (e.g., Bergen or Passaic areas) or claiming statewide "best" status through awards and large-scale programs-Paul's strengths shine in his southern NJ focus: deep local loyalty, long-term client relationships, and consistent success with tough cases that demand intuition and persistence. His approach avoids gimmicks, emphasizing kindness, knowledge, and proven techniques that foster trust and joy. Paul's commitment to excellence doesn't stop; he continually refines his methods, drawing from decades of diverse experiences to stay at the forefront. For anyone in New Jersey seeking a trainer who combines heart, skill, and real-world results-especially in Ocean, Atlantic, or surrounding counties-Paul at KRUSHK9 delivers the kind of transformative partnership that makes him a top choice. If you're ready for a calmer home, confident walks, and a deeper bond with your dog, reaching out to Paul could be the best decision you make for your four-legged family member.

Certifications:

CGC, certified helper/decoy for multiple dog sports, working dogs of america, PSA, IPO.

Dog training services include

From Chaos to Calm:

More info about Paul Smikovecus's dog training:

Puppy training, Off leash training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, Deaf dog training, Service dog training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training, Aggressive dog training

Behavioral issue focus:

• Reactivity (especially leash reactivity or reactivity toward other dogs/people): Frequently mentioned, including dogs that lunge, bark, or overreact on walks. Clients note transformations allowing confident public outings, with Paul addressing fear-based triggers and building calm responses. • Aggression (low to high-level, including dog-dog aggression, people-directed, resource guarding, possessiveness, or growling/advancing): A key specialty-Paul evaluates severity first, then creates intensive plans. Examples include possessive behavior toward family members (e.g., growling at doors), aggression toward strangers/dogs, or life-threatening issues that improve dramatically after sessions or board-and-train. • Leash Pulling / Out-of-Control Walking: Very common-dogs that "walk their owners" or pull excessively. Testimonials highlight dogs learning to walk nicely, make eye contact, and stay beside the handler. • Jumping (on people, furniture, or during excitement/greetings): Puppies and adults alike; resolved through foundational obedience and impulse control work. • Biting / Mouthing (especially in puppies or energetic breeds): Includes nipping, chewing everything, or play biting that escalates. • Not Listening / Ignoring Commands (poor recall, disobedience, lack of focus/eye contact): Dogs that ignore "come," run off/escape yards, or show no interest in owners. Post-training, they respond reliably, recall off-leash risks drop, and bonds strengthen. • Over-Excitement / Hyperactivity / Running Wild: "Spunky" or high-energy dogs that bounce off walls, run through the house, or get overly aroused-channeled into calm, balanced behavior. • Resource Guarding / Possessiveness: Guarding food, toys, people (e.g., children), or spaces, leading to growling or advances. • Puppy-Specific Issues (biting, not listening, lack of socialization, early bad habits): Paul excels at imprinting foundations to prevent escalation, including socialization outings (e.g., Home Depot trips).

Dog training methods:

KRUSHK9 Dog Training, led by Paul, uses a personalized, relationship-focused approach to training that combines corrections with positive reinforcement to build trust, respect, and lasting obedience between dogs and owners. The emphasis is on understanding each dog's unique personality and needs, quickly identifying root causes of issues, and empowering owners with practical skills for long-term success-often delivering noticeable results from the first interaction or session. Initial Process: Behavior Consultations & Evaluations • Everything starts with an initial consultation/evaluation (often via phone/text or in-person). Paul assesses your dog's behavior, temperament, history, and specific challenges (e.g., reactivity, aggression, pulling, or puppy habits). • For more serious issues like aggression or reactivity, he conducts a thorough evaluation to determine severity and safety, ensuring a tailored, safe plan. • This step helps estimate the number of sessions needed, recommend the best service (private, board-and-train, etc.), and set realistic goals. Clients appreciate Paul's calm, patient communication-he's always willing to chat on the phone before/after to answer questions. Creating & Implementing Training Plans • Paul designs a custom training plan based on the evaluation, your goals, lifestyle, and the dog's breed/age/background. • Plans are flexible and progressive: starting with foundational obedience (basic cues like sit, stay, come, down, heel, loose-leash walking, eye contact, and impulse control) and advancing to distraction-proofing, real-world application, and behavior modification. • He incorporates mental stimulation (e.g., exercises that tire high-energy dogs faster than physical walks alone, building focus and bond) and socialization (e.g., controlled outings to places like Home Depot or car rides during board-and-train). • Techniques blend positive reinforcement (rewards, praise, motivation to encourage good behavior) with fair, timed corrections when needed to communicate boundaries clearly-creating balanced, reliable responses without harsh methods. • Owner involvement is key: Paul teaches you the "how" and "why" so you can reinforce and maintain progress daily, fostering independence rather than dependency on the trainer. Session & Program Structure • Private In-Home/On-Location Sessions (typically 1-hour): Hands-on work in your environment for real-life relevance. Paul demonstrates, then coaches you through handling the dog, with follow-up practice assignments. • Board-and-Train: Immersive residential stays (e.g., 2 weeks common) for intensive focus. Paul handles daily training, socialization, and outings while your dog lives in a family-like setting. He provides progress updates, and you get handover lessons to transfer skills home. • Group Classes: Structured for dogs ready for socialization-building on private work with distractions from other dogs/people. • Follow-Up & Support: Many clients return for refreshers. Paul offers ongoing guidance, phone check-ins, and extra efforts (e.g., special calls or outings) to ensure success. This client-centered process-rooted in Paul's 23+ years of experience and competitive background-treats families like his own, prioritizing patience, kindness, and results. Testimonials highlight transformations: dogs gaining confidence, owners learning lifelong tools, and bonds deepening. No one-size-fits-all; every plan adapts to deliver calm, happy homes. To begin your custom process, text Paul at 732-237-5233 or use krushk9.com/contact for a consultation!

Why I became a dog trainer:

Paul became a dog trainer driven by his deep, lifelong love and passion for dogs, which was profoundly shaped by his first two beloved companions: Kora and Rush. The name KRUSHK9 itself comes from combining their names-Kora + Rush = Krush-a tribute to the profound impact they had on his life. Kora was described as a "53lbs speeding bullet" who "flew through the air with the greatest of ease," while Rush was known in the working dog community as the "BAD BOY" ( a CREDIT to his tough working character in that world). His intense love and passion for these two dogs inspired him to pursue dog training professionally and to make it the very best it can be. This personal connection sparked his dedication: he wanted to help other dog owners build the same strong, loving relationships he experienced. Over time, this evolved into a full career, building on his competitive success in dog sports (never placing lower than 3rd in various disciplines), hands-on experience with diverse dogs (from puppies and rescues to working, sport, police, and competition dogs), and over 23 years of helping NJ families transform behaviors and strengthen bonds. In essence, Paul's journey into dog training wasn't about a single event but a natural extension of his genuine affection for dogs-starting with Kora and Rush, whose memory continues to fuel his commitment to excellence, patience, and results-driven training at KRUSHK9.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer:

Paul's favorite part about being a dog trainer is seeing the transformative impact his work has on both the dogs and their owners-watching chaotic or challenging behaviors turn into calm, confident, and joyful relationships. He thrives on the moments when: • A reactive or out-of-control dog becomes reliable and relaxed on walks. • An energetic puppy channels their drive into focus and obedience. • Owners gain confidence and lifelong skills, often saying things like "I don't know where I would be without him" or noting life-changing results. • Dogs show clear affection and attachment (e.g., looking for him by voice or getting "sad" to leave after board-and-train).

My #1 dog training tip:

Consistency and owner involvement are everything-train yourself as much as you train the dog. Use the same calm, firm, fair approach consistently across all family members and situations.

Testimonials

See all testimonials

“I met Paul when my labrador pup was 3 mos old. Paul's technique of positive reinforcement, along with building trust and respect. He is very passionate, and dedicated and it certainly shows. We completed puppy training and moved onto group training. Bentley is now 18 mos old and is amazing! We enjoy our weekly group classes, and have met some wonderful people and their pups. Thank you Paul, we look for to continuing our journey with KrushK9 dog training.”

— Brenda D.

“I have known Paul almost 12 years. I met Paul through a friend. We got our first GSD, Ember, from him and have never regretted it. Ember with the support and training with Paul is a wonderful addition we needed for our family. Working with Paul, Ember has been a fabulous girl. Through his training methods Ember as a rambunctious puppy got her focused and on task. I can bring her anywhere with confidence knowing she will be well behaved. When Tyrus joined our family, there was NEVER a doubt who would be helping us train him. Working with Paul is an absolute pleasure. Starting out one on one to get his basics then moving to a group setting Tyrus is maturing into a well behaved 110 pound "toddler". Tyrus loves going to class. The most special thing about working with Paul is that it he doesn't stop at the end of class. If you have questions or concerns he is always available. His knowledge and his dedication to helping "Paw Parents" develop a loving bond with their dogs is His Gift!! I wouldn't trust anyone else with my dogs. Paul is 100% the real deal. #KRUSHK9 - Tracy Hysler”

— Tracy H.

“After adopting Petunia, a 5 year old border collie, from the shelter, I knew I needed help getting her to be her best self. She was very reactive to other dogs and I was reluctant to walk her anywhere. With Paul’s training for both her and I, we now attend group classes with multiple dogs without hesitation. We walk off leash on the beach and she returns to me with a single command. Walking her is now a joy. With Paul’s expertise and understanding, my dream dog is becoming everything I could hope for in a companion.”

— Louise S.

“We did a 2 week board and train with Paul for our young shepherd. She learned all basic commands, better manners and he also worked on dog friendly behaviors since we have 3 dogs. She was a changed pup after the training! We continue now on a regular basis to attend his weekly group class so as to keep her commands finely tuned as well as for continued positive exposure to other dogs. Paul is by far the best trainer in our area!”

— Michele W.

“Paul truly saved our dog’s life. When we adopted Fred, we thought we had found the perfect dog—until we realized he was extremely reactive to strangers and anyone entering our home. His reactions were so intense and uncontrollable that we became afraid to keep him, especially since we have young children and grandchildren who visit often, and our home is very social. After trying to find a rescue to rehome him, we decided to give training one last chance and see if the situation could improve. Thank God we found Paul. Today, Fred is a completely different dog. He is social, confident, and has learned to trust and love people. Through working with Paul, we came to understand that Fred was not aggressive or reactive—he was fearful. After a life of abuse, he didn’t know how to feel safe. Paul taught us how to read Fred’s body language, understand how he communicates fear, recognize his warning signs, and manage situations before they escalated. Because of Paul’s guidance, we were able to keep Fred in our home and give him the life he deserves. We are forever grateful.”

— Adrienne D.

“We started working with Paul when Cooper was a young puppy, and the change was incredible. He went from jumping, pulling, ignoring recall, and overwhelming everyone to being calm, responsive, and enjoyable to live with. Cooper is now a year old, and the progress has only grown. I attend Paul’s group sessions almost every weekend, and both Cooper and I continue to learn so much. Paul challenges the dogs, and the owners, in ways that build real confidence and control. Because of that work, Cooper can even heel off‑leash in appropriate environments, something I never imagined when we first started. I take him into pet‑friendly stores, and he stands out. While other dogs may bark or pull, Cooper heels on command, stays focused, and remains calm throughout the store. He’s well‑behaved in different households, adapts easily, and handles new environments with confidence. What I appreciate most is that Paul doesn’t just train the dog, he teaches me how to maintain and build on the training at home. Cooper is still the same sweet, goofy dog we love, but now he’s reliable, confident, and a joy to bring anywhere”

— Stella Q.

“We started working with Paul when we brought Sasha home at just 12 weeks old. Sasha is a German Shepherd—and truly the dog of our dreams. We had owned two German Shepherds previously, the second of whom passed shortly before we got Sasha. We loved our previous dogs deeply, but we never pursued training with them, and as a result, we couldn’t take them many places. We had to be extremely careful, as their behaviors were difficult to manage. From the very beginning with Sasha, we knew we wanted something different. We wanted to do right by her. We wanted to understand what we were doing, build a strong relationship, and be able to include her in our lives wherever we went. That’s when we found KrushK9. We completed eight weeks of training with Paul and his training partner, Kasey, and it was the perfect foundation. From day one, we began building a strong, trusting relationship with Sasha. Paul gave us confidence—confidence in knowing what to do, what works, what doesn’t, and how to manage and correct behaviors in a way that was productive, fair, and relationship-based. Sasha learned that we would consistently lead her in the right direction, and we learned how to be the leaders she needed. We continued with private sessions and learned so much through KrushK9 that we were able to move into group classes. Group class has been incredibly valuable. Sasha is exposed to a wide variety of environments, activities, dogs, and people—all with constant distractions—while learning to stay focused on us, listen, and make good choices. This experience has been amazing for Sasha, but perhaps even more importantly, it has been amazing for us. Our confidence in handling her has grown tremendously. Training has become part of our lifestyle. We genuinely love going to group class—it’s a highlight of our week and has become both a hobby and a passion. Paul’s knowledge is unmatched. Every single week, we learn something new about dog behavior, and his guidance and support are invaluable. We truly cannot imagine working with another trainer. Paul and KrushK9 are who we recommend to everyone we know, without hesitation.”

— Cholehna W.

“I’ve had great experiences working with Paul! He helped me with leash training for my two hounds, and I am currently working with him on obedience with my German Shepherd puppy. He’s extremely knowledgeable and has taught me so many things. He has helped me shape my puppy into a wonderful, obedient companion. We love learning together during group classes too!”

— Ashley V.

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David Adams

Dec 2, 2025

Dog Trainers

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About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Paul Smikovecus

Certifications:

Dog training services include

More info about Paul Smikovecus's dog training:

Behavioral issue focus:

Dog training methods:

Why I became a dog trainer:

My favorite part of being a dog trainer:

My #1 dog training tip:

Testimonials

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