The Story Behind Cosmic Dog Training
Lafayette's Own Certified Dog Trainer
Cosmic Dog Training was born out of a deep desire to help misunderstood dogs and their dedicated humans find harmony. Founder Kathleen Valentine transformed her own reactive rescue dogs using positive, games-based training and now helps others do the same. We believe in modern, force-free training that creates lasting results. Whether you’re here to raise a calm, confident puppy or support a dog with big feelings, we’re here to help.
Meet the Cosmic Dog Family
Kathleen Valentine
Founder, Head Trainer, Behavior Specialist
Kathleen is a certified Pro Dog Trainer and Behavior Specialist with advanced credentials from Absolute Dogs. She founded Cosmic Dog Training after transforming the lives of her own reactive rescue dogs using games-based, concept training. That journey lit a fire and launched a career.
Now, with over six years of experience, hundreds of hours of continuing education, and hands-on work with dogs of all backgrounds, Kathleen helps families find joy, calm, and confidence with their dogs. She specializes in scent work, herding breeds, terriers, and behavior challenges like reactivity, anxiety, and overexcitement.
When she’s not teaching group classes or private sessions, Kathleen is often out hiking Colorado trails with her own dogs or diving into the latest dog behavior research.
“Every dog has potential. My job is to help you uncover it—through science, play, and connection.”
Phillip Valentine
Training Assistant & Marketing Lead
Phillip brings a lifelong love of animals and a background in natural living to his role at Cosmic Dog. From growing up on farms to managing natural food stores like Whole Foods and Natural Grocers, he’s always believed in holistic wellness—for humans and dogs alike.
At Cosmic Dog, he assists with training sessions and manages the graphic design and marketing aspects of the business. He’s also the proud dad of Koda, Leo, Arrow, and Fabulous—and a key part of their training journeys.
Koda
Our original rescue pup, and the reason Cosmic Dog exists. Koda’s behavioral challenges—and his transformation through training—sparked Kathleen’s journey. He’s a loyal hiking buddy and expert in two-paws-up and snuggles.
Leo
This sweet, sensitive Shiba-Inu/Shar Pei mix joined the family as a foster and never left. Leo’s early fears and insecurities were the beginning of Kathleen’s passion for behavior support. He’s gentle, silly, and loves ball games.
Arrow
Arrow is a high-energy Border Collie who came to Colorado from Kathleen’s trainers in Devon, UK. He’s passionate, focused, toy-obsessed, and is working to become an agility competitor. He is always ready to demonstrate what games-based training can achieve.
Fabulous (Fabi)
Fabi is our first-ever service dog in training. True to his name, he’s fabulous in every way—full of snuggles, huggles, and over-the-moon enthusiasm. He loves dock diving, agility, and fast-paced adventures.
Client Success Stories
Kathleen Valentine's Dog Training Certificates and Awards
Certificate and Education Explanations
Pro Dog Trainer
Awarded by Absolute Dogs (UK), this knowledge-assessed certification confirms Kathleen’s deep understanding of modern, science-based dog training. It covers advanced concepts in canine behavior, learning theory, and game-based training strategies.
Geek
Developed by Vet Behaviorist Dr. Tom Mitchell and world champion trainer Lauren Langman, the Geek program explores advanced behavioral science and practical training systems. It includes specialized modules on reactivity, emotional regulation, and concept-building.
Genius
Developed by Vet Behaviorist Dr. Tom Mitchell and world champion trainer Lauren Langman, this high-level course builds on the Geek program, offering advanced handler mechanics, behavior problem-solving, and cutting-edge research applications. It’s focused on helping trainers apply nuanced techniques in real-life situations
Naughty But Nice
NBN focuses on dogs who are sweet at heart but struggle with real-world challenges like reactivity, fear, or anxiety. This course provides trainers with specific tools to support these dogs in becoming more resilient, calm, and focused—even in tough situations.
Ongoing Education
Kathleen continues to invest in ongoing training through advanced certifications and specific breed behavior. Her recent focus includes agility, fitness, scent work, herding breed support, and off-leash reliability. Kathleen is currently enrolled in school to earn a bachelor’s degree in Canine Animal Behavior.
About Absolute Dogs
Absolute Dogs is a UK-based dog training organization founded on the principle that concept-based, games-driven training creates lasting behavioral change. Their Pro Dog Trainer certification is knowledge-assessed and recognized internationally.
About Help! My Dog
Help! My Dog was founded by Dr. Tom Mitchell, a veterinarian, trainer, and behavioral scientist. Dr. Mitchell also founded the Canine Behaviour College, which offers the Level 6 Diploma in Canine Animal Behaviour that Kathleen is currently pursuing.
Cosmic Dog Training Center in The Happy Beast
Kathleen’s Cosmic Dog Training Center is located in Lafayette, Colorado, in The Happy Beast pet store. The Training Center is used for Group Classes and One-on-One Classes and is equipped to teach a wide variety of classes.