For more than 45 years, Jim Akenhead has owned and trained a variety of dogs. He and his wife, Dr. Charlene Akenhead, have bred and trained Shepherds and Malamutes for 50 years. In 1995, Jim and his son Matt formed Signature K-9 Training and Behavior LLC in northeastern Ohio. Signature K-9 does about two-thirds of its work in private consultations. About half their work is with difficult dogs. In addition to the usual group classes, they also offer group classes for reactive and shy dogs.
Jim has five earned degrees, including a Doctorate in Research and Education as well as a Masters Degree in Counseling. He is certified as a canine trainer and behavior consultant by four independent organizations. He is listed in seven Who’s Who anthologies on leadership and has been recognized as a Distinguished Alumni by Bowling Green State University. In 2009, Jim presented at the conference of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and for the Canine Behavior program at Kutztown University. He frequently presents his views on canine aggression.
Jim is the author of four other books. He is a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, where he serves on the board of directors and as Human Resource coordinator. Jim has been the director of an international trainer’s organization with members in 50 states and 30 countries. He is also a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, the Association of Canine Professionals, and the National K-9 Trainers Association.