Families, solo handlers, professionals —we train for everyday threats, not just drills.
We use praise, structure, and corrections in harmony.
Not just for police or military—training designed for families & individuals alike
I began my canine career in 2018 at a premier doggy daycare and boarding facility in Sevierville, Tennessee, where I worked daily with hundreds of dogs.
That experience taught me to keenly observe canine behavior and how dogs interact in group settings, laying a solid foundation for advanced training. I quickly progressed into a trainer role at the same facility, refining basic obedience skills and managing a wide range of temperaments and breeds.
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As Owner and Master Trainer of Elite Florida Canine College in Vero Beach, Tara brings years of experience and a family‑centered passion for canine training. Following a successful enterprise in Colorado—where she and her husband, a veteran working-dog handler, founded and grew their first training company before delegating day-to-day operations, they relocated to Florida, launching Elite Florida Canine College. Training has truly become a family affair: their daughter, Olivia, in South Carolina also runs her own dog training business, Clemson Canine Academy, reinforcing their deep roots in the industry .
Our Basic + Advanced Program offers an intense four month training program designed to build confident, reliable canine protectors.
Meeting once a week, this program guides dogs and their handlers through progressive real-world scenarios including: handler protection, car jacking, defense, alleyway ambushes, and more.
Each dog is trained in controlled aggression, environmental stability, and clear decision making ensuring they can discern true threats and respond appropriately. Our focus is on building capable family guardians who are both safe and responsive in high pressure situations.
Before enrolling in our protection program, all dogs must first complete a minimum of 2 evaluations. These sessions are open to dogs 6 months or older and are designed to assess each dog’s temperament, nerve strength, confidence, and drive. Evaluations help us determine whether a dog is a suitable candidate for personal protection training and ensure we set both the dog and handler up for long term success. Each evaluation is $40.
For dogs that have already protection training, we offer a monthly maintenance program to keep them sharp, responsive, and prepared. This includes 4 scenario-based training sessions per month—one per week—designed to reinforce bite work, obedience, and environmental control in evolving situations. Whether it’s staying sharp on vehicle entries, neutralizing new threats, or improving handler control, this program ensures you dog continues to preform at a high level.
Instinct is unpredictable. At Sentry Canine, we don't hope your dog will protect—you'll know they will.
