The K9 Protocol is a professional canine education and handler coaching facility located in the Macedon Ranges. Founded by professional K9 Handler Roger Skwarek, we bridge the gap between elite working-dog standards and practical obedience for the everyday owner.

We are not a traditional obedience school or a high-volume pet care business. We are a specialized operation built for proactive owners who want real, reliable results. Whether we are managing a high-octane working breed or building confidence in a family companion, our mission is to create balanced, neutral, and highly engaged dogs.

Forged in Operational Experience

My approach to canine development wasn't built in a classroom or a standard pet obedience ring, it was forged through real-world operational experience. My background includes working with high-drive dogs in high-stakes environments, specifically in explosives detection.

My time with Detector Dogs Australia instilled in me a standard of precision, reliability, and handler accountability that standard dog training simply doesn’t require. In the operational world, these traits are not optional, they are mandatory. I built The K9 Protocol to bring that elite level of structure and clarity to everyday dog owners and working handlers alike.

The Philosophy: Precision & Drive

Our methodology is heavily influenced by the principles of Kris Kotsopoulos and the Von Forell system. We believe in working with a dog’s biology rather than fighting against it, teaching them how to channel their genetic drives and energy productively.

We don't rely on guesswork or quick fixes. The K9 Protocol is built on three core pillars:

• Clear Communication: Installing precise marker systems so the dog knows exactly what is expected of them, removing confusion and frustration.

• Drive Management: Teaching dogs how to channel their energy productively and switch from high arousal to calm neutrality on command.

• Handler Empowerment: A trained dog is useless without an educated handler. Our job is to coach you on the mechanics, timing, and mindset required to lead your dog effectively.

Our Purpose-Built Facility

Located in New Gisborne, our facility is engineered to optimize learning and ensure safety. We have invested heavily in our infrastructure, featuring newly constructed, highly secure dog runs built on solid concrete foundations.

Every aspect of our environment is designed to provide a low-stress, low-arousal space. This allows the dogs in our care to completely decompress between training sessions, ensuring they are mentally fresh and ready to work when it counts.

Living the Standard

At The K9 Protocol, this isn't just theory, it is a lived standard. Putting in the daily reps with high-level working dogs, and bringing that exact same operational intensity to every board-and-train client, keeps our mechanics sharp and our expectations realistic.

When you work with us, you aren't just getting advice. You are getting a proven system tested by professionals and tailored to the dog in front of you.

We provide the structure. We teach the mechanics. You lead the dog.

Let's build your protocol.