Meet the Team

Our team is made up of passionate, knowledgeable people who are committed to helping dogs and their humans build clear communication, confidence, and lasting trust.
Heather

Heather

Lead Trainer & Owner
Howdy, I'm Heather, the owner behind The Classy Canine! Originally from Houston, TX, I now call Johnson City, East TN home. With over 16 years of hands-on experience in the dog training industry, I'm passionate about helping dogs and their people build stronger bonds through better communication. My journey into training began early, growing up showing Papillons and American Staffordshire Terriers. In 2014, I was invited to apprentice under a professional working dog handler, and that's where my love for high-drive dogs really took off. Since then, I've been dedicated to continuing my education and staying current with result oriented training methods. You'll often see my own dogs - Snafu, Aura, and Grit tag along to group classes. Each one has taught me something different, and they keep me on my toes in the best way possible. While I love all aspects of dog training, I have a special place in my heart for helping families tackle real-life behavior struggles. Seeing lasting progress and watching families fall back in love with their dogs is what keeps me going.
Kyra

Kyra

Trainer
Hi, I'm Kyra! I've been a professional dog trainer for three years, specializing in helping owners build stronger connections with their dogs through clear communication, body language, and fulfilling their needs mentally, physically, and genetically. My passion began with my own four dogs Sefira, Dresden, Rohi, and Risky who all compete in sports, with titles in tricks, obedience, and dock diving. Rally obedience, dock diving, and barn hunt are some of my favorite competitions, and I love watching my clients step into the sporting world with their dogs as well. Say hi to me and my pack if you see us out and about or in classes! Outside of training, I'm a proud wife, mom of one, and a member of the Tennessee Army National Guard. Balancing family, service, and dog sports has taught me discipline, patience, and teamwork, values I bring into every training session.
Roy

Roy

Trainer & Facility Support
Hey y'all! I'm Roy. I'll be helping out with daily operations, training classes, and kennel care here at The Classy Canine. My dog, Zuko, actually trained with Heather himself, and seeing the results firsthand made me want to be part of what she's building. I've always been an animal guy, so getting to work hands-on with dogs every day is a win in my book. When I'm off the clock, you'll usually find me on a trail, at the gym, grabbing coffee, or finding my next adventure. If you spot me at The Classy Canine or at a workshop, don't hesitate to say hey!
Mona

Mona

Chief Supervision Officer
Mona takes her role as Chief Supervision Officer very seriously. From her strategic vantage points, she oversees daily operations, monitors training sessions, and ensures everyone stays on task. While she doesn't train dogs directly, Mona is an expert in silent judgment, morale boosting, and reminding the team when it's time to pause and appreciate the little things.