IRENE MARCELISSEN

Before working full-time with dogs, I worked in healthcare and as a teacher. In 2014, I got my first dog, Ronja, a White Swiss Shepherd. At that time, I was recovering from illness, and Ronja played a huge role in that process. Because of her, I entered the world of dogs and quickly became fascinated by the way humans and dogs work together.
Over the following years, I completed various courses and training programs and discovered how much fulfillment and joy I found in combining dog training with coaching people. Through working with my own dogs, I also developed a strong passion for nose work, and trailing in particular.
In 2020, I started my own business, Team Up With Dogs, and turned my passion into my profession. I became an assistance dog instructor, guiding people with disabilities in training their own assistance dogs. In addition, I taught tracking and trailing classes, as well as puppy and young dog training.

In 2022, Ravi, an Australian Kelpie, joined our family. Together with him, I started training according to the GAK9 method, and it immediately felt like the right fit for me. The strong focus on reading and understanding the dog, working together as a team, and continuing to learn and grow really matches the way I want to train and teach. Together, Ravi and I continue to grow into a stronger and better team every day.

In 2024, I became a sport trailing trainer, and I am now also a GAK9 trainer. What especially appeals to me in the GAK9 method is the focus on the dog’s natural drives,

independence, motivation to search, and truly teaming up with your dog. These are values I enjoy working on with my own dogs and want to pass on to my students as well.

Irene Marcelissen
https://teamupwithdogs.nl/
[email protected]
+31 615154420