At Semper Amici Canine Training, dog training is about far more than teaching a dog to sit, stay, or come when called. It is about building trust, strengthening relationships, and helping owners better understand the dogs they love. Every lesson is designed to create confidence on both ends of the leash, while giving families the tools they need for long-term success.
Founded by Jose and Patty Sierra, Semper Amici was created from a lifelong passion for working with dogs and a desire to help families experience the joy that comes along with a well-trained canine companion. What began as a mobile training business in 2018 has grown into a thriving training facility serving dogs and owners throughout the region. While the business has expanded over the years, its mission has remained remarkably simple: help dogs and their families communicate more effectively and build stronger bonds.
Jose’s path to professional dog training began during his service in the United States Marine Corps. Selected as a Military Working Dog Handler, he completed two deployments to Iraq alongside his Explosives Detection Dog, Gris. The partnership between handler and dog left a lasting impression and helped shape the philosophy that today drives Semper Amici. In fact, Gris remains such an important part of Jose’s journey that his likeness is featured in the company’s logo.
Following his military service, Jose continued working with dogs through Department of Homeland Security assignments, private security contracts, and advanced training programs. Along the way, he earned certifications and gained valuable experience handling dogs in high-pressure environments where trust, communication, and consistency were critical. Those experiences reinforced a belief that every dog can succeed when training is built around understanding, patience, and clear expectations.
That belief continues to guide the business today. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, every training program is customized to each dog, the owner’s goals, and the family’s lifestyle. Whether a client has a new puppy, a rescue dog, or a companion needing more advanced obedience, the team develops a plan designed to create lasting results.
“We focus heavily on the owner,” Patty says. “The dogs are often the easy part. When the entire family is on the same page, it unlocks a whole new level of freedom and success for the dog.”
Services include puppy foundations, obedience training, behavior modification, and Canine Good Citizen testing. For alumni who have already completed a puppy or obedience program through them, Semper Amici also offers boarding, daytime enrichment (their version of structured daycare), scent work, and advanced classes.
Semper Amici's commitment to its clients extends well beyond the completion of formal training. Graduates become part of the Semper Amici alumni community, where ongoing education continues through group classes, public outings, and specialized activities. Classes are held in parks, coffee shops, and retail stores, helping dogs and owners practice their skills in real-world environments.
Behind every successful training session is a dedicated team of professionals who share the couple’s passion for canine education. Trainers Justin and Jessie bring extensive experience and a commitment to helping dogs reach their full potential. Senior Caretaker Andrea and Canine Care Team member Karla help ensure every dog receives attentive care, structure, and encouragement throughout their stay.
Together, the team has built more than a training facility. They have created a community where dogs and owners learn together, celebrate successes together, and continue growing long after training is complete. For the Sierras, success is not measured simply by obedience. It is measured by the stronger relationships, greater confidence, and deeper understanding that develop between dogs and the people who love them.