Strong Bonds, Happy Dogs, Thriving Humans
Our Team - Passionate Experts in Human - Dog Bonds
At Canine Connection Brainerd Kennel Club, our team of dedicated trainers is passionate about fostering joyful, lifelong partnerships between dogs and their people. More than just instructors, our experts are dog lovers with extensive experience in dog sports, obedience training, behavior modification, canine enrichment, and mental wellness. Using positive, science-based methods, they create a fun, supportive environment where every dog and human thrives—physically, emotionally, and socially. From puppy training to advanced behavior solutions, our team brings knowledge, patience, and a commitment to building confidence, skills, and stronger human-dog connections. Join us at our nonprofit dog gym to experience the difference our compassionate, expert trainers make.
Trainers
Carol Manley
Trainer
I got my start in competitive obedience many years ago, and that’s where my love of dog training began. Since then, I’ve trained and competed in Rally Obedience, Agility, Nosework, and Drafting — each one bringing new lessons and plenty of fun along the way. I love helping people build stronger connections with their dogs and seeing those moments when everything starts to click. For me, training isn’t just about skills or titles — it’s about teamwork, confidence, and enjoying the journey.
Donna Niggeler
Trainer
Donna began training dogs in obedience in 1990 and discovered agility in 2001 with a high-drive Labrador named Jadah. Since then, she has worked with four different canine partners, each teaching valuable lessons and deepening her love for the sport. With her dog Faye, Donna earned an ADCH. Passionate about bringing out the best in every handler-dog pair, Donna is dedicated to helping others find the joy and connection that dog sports create.
Carol Voelker
Trainer
Carol has been active in dog agility since 1993 and has judged for USDAA, AKC, and UKI. With over 25 years of teaching experience in agility and obedience, Carol has trained and titled 11 dogs of various breeds, earning top honors including a Gold ADCH, Lifetime Gold Agility Dog, MX, and MXJ.
Lynn Hicks
Trainer
Lynn has loved dogs and training since her 4-H days with her Miniature Poodle, Bah. Over the years, she’s trained several Irish Setters and discovered her passion for Nosework with Gryffindor, whose intelligence and personality inspired her to find the perfect challenge. Lynn has trained with top Nosework competitors and judges. Today, she competes in Rally with her Irish Setter, Haukken, earning a Rally Championship, national invitations, and among the top 5 Irish Setters in the country in 2024
Deb Steen
Trainer
Deb has been active in dog sports for 20 years, with a special passion for rescue dogs. She began agility in 2009 with her Boston Terrier/Chihuahua mix, Bug, who went on to earn an ADCH. Since then, Deb has trained and competed with several rescue dogs, including her current border collies Beck (ADCH) and Lil’Bit. She also teaches beginner agility, where she especially enjoys helping rescue dogs and their people gain confidence and have fun together.
Janet Hennies
Trainer
I’ve been training dogs since I was 10 years old, starting in obedience and later exploring conformation before falling in love with agility. Over the years, I’ve worked with dogs of all sizes, speeds, and personalities—each one unique, amazing, and loved. Alongside my passion for dog training, I serve as the adult supervisor for REEL North Alliance, a teen mental health club at Pequot Lakes High School. I believe that while we guide and help our pets, they in turn teach us valuable lessons.
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Sharia Merten
Trainer
I’ve been training and owning dogs for over 15 years, competing in nose work, agility, obedience, Fast CAT, barn hunt, and rally. I enjoy working with behavioral dogs and am continuing my education in dog training to better help dogs and their people.
Loretta Mueller
Trainer
Loretta has been competing and coaching in agility since 2003. A multi-time national finalist and 6 time world team coach, with many medals won, she is known for her ability to bring out the best in all breeds. Loretta specializes in building drive, improving focus, and addressing stress-based behaviors. She currently operates Full Tilt Dog Training in Brainerd, MN, and teaches both in-person and online.
