Keely Korbel

My dog training journey began back in 2013 when I moved to Austin, Texas, to attend Starmark Academy, a well-respected school for professional dog trainers. The program was an intensive three-month course, and I was fortunate to be selected for their internship program, which allowed me to stay on for an additional three months to further sharpen my skills. From there, I stepped into the world of working dogs, joining a company focused on drug detection training.

I spent three years in Texas before returning home, where I continued to grow in the field by working with another dog training company. That experience reignited my passion—not just for training dogs, but for supporting the people behind the leash. I wanted to create something different: a company that truly prioritized both the dog’s learning experience and the owner’s confidence and growth.

In 2019, I launched Ruff Rules with a clear mission: to empower struggling dog owners, strengthen their bond with their dogs, and teach them how to use training tools—like remote collars—properly and fairly to give their dogs more freedom, not less.

My personal dog, Cruzz, was a big part of that vision. I adopted him while I was at Starmark, and he came with a full list of challenges—fear aggression, leash reactivity, high anxiety, and zero recall. He taught me patience, perspective, and just how overwhelming it can feel to have a dog you love but don’t know how to help. That firsthand experience shaped the heart of Ruff Rules.

Now, over five years later, I’m proud to have an incredible team of women who have personally trained under me. Each one brings her own strengths to the table, helping both dogs and their humans make life-changing progress.

Ruff Rules is more than just a dog training company—it’s a community rooted in connection, education, and building strong, reliable relationships between dogs and their owners. What began as a leap of faith into the world of dog training has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined. Born from personal experience, built through years of hands-on work, and driven by a deep belief that real change happens when both the dog and the owner feel supported, Ruff Rules reflects everything I’ve learned along the way.

Every challenge I faced with Cruzz, every client I’ve helped, and every dog that’s come through our program has shaped this journey. Today, Ruff Rules stands as a place where people and dogs are met with compassion, clear communication, and a team that truly cares. I’m beyond proud of what we’ve built—and even more excited for the difference we’ll continue to make, together.