Dogs are our daily reminders to live as if someone left the gate wide open.
We aim to teach others how to connect more deeply and passionately with their dogs, themselves, and the world around us. The more we help dogs become the best versions of themselves, the more they teach us to do the same.
ukiyo
[u•key•yo] · Japanese
Living in the moment, detached from the bothers of life. “The floating world.”
A mindset that we embrace with ourselves and our dogs.
“Our animals make us better people. And if we are better people, the world is a better place.” — Leland Melvin
Meet Yvonne.
Yvonne is the owner and head trainer of Ukiyo Dogs. Beside her are her best friends and business partners, Zahra and Kya. Kya works in HR and with our board & train clients.
Becoming a dog trainer was the most natural and life-changing decision Yvonne has ever made. From a young age, she’s been deeply connected to dogs and animals. They’ve always been a huge part of her world. Dogs, in particular, have brought so much joy and meaning to her life. They’ve been her teachers, her comfort, and her constant source of inspiration.
Dogs have profoundly shaped Yvonne’s life for the better. She can honestly say she wouldn’t be who she is today without them. She’s deeply grateful for every dog she’s had the privilege of working with. They’ve taught her to embrace the ukiyo mindset and live a more fulfilling life, and for that she is forever thankful.
The bond between dogs and humans is something truly special, and witnessing that connection grow is what fuels Yvonne every day. Helping others experience that bond, and guiding them to live their best life with their best friend, is what makes her feel truly alive.
Zahra is a lighthouse in the dark.
She’s a safe space that guides both dogs and humans alike as we navigate the tumultuous seas of life. She illuminates the beauty and joy in life and any waves of change. And we can always rely on her to shine her light on our path.
Zahra truly is a beacon of hope, positivity, and love. She has a heart even bigger than those ears. It’s truly amazing to witness her light touch everyone she meets. To love and be loved by Zahra is truly an honor.
She not only has the personality, but the discernment to help any dog or person feel at home in her presence. She is a true friend, role model, and teacher in our business.
Zahra is a service dog with a background in obedience, advanced training, scent detection, dock diving, and being a grade-A good girl.
Where the knowledge comes from.
-
Michigan State University
B.S. Zoology · Lyman Briggs College
Yvonne received a Bachelor of Science in Zoology, concentrating on animal behavior and neurobiology, from the Lyman Briggs College at Michigan State University. Lyman Briggs is a specialized, science-focused residential college at MSU. During these years, she worked as a research assistant at one of the best research facilities at MSU.
-
Bergin University of Canine Studies
M.S. Human-Canine Life Sciences
She pursued her Master of Science in Human-Canine Life Sciences at Bergin University of Canine Studies. BUCS was founded by Dr. Bonita (Bonnie) Bergin, who invented the concept of the service dog in 1975. During this experience she had the opportunity to work alongside Bonnie as a mentor and professor, which gave her invaluable knowledge about training service dogs.
-
Professional obedience training
Head trainer & manager · 5 years
After BUCS, Yvonne was hired as a professional dog trainer at a business that specialized in obedience. After about a year, she accepted a position as head trainer and manager. For the next four years, she heavily focused on gaining hands-on experience with dogs of every breed, age, size, and gender, including, in her opinion, some of the most difficult and most rewarding dogs in Colorado. It was in this process that she sharpened her skills, found her stride, and gained the confidence needed to start her own business.
-
Ford K9
Scent Detection Certification · CSDT Seminar
One of Yvonne’s favorite seminars to date was when she and Zahra received their Scent Detection Certification at the Ford K9 CSDT Seminar.
You’re not just a client. You’re part of the Ukiyo Dogs family.
We promise to always support you in living your best life with your furry best friend. We will not only love your dog, but also treat them as if they are our own. Health and safety are of the utmost importance to us, and we’re transparent about how we keep every dog in our care happy, healthy, and safe.
Read our health & safety practices
Schedule a free consultation
All of our programs are created to fit you and your dog’s unique needs. Training is based on your personal goals, your lifestyle, and an in-person evaluation of your dog.