About K9 Strength & Conditioning
Science-Driven Performance Training for Canine Athletes
Train Like An Athlete. Play Like A Dog
At K9 Strength & Conditioning, we specialize in high-performance canine strength and conditioning for sport dogs, working dogs, and active partners. Our mission is to improve canine athletic performance, prevent injuries, and support lifelong soundness through individualized, science-based fitness programming.
Founded by Dr. Karyn Fein, a licensed veterinarian with a unique dual background in veterinary rehabilitation and human strength and conditioning, K9 Strength & Conditioning was created to meet the growing demand for professional-level conditioning programs that build stronger, more resilient canine athletes.
Every dog has different mechanics, demands, and goals. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all — every plan is designed specifically for your dog’s sport, job, and body.
We complement the work of your dog’s care team - this may be a veterinarian, an orthopedic specialist, a neurologist, a chiropractor, a rehab therapist, a physical therapist, a trainer, among others. It is important to us to make sure that messaging is consistent and clear and we are happy to share records and speak with other members of your dog’s care team to make sure everyone is on the same page and helping to meet your goals.
We are a sister business to Rocky Mountain Veterinary Rehabilitation (www.RockyMountainVetRehab.com). After your first visit with us for strength and conditioning, one of our team members will carry out your exercise plan. If you already have a strength and conditioning coach that you are working with, we are happy to review the plan with them as well so they can help you as needed in between sessions with us.
Meet Dr. Karyn Fein
DVM, CSCS, CCRT, CVA, CSCC
Dr. Fein brings an unmatched depth of education and hands-on expertise in canine sports performance, rehabilitation, and strength science. Her interdisciplinary background allows her to design conditioning programs that are both performance-driven and medically sound.
Credentials Include
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Doctor of Veterinary Medicine – North Carolina State University
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Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) – Canine Rehabilitation Institute
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Certified Canine Strength & Conditioning Coach (CSCC) – NC State University
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Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) – National Strength and Conditioning Association
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Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist – Chi University
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Advanced studies in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM)
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Reiki Practitioner – Usui System of Natural Healing
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Bachelor of Science in Animal Science – University of Maryland
Why CSCC Certification Matters
Dr. Fein is one of the few professionals who is a licensed veterinarian with rehabilitation expertise, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCS), and a Certified Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCC). The CSCC certification through NC State College of Vet Med required advanced training work, including: 60+ hours of coursework, hands-on in-person instruction, a comprehensive exam and submission of three detailed case studies.
What sets CSCC apart is its university-backed, veterinary-based focus on performance training mechanics — teaching dogs how to offer movements correctly, improving muscle engagement, sport-specific strength, and the dog-handler relationship.
For serious sport and working dog owners, this level of expertise provides a higher standard of safe, results-driven conditioning.
Our Philosophy
Canine conditioning is more than exercise — it’s performance training with purpose.
At K9 Strength & Conditioning, we use evidence-based principles from veterinary rehabilitation, strength training, and canine sports medicine to help dogs move better, compete stronger, and stay injury-free throughout their athletic careers.
Science-Driven
Programs are rooted in anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise physiology.
Sport Specific + Individualized
We assess movement patterns, muscle imbalances, and performance goals before building a plan.
Whole-Athlete Focused
True performance includes strength, mobility, coordination, endurance, and mental engagement.
Handler-Inclusive
We coach handlers alongside their dogs to improve clarity in training, teamwork, and long-term progress.
Whether you’re preparing for competition, building durability in a working partner, or supporting an active adventure dog, our goal is the same: stronger movement, better performance, fewer injuries.
Our conditioning programs are designed for dogs who train hard and play harder
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Increased core strength, stability, and power
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Improved joint mobility, flexibility, and range of motion
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Enhanced stride mechanics, gait efficiency, and body awareness
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Better balance, coordination, and neuromuscular control
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Greater confidence and focus through mentally engaging training
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Reduced injury risk and safer return-to-spot progression
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Customized strength programs tailored to your dog's sport or working demands
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Enhancing the bond between you and your dog
Performance-based benefits may include
Our Method
Our method is built on proven, science-driven strength and conditioning principles designed for canine athletes.
Whether your dog is training for sport, preparing for physically demanding work, or staying strong for high-output adventures, we focus on fitness that supports real-world performance.
Targeted exercises activate underused muscle groups, improve coordination, and build full-body resilience — helping dogs move with confidence while reducing the risk of injury.
More Than Fitness
Our work goes beyond building strength — it builds trust, teamwork, and athletic confidence.
Each session teaches handlers how to train with clarity while helping dogs succeed physically and mentally in sport, work, and life.
Book a consultation to learn how we can help your dog move, perform, and compete at their very best.
Our Services
Custom programs designed to improve performance, durability and long-term health.
From strength training and mobility work to recovery and sport-specific conditioning, every plan is built around your dog's unique needs and goals.
We also collaborate with your dog's care team to ensure a well-rounded, consistent approach to training and wellness.
Start Your Dog's Fitness Journey
We are currently accepting new clients.
Dogs should have basic obedience skills, including sit, down, stay, and come.
Participation requires veterinary approval, and services may be adjusted based on your dog’s needs. Please include your primary veterinarian on the intake form so we can coordinate care.