The Canine Mind Team
The Canine Mind team (Persephone, Alex & Steven)
We work together to provide excellent care to all the dogs that stay with us
Master Dog Trainer Alex Krikorian
Alex Krikorian
Owner and Lead Trainer Alex Krikorian is a Master Dog Trainer with over 15 years of hands on training experience. Alex’s dog journey began Christmas 2006 when he received his first dog, a cute but fearfully-aggressive Boxer named Rocky. Rocky was a loving companion inside the home, but was anxious and aggressive when outside on walks. It took Alex observing and bonding with Rocky to build a strong and trusting connection, allowing him to find the root of his aggressive behavior and ultimately soothe it. His success rehabilitating Rocky’s behavior was the launchpad that inspired a career in Dog Behavior Modification and Training.
Alex spent the following years studying with and learning from many trainers and behaviorists, while also climbing the ranks at PetSmart, INC. After three years as their Regional Training Manager and with no further to climb, Alex founded The Canine Mind, with the purpose of educating pet parents on the inner-workings of their dog’s mind. He wanted to help owner’s foster a closer bond with their dogs, accomplish fear free obedience, and ensure a lifetime of wagging tails. After finding great success in the Bay Area, Alex relocated The Canine Mind to his wife Melody’s hometown of Salt Lake City, Utah.
Dog Trainer Steven Myers
Steven Myers
Born and raised in Utah, I’ve been a lifelong dog lover with a passion for building meaningful connections between pets and their families. With three years of dog training experience, I bring a deep understanding of canine behavior and a commitment to helping every dog become the ideal companion. Growing up, I played sports throughout my childhood, which taught me discipline, teamwork, and patience—qualities I now bring into my work with dogs and their owners.
I’m most passionate about helping people better understand their pets, creating harmony in their homes, and tailoring training to meet the unique needs of every family. Whether it’s addressing specific challenges or refining obedience skills, I love seeing the transformation as dogs become confident, well-behaved companions. My approach is not just about training dogs but fostering stronger bonds between humans and their furry friends in a fun, approachable way.
Dog Trainer Persephone Garden
Persephone Carden
Hi! I'm Persephone Carden. I've been living in Utah for nine years and am a passionate dog trainer with more than three years of experience in the training field! My journey began with raising Guide Dogs for the Blind, and I currently have three active guide dogs assisting individuals across the US and Canada. This work has not only deepened my love for dogs but also reinforced my commitment to improving their lives and the lives of their handlers.
In addition to my training career, I am pursuing a degree in Psychology at Salt Lake Community College. My studies allow me to explore the intricacies of behavior and learning, which I apply to my work with dogs and owners! Balancing my education and training responsibilities has been challenging, but extremely rewarding, as I strive to enhance my skills in both fields.
