Hidden Gems: Meet Adam Bonner of Adam the Dog Trainer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Adam Bonner

Hi Adam, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2017 I was diagnosed with a life-altering disease. After countless hospital stays, I lost 20% of his body mass and nearly his home. The malady had almost taken my life. I had to re-evaluate everything.

It was at this point I decided to fully dedicate myself to something larger than himself: to create harmony between owners and their misunderstood dogs. I credit this realization to my incredible recovery and the return of my health. Dogs literally saved my life.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My dog training journey has been full of challenges that have tested my patience, adaptability, and understanding of dogs. I’ve faced setbacks, unexpected behavioral hurdles, and moments where I questioned my approach, but I’ve stayed committed to positive reinforcement. There have been some very dark moments I’ve had to work through. . Still, every struggle has taught me something valuable, strengthening my skills and deepening my bond with my dogs. Through trial and persistence, I’ve learned to turn obstacles into lessons, shaping me into the trainer and person I am today.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My goal is to transform Dog Training with Heart, Science, and Human Understanding.

Training dogs isn’t just about teaching commands—it’s about understanding the deep connection between dogs and their owners. I’ve learned that a dog’s behavior is often a reflection of the human condition, shaped by our energy, emotions, and overall mental well-being. When I work with a dog, I’m also working with their person, helping them recognize how their mindset, stress levels, and habits directly influence their dog’s behavior.

As a specialist in hound dogs—one of the most independent and misunderstood breed-types—I don’t believe in force or quick-fix solutions. Instead, I focus on trust, communication, and positive reinforcement to unlock each dog’s potential. Where others see stubbornness, I see a dog that needs to be understood. Where frustration builds, I bring clarity, showing owners how subtle shifts in their own approach can transform their dog’s behavior.

I don’t just train dogs—I translate their world for their humans. Every session is about more than obedience; it’s about building an unshakable bond. My work goes beyond traditional training methods because I know that a well-balanced dog starts with a well-balanced owner. That’s what makes my approach different.

Grand Rapids has plenty of dog trainers, but what I do is deeper. I help owners and their dogs connect on a level they didn’t even know was possible. Because when you truly understand your dog, you don’t just get better behavior—you get a companion who trusts you completely.

What does success mean to you?
To me, success is about growth, alignment, and impact. It’s not just about reaching a destination but about constantly evolving into the best version of myself—whether in dog training, or my personal life. Success means staying true to my purpose, moving at a quantum pace toward everything I want, and turning challenges into stepping stones. It’s about making meaningful connections, creating work that resonates with the right audience, and building a life where passion and financial stability go hand in hand. Ultimately, success is having the freedom to express myself fully, nurture my relationships, and see real results from my efforts.

Pricing:

• 1 week of Training integrated dog walking (3 sessions -1-1.5 hours each) -$290.
• 3 weeks of Training integrated dog walking (3 sessions a week – 1-1.5 hours per session) – 750
• Session fee – $125
• Consultation- $125
• Training Plan – $ 50

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Adamthetrainer.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoisadamthedogtrainer/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1MzAfSJzL5/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@adamthedogtrainer?si=7BsaIrL97Dkwc-5m
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@adamthedogtrainer