Case Study · Brand Launch
Authentic K-9
Brand strategy, identity, website, sales collateral and apparel for Authentic K-9 Dog Training, a private and group dog training business serving the Greater Toronto Area.
Clear cues. Calm minds. Reliable dogs.
01 — The Challenge
A great trainer without a brand
Akeem Norris, Authentic K-9’s founder and head trainer, is a certified dog trainer. What the business needed was a brand to match: a clear identity, a defined audience and a home online where dog owners across the GTA could find him and book a session.
Authentic K-9 serves everyone from new puppy owners to people working through serious behavioural challenges, so the brand had to feel approachable and trustworthy while showing real expertise.
02 — The Approach
Strategy first, then the storefront
Reach built Authentic K-9’s brand from the ground up, starting with who it serves and how it should sound, then carrying that through every place a customer meets it.
01
Brand strategy
Vision, mission, brand personality and tone, plus ideal customer profiles for private clients, group-class owners, newer trainers and professional K9 handlers.
02
Identity and logo
A logo and visual identity in navy and sky blue with Source Sans 3 type, built to feel modern, direct and approachable.
03
Website
A website that lays out every training program, introduces Akeem and makes it easy for dog owners to get in touch.
04
Collateral and merch
A branded magnet with a QR code, plus hoodies, tees and caps that carry the brand off-screen.
03 — The Work
One brand, everywhere
Brand GuidelinesIdentity
A complete brand system covering vision, mission, tagline, personality, tone, colour and typography, so every touchpoint looks and sounds like Authentic K-9.
Tagline
Clear cues. Calm minds. Reliable dogs.
Vision
To become the go-to dog training service for dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds across the Greater Toronto Area.
Mission
To deliver premium, personalized dog training that strengthens trust and communication between dog and owner, creating calm, confident companionship at home and beyond.
Colour palette
Typography · Source Sans 3
Brand personality
Brand tone
Websiteauthentick9.com
Six programs, from Puppy Headstart to Aggression Control, a trainer profile for Akeem and a direct line to book. Visit the site →
ApparelMerch
Branded hoodies, tees and caps with the logo up front and the tagline on the back, plus a hidden tagline detail inside the cap.
Sales CollateralPrint
A branded magnet with the tagline, contact details and a QR code, so dog owners can find Authentic K-9 long after the first meeting.
04 — What We Delivered
The full brand kit
05 — The Result
A brand ready to grow
Authentic K-9 now has one consistent brand across its website, magnet and apparel, built around the dog owners it serves best.
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