What is a FORTIS Canine?
The name FORTIS Canine reflects my deep respect for the values of strength and courage. As a proud Navy veteran, I chose “Fortis,” the Latin word for “strong” or “brave,” to embody the spirit of resilience I experienced during my service. This resonates with the Navy’s ethos, particularly the unofficial motto, “Semper Fortis” – “Always Courageous.” My commitment is to harness this strength and bravery to build positive relationships between dogs and their owners. Dogs, much like humans, can struggle with communication, experience anxiety, and exhibit protective behaviors. Sometimes, they simply don’t understand the most appropriate ways to express these feelings. My goal is to help them and their owners learn.
For service K9s, police K9s, and search and rescue K9s, the bond of trust between handler and canine partner is paramount. These dedicated individuals rely on their dogs to demonstrate bravery, impeccable manners, and unwavering steadfastness in the face of demanding duties. Building these essential qualities is at the core of my training philosophy.
Our mission at Fortis Canine LLC is to serve Camden County and surrounding communities by providing evidence-based, balanced dog training that strengthens the human-animal bond for all dog owners, with a special commitment to supporting military members, their families, law enforcement officers, and educators.
Empowering Dog Owners with well balanced obedient dogs

Building Strong Owner-Dog bonds
Strong owner-dog relationships are the foundation of successful dog training. Our training methods ensure that every dog and owner are on the same page, leading to exceptional results.
Meet Our Team
Get to know our team who are dedicated to creating happy, well-behaved canine companions.

James Halstead
Master Dog Trainer / Owner

Melissa Halstead
Administrations / Advisor / Support Network

Harley Quinn
Demonstrations and Service K9
Complete Dog Training Services
Choose from our variety of training programs to achieve optimal results for your canine companion.
Group and Private Training
Customized one-on-one training or groups sessions to suit your lifestyle, address specific behavioral issues or provide individualized attention for your dog.
Behavior Modification
Got a dog that’s acting out and you don’t know why? Let us help you out!
AKC Evaluations
Do you want the coveted AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Good Canine Citizen, Urban Canine or Community Canine? Give me a call!
Lets Talk!
Ready to take the first step in creating a strong bond with your dog?
