Susy Sobel rescued her first dog, Kuma, in 2017. Kuma was a reactive pitbull mix and became Susy’s gateway to pet training. In 2023, she was introduced to the dog sport world and was drawn to Chris’s approach to working dogs. She added a Beacueron Vaquero to the pack and dabbles in nearly everything with him including detection, protection, herding, dock diving, and fast cat. Susy is an attorney for her 9-5 job and brings that level of organization to the management of Chris Sykes business. When not working dogs she’s doing yoga and adventuring in the good ol PNW outdoors.

Follow along @packpatootie

Josh Herrera has been working with Chris Sykes since he was 16 years old. He began as a kennel tech and has been assisting with board & trains for several years now. Josh currently is training for PSA with his German Shepherd Colt and hopes to do explosives detection as well. Josh enjoys working with a variety of breeds and seeing them progress in training in order to access more freedom in their day to day lives. He brings a balance of decoy sport work and companion pet training.

When he’s not working Josh likes to go on bike rides, hikes, and spend time with his family and friends.

Follow along @steele__k9

Carl Novick wanted a dog for personal protection and in 2023 took home an all black german shepherd named Odin. He immediately connected with Chris Sykes and the rest is history. They are pursuing PSA as their sport. In 2025 Carl added Aya, a harlequin female Beauceron, to the pack. This little girlie is as his and his wife Juli’s active pet companion. This balance means Carl is well versed in both companion pet training and building a foundation for sports. When he’s not working dogs he’s camping and road tripping in his souped up Grenadier.

Follow along at @sir_walt