Best Paw Forward is now a supplier of Pet Lovers Choice Raw Dog Food here in Nanaimo. Ground chicken, beef, tripe, chicken necks, backs, turkey necks, cat food, liver treats etc can all be purchased through Best Paw Forward. I changed my dogs from dry food to raw about 3 years ago and have never looked back! If you would like more info on our product or how to switch your dog from dry please contact us, we are happy to help.

Your Trainers

Robyn Andexser

Best Paw Forward Dog Training was founded by Robyn Andexser, who has worked with animals since she was just fifteen years old. She began her animal training career with Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins and African Blackfooted Penguins, who taught her the joy of animal training and the connection and dedication that it takes to work together as a team. After moving to Nanaimo in 2005, Robyn expanded into the dog training world and attended Canada West Canine Center. There she studied all levels of obedience, dog care, behaviour problems, dog aggression, protection training, police K9 and search and rescue. She achieved her certification as a Master Dog Trainer.

Robyn is a graduate from the Animal Care Aide program at Malaspina University and is also certified in canine first aid through DOGSAFE, and now hosts the course here in Nanaimo. 

Robyn is owned by her two dogs, Rudy and Sonny, father and son Miniature Schnauzers who always keep her on her toes. They frequently attend class with her to show all the other dogs how to play and learn the new behaviours. Robyn and Rudy are volunteers for the Nanaimo SPCA and travel to local schools to teach kids about being respectful to animals.

Robyn has chosen the dog training field as her personal career path, as she strives to see a healthy and respected bond between owners and their dogs. She believes that animals are our greatest teachers, and they add unprecedented joy and value to our own existence.

Cheri Wicks

Cheri has recently joined Best Paw Forward as a Certified Obedience Trainer. Cheri has had a connection with dogs for as long as she can remember, and this connection has driven her to learn more about training, educating and building better bonds with her dogs.

Cheri has completed the obedience trainer program at Canada West Canine, and has earned her accreditation as a Certified Obedience Instructor.  She is also certified in DOGSAFE Canine First Aid.

Determined to further her passion, Cheri has attended all sorts of dog training classes, from all levels of obedience,competitive agility, flyball and even Dock Dog trials with her Border Collie. They have traveled to Oregon to compete in Dock Dogs and came home with a first place metal in the big air competition. Congratulations!

Cheri is owned by her two dogs, Taya, a Border Collie Cross and Sequoia, an Australian Shepherd who will frequently attend the classes with her.