Heel and Heal K9

Heel and Heal K9 Professional Dog Training specializing in: Obedience, aggression, anxiety and more. Serving the greater Seattle area.

🌟 Discover the 4 Pillars of Obedience Training for Your Dog! 🌟We use this principle to help hone various aspects of our ...
07/18/2024

🌟 Discover the 4 Pillars of Obedience Training for Your Dog! 🌟

We use this principle to help hone various aspects of our dogs obedience skills and you can too!

🐾 Distance: Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog to challenge their obedience.

⏰ Duration: Start with short periods and slowly increase the time your dog is expected to maintain a behavior.

🎾 Distraction: Begin with minimal distractions and gradually introduce more to teach your dog to focus.

🌍 Diversify: Train in various environments to show your dog that the rules apply everywhere.

✨ Choose one of these pillars to work on at a time and master it before combining or mixing and matching. This method ensures a well-rounded and obedient pup! 🐶💪

07/16/2024

🐾 Learn the art of hands-free leash walking with our expert training programs. Book today for private lessons or our board and train options. Let's make every walk a breeze! 🌟

🐾Unlock the Secrets to a Stronger Bond with Your Dog at our Newest Seminar!🐾Join us 📅 April 13th & 14th from 🕐 11am - 1p...
03/15/2024

🐾Unlock the Secrets to a Stronger Bond with Your Dog at our Newest Seminar!🐾

Join us 📅 April 13th & 14th from 🕐 11am - 1pm for an enlightening two-day journey into the heart of dog training and behavior management.

This seminar is crafted for individuals eager to elevate their understanding and refine their approach to fostering a joyful, fulfilling relationship with their dogs.

- Genetics & Characteristics: Dive deep into the world of purebreds and mixed breeds. Discover what makes your furry friend unique and how to harness their innate qualities.

- Canine Development: Journey through the life stages of a dog, from a playful puppy to a serene senior. Learn how each phase impacts their learning, behavior, and how you can adapt your training strategies accordingly.

- Behavior & Psychology: Unravel the mysteries behind your dog’s actions and reactions. Gain a profound understanding of canine psychology to guide your dog gently towards positive behavior patterns.

- Learning and Training Principles: Master the core principles of behavior training. Equip yourself with effective strategies that cater to your dog’s individual needs, ensuring a harmonious learning experience.

- Harmony and Leadership: Discover the art of blending affection with structure. Learn how to establish a relationship built on mutual respect and deep bonds, leading to a happier, healthier life together.

Limited availability, don’t miss this opportunity to transform your approach to dog training and behavior management.

🗓️ Reserve your spot below!

https://www.heelandhealk9.com/seminar-sign-up

🌅 As the sun sets on another day of training, let’s reflect on the generalization stage in dog training. 🐕 This crucial ...
12/22/2023

🌅 As the sun sets on another day of training, let’s reflect on the generalization stage in dog training. 🐕 This crucial phase goes beyond teaching Fido to weave through poles—it’s about ensuring he can apply this skill across various environments and setups. 🌍 Whether it’s poles on different bases or amid a sequence of other behaviors, mastery means weaving with confidence anywhere, any time. Consistent practice in diverse settings is key. 🐾

🐾Understanding Critical Developmental Periods 🐾Hey, dog lovers! 🐶💕 Are you ready to embark on the amazing journey of pup...
12/19/2023

🐾Understanding Critical Developmental Periods 🐾

Hey, dog lovers! 🐶💕 Are you ready to embark on the amazing journey of puppy parenting? Understanding the critical growth stages of your furry friend is key to raising a happy, well-adjusted pup. 🌟

Windows of Opportunity: Each stage offers unique opportunities for learning and growth.
• Neurological Development: Rapid brain changes make these periods optimal for skill acquisition.
• Long-term Effects: Missed opportunities can lead to lifelong challenges.
• Social and Emotional Development: Early life shapes future behaviors and relationships.

📅 During their first few weeks, puppies go through “biologically defined” stages. 🧬 This means their growth and learning are guided by nature’s clock! 🕒

🐕‍🦺 The Right Experiences 🐕‍🦺
1. Social Butterflies: Introduce your pup to different people and pets in a happy, safe setting. It’s like puppy networking! 🤝🐩
2. New Adventures: Show them the world! 🌍 Different places and sounds make for a brave, cool pup. 🚗🌳
3. Loving Touch: Regular cuddles and gentle handling get them used to human touch and care. 🤗💆‍♂️
4. Play & Learn: Fun training with treats and praise builds trust and smarts. 🧠🍖

Remember, every puppy is unique! 🌈 Adjust these experiences to suit your little one’s pace – no rush, just lots of love and patience. 🐾❤️

Let’s raise happy, healthy pups together! Share your puppy parenting tips and stories below. 👇


When a dog encounters a fearful or anxiety inducing stimulus a complex neurological reaction begins. How each dog respon...
12/15/2023

When a dog encounters a fearful or anxiety inducing stimulus a complex neurological reaction begins.

How each dog responds depends on a myriad of factors such as age, experiences, genetics, and developmental thresholds and more.

Thresholds (or windows of tolerance), also known as the point where a stimulus is of a strong enough intensity to elicit a stress response in the dog.

We can often alter, or raise these thresholds through sound training, desensitization and counter-conditioning.

However, before we can embark on that journey we must first understand what is happening under the hood.

Think of it like this:
Scary Thing + Dog’s Brain Reaction = Dog’s Action (Fight, Run Away, or Freeze)

1.Scary Thing: This could be anything that makes the dog afraid, like a loud noise or a stranger.

2.Dog’s Brain Reaction:
•Alarm Center in the Brain (Amygdala) Activates: This part of the brain alerts the dog that something scary is happening.
•Stress Response Kicks In: The dog’s brain sends signals to release stress hormones, getting the body ready to react.

3.Dog’s Action (Fight, Run Away, or Freeze):
•Fight: The dog may bark, growl, or bite if it can’t run away.
•Run Away (Flight): The dog tries to escape the scary situation.
•Freeze: The dog stays very still, hoping the scary thing will go away.

Meet Buster, our cheerful 3-year-old German Shepherd mix with a heart full of joy and a tail that won't stop wagging! 🐾 ...
12/03/2023

Meet Buster, our cheerful 3-year-old German Shepherd mix with a heart full of joy and a tail that won't stop wagging! 🐾

Buster is joining our pack for a 3-week board and train program, where we'll hone his skills in general obedience, perfect the 'out' command for a seamless release of toys, and achieve reliable off-leash recall. Our tailored training approach will help Buster to listen attentively and respond with eagerness, ensuring his safety and happiness both at home and during his adventures. Stay tuned to witness Buster's transformation into an even more fantastic furry friend!

Welcome to our newest trainee, Dio, a spirited German Shepherd Dog with a personality as grand as his stature! 🌟 Dio has...
12/03/2023

Welcome to our newest trainee, Dio, a spirited German Shepherd Dog with a personality as grand as his stature!

🌟 Dio has embarked on a transformative journey with us for the next four weeks, focusing on enhancing his pack integration skills, polishing his obedience, and mastering the art of composed leash walking amidst his canine peers. Our behavioral modification program is designed to understand and nurture his instincts, ensuring Dio develops into a well-mannered and sociable companion. Follow along as we share his progress and celebrate the milestones in his path to becoming an exemplary member of the pack!

Unleash the power of mindful interactions to transform your dogs, behavior and deepen your bond - discover how in our la...
07/31/2023

Unleash the power of mindful interactions to transform your dogs, behavior and deepen your bond - discover how in our latest blog post!

Discover the power of mindful interactions in dog training. Learn how intentional communication can improve your dog's behavior, enhance your bond, and lead to a more harmonious household. This blog post guides you on how to interact with your dog mindfully, mirroring their natural engagement with u

Discover the crucial role of crating in ensuring your dog's safety and preventing behavioral issues. Learn how crating c...
07/24/2023

Discover the crucial role of crating in ensuring your dog's safety and preventing behavioral issues. Learn how crating can prevent dogs from developing self-reinforcing nuisance behaviors and protect them from potential dangers.

Understand how it helps manage overexcitement and promotes proper greetings. This blog post dives deep into the benefits of crating, creating a secure, den-like atmosphere for your pet when you're away.

Explore the importance of crating your dog for their safety and well-being. Understand how it prevents nuisance behaviors, keeps them out of danger, and teaches them proper greetings. Discover how a crate can be a safe haven for your pet when you're away.

🐾 Unlocking the Power of Opposition Reflex 🐾Understanding Opposition Reflex is a game-changer when it comes to taking th...
07/23/2023

🐾 Unlocking the Power of Opposition Reflex 🐾

Understanding Opposition Reflex is a game-changer when it comes to taking the leash from being a mere safety tether to becoming a direct line of communication between you and your dog.

Opposition Reflex is a natural and involuntary response seen in various animals, including humans. It refers to the automatic movement of body parts in the opposite direction of an external force or pressure. This reflex serves a vital purpose—it helps maintain stability, balance, and posture in response to changes in the environment or disturbances to balance.

Notably, Opposition Reflex plays a crucial role in coordinating movement and ensuring proper muscle tone, particularly evident in our beloved canine friends.

Picture this: When your dog is on a leash and they feel a pull from you, their innate Opposition Reflex will cause them to resist against the tension.

To put it into a human context, it's similar to pushing against the back of a standing person's shoulder; their natural response is to push back against the force applied.

Understanding this reflex empowers handlers to work with their dog's natural responses instead of against them. This leads to more effective training and communication, forging a stronger bond between you and your furry companion.

So, next time you're out with your dog, keep this in mind and see how embracing Opposition Reflex can elevate your training sessions and strengthen your relationship. Happy training! 🐶🐕💕












🐾🌳 Building Confidence and Exploring Boundaries: Unleash Your Dog's Potential! 🌳🐾📢 Calling all dog owners and enthusiast...
07/13/2023

🐾🌳 Building Confidence and Exploring Boundaries: Unleash Your Dog's Potential! 🌳🐾

📢 Calling all dog owners and enthusiasts! 📢 Did you know that building confidence in your furry friend doesn't require fancy equipment or a dog training degree? It's all about tapping into the incredible power of your surroundings and your imagination! 🌟

🐶 Meet Hallie, the fearless canine adventurer! 🌺 In this image, Hallie demonstrates how she conquers obstacles with boundless confidence. Just look at her effortlessly climbing and hurdling over that picnic table! 🏞️ And can we take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking beach view from her royal perch? 🌅

🎯 Today, we're highlighting the importance of using your environment to boost your dog's self-assurance. From local parks to nature trails and everything in between, there's an endless array of opportunities to nurture your pup's confidence! 💪

💡 Remember, dog training is an inclusive journey that anyone can embark upon. You don't need specialized equipment—just your imagination and a willingness to explore! Get creative with your surroundings and turn them into a fun training playground! 🌈

🐾 Have your dog climb hills, jump over logs, balance on rocks, or conquer playground equipment. Let them sit triumphantly atop picnic tables like Hallie, reveling in the stunning vistas around them. 🌊 Encourage their adventurous spirit and watch as their confidence soars higher than ever before! 🚀

🌟 So, fellow dog lovers, let's embrace the power of imagination and the environment to unlock our pups' full potential. Share your own confidence-building adventures in the comments below and inspire others to embark on this incredible journey too! 🙌

📸 Photo Credit: 📸

07/07/2023
🐾🌟 Hey friends! Let's dive into the transformative power of the messy middle when it comes to rehabilitating our furry f...
07/06/2023

🐾🌟 Hey friends! Let's dive into the transformative power of the messy middle when it comes to rehabilitating our furry friends! 🐶✨

🔹 Have you ever noticed that true growth and behavior change rarely come easy? That's because it's in the "messy middle" where the magic happens. 🌱

🐾 When rehabilitating dogs, the messy middle refers to that challenging phase where progress might seem slow or non-existent. It's a crucial period where we encounter setbacks, stress, trauma, or triggers. But fear not! It's also where resilience and breakthroughs are born. 💪

🔹 If you're curious to learn more about how the messy middle impacts dog rehabilitation, I've written a new blog post that delves into this fascinating topic! 📖🐾

📝 In my latest article, I explore the significance of the messy middle, the power of behavior change, and practical strategies to overcome stress, trauma, and triggers when rehabilitating dogs. 🐾✨

🔗 Check out my blog post here: https://www.heelandhealk9.com/blog/themessymiddle

🐶❤️ Discover the secrets to successfully navigating the messy middle and witness the incredible transformations that can occur when we show patience, love, and understanding to our furry companions! 🌈

🔹 Let's embark on this journey together and create a supportive community that celebrates the messy middle in dog rehabilitation. Don't forget to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below the blog post!

🐾 Introducing Hallie! 🎉Hallie, our newest addition, has just joined us for a 4-week behavioral modification board and tr...
07/01/2023

🐾 Introducing Hallie! 🎉

Hallie, our newest addition, has just joined us for a 4-week behavioral modification board and train program 🐶🤍

Hallie is a 4 1/2 year old terrier mix with a personality as unique as her name. But let's be honest, she's had a few moments that made us go, "Wait, what?" 😅 On several occasions, Hallie has shown her feisty side by attacking members of her household and even drawing blood.🩸

But fret not, dear friends! During her stay with us, we're on a mission to bring order into Hallie's life by creating a highly structured environment. We'll be working on her leash manners, teaching her the art of waiting politely at the door, mastering the "place" command, and helping her understand the importance of accepting touch and sharing valuable resources like toys, food, and, yes, even space! 🐾🏠

But it's not just about Hallie's transformation; we're all about teamwork! We're excited to work closely with Hallie's family to establish a proper pack hierarchy within the household. You see, Hallie has been under the impression that she's at the top of the pecking order, but hey, she's not paying rent, right? 😜 We'll make sure she realizes her responsibilities and finds her rightful place in the family dynamic.

So join us on this journey as we help Hallie become the best version of herself. We can't wait to share her progress, adorable moments, and maybe a few mischievous shenanigans along the way! Stay tuned for some pawsome updates! 🐾💫

Hello my name is Joshua, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to Heel and Heal K9! After co-founding and dedicating over 7 ye...
06/30/2023

Hello my name is Joshua, and I'm thrilled to welcome you to Heel and Heal K9!

After co-founding and dedicating over 7 years to the growth of K9 Command, I have embarked on an exciting new chapter in my dog training journey. Recognizing the importance of personalized attention and a warm, close-knit setting, I have chosen to venture into solo training with Heel and Heal K9. This decision allows me to fully immerse myself in the unique needs of each dog and create a nurturing environment that is far from corporate or impersonal. Rest assured, this change is driven by a desire to provide an even higher level of care and individualized training experiences, ensuring that every dog receives the utmost attention and support they deserve. I've dedicated my life to the incredible world of dogs, and I can't wait to share my passion with you.

My journey into the world of dog training began in my early years, where I found solace and fascination spending time at a pitbull kennel alongside my father. Those formative experiences ignited a deep love for these incredible creatures, and I knew I had found my calling.

Before my dog training odyssey truly began, I had the honor of serving in the United States Air Force as a military police officer. During my time there, I had the privilege of working and training alongside exceptional military working dog teams. Whether it was acting as a decoy, assisting in bomb detection, or participating in general law enforcement duties, those years gave me invaluable insights into the intricate world of canine behavior and training.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a genuine desire to make a difference, I sought out comprehensive training programs to further hone my skills. I've had the privilege of attending the esteemed Michael Ellis School for dog trainers, where I absorbed invaluable expertise from industry leaders.

Additionally, I've sought out numerous seminars held by renowned trainers, always eager to expand my horizons and stay at the forefront of the ever-evolving field of dog training. At Heel and Heal K9, my focus lies in understanding and transforming canine behavior.

I specialize in various areas, including obedience training, advanced behavioral rehabilitation, leash reactivity, dog-to-human aggression, dog-to-dog aggression, resource guarding, separation anxiety, and more. My approach is rooted in compassion, patience, and a deep appreciation for the unique needs of each dog.

But my connection with dogs doesn't stop at training. When I'm not busy helping pups become their best selves, I enjoy indulging in my artistic side. Drawing, painting, and exploring the realms of art, philosophy, and cosmology bring me immense joy and inspiration. Of course, my two loyal companions, Furiosa, my American Bully, and Tracer, my Belgian Malinois, always keep life entertaining and fulfilling.

I believe that the bond between dogs and their humans is an incredible gift. Through Heel and Heal K9, my mission is to help you unlock the full potential of that bond, creating harmony, understanding, and unwavering trust between you and your furry companion.

So, whether you're seeking guidance in obedience training, behavioral rehabilitation, or simply looking to deepen your connection with your canine companion, I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Together, let's embark on a transformative journey that celebrates the beauty of dogs and the incredible joy they bring to our lives.
Heel and Heal K9, where the journey to a stronger bond begins.

Address

Edmonds, WA

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 6pm
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 10am - 6pm

Telephone

+12063093699

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