Does your dog get nervous when people walk into the room? Fletcher used to bark every time someone entered, but we’re working on turning that around.
By giving Fletcher something predictable to focus on—like hearing “Okay, I’m coming in” followed by treats—we’re helping him associate people entering the room with something positive and safe.
In this reel, you’ll see how we’re building his confidence, first with me and then with someone else. Consistency is key to helping dogs feel more relaxed in situations that make them uneasy.
Do you have a dog who barks when people walk in a room? Let us know in the comment!
#DogTrainingTips #PositiveReinforcement #ConfidentDogs #NervousDogs #BuildingTrust #HappyDogs
Flirt Pole - Friday Favorite
Favorite Friday with Bri & Bubba! 🐾
Hi, I’m Bri, one of the instructors here at For Your K9, and this week, we’re spotlighting one of our all-time favorite dog items: the Flirt Pole!
A flirt pole is an amazing tool to engage both you and your dog in a fun, interactive game of play. Think of it as an oversized cat toy for dogs—a pole with a string and a toy attached at the end. It’s perfect for tapping into your dog’s natural prey drive, encouraging them to chase and pounce while strengthening your bond through play.
Whether you’re looking to amp up your dog’s exercise or just add a little excitement to your playtime, the flirt pole is a must-have! And the best part? You can even make your own DIY version like Bri did!
✨ Why We Love It:
Builds a stronger connection between you and your dog
Provides great physical and mental stimulation
Perfect for dogs with high energy or strong prey drive
Have you tried using a flirt pole with your pup?
Why Crating at the Facility is an Essential Skill 🐾
Jill is here to explain why teaching your dog to relax in a crate during classes is so important:
1️⃣ Focused Learning: Crating allows you to give 100% of your attention to the instructor, ensuring you and your dog get the most out of every lesson.
2️⃣ Work-Rest Routine: Dogs need to learn how to rest between activities—a skill that’s crucial for trial days when endurance and focus are key.
3️⃣ Set Up for Success: Building the habit of relaxing in the crate helps your dog prepare for future challenges and ensures they’re ready to work when it’s time.
If you’re having trouble getting your dog comfortable with crating, reach out to your instructor—they’re here to help!
#DogTrainingTips #CrateTraining #WorkRestRoutine #DogTrialPrep #ForYourK9
Is Your Adolescent Dog Acting Out? You’re Not Alone!
Has your once-perfect pup started ignoring commands or testing the limits? Don’t worry—it’s completely normal! Adolescent dogs are going through a transitional phase where behavior regression can happen, even in the most well-trained pups.
Our Awfully Adolescent Class is here to help you navigate this challenging stage with tools and techniques tailored for adolescent dogs. In this class, we’ll focus on:
✅ Understanding why behavior regression happens and how to address it
✅ Mastering techniques to balance instincts with obedience
✅ Choosing rewards that work for your dog during this phase
✅ Strengthening your bond to build trust and communication
This class is designed for dogs under 30 months of age, helping you turn those frustrating moments into opportunities for growth and connection.
📅 Begins: Wednesdays 1/22/2025
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM
📍 Location: For Your K9 – Learning Center
👤 Instructor: Elizabeth Vanderhoef
Adolescence can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Let us help you and your dog build a stronger, more harmonious partnership during this crucial stage.
Sign up today! 👉 https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11150
#AwfullyAdolescent #DogTrainingHelp #AdolescentDogs #TrainingRegression #BuildingBetterBonds
One kiss, two kiss, three kiss, FOUR! Four also likes to love on the littles. Adorable, right!?
Chase the Boxer
5 month Chase the boxer doing a demo.
Luke always steals the show during the agility demonstrations. How cute is this?
Day One Of Holiday Reindeer Games - Virtual Training Challenge
Teaching A Hand Touch
1. Start with a Treat - Place a treat between your pointer and middle fingers and present your hand to your dog. When their nose touches your hand, mark with a “yes” and give them the treat.
2. Repeat - Practice this step several times to build consistency.
3. Remove the Treat - Present your hand without a treat. If your dog boops your hand with their nose, mark with a “yes” and reward them. Toss the treat a short distance between repetitions to reset your dog.
4. Handle Incorrect Responses - If your dog offers another behavior, like a paw, remove your hand and try again.
5. Add the Cue - Say “touch,” present your hand, and when your dog targets your hand, mark with a “yes” and reward them.
6. Increase the Challenge - Begin adding movement or duration to make the nose target more engaging and fun.
Be sure to either send us your video, or tag us in your post! We can’t wait to see what you do with your dog!
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#tricktraining #virtualtraining #holidaytricks #dogtraining #dogtrainingchallenge
Does Your Dog Get Overly Excited Around Guests or During Family Gatherings?
If managing your dog’s excitement feels overwhelming—whether it’s during the holidays or just in everyday situations, we’re here to help!
We’ve got a few more opportunities before the holiday break to work on key skills that can make your home feel a little calmer and more enjoyable for everyone, including your dog:
➡ K9 Enrichment For Confidence Building
Thursday, December 12th at 6:45pm
This drop-in class is designed to help build and strengthen your dog’s confidence while navigating their environment.
🔗https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11163
➡Puppy Socialization & More
Thursday, December 12th at 8:00pm
Does your puppy need more socialization with other puppies? Do you need to build his confidence? Then this one hour session is for you. This drop-in class will continuing working on the skills you learned in Puppy Class.
🔗 https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11164
➡ Polite Greetings
Friday, December 13th at 12:45 PM
Teach your dog how to greet guests calmly without jumping, barking, or overwhelming them.
🔗 https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11278
➡It's So Exciting
Friday, December 13th at 5:00 PM
Learn strategies to help your dog manage their excitement in busy or stimulating situations, like family gatherings or holiday events.
🔗 https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11425
➡Loose Leash Walking Crash Course
Tuesday, December 17th at 11:30 AM
A focused session to help your dog walk calmly on a leash, even when distractions are all around.
🔗 https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11335
These classes are perfect for anyone looking to reduce stress and make their dog a more polite and calm companion during the holiday season and beyond.
Spots are limited, so sign up
Preparing for NW3? Let’s Talk Challenges!
So, you’ve completed NW2 and are gearing up for NW3—what are the biggest hurdles you’ll face? Instructor Gerry breaks down what NW3 is all about.
Have questions or insights about trialing in nose work? Drop them in the comments, and we’ll be happy to help! 👇
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#NoseWorkTraining #NW3Preparation #DogTrainingTips #NoseWorkJourney #DogSports
On this week's #FavoriteFriday, Angie Pawinski shares her favorite dog related item!
She loves using tugs with bungees as a reward for her dog.
Do you use tugs for reinforcement with your dog?
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#dogtrainingfavorites #dogtrainersfavorite #dogsupplies #elmhurst
We all have favorite things when it comes to our dogs. It might be a collar, it might be a leash, a treat, or even a toy!
We're excited to share with you our favorite dog "things".
Evelyn's favorite thing for Nero is the @chuckitfetchgames Kick Fetch ball. Clearly it is Nero's favorite thing too!
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#favoritefriday #dogtrainersfavorites #foryourk9favorites #dogtoys #fetch #chuckit #kickfetch
