For Your K9, Inc.

11/04/2024

We have a bunch of new classes starting soon that we think you're going to LOVE!

Focused Fido with Liz Vanderhoef
Wednesday, 11/6 at 6:45pm
https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=10843

World of Dog Spots with Bri Sochacki
Thursday, 11/7 at 8:00pm
https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11077

Puppy 1 with Sarah Graham
Sunday, 11/17 at 9:30am
https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11376

Basic Obedience with Sarah Graham
Sunday, 11/17 at 10:45am
https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11379

Basic Obedience with Sarah Graham
Friday, 11/15 at 2:00pm
https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11377

Intermediate Obediece with Sarah Graham
Friday, 11/15 at 3:15pm
https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11378

Doggy Dance Class with Cori Pedota
Sunday, 11/24 at 9:15am
https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11373

11/04/2024

⭐ MEET THE TEAM ⭐

Meet Melanie Herbst! One of our Nose Work Instructors!

Melanie entered the world of dog sports back in 2004 with her first Vizsla Sammy. Davis came two years later. She’s competed in agility (NADAC, AKC, UKC, USDAA and CPE), rally (AKC, UKC, Cynosport and C-WAGS), obedience (AKC, UKC and CDSP), Barn Hunt and Nose Work (NACSW, UKC, AKC, CPE and C-WAGS) and FastCAT.

She is currently owned by Four, male Vizsla, and Bliss, a female Vizsla who compete in various sports like their predecessors. Melanie believes in versatility and keeping her dogs busy physically and mentally. She enjoys teaching beginner Nose Work classes and witnessing the training progress of “baby” dogs. She is also a nosework judge for several venues.

Make sure to say "hi" the next time you see her at the facility!

11/04/2024

It was a GREAT weekend having Suzanne Clothier back. We can all agree that it was too long of a wait. Thank you for all the mind blowing information and coming back!

A huge thank you to everyone who attended.

As well as the FYK9 team behind the scenes making it happen. And a huge thank you to Nancy for hosting!

Did you get photos from this weekend? Drop them in the comments below. ⬇️

11/02/2024

Day 1 with Suzanne Clothier. Great learning ❤️

11/02/2024

Day One with Suzanne Clothier!!

11/01/2024

Last Chance to Register!

Today is the final day to secure your spot for the Suzanne Clothier Seminar on November 2-3, 2024.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an internationally respected trainer and gain new perspectives on building a balanced, happy relationship with your dog.

Register by the end of the day to secure your spot: https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/events.aspx?event=18006

Limited spots remaining—act fast!

11/01/2024

Happy Halloween From The Bats, The Shooting Star and The Greatest Pumpkins!

Show us your dog’s costumes in the comments!

10/31/2024

Rumor has it... you haven’t signed up for a drop-in class lately! 👀

Our girl Rumor is here to remind you that there’s always room for a little extra training fun. Don’t miss out on the chance to brush up on skills, tackle new challenges, and make memories with your pup.

Check out the upcoming drop-in class schedule below and join us—Rumor says it’s time to get back in class!

Agility

With Beth Sigeti
Beginning
- 11/4 at 2:15pm
- 11/5 at 11:15am
- 11/6 at 12:00pm
- 11/6 at 1:15pm
- 11/9 at 1:00pm
Advanced Beginning
- 11/9 at 1:00pm
Intermediate
- 11/6pm at 10:45am

With Fabio Festi
Beginning
- 11/6 at 6:30pm
Intermediate
- 11/6 at 7:15pm
- 11/7 at 11:30am
Advanced
- 11/7 at 10:15am

Life Skills and Manners
It's So Exciting with Liz V - 11/1 at 12:45pm
Puppy Socialization & More with Bri S - 11/7 at 6:45pm
Loose Leash Walking with Liz V - 11/8 at 12:45pm

Visit www.foryourk9.com to learn more and sign up!

10/30/2024

In true Spirit fashion, she's giving you the look 👀, wondering why you haven’t signed up for a class yet! Don’t keep her waiting—Spirit expects more from you! 😆

Join us in upcoming class and let’s get started on some relationship building and training!

Agility
➡ Advanced Beginning with Beth D
Thursday, 10/31 at 6:00pm
➡ Pre-Agility with Arlyn S.
Thursday, 10/31 at 6:00pm at 7:15pm
➡ Intermediate Agility with Beth S
Wednesday, 11/6 at 10:45am
➡ Beginning Agility with Beth S
Wednesday 11/6 at 12:00pm
➡ Pre-Agility with Beth S
Wednesday 11/6 at 4:00pm

Behavior Specialty
➡ Reactive Dog with Liz V
Thursday, 10/31 at 3:15pm
➡ Awfully Adolescent with Liz V
Wednesday, 11/6 at 5:30pm
➡ Focused Fido with Liz V
Wednesday, 11/6 at 6:45pm
➡ From Scared To Prepared with Bri S
Thursday, 11/7 at 2:00pm

Competition Obedience
➡ Stand For Exam Mini-Class
Monday, 11/4 at 9am

Nose Work
➡ Beginning Nose Work with Liz V
Friday, 11/1 at 5pm

Rally Obedience
➡ Advanced to Master with Marie
Tuesday, 11/5 at 2:15pm
➡ Foundations & Novice with Marie
Tuesday, 11/5 at 3:30pm
➡ Advanced to Masters with Marie
Sunday, 11/17 at 1pm
➡ Foundations & Novice with Marie
Sunday, 11/17 at 2:15pm

Additional Fun Classes
➡ World Of Dog Sports with Bri S
Thursday, 11/7 at 8:00pm

Visit our website, www.foryourk9.com, to learn more and sign up now!

10/29/2024

What challenges might your dog face in the Barn Hunt ring? Tracy is here to break it down! F

rom navigating tunnels of various levels to climbing hay bales and solving scent puzzles, Barn Hunt offers mental and physical stimulation like no other sport. Not only is it fun, but it also builds your dog’s confidence!

Drop a comment and let us know: what does your dog love most about Barn Hunt?

10/29/2024

⭐TRAINING TIP TUESDAY⭐
A common question we get is "how old does my puppy have to be to start training?"

Start Puppy Training Early: Don’t Wait!

The first few months of a puppy’s life are critical for their development, and early training and socialization play a huge role in shaping a well-adjusted, confident adult dog. Waiting too long to start can lead to challenges down the road, including fear, aggression, or other behavioral issues.

According to the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB):

“The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life. During this time, puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli, and environments as can be achieved safely...”

Why start early?
➡ Prevent Behavioral Issues: Proper socialization during the first three months helps puppies adapt to new situations, people, and animals, reducing the risk of fear or aggression later in life.
➡ Build Confidence: Early exposure in a safe, controlled environment allows puppies to grow confident and comfortable in the world around them.
➡ Strengthen the Bond: Early training helps strengthen the bond between you and your puppy, establishing clear communication and trust.

What About Vaccines?
The AVSAB emphasizes that the benefits of early socialization far outweigh the relatively low risk of infection. With maternal immunity, primary vaccinations, and proper care, your puppy can safely begin classes as early as 7-8 weeks of age.

“Behavioral problems are the greatest threat to the owner-dog bond,” the AVSAB notes. Early socialization is essential to prevent issues that could lead to heartache down the line.

10/28/2024

🚨 HURRY! Rare Openings in Beginning Nose Work Classes! 🚨

We’re excited to announce two new Beginning Nose Work class options:

Starting THIS Friday, 11/1 at 5 PM with Liz!
Sign up now ➡️ https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11349

Starting Thursday, 11/14 at 7:30 PM with our newest instructor, Stacy Sadler!
Sign up here ➡️ https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index.aspx?schedule=11334

Spots are filling up fast—secure yours today!

10/28/2024

⭐ MEET THE TEAM ⭐

Meet Sandy Lewandowski! She is our Competition Obedience Instructor.

Sandy has been training dogs since the mid 80s. Her husband wanted a hunting dog so they got 3 Brittanys within the span of 3 years. They all became Sandy’s dogs pretty quickly, so she joined a local dog training club in Forth Worth, Texas where she was living at the time. She eventually switched breeds to German Shorthaired Pointers when returning to Illinois in 1999. She has and does participate in Tracking, Hunt Tests, all levels of Obedience, Rally, Tricks, Fast CAT, all levels of Agility and most recently Nose work. She is happiest when working with dogs!

Make sure to say "hi" the next time you see her at the facility!

10/27/2024

Great article.

Resistance in our dogs or our clients can be important communication and should never be overlooked or dismissed.

10/27/2024

We’re Less Than a Week Away!

The Suzanne Clothier Seminar is almost here, and we couldn’t be more excited!

Join us on November 2-3, 2024, for two incredible days designed to help you build a deeper, more rewarding connection with your dog. Whether you’re attending one day or both, you’ll gain practical tools and insights to transform your relationship with your canine companion.

Location: For Your K9, 706 N Industrial Drive Elmhurst, IL
Time: 9 AM - 5 PM (Lunch on your own)
Last-minute spots still available! Register now: https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/events.aspx?event=18006

10/26/2024

Weekend Fun: What’s Your Dog’s Favorite Enrichment Game?

Tell us in the comments! We love hearing about all the fun ways you and your pup spend time together.

10/25/2024

⭐ Trainer's Favorite Friday! ⭐

Kathie's favorite dog rrelated item is a Licky Mat! R***r loves it too to help keep him calm and get some good enrichment in!

Have you tried a Licky Mat with your dog?

10/24/2024

Mark Your Calendar: Upcoming Classes

Check out our lineup ⬇

Agility Classes
Beginning Agility with Janice Triptow
Friday, 10/25 at 12:10pm

Advanced Beginning with Beth Diehl
Thursday, 10/31 at 6:00pm

Pre-Agility with Arlyn Sigeti
Thursday, 10/31 at 6:00pm & 7:15pm

Behavior
Reactive Dog with Liz Vanderhoef
Thursday, 10/31 at 3:15pm

Competition OB and Rally
Stand For Exam Mini-Class with Cori Pedota
Monday, 11/4 at 9am

Rally Foundation & Novice with Marie Smith
Tuesday, 11/5 at 3:30pm

Foundation Classes
Puppy 1 with Matt Downs
Saturday 10/26 at 9:30am

Basic Obedience with Matt Downs
Saturday, 10/26 at 12:00pm

Puppy 1 with Debbie Bickford
Monday, 10/28 at 4:15pm

Basic Obedience with Debbie Bickford
Monday, 10/28 at 5:30pm

Puppy 1 with Sarah Porterfield
Wednesday, 10/30 at 10am

Basic Obedience with Sarah Porterfield
Wednesday, 10/30 at 11:15am

Canine Life and Social Skills with Sarah Porterfield
Wednesday, 10/30 at 12:30pm

Whether you’re new or experienced, we have a class for you!

10/23/2024

Need a little extra practice or refreshers? Our drop-in sessions are here to help. No commitment, just training fun.

Agility Drop-Ins

With Beth Sigeti
Advanced Beginning - Saturday, 10/26 at 1pm
Beginning - Saturday, 10/26 at 2:15pm
Beginning - Monday, 10/28 at 2:15pm
Beginning - Tuesday, 10/29 at 11:15am
Intermediate - Wednesday, 10/30 at 10:45am
Beginning - Wednesday, 10/30 at 12:00pm
Beginning - Wednesday, 10/30 at 1:15pm

With Fabio Festi
Advanced - Thursday, 10/24 at 10:15am
Intermediate - Thursday, 10/24 at 11:30 am
Beginning - Wednesday, 10/30 at 6:30pm
Intermediate - Wednesday, 10/30 at 7:!5pm
Advanced - Thursday, 10/31 at 10:15am
Intermediate - Thursday, 10/31 at 11:30am

Sign Up Here ➡ https://foryourk9.com/dog-training/agility-2/

Manners and Life Skills

It’s So Exciting with Bri S
Thursday, 10/24 at 2pm

Enrichment For Confidence Building with Bri S
Thursday, 10/24 at 6:45pm

From Scared To Prepared Drop-In (For Students who have taken the full class before)
Thursday, 10/24 at 8:00pm

Polite Greetings with Liz V
Friday, 10/25 at 12:45pm

Building A Rockstar Recall with Liz V
Friday, 10/25 at 5:00pm

Sign Up Here ➡ https://foryourk9.com/dog-training/life-skills-manners/

Rally with Marie Smith
Advanced through Masters - Sunday, 10/27 at 1:00pm
Foundation & Novice - Sunday, 10/27 at 2:15pm

Sign Up Here ➡ https://foryourk9.com/dog-training/classes/competition-obedience/

10/23/2024

Why Train from the Dog's Perspective?

At For Your K9, we emphasize understanding your dog's behavior and needs. Training is more effective when we see things through their eyes.

Learn more about our approach by visiting www.foryourk9.com

10/22/2024

Suzanne Clothier is Back! Join Us for Two Incredible Days of Learning!

We’re thrilled to welcome back the internationally respected trainer Suzanne Clothier after a long time away! Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned professional, you’ll gain fresh insights, practical solutions, and a deeper connection with your dog through her unique, compassionate approach.

𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐: 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬
Discover how to build a truly enjoyable, mutually rewarding relationship with your dog. Suzanne will guide you through a new framework that focuses on empathy, understanding, and truly seeing your dog as an individual. This seminar will cover:
➡ The fundamentals of Relationship Centered Training
➡ Observation skills to see the dog-handler bond more clearly
➡ Practical exercises to enhance your connection

Perfect for anyone feeling confused or frustrated with training – it’s time to find the path to better relationships!

𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟑: 𝐈𝐟 𝐆𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐖𝐚𝐬 𝐀 𝐃𝐨𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫: 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐨𝐠𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝 “𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭”
Learn how to create those “just right” moments with your dog, where everything clicks and they feel comfortable, engaged, and connected. Suzanne will cover:

➡ Assessing and understanding triggers and thresholds
➡ Techniques to support shy, fearful, or reactive dogs
➡ Practical strategies to adjust training for your dog’s unique needs

Wondering if your training approach is too much, too little, or just right? Let Suzanne help you find the balance.

📍 Location: For Your K9 - 706 N Industrial Drive Elmhurst, IL
🕘 Time: 9 AM - 5 PM each day (Lunch is on your own)
💻 Register Now: https://foryourk9.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/events.aspx?event=18006

It’s been too long since we last had Suzanne with us, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her back! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a trainer who blends science with heart and humor. Reserve your spot today and take a step closer to a deeper, more joyful relationship with your dog!

10/22/2024

⭐ TRAINING TIP TUESDAY ⭐

The Dreaded Witching Hour 😨

Every pet parent has been there: your sweet dog suddenly turns into a zooming, nipping, chaos goblin just when you’re ready to relax every evening. Welcome to the witching hour!

But don’t worry—it’s completely normal!

Here’s what could be happening
🌀Energy Overflow: Young dogs, especially puppies and adolescents, often have an energy burst in the evening when they haven’t had enough enrichment or exercise.

😜Playful Chaos: Nipping, barking, and zoomies are often a dog's way of saying, “I need to release some energy!”

🤯Overtired = Overstimulated: Just like toddlers, an overstimulated or overtired dog can struggle to settle, leading to mischief.

What can you do to combat it or lessen the intensity of it?
➡ Mental Games: Engage in quick training or a sniffy activity to channel that energy productively.
➡ Calm Down Time: Use chews, Kongs, or lick mats to encourage relaxation.
➡ Structure Exercise: Ensure your dog is getting balanced physical and mental enrichment throughout the day to avoid the evening chaos.
➡ Nap time: Ensure your dog is getting adequate sleep throughout the day to prevent the "over-tired toddler" meltdown.

Does your dog have a wild witching hour? Let us know in the comments!

10/21/2024

Looking to start Nose Work?

Doug is here to explain what you should bring to your class!

Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!

10/21/2024

⭐ MEET THE TEAM ⭐

Meet Mary Engstrom, one of our Barn Hunt Instructors!

Mary currently shares her home with three Shiba Inus – Mayday (11), Thunder (8), and Iris (3). She got hooked on dog sports in 2001 when her first obedience instructor said, “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but your Shiba, Koshou, is a really good obedience dog. You need to keep working with him!”

Over the past 20 years, Mary and her Shiba partners have earned titles in agility, rally, trick dog, coursing ability tests, Fast CAT, Fit Dog, fetch, and barn hunt. Koshou went on to become the fastest Shiba ever in the 60-weave pole challenge. Mayday, who all the girls love, was her first barn hunt champion. Thunder was the 2023 top Shiba in master barn hunt and held the lifetime record for the fastest Shiba in Fast CAT, with his best run at 29.35 mph for several years. (Thankfully, Mary worked with great trainers to ensure he has a solid recall!)

To read Mary's full bio, visit https://foryourk9.com/about/our-team/mary-engstrom/
Make sure you say "hi" the next time you see her at the facility!

10/21/2024

The final on our Halloween Spooktacular costume contest. Team Roxy is the winner.
Overall winners for searches by level.
Nw1 Team Rosi/ Kathy
NW2 Team Rocky/Deb
NW3 Team Jessie/Cris
ELITE Team Levi/Sherry
The winners can collect your prize from the front office.

Thank you all for playing❤️