GOHLD K9

08/15/2024

Google is literally the worst!! I have had my business profile on google for years and have gotten many great reviews. Now all of a sudden my business profile is disabled for no reason and there is no way to contact any sort of support! It is incredibly frustrating! How can Google be one of the biggest companies but not have any sort of customer support?!

08/05/2024

We will be offering day training on select days. You will drop your dog off in the morning and pick them up in the evening and we will do a training session during the day and they will also get to play. Price is $60/day training or 5 for $275, 10 for $500. Message us for more information.

08/05/2024

We have fall dates available for board and train and boarding please contact us to schedule! If you have boarding needs and also want training but don’t want to do a whole board and train we can also do individual lessons while they are here.

07/19/2024

Cicero is here for a board and train. She is working on behavior modification for her dog aggression. She has worked with other trainers in the past but hasn’t been able to really make much progress. When other trainers fail to make progress we are here to help!

06/30/2024

Meet Trevor and Paige Gohl, the dynamic duo behind our businesses. Trevor, the visionary CEO of Gohld Renovations, transforms living spaces into works of art, while Paige, the dedicated CEO of GOHLD K9, excels in providing exceptional care and training for our furry companions.

We both started our businesses from the ground up, fueled by our passion for entrepreneurship and our desire to make a positive impact in our respective industries. With seven dogs and a three-month-old daughter, our love for animals and family shines through in everything we do. We enjoy hiking, camping, and embracing the great outdoors, as well as indulging in our shared passion for travel and food.

At Gohld K9 and Gohld Renovations, we prioritize building genuine relationships with our clients to provide them with personalized and attentive care. We value each and every client, ensuring their happiness and satisfaction with our services. Unlike big corporations, we offer a level of personalized care that sets us apart, making us proud to be small business owners who prioritize the individual needs of our clients. Thank you for being a part of our journey! 🐾🏡

06/27/2024

Stopped and saw our friends at Reeses Barkery & Pawtique on our walk this morning! Had to get Grimm and Medusa a treat for being such good dogs ❤️

06/20/2024

Come out and see us at Dog Days of Summer in Libertyville!

06/15/2024

Ripken is back for some follow up training! He was here in January. Look at how big he has gotten since then! Such a handsome boy! He is such a good boy and thinks down stays are the best! He just lays down relaxing getting fed 😂 ❤️

06/15/2024

Good girls tired after training! They went home a couple days ago from their board and train. Still have to do some follow up lessons to keep them on track being home with their other dog siblings. A house with 4 dogs can be chaotic without training.

06/14/2024

We are starting to look for a working home for our foster Holly!

Holly came from Winnebago County animal control. She was picked up as a stray. We believe she is around 10 months old. She is spayed and current on vaccinations. We would love to see Holly go to a working home. We have tested her drives and started her obedience. We have had her in the house and she seems to have decent house manners, but could still be worked on. She is potty trained, and crate trained she is clean in the crate and generally quiet in the crate unless there’s other dogs around or a lot going on then she will bark. We have tested her around other dogs and overall is dog friendly. But there are some things to watch out for. She is definitely a working Malinois so will need a lot of exercise and stimulation. We have tested her around kids and she is decent. She ignores our baby and has done fine around a 10-year-old boy. She is mouthy though so that does have to be watched. She has been conditioned to a prong collar and is working on conditioning with an E collar. She is environmentally stable. We Have very lightly tested her drives for bite work. She shows some good potential but we have not done much with it yet. She has good prey drive and good defense. We will be starting her very lightly on detection just working on hunt drive building. So she can be trained on whatever scent new owners want. The one not so great thing about Holly is she is crate aggressive, and barrier aggressive towards other dogs. Serious inquiries only I will go into more detail about her and send video for interested people. We can continue detection training for new owner depending what they are looking for.

✅Potty trained
✅Crate trained
✅Dog friendly
✅Prey Drive
✅Good Defense
✅Started on obedience
✅environmentally stable
✅started on hunt drive building

05/30/2024

Millie is having such a good time during her board and train! She is so motivated to learn!

05/21/2024

Bo-Katan and owner Kaleigh passed their Canine Good Citizen test this morning! Congratulations on all your hard work! One step closer to becoming a therapy dog! 🐕‍🦺

05/16/2024

Please welcome our new foster! We are on our way home with her now. We havnt picked a name for her yet. She is a 10 month old female Malinois we will be training and evaluating her, so far she is super sweet!

05/09/2024

Go follow our other business Gohld Renovations! If you have any construction needs please reach out!

05/03/2024

One of the tactics I use when training an insecure dog is to get them very comfortable with my dogs who are environmentally sound and use that relationship when exposing the dog to things that make them nervous. They can watch how my dogs react and follow their lead. Cannoli was really nervous of my big dogs at first but he is getting a lot more confident!

05/01/2024

Cannoli is here for his board and train!

04/29/2024

Piper was such a good guest for her board & train

04/05/2024

From Wild Wolves to Faithful Friends: The Enigmatic Journey of Protodogs into Our Hearts

Protodogs, the ancient ancestors of modern domestic dogs, represent a fascinating chapter in the history of human-animal relationships. These early canines embarked on a journey alongside humans that would ultimately lead to their evolution into the diverse array of domestic dogs we know today. Understanding protodogs helps us appreciate the depth and complexity of the bond between humans and dogs, shedding light on how domestication processes have shaped not just the animals themselves, but also human societies.

Origins of Protodogs

Protodogs likely originated from wolf populations that lived close to human settlements. Genetic studies suggest that the domestication of dogs could have started as far back as 20,000 to 40,000 years ago. The exact timeline remains a subject of debate among scientists, but it is widely agreed that dogs were the first species to be domesticated by humans.

The Path to Domestication

The process of domestication was gradual and complex. It involved a series of behavioral, physiological, and genetic changes in the wolf populations that began to associate closely with humans. These changes were driven by natural selection for traits that made these early canines more adaptable to living alongside humans, such as tameness, a capacity to understand human cues, and a flexible diet.

1. **Behavioral Changes**: Protodogs began to exhibit behaviors that made them more compatible with human society. This included reduced fear and aggression towards humans, and the ability to read and respond to human gestures and commands.

2. **Physiological and Genetic Changes**: Over generations, these animals began to show physical differences from their wild counterparts. These included changes in body size, coat color, and the timing of reproductive cycles. Genetic studies have identified specific genes related to tameness, dietary adaptations, and even the ability to digest starches, reflecting the shared environments and diets of humans and protodogs.

3. **Mutual Benefits**: The relationship between protodogs and humans was mutually beneficial. Protodogs helped with hunting, offered protection, and later served in various capacities such as herding, pulling, and companionship. In return, they received food, shelter, and care. This mutualism facilitated the further integration of protodogs into human societies.

The Evolution into Domestic Dogs

As time passed, these protodogs diverged significantly from their wild ancestors, becoming more adapted to living with humans. This evolution was not a linear process; it likely occurred in multiple locations around the world where humans and wolf populations interacted closely. The diversity of dog breeds today reflects the various roles dogs have played in human societies and the selective breeding practices that have emphasized certain physical and behavioral traits.

Conclusion

The story of protodogs is not just about the evolution of a species; it's about the origins of one of the most remarkable relationships between humans and animals. By studying protodogs, researchers gain insights into how domestication has shaped the genetic makeup of modern dogs and how early human societies may have lived and worked alongside these animals. The bond between humans and dogs, rooted in our shared history with protodogs, continues to be a source of fascination, love, and companionship across cultures and time periods.

📷By drawing by Henri Breuil, published by Henry Fairfield Osborn - Men of the old stone age : their environment, life and art, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=23585776

04/04/2024

Beyond the Snip: Unveiling the Complex Impact of Neutering on Dog Behavior and Health

Neutering a dog, which refers to the surgical removal of a male dog's testicles, is a common practice recommended by veterinarians for various health and behavioral benefits. However, it's essential to understand that neutering is not a catch-all solution for behavioral issues and can sometimes have unintended negative effects on a dog's behavior and overall health. Let's explore why neutering doesn't necessarily change behavior and how it can sometimes negatively affect a dog.

**Understanding Dog Behavior**

First, it's crucial to recognize that a dog's behavior is influenced by a complex interplay of genetics, training, environment, and socialization. While hormones can influence certain behaviors, they are not the sole determinants. Behaviors such as aggression, excessive barking, or destructiveness are often linked to a dog's environment, upbringing, and the owner's ability to establish clear, consistent training and boundaries.

**Impact of Neutering on Behavior**

Neutering can reduce or eliminate behaviors directly related to the reproductive instinct, such as roaming, mounting, and marking territory with urine. However, these changes are not guaranteed for every dog, and behaviors not linked to sexual instincts, such as aggression towards humans or other dogs, anxiety, or fearfulness, may not be affected by neutering. In some cases, these behaviors are more influenced by the dog's personality, upbringing, and environment than by hormones.

**Potential Negative Effects**

While neutering has health and behavioral benefits, it's important to consider the potential negative effects:

- **Hormonal Imbalance:** The sudden change in hormone levels can affect a dog's metabolism, energy levels, and even contribute to weight gain, which can lead to other health issues like diabetes and joint problems.

- **Increased Risk of Certain Health Conditions:** Research has shown that neutering can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, hypothyroidism, and orthopedic disorders in some breeds. The timing of neutering can also play a crucial role, as early neutering (before the dog reaches full maturity) can affect the development of bones, joints, and muscles, potentially leading to health issues later in life.

- **Behavioral Changes:** Some studies suggest that neutering, especially at an early age, can increase the risk of anxiety, fearfulness, and aggression towards other dogs. This is thought to be due to the removal of hormones that help regulate behavior and stress.

**Considering the Individual Dog**

Decisions about neutering should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the individual dog's health, behavior, and lifestyle. It's important for pet owners to discuss with their veterinarians the best timing for neutering, if at all, and to consider other forms of behavior modification and training that can address specific behavioral issues.

**Conclusion**

Neutering can be beneficial for reducing certain behaviors and health risks, but it's not a universal solution for all behavioral problems. Understanding the complexities of dog behavior and the potential impacts of neutering can help dog owners make informed decisions that are in the best interest of their pets. Effective training, socialization, and care remain crucial components of responsible pet ownership, with or without neutering. While it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of neutering on behavior and health, one undeniable benefit is its role in preventing unwanted puppies, significantly contributing to responsible pet ownership and reducing the burden on animal shelters.

04/03/2024

🎓🐾 **Unlocking the Secrets of Operant Conditioning: A Guide to Understanding Behavior and Learning** 🐾🎓

Have you ever wondered how animals, including our beloved pets, learn to repeat certain behaviors or avoid others? The answer lies in a fundamental psychological concept known as operant conditioning. Let’s explore this intriguing process and how it shapes behavior.

What is Operant Conditioning?

Operant conditioning is a method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior. Through this process, an individual makes an association between a particular behavior and a consequence. It's a core principle in behavioral psychology, introduced by B.F. Skinner, that helps us understand how actions are influenced by the consequences that follow them.

The Four Quadrants of Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning is divided into four key components, each playing a unique role in how behavior is modified:

1. **Positive Reinforcement**: Adding something pleasant to increase a behavior. Example: Giving a dog a treat for sitting on command encourages the dog to sit again.

2. **Negative Reinforcement**: Removing something unpleasant to increase a behavior. Example: Releasing the pressure on a dog’s leash when it stops pulling encourages it to walk nicely.

3. **Positive Punishment**: Adding something unpleasant to decrease a behavior. Example: A collar correction for jumping decreases the chance of jumping again.

4. **Negative Punishment**: Removing something pleasant to decrease a behavior. Example: If a dog starts nipping while you're playing with it, you stop the play and walk away. The removal of your attention right after nipping teaches the dog that nipping leads to an end to fun and games.

Application in Everyday Life

Operant conditioning isn’t just for animal training; it's applied in various human contexts, including education, psychotherapy, and even self-improvement. Understanding these principles can help us develop better habits, teach more effectively, and interact more constructively with those around us.

Why It Matters for Dog Owners and Trainers

By applying the principles of operant conditioning in dog training, we can effectively teach our canine companions desired behaviors in a way that's both respectful and understanding of their natural instincts and learning processes. It empowers us to communicate with our pets through a language they understand, fostering a deeper bond and mutual respect.

04/02/2024

🐾🔍 The Incredible Science Behind Your Dog's Nose! 🔍🐾

Have you ever wondered why your furry friend is so good at sniffing out hidden treats or following an invisible trail? The secret lies in their extraordinary nose! Let's dive into the fascinating world of canine olfaction and uncover the science behind it.

👃 **A Superpower Sense of Smell**
Dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to about 6 million in humans. This means they can detect odors in concentrations nearly 100 million times lower than what our noses can pick up!

🌬️ **How Does it Work?**
When your dog inhales, air is divided into two separate paths: one for olfaction and the other for respiration. This allows them to breathe and analyze smells simultaneously. Their olfactory membrane (a specialized tissue inside the nasal cavity) is also significantly larger than ours, giving them more surface area to capture odors.

🔄 **Smelling in Stereo**
Dogs can smell separately with each nostril, allowing them to determine the direction of an odor. This ability is crucial for tracking scents and navigating their environment.

🧠 **The Brain’s Role**
The part of a dog's brain that analyzes odors is proportionally 40 times greater than ours. This not only makes them excellent at identifying smells but also enables them to remember scents for a long time. Each scent has its story, telling them about the type of animal or plant, its age, gender, and even its health status or mood.

💡 **Why It Matters**
Understanding how your dog’s nose works can enhance training, working, and bonding experiences. It also explains why dogs are invaluable in roles such as search and rescue, detecting medical conditions, and sniffing out contraband materials.

🌟 **Celebrate Your Dog's Nose!**
Next time you see your dog sniffing around, remember that they’re exploring a whole other world of scents that we can barely imagine. Encouraging sniffing on walks and providing scent-based games can stimulate their brain and make them happy.

03/14/2024

Plan ahead and secure your boarding accommodations early to guarantee a stress-free and memorable summer getaway!

02/24/2024

We are booking summer boarding dates make sure to reserve your dates.

02/05/2024

**Update for our clients**

Please be patient with us during this time. I am currently 9 months pregnant and getting ready for our new baby. There will be a delay in responding to clients at this time. Please contact us via EMAIL at [email protected]. Alex will be doing private lessons during this time if you are interested in private lessons please fill out the form on the website https://www.gohldk9.com/privatelessonform and you will be connected with Alex to schedule private lessons. Our group classes are still on hold. If you are interested in a board and train the earliest dates we have available will be mid April. Thank you all for your continued support and patience.

01/23/2024

Hello all, we are very sad to announce all upcoming classes are canceled. This was not planned. We are diligently working to find a new space but at this time all classes are canceled until further notice. We are beyond sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you. We are still offering our other services. We hope to be able to offer classes again in the new future.

01/16/2024

01/13/2024

Board and train Ripken showing how eager he is for training. He is a puppy and gets very excitable. Every time he gets let out of his kennel, eats, goes outside ect I conditioned him to offer acceptable behaviors on his own instead of jumping up, pawing, pushing on people. He is 5 months and probably pushing 70-80lbs so he needs to learn very good manners so he doesn’t end up hurting someone on accident with his size. Also throwing in some commands as well 😍 he is such a cutie 🥰

01/12/2024

Board and train Ripken checking out the snow this morning. I think it’s his first big snow. He was excited but unsure ❄️😊