Maligator Kennels

04/12/2025

Farewell to a Legend

Over 10 years ago, I met a stubborn little German Shepherd puppy named Kujo—and nothing was ever the same. One of the first dogs through Maligator Kennels, Kujo tested boundaries, crushed goals, and helped shape everything we are today.

He earned his advanced obedience title, competed in events, starred in demos, and inspired his human, Kami Hurst, to become a trainer with us for nearly a decade.

Age finally caught up to him—arthritis, weight loss, and tumors made life too painful. Kami made the hardest call, giving him peace.

Kujo, you were one of a kind. You are a legend. And legends never die—they live on in our hearts, in our memories, and in the legacy they helped build.

Rest easy, my friend. Guard those gates well—though we know you’ll probably sneak off for one more adventure.

04/12/2025

FAREWELL: The Passing of a Legend

A little over ten years ago, I started a small company you might know as Maligator Kennels. I had a gift, a deep passion, and the foundation of K9 experience—first as a handler, then later as a certified instructor. As I looked ahead to life after retirement, there was nothing that excited me more than diving headfirst into the world of dog training and canine psychology.

So I did it. I launched the business without knowing the first thing about running one. I just knew I loved this work. And now, a decade later, here we are—still standing strong. It’s been one of the greatest highlights of my lifeKami Hurste way, I’ve met incredible people—many of whom have become lifelong friends and even family—all through the shared journey of helping dogs and their humans.

In that very first year, I met a young German Shepherd named Kujo, and his human, Kami Hurst. Kujo was just a puppy—a few months old—but stubborn as hell. Determined to test Kami’s patience, resolve, and grit, Kujo pushed every boundary he could find. When he was good, he was phenomenal. And when he was naughty? He could’ve won trophies for it.

Kujo was one of the very first dogs I ever boarded—back before I even officially offered boarding. That week turned into years of training, countless memories, and a journey filled with both laughter and frustration. But Kujo made it—completing every level of obedience training, ultimately earning his place among the elite in advanced obedience.

He competed in our obedience and agility competitions, participated in public demos, and even played a big role in inspiring Kami to join our team. She trained with us for nearly a decade before life led her in a new direction—but it all started with Kujo.

Today, with a heavy heart, we say goodbye to our beloved Kujo. He was one of the first to walk through our doors, and he did it his way—with grit, personality, and that trademark Kujo stubborn streak. As he aged, Kujo developed severe arthritis, struggled to digest food, and began to lose weight. Tumors emerged as his body started to fail him. With love and compassion, Kami made the gut-wrenching decision to release him from his pain.

Tears have been shed—by Kami, by all of us at Maligator, and by those who watched Kujo grow, thrive, and leave his pawprints on everything we built here.

Kujo, legends like you never truly die. You live on in our hearts, in our memories, and in the very fabric of this place. You are a legend. And though you’re not physically with us anymore, your spirit remains in all who knew and loved you.

Farewell, my friend. Until we meet again—guard the gates of Heaven for us. And let’s be honest… even if someone told you to stay, you’d probably break the command and go off on another adventure anyway. That’s just who you are.

Rest easy, Kujo. You’ve earned it.

03/31/2025

These are great pups for anyone looking for working-line dual or single purpose prospects!

03/17/2025

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03/17/2025

Today only, you all get lucky. Now the best training Utah has to offer has a 10% discount code for those reading this. TODAY TODAY TODAY, don’t miss out!

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03/06/2025

This big guy is going to be a great dog. Rival K9 produces the best working Malinois around.

This big guy is still looking for the right working home. Dm for interest.

03/01/2025

Understanding Positive Reinforcement vs. Positive Punishment in Dog Training

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Let’s break down two of the most misunderstood terms in dog training: Positive Reinforcement and Positive Punishment—and why using them correctly matters.

First, let’s clarify the terminology. In behavioral science, “positive” means adding something, and “negative” means removing something. It has nothing to do with “good” or “bad.”

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT (R+)

This is when we add something the dog values to increase the likelihood of a behavior happening again. Example:

• Dog sits → You give a reward → Dog is likelier to sit next time.

This method is excellent for teaching new behaviors and building motivation. When properly applied, it creates engagement, trust, and a dog that willingly works with you.

POSITIVE PUNISHMENT (P+)

This is when we add something the dog finds unpleasant to decrease the likelihood of a behavior happening again. Example:

• Dog jumps on you → You apply a leash correction → Dog is less likely to jump next time.

While punishment can be an effective tool for stopping unwanted behavior, it must be used correctly, fairly, and with proper timing. Misuse or overuse can lead to confusion, frustration, and behavioral fallout.

THE MALIGATOR WAY: WHY TIMING AND UNDERSTANDING MATTER

At Maligator Kennels, we vehemently instruct people not to use positive punishment for tasks or behaviors the dog hasn’t fully learned or does not clearly understand. Doing so will create reactivity, avoidance, or inappropriate behavior rather than clarity.

If a dog doesn’t know what “sit” means, and you correct it for not sitting, all you’re doing is teaching confusion and frustration. If a dog doesn’t understand a recall command, and you punish it for failing, you’re creating a dog that hesitates or avoids coming to you at all. This is where training goes wrong, and it’s why so many handlers struggle with inconsistency and behavioral issues.

Punishment should never be a teaching tool—it’s a tool for stopping behaviors the dog already understands are wrong. That’s a critical distinction.

SO, HOW DO YOU USE THIS IN TRAINING?

• Use positive reinforcement to teach and encourage behaviors.

• Use positive punishment sparingly and only for behaviors the dog knows and understands are unacceptable.

• Clarity and fairness matter—your dog needs to know what to do before you ever correct it for not doing it.

Training isn’t about bribery, nor is it about intimidation. It’s about communication, consistency, and clarity.

If you’ve been struggling with your dog’s behavior, ask yourself: Are you reinforcing the right things? Are you expecting too much without first teaching?

02/20/2025

What’s REALLY Costing You More?

Owning a dog isn’t cheap. But here’s the truth—whether you train your dog or not, you’re going to spend money. The question is: Are you spending it on building a well-behaved companion, or on fixing the damage an untrained dog creates?

The Hidden Costs of an Untrained Dog

• Home Repairs – Scratched-up doors, chewed-up furniture, ripped-up carpets, and destroyed walls from anxious or hyperactive behavior can easily cost hundreds, if not thousands, to repair.

• Yard Damage – Dogs that dig up flower beds, destroy fencing, or escape constantly rack up costs in fence repairs, landscaping, and city fines for running loose.

• Vet Bills – An untrained dog is far more likely to get injured from running away, eating something dangerous, fighting with another dog, or pulling so hard on a leash they hurt themselves.

Emergency vet visits are not cheap.

• Liability Costs – If your dog jumps on guests, knocks down kids, or bites someone, you could be facing medical bills, lawsuits, and higher insurance premiums—or worse, losing your dog.

• Daily Stress & Frustration – The exhaustion of constantly yelling, chasing, apologizing, and dealing with chaos takes a toll on your mental health, family, and overall happiness.

Now, Imagine Life With a Trained Dog

• Peaceful Walks – No more pulling, lunging, or dragging you down the street. You can enjoy your walks, not dread them.

• Freedom at the Park – Whether on or off-leash, your dog listens when called, doesn’t run off, and plays safely.

• Well-Behaved at Home – No more jumping on guests, counter-surfing, barking at every little noise, or destroying furniture. Your home stays calm and intact.

• Reliable Obedience – You can trust your dog in public, at outdoor cafes, around kids, and in social settings—no stress, no embarrassment.

• More Enjoyment, Less Stress – When your dog is trained, you actually enjoy having them around instead of constantly managing bad behavior.

The Bottom Line

Dogs will always cost you money. But would you rather invest in a well-trained companion or spend endlessly on repairs, vet bills, and stress?

At Maligator Kennels, we turn dogs into obedient, happy, and reliable companions so you can enjoy life with your dog, not battle against them.

It’s not a matter of if you’re going to invest money. It’s a matter of if you’re going to invest money wisely or if you’re going to invest money poorly. It’s your choice.

02/13/2025

Quality Over Quantity: The Key to Effective Dog Training

When it comes to dog training, repetition is essential. Dogs learn through consistent practice, reinforcement, and pattern recognition. But here’s the catch—not all reps are created equal.

A hundred sloppy repetitions won’t teach your dog much, except how to be confused and frustrated. But a handful of high-quality, well-executed reps can make all the difference in their learning and reliability.

Think about it like this: If you’re trying to perfect your golf swing, would you rather take 500 rushed, uncoordinated swings or 50 slow, intentional, well-executed ones? The same applies to dog training.

Why Quality Reps Matter More:

✅ Clarity – Your dog understands exactly what’s being asked of them.
✅ Confidence – They build trust in the process and become eager to train.
✅ Muscle Memory – Good reps reinforce correct behavior, while bad reps reinforce bad habits.
✅ Less Frustration – For both you and your dog. Fewer corrections, fewer mistakes, more success.

On the flip side, too many rushed or inconsistent reps lead to:
❌ A dog guessing what you want instead of truly learning.
❌ Burnout, stress, and mental fatigue.
❌ Reinforcing the wrong behaviors.

The Takeaway:

Repetition is necessary, but quality will always outweigh quantity in training. It’s better to do five perfect reps than fifty sloppy ones. So slow down, focus on precision, and make every repetition count.

Need help fine-tuning your dog’s training? Maligator Kennels specializes in getting quality results, fast. Whether it’s obedience, behavior modification, or advanced skills, we’ll make sure your dog gets the right reps for lasting success.

02/13/2025

Getting fiesty. Police dog puppies! We love when our friends Rival K9 have pups on the ground. 2 litters available!

02/09/2025

Life’s Too Short to Own a Disobedient Dog

Let’s be honest—how much of your time with your dog is actually enjoyable? How much of it is spent fighting bad behavior, apologizing for your dog’s actions, or avoiding certain situations altogether?

• Struggling to get your dog to come inside when you call? That’s extra time wasted in your yard, standing in the rain, cold, or heat while your dog plays keep-away.
• Dreading walks because your dog drags you like a sled dog on steroids? That’s turning what should be a peaceful activity into a full-body workout (and not the good kind).
• Constantly telling your dog to get down from the couch, off the counter, or to stop jumping on guests? That’s not companionship—that’s a full-time referee job.
• Avoiding inviting people over because your dog acts like an unhinged lunatic? That’s robbing you of social time and making your home feel more like a battlefield than a place to relax.
• Chasing your dog down the street because they bolted the second the door cracked open? That’s panic, frustration, and maybe even a trip to the vet when they inevitably run into traffic.

Now, let’s flip the script. Imagine a life where:

✅ Your dog comes when called—every time.
✅ Walks are calm, controlled, and enjoyable.
✅ Guests can actually come inside without being tackled or barked at.
✅ Your dog respects boundaries without constant micromanaging.
✅ You get to actually enjoy your time together, stress-free.

That’s not just wishful thinking—it’s 100% possible with the right training.

At Maligator Kennels, we specialize in turning chaos into control. We don’t believe in “wait it out” methods or hoping your dog will eventually “grow out of it.”

If you’re tired of feeling like a hostage in your own home, it’s time for real solutions.

You deserve a dog you enjoy, not just tolerate.
Your dog deserves the freedom that comes with good behavior.
And life’s too short to keep fighting the same battles every single day.

Let’s fix the problem—so you can actually enjoy your dog.

Your well-trained dog is waiting.

02/05/2025

TUESDAY TRAINER TIP: WHEN YOUR DOG CROSSES THE LINE

You’re sitting on the couch, head in your hands, rocking back and forth. Sweat beads on your forehead as emotions crash over you—shock, embarrassment, maybe even fear.

The unthinkable just happened. Your dog—your sweet, lovable companion—bit someone. Or maybe they attacked another dog.

You never thought you’d be that person. The one with the dog that lunges at the park. The one who has to warn visitors, or worse, keep their dog locked away. But now, here you are.

WHAT NOW?

Do you put the dog down? Rehome them? Pretend it was a fluke and hope it never happens again?

Let’s clear something up right now: dogs are not sharks.
They don’t “get a taste for blood” and suddenly turn into relentless predators. I once had someone say that to me, and I just stared at them for 10 full seconds, processing the sheer absurdity of it.

However, once a dog has bitten, they are more likely to do it again. Not because they’ve developed a craving for human flesh, but because they’ve learned that biting works. It got them what they wanted.

So, let’s be very clear:
❌ You do not HAVE to rehome the dog.
❌ You do not HAVE put them down and really, this should be a last resort.
❌ And for the love of everything good, do not ignore it and hope it never happens again.

WHY YOU NEED TO ACT—NOW

I’ve heard it before:
“Training is expensive. I thought I could fix it myself. I hoped it would just go away.”

The average lawsuit for a dog bite in 2024? $65,000. That’s an increase of $34,000 dollars in the last 7 years.
And that’s regardless of the severity of the injury.

What’s the cheaper option? Getting professional help before it escalates.

If your dog has:
✔️ Picked multiple fights at the dog park
✔️ Bitten a human—for any reason
✔️ Shown signs of aggression toward people or dogs

You need training. You owe it to you, your dog and to the safety of those in the community to get training.

UNDERSTANDING THE “WHY”

It’s not enough to say, “My dog is aggressive.” You have to ask, why?

A dog that bites out of fear needs a different approach than one biting due to guarding behavior, territorial instincts, or frustration. Identifying the cause is key to fixing the problem.

TAKE ACTION TODAY

If you’re struggling with aggression or biting, today is the day to act. Not next week. Not when it happens again. Now.

Let’s get in front of the problem before it gets worse.

Remember: the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Take that step today.

02/04/2025

FAREWELL:

It is with a heavy heart that I write this post about the passing of another beloved member of our community. Farewell, sweet Dexter—one of our favorite clients.

Dexter “the Dobe” and his human, Brittany Rashak, came to us several years ago when Dexter was just a rambunctious, stubborn puppy in need of training to help get him under control. We met with them, and Dexter started with our foundational obedience program, eventually working his way through advanced-level training, including e-collar personal training.

Dexter then went on to compete in conformation shows, earning multiple ribbons and awards before ultimately achieving his Grand Champion title—a feat that takes years of hard work, dedication, time, and money.

Dexter and Brittany became the talk of the town due to his striking features, stoic personality, intimidating presence, and impressive obedience. Brittany once shared a story about an encounter she had at a dog park:

A woman approached her and asked, “Is that an e-collar on your dog?”

Brittany replied, “Why yes, it is.”

The woman scoffed. “How can you feel good about putting that on your dog and using it? That’s abusive.”

Brittany politely responded, explaining that with the right training, the e-collar had given her and Dexter the freedom they not only wanted but needed.

The woman shook her head. “I would never put one of those on my dog.”

Brittany simply smiled and shrugged it off.

A few moments later, as the woman was leaving the dog park, both of her English Cream Retrievers slipped free, bolted toward a mud puddle, and began rolling in it, covering themselves from head to tail in deep brown mud.

Panicked and frustrated, the woman clapped her hands and called out, “Stop it! Quit it! Stop it!” But her dogs ignored her completely.

With no other option, she had to wade into the puddle herself, getting covered in mud from head to toe as she physically dragged them out. Exhausted and standing there in filth, she looked over at Brittany, clearly defeated.

Brittany turned to Dexter and simply said, “Dexter, come.”

Dexter flawlessly obeyed, jumping into a perfect heel at her side as they walked past the woman, who was still catching her breath. Brittany leaned in, patted her on the shoulder, and said, “E-collar training. Maligator Kennels. You’ll love it.”

Then she walked away with Dexter, who remained in a perfect off-leash heel—completely clean.

That was one of Brittany’s favorite stories, and she called me that same day to share it and to say thank you.

We sure love you, Dexter. We are heartbroken to hear of your passing and sad to see you go. We cherished every opportunity we had to work with you and your sweet human.

Until we meet again, rest easy, my friend.

Maligator Kennels

01/26/2025

Don’t miss these. This pairing has been anticipated for a long time!

01/25/2025

TRAINING APPRENTICE

Have you ever wanted to be a dog trainer, or understand why dogs do what they do? We have two openings for our Maligator Kennels trainer development program.

Come learn and get certified as a dog trainer by Russ, the only certified Canine Behaviorst in Utah!

We have two options:

6-month course: Obedience trainer - $4,500

1-year course: Obedience and behavior trainer - $8,000

Employment offered at the end of there’s a spot and if we like what you have to offer!

Text us at 801-896-7671 for details. Limited spots.

01/23/2025

CONSISTENCY BREEDS PREDICABILITY:

The More Consistent You Are, the More Predictable Your Dog’s Behavior

Consistency is the cornerstone of successful dog training and behavior management. Whether you’re working on basic obedience, addressing problem behaviors, or teaching advanced skills, the level of consistency you bring to your interactions with your dog will directly influence how predictable their behavior becomes in every situation.

Why does consistency matter so much? Dogs thrive on structure and predictability. When you provide clear, consistent rules, expectations, and routines, your dog knows what to expect from you—and what you expect from them. This mutual understanding builds trust, reduces anxiety, and encourages reliable responses in every aspect of their lives.

Consistency in Rules and Boundaries

Dogs don’t understand “sometimes.” If you allow your dog to jump on you when you’re wearing casual clothes but correct them when you’re dressed up, they’ll get confused. If one family member lets the dog on the couch while another enforces a strict “off the furniture” rule, the dog has no idea which behavior is acceptable. These mixed messages lead to unpredictable behaviors because your dog doesn’t know where the line is.

Instead, establish clear rules and enforce them the same way every time. If jumping isn’t allowed, make that the rule 100% of the time—for everyone in the household, guests included. Consistency creates clarity, and clarity leads to predictable behavior.

Consistency in Commands

Using the same command word for the same behavior every time is critical. If you alternate between “come,” “here,” and “let’s go” when calling your dog, they’ll struggle to understand what you want. Stick to one command per behavior, and ensure every family member uses the same language.

Equally important is your tone and body language. Dogs are masters at reading your cues, so be sure your verbal and nonverbal signals align. A calm, confident tone paired with clear commands will help your dog respond predictably.

Consistency in Reinforcement

Reinforcement, both positive and negative, is how dogs learn what’s worth repeating and what isn’t. Reward desired behaviors every time, especially in the beginning stages of training, so your dog understands what earns praise or a treat.

On the flip side, consistently addressing unwanted behaviors ensures your dog learns what isn’t acceptable. Ignoring bad behavior one day and correcting it the next sends mixed signals and can lead to confusion.

Consistency Builds Predictability

When your dog experiences consistent rules, commands, and reinforcement, their behavior becomes predictable. They’ll begin to anticipate what’s expected of them and respond accordingly, whether they’re at home, on a walk, or in a high-distraction environment.

Predictable behavior also gives you confidence as a handler. You’ll know how your dog is likely to respond in any given situation because they’ve been trained to follow the same set of expectations every time. This predictability is especially important in emergencies, where a reliable recall or a well-timed “stay” could keep your dog safe.

The Long-Term Benefits of Consistency

Consistency doesn’t just make life easier in the short term—it also sets your dog up for success throughout their life. Dogs raised in a consistent environment are less anxious, more secure, and more likely to exhibit good manners. They know the rules, trust their handler, and understand their place in the family.

If you’re struggling to be consistent or unsure how to create a clear training plan, we’re here to help. At Maligator Kennels, we specialize in balanced training methods that give you the tools to build consistency and predictability in your dog’s behavior.

Remember: The more consistent you are, the more predictable your dog’s behavior will be. It’s not about perfection—it’s about staying committed to providing your dog with clear expectations and consistent guidance.

Ready to take the next step in training your dog? Contact us today! Whether you need help with obedience, behavior modification, or creating a structured training routine, we’ve got you covered. Let’s work together to make your dog’s behavior as predictable as it can be.

01/17/2025

Just Start

Feeling overwhelmed about training your dog? You’re not alone. Dog training can feel like standing at the base of a mountain, staring up at the peak, wondering if you’ll ever get there. You see the barking, the pulling, the jumping, and the chaos. Maybe you’ve even thought, "Is my dog untrainable? Where do I even start?"

Here’s the thing: you don’t have to conquer the mountain in a day. You just have to take the first step.
The hardest part of dog training isn’t the dog—it’s deciding to start. It’s reaching out, asking for help, and committing to change. Once you take that first step, the journey begins to make sense. Each small win builds on the last. What seemed insurmountable yesterday starts to feel manageable today.

At Maligator, we specialize in helping you take that first step. Whether you’re dealing with leash pulling, aggression, or basic obedience, we’ve got your back. Our proven, balanced training methods break the process into simple, achievable steps tailored to your dog’s unique needs—and your lifestyle.

Still unsure? That’s okay! Some of our clients were hesitant too. But they discovered that progress doesn’t happen all at once—it happens one step at a time. And the results? Life-changing.
So here’s your nudge: just start.

Send us a message, call, or sign up for a class. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or a magic solution—because starting now is the solution.

Your dog is ready. Are you?

💬 Let’s make today the day you take that first step. Reach out now and let’s turn your dog-training worries into wins.