HellaK9s

07/10/2024

Is your dog team you?

Would they come back to you EVERY time out on a walk, or would the sight of a squirrel send them packing? 

The truth is, most people start training before the dog truly values them

That’s when they hit walls, they get frustrated and they give up

As their owner, your dog should put you above all else

Make them WANT to do as you ask, not because you bribed them or forced them to do so

That’s engagement

We can help you get there

Speak to our team today and we’ll get you and your dog started 🔥

06/19/2024

Need to get your pup walking on a leash? 🦮

Or maybe you’re tired of chasing them through the park? 🏃‍♂️

Whatever the reason for needing help, speak with one of our team today and live the life you want with your dog 

Our DMs are open 💬

06/17/2024

What’s their ‘thing’? 🤔

Finding a dogs favorite activity can be challenging but rewarding

When you find out what they love more than anything else, it becomes the perfect bonding experience

Whether it’s scent work, playing fetch at the park, bite work, doing parkour or play fighting 

What’s your dog’s ‘thing’? 👇

06/11/2024

Ever wonder what your pup is trying to tell you? 💬

They might not be able to speak human, but dogs are amazing communicators.

Ear position, facial expressions, and also hackles are all ways to read what a dog is feelings.

An obvious one, the wagging tail, usually means they’re happy (or does it 😳) 

A wagging tail actually means they’re experiencing some level of arousal. 

In dogs, arousal could be anything from happy or excited, to prey-locked or assessing a threat.

So you can’t always assume they’re happy! 

So what about other signals?

Flattened ears and/or tucked tail could mean your pup is afraid.

A stiff body and whale eye (side eyeing someone/something 👀) can signal anxiety and/or that they need space.

Some dogs may become reactive in this scenario so be aware if you notice this

Other body language signals...

The head tilt = they’re curious (usually triggered by unfamiliar noises)

Head low, curved body and tail wagging = submissive

Bowing with tail up = prepare for zoomies!

Mouth open > tongue out > breathing loudly = happy (or hot!)

🚨 REMEMBER 🚨

If a dog is rigid, giving you/someone intense eye contact, and begins to snarl/show teeth - it usually means they’re afraid and may react if approached.

In most situations it’s best to let a dog come to you when it feels ready.

Don’t get bit trying to make friends (use treats instead!) 😉

06/07/2024

The 7 second test 

In the heat of summer we need to be extra vigilant in making sure our pups are getting the hydration and protection they need

So, if you’re thinking about going for a walk, try this quickly before you

If you can’t put your hand down on the concrete firmly for more than 7 seconds, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws

Also, it should be obvious but remember to never leave them in a car or outside in the scorching heat

Instead, why not bring out the paddling pool?

It’s way more fun, and safer for your dogs! 🔥

06/04/2024

There’s more to training than non-stop obedience work 🐕

Keep your dog engaged and fulfilled by throwing in some enrichment activities, such as...

Interactive Feeders: give your dog food puzzles with different difficulty levels. Show them how you load them with kibble or treats, and watch it keep your dog mentally engaged during meal time.

Scent Work: Turn your backyard into a treat hunt by hiding treats around the yard, and encourage your dog to use their nose to find them. You could also create scent trails leading to their favorite toy instead!

Lick Mats: these can be great for anxious or destructive dogs. Try spreading a dog-safe treat like mashed banana or pureed pumpkin and leave them to lick it off.

Brain Games: challenge your dog with games that require problem-solving skills. Like the muffin tin game - get a muffin tin and use tennis balls to cover some compartments and hide treats underneath others.

REMEMBER: tailor your enrichment activities to your dog’s breed, age, and energy level. For example, breeds like the Border Collie might benefit from agility training or interactive toys, whilst a senior dog might prefer calmer activities like scent work.

What’s your dog’s favorite enrichment? 👇

05/31/2024

If you aren’t no. 1 in your dog’s eyes, make that a priority before putting all your time into training 👏

We want our dog to choose to listen us, rather than forcing them to do what we ask

It’s better for them, better for us, and better for everyone around us too (no awkwardly chasing your dog around the park!)

So, how can you start building the bond with your dog? 

Start by trying different stimuli - food, toys, play hide & seek - whatever gets them excited, and pay close attention to them during these times. 

This will make them value you above everything else!

05/29/2024

PSA: this service is only available to Hellak9s alumni

Got a vacation coming up? ✈️

Leave them with us!

We’ll match them with their trainer for boarding, so you know they are in safe hands whilst you’re away

If you have any questions, or need more information, send us a DM

05/15/2024

E Collars: yes or no, and why? 👇

05/10/2024

Hello all, Zach here! 

I’ve been working with HellaK9s for close to 2 years now with my main focus being in sport obedience & protection. 

I currently compete in PSA with my 2 year old European Doberman, Raksha. 

Rak & I’s journey is one of the many reasons I’ve fallen in love with this craft.

I’ve had many different jobs & owned multiple businesses over the years. 

None of which have ever even come close to offering the joy & fulfillment that working with HellaK9s has brought into my life. I eat, sleep, breathe any and all things dogs. 

I absolutely love what I do and the family we’ve created here at HellaK9s.

05/01/2024

Which is best for you and your dog? 🐕

Board & Train: Ideal for busy schedules or stubborn behaviors. Your dog gets intensive training with our experts, perfect for focused results.

Hybrid: If you want to be part of the journey, this program combines Board & Train with private lessons for you and your pup. Learn the skills to maintain your dog’s training at home!

Still not sure which is the best fit?

Board & Train is great for pups who need regular focused attention on specific issues, like barking, jumping, or bigger problems like aggression.

Hybrid is best for those who want to be directly involved in training and build a stronger bond with their dog.

If you still can’t decide, send us a DM and we’ll help you pick what’s best for you and your dog 💬

04/08/2024

A dog is not a human... 

So why do so many owners treat them like babies all the time?!

When we communicate to a dog, we have to do it in a way that they understand.

Some respond to food

Some prefer toys

And some just LOVE to work! 

So we’ve listed some basic commands that every dog should know, which will help set them up for success as they continue to play a big part of your life.

Need some help? 

Drop us a DM to be introduced to a trainer near you 🔥

04/03/2024

Work the dog in front of you 👇

We understand that no two dogs are the same, which is why every dog we work with is treated as an individual case; training them according to what works for them.

Just because one method worked on one dog, doesn’t mean it’ll work on the next, so we need to be adaptable to overcome any challenges we face.

🔥 SAY LESS, TRAIN MORE 🔥

04/01/2024

It’s puppy season, which means you or someone you know, may be getting themselves a furry companion! 🔥

But just because they’re young doesn’t mean you should wait to do training - starting early is a game changer!

So to help you out, here’s a few key tactics to help train ‘em right:

Using “Yes!” frequently to mark good behavior, and follow up with a treat for positive reinforcement.

Frequent, short potty breaks every few hours and praise for going outside = a house-trained pup!

Start short leash training sessions indoors using treats to lure them to walk nicely beside you.

Teach them to drop unwanted items by offering a treat swap. This is going to help prevent unwanted chewing!

Expose your pup to new sights, sounds, and people in a controlled way for a well-adjusted dog.

Just remember that consistency is key! 

If things aren’t going to plan and you need our help, speak to us today and we’ll get your pup trained in no time. 

SAY LESS TRAIN MORE 🔥

03/18/2024

The one who treats them like a child and doesn’t give them structure or boundaries

The one who doesn’t meet their physical and mental needs

The one who doesn’t make time to play and bond with them

The one that chooses a breed based off looks instead of comparability for their home life and lifestyle

The one that doesn’t understand their dog’s body language and cues

The one that believes all dogs need friends

The one who never corrects or gives guidance to their dog

The one who deals excessive punishment

The one who lets their dog off leash without a reliable recall

The one who claims their dog “dog is friendly” with every dog

The one who never sees that THEY are the problem, not the dog

Shall we continue?

Dogs get a bad name when owners fail to do their job.

Sure, dogs are a commitment but they’re also incredible companions and a source of endless love and loyalty when given the right structure and boundaries.

You are their entire life, their family and their guardian, so you owe it to them to provide a loving home. In return they will give you so much more.

It all starts with you 🫵

If you need help with your dog, we’re ready to walk with you to make it happen

SAY LESS, TRAIN MORE 🔥

03/13/2024

What did we miss?! Comment below👇

03/11/2024

WE’RE TAKING OVER 🔥

Come visit us at one of our 5 locations for all your training and boarding needs, with expert trainers there to ensure your dog is in the best hands

DM us if you have any questions 📬

01/15/2024

When two amazing teams collide🤯. HellaK9s NoVa had an amazing weekend with .pro . Our inaugural training event, centered on mastering client communication, was nothing short of inspiring. Here’s to many more collaborations!

11/11/2023

HellaK9s East Holiday Party 2023

Awesome time with great people. Thanks for coming out everyone!!

10/28/2023

Ember , Direct Big Roy daughter 🔥
BRN46373
📸 :

10/21/2023

10/02/2023

What an incredible weekend we've had! Hosting the trial was an absolute blast.

I want to take a moment to express my immense pride in these three remarkable individuals. A few years ago, Tara and I crossed paths with them in San Diego, where they initially chose me to be their mentor. From California to Virginia, they've remained dedicated, and now, all three of them have reached the 3s.

You guys often tease me for being sparing with compliments, so here are some well-deserved ones:

Taylor - This weekend, you showcased 2 dogs in the 2s and 1 dog in the 1s, all while being 7 months pregnant. Your dedication to your dogs has always been inspiring, and I'm incredibly proud of you. Congratulations on closing out your PSA2 with J man this weekend.

Kyana - Taking on the challenge of competing with a shelter dog in this demanding sport is remarkable. You break ceilings with your dog at every turn. Thank you for trusting me with your dog and staying with me from the beginning. I am exceptionally proud of you.

John - Last year, you earned your PDC, and this year, you closed out your PSA2. In your first year in PSA, and with your first sport dog, you became the PSA1 East Regional Champ. Your accomplishments are so significant that I can't go anywhere without hearing "John & Fuego." You've come a long way from when I first showed you how to teach your dog to play dead.

In conclusion, this weekend was great. And I couldn’t be prouder of Taylor, Kyana, and John. Their dedication, resilience, and exceptional achievements in the sport are nothing short of inspiring. As their mentor, it's an honor to see how far they've come, from our first meeting in San Diego to their current success in PSA. These compliments are well-deserved, and I look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success in the future. Cheers to an amazing journey together!

📸:

08/22/2023

If “it takes a village” was a photo.
Rags to Riches Ryker PSA2
Welp on to the 3’s

📸:

08/19/2023

It’s not all bitey dogs here 😍

📸:

07/28/2023

⚠️It’s SHORT SHORTS season⚠️.

Moment of silence for those out in this heat without above the knee shorts on. Time to show off your work at the squat rack.

On a serious note, stay cool out there guys. If you’re bringing your dog out in this bring extra water and keep them off the pavement.

📸:

06/11/2023

I find it interesting when trainers say they work with dogs because they can’t work with people. The “I’m not a people person”. Everyone in the industry knows that training the dog is only half of the job and probably the lease significant part of the job. The ability to communicate with others and help them understand how to communicate with their dog is what keeps them out of shelters or worse. I got into dogs purely by being fascinated by what they are capable of but truthfully it’s the people that make me love this. Don’t get me wrong it’s an amazing feeling getting through to the dog but it’s so fulfilling watching the owner understand and gain confidence with their dog to the point I become irrelevant. To the point the dog keeps their home. That’s the goal. Not just with owners but with all of the passionate people I’ve met along the way. Helping the people that come to me to learn is so spiritually fulfilling I can’t imagine doing anything else. So I guess I’m not just a “dog person” . I’m a “people person” .

📸:

05/15/2023

taking on in the handler attack at the trial.

05/13/2023

Raven ❤️❤️

05/06/2023

BNT RAVEN oh I’m sorry BNT PDC RAVEN 🔥🔥🔥 congratulations girlie . come take your girl out to celebrate .

05/06/2023

Awesome day at for the team. Thanks .lepinski for the awesome judging . And all the awesome decoys and awesome people that help setup . Just awesomeness all around .
Congratulations to our trainers Taylor and Kyana.
Taylor and Roy got their PDC and Tay got her 1st leg of her PSA2 with Jerzey.
Kyana and Ryker got their 1st leg of their PSA2 .
I showed BNT Raven and HK9 Shenzi for their PDCs and they crushed it .