Spot on Dogs

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Spot on Dogs

Spot on Dogs incorporates progressive, scientifically proven methods of dog training while striving

GROUP CLASSES:
•Puppy Socialization and Basic Manners Class
•Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Manners Classes
•Rally Obedience Classes
•Therapy Dog Preparation Classes
•Canine Nose Work Classes

Loretta (some folks prefer to use her nickname, Lori) Swanson began what has become a lifelong love affair with dogs when she was very young; training her first dog, a mixed breed Collie-

type, to an obedience title when she was 12 years old and part of her local 4-H program. After learning and competing with this dog for several years, Loretta became involved with show horses. A couple decades or so filled with all kinds of equestrian events and several show horses passed quickly and after completing graduate school, Loretta adopted a mixed breed rescue pup and went back to her former dog training club to teach the pup some manners and maybe even perform a little obedience work with him. She was rather dismayed to find they were still advocating the use of “choke” and “pinch” collars (although they now couched them as “training” collars). So, despite the dirty looks she got from instructors and once even having the trainer tell the rest of the class “Oh, that’s Loretta over there, she does her own thing so just try to ignore her,” Loretta trained her new dog as she had her horses, by giving him rewards for his good behavior. This led to a succession of dogs trained and shown in obedience trials using positive methods (and several frustrated teachers!). In 2006 Loretta adopted a young adult Dalmatian, Jack, who was very fearful, so fearful in fact that he didn’t respond well to her usual methods of training. She made the rounds of canine behaviorists in the Midwest with Jack and one suggested using a clicker to work on his issues. While she had heard about clicker training before, she had never used it but she loved Jack and was willing to do anything she could to help him live a less fearful life. That began her immersion in all things clicker (as well as all things behavior) which eventually led her to completing the Karen Pryor Academy in the spring of 2012 and earning the distinction of Certified Training Partner, or KPA CTP. As a lifelong educator (in her previous career she was the Undergraduate Coordinator for the School of Art at Northern Illinois University), helping folks learn to understand their dogs and train them to live together in harmony comes naturally to her.

10/07/2025

On Saturday, June 28th Spot on Dogs held an Adolescent Manners class at the Belvidere Farm and Fleet. Here are a couple of pictures to enjoy!

07/07/2025

Today's temp here in northern IL is expected to be in low 80's but as you can see from this poster pavement temps can really heat up. Be aware of temps when out and about with your pets!

06/07/2025

Even with today's lower temperatures, don't be tempted to leave your dog in the car without proper ventilation. They can still overheat very quickly. This goes for your children as well.

05/07/2025

Potential high today of 90 degrees. Watch your pet for signs of heatstroke if you are out and about. Best to just leave them home.

04/07/2025

Important reminder as we celebrate the 4th of July!

03/07/2025

Our very own Loretta Swanson had the pleasure of judging the Stephensen County 4H Dog Show held last Saturday. Congratulations to all!

09/06/2025

Will the real Borzoi please stand up?

(Our CGC class was out and about today, learning how to politely greet new friends.)

02/06/2025

*Your Dog is a Genius (Probably)*

Let’s Prove It.

At Spot on Dogs, we offer science-backed, positive reinforcement training that’s all about building a strong bond between you and your furry sidekick—while having a lot of fun along the way.

From Puppy Kindergarten to Competition Nose Work, there's something for everyone!

✅ Science-based, fun-focused
✅ No choke chains, no yelling—just smart, relationship-based training
✅ Great for dogs of all ages, sizes, and questionable life choices
✅ Taught by certified trainers who actually speak dog
✅ Guaranteed to improve behavior—or at least give you great stories

📍 Based in Northern Illinois
📅 New class dates just dropped! Spots go fast.
👉 Sign up now at www.spotondogsillinois.com

Because a well-trained dog is a joy to live with. And also less likely to knock over your coffee table.

06/05/2025

Our puppies are S.T.A.R. puppies!!!

05/05/2025

Big Congrats to our students who recently passed AKC's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test! The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program, established in 1989, is an American Kennel Club program to promote responsible dog ownership and to encourage the training of well-mannered dogs. For more info regarding our next AKC Canine Good Citizen class go to: https://www.spotondogsillinois.com/

Register for our Puppy classes at spotondogsillinois.com! Classes start the 1st week of May.

19/04/2025

17/04/2025

It’s National Dog Bite Prevention week, and we believe EVERYONE should know these key tips for staying safe.

Check out the link to see Loretta’s interview with WTVO.

Dog owners can prevent dog bites by teaching children to be cautious around dogs, staying calm and relaxed, and allowing dogs to approach on their own terms.

Address

Opening Hours

Tuesday	07:00 - 19:00
Wednesday	07:00 - 19:00
Thursday	07:00 - 19:00
Friday	07:00 - 19:00
Saturday	07:00 - 19:00
Sunday	15:00 - 19:00

Website

http://www.spotondogsillinois.com/

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