News & Information

OK, I’m cheating a little…. this is actually an article I wrote for a local newspaper but it I felt it appropriate to post here as well!  

This is not an uncommon question, especially from someone who isn’t having any major problems with their dog.  The one word answer I have to that question and one I feel strongly about is, communication.  Our dogs are not born understanding English and we do not often understand canine so we must create a common language to work with and training helps us accomplish that. The moment we begin interacting with a dog or puppy, they are learning from us, even if we don’t realize it.  If we don’t know how to properly communicate with them, what they may be learning from us may not be what we want to teach them.  This is where training comes in, to help get your relationship with your dog started off on the right paw or headed in the right direction.  Communication is essential to any healthy, happy relationship, why would we leave it out of the one we have with our dog?  Training not only builds communication but also brings structure, with fair and consistent boundaries to your dog’s life.  Dogs need structure and leadership, like children, to feel secure in their environment.  Training also prevents and solves many behavior problems for those who may have gotten off to a poor start or perhaps has given a dog a second chance through adoption.  If your dog is well trained you are able to trust him more with strangers, children, other animals and new situations.  Through training we are able to help shy or insecure dogs build confidence and hyper dogs learn restraint, allowing you to take your dog more places and thus create an even stronger bond.  Unfortunately, it is estimated that last year alone more than 4 million pets were euthanized in the U.S., primarily by owners who got off to a bad start with their new pet and behavior problems followed.  We bring dogs into our homes and families because we want that loving, dedicated pet, it is our responsibility to them to give them the tools to be successful with us.

 At Northern Kentucky K9, LLC., we offer a wide range of training options for owners to choose from and we train all ages & breeds. For dogs over 16 weeks of age we offer residency training programs, private lessons or group classes through Kenton County Animal Shelter- offered monthly.  Once owners reach a certain level of training, we also offer follow-up group “Polishing” classes and an “On the Go!” program to give owners an easy and fun way to continue broadening their dogs skills in a variety of settings.  Just like any other skill or language, if we don’t use it, we typically lose it, so practice, practice, practice makes permanent because we’re training dogs for everyday life.  

 We also have multiple program options for puppy owners, Puppy Preschool through Kenton County Animal Shelter- offered monthly,  a Private Puppy Consultation and Puppy Social Parties.  We’ll educate owners on how to teach their puppy limits they can understand, confidence building, proper handling, the importance of proper socialization, effective communication, how to decrease behavior issues and to better understand their new puppy’s needs.  Owners will have the opportunity to ask questions of a professional trainer regarding their puppy and receive the guidance on possible causes and solutions to problems.  The important topics of house breaking, crate training, play biting, toy selection, grooming and much more are also covered.  Owners will receive a packet of valuable information relating to the health and proper care of their new puppy.  Young, well-mannered family members are encouraged to participate so the whole family knows how to handle their new puppy.  

 No one brings home a dog or new puppy in hopes of creating chaos and stress in their lives.  We dream of having that well behaved companion that we can share our day to day lives with.  Personally, that’s exactly why I have dogs.  They don’t care if I look terrible because I don’t feel well, if I’m moody, if I burnt dinner, forgot their birthday or any number of other less than desirable things; they’re always happy to see me.  They are one of the most forgiving creatures I’ve encountered and I can’t imagine not having them as a part of my life.  With so many options available to us to build that healthy, happy relationship with our dog, I’ll now ask you the question.  Why wouldn’t you train your dog?

 Belinda Perry owns and operates Northern Kentucky K9, LLC.  She has been training dogs since her start in 4-H, 25+ years ago and in our area for 11 years.  She can be contacted at www.nkyk9.com or 859-468-4527.