Before we started with Off-Leash Dog Training, one of our dogs had a major fear of strangers. In fact, she was afraid of the whole world. I had trouble even getting her to walk to the end of the driveway when I first got her from the shelter. She used to cower in the corner or at the very back of her crate when anyone walked in the front door. Our other dog had some fear of strangers but not nearly as bad. He was stubborn with attitude issues about when and whether he would obey. No longer!

They are both dramatically different animals than they were several months ago when we started. In the beginning I was skeptical about using the collar too, and although we saw improvement almost immediately it took about 3-4 sessions before the changes became real apparent. It took several months to get to where we are now mostly because I do not have THAT much time to devote to training.

The “shock” from the collar is kind of like a whistle – it is an attention getter. It is not a punishment. It also reinforces the fact that YOU are alpha, and dogs (like kids) follow the leader or go their own way. They are not “naturally” well behaved. We have to show them how to be. I have only had to turn the intensity up a few times with the stubborn one.

Now, both dogs respond to voice commands and only need an occasional “awakening” touch when they are in training or new situations. The fearful dog comes (shyly still) to greet our guests, but her tail is wagging. It only takes a pat and a word now and those gigantic ears pop up and she starts her happy wiggle. The stubborn one obeys well and doesn’t have to be coaxed with treats – he still loves them though.

Now, we only use the collars in training or for that extra level of control when we are going to be in new and scary situations – like the crowds at the New West Festival. The dogs were very nervous at first, but recovered quickly, thanks to their training my encouragement and a “light” reminder a couple of times. I was amazed at how well they did after they got over their initial fear at seeing so many people, hearing all the
noises and being exposed to so many different and new smells. Our dogs got lots of praise and pats for being so well behaved at the festival – from complete strangers! I handed out several Off-Leash Dog Training cards – unsolicited – LOL.

Thank you Ryan! Our dogs are much happier and our friends and family can enjoy then now, too.

Janet H. – Fort Collins, CO

Colorado can be beautiful in the winter, however dogs are killed each year due to negligent pet owners. Here are some tips to help keep your dog safe:

• Do not leave your dog outside for an extended period of time, especially with snow on the ground.
• Provide some sort of shelter if the dog is going to be left outside for a short period of time.
• After your dog has been in the snow, be sure to wipe the snow off his pads, nose, and tips of ears. Also, clean any salt off their pads. Many chemicals that are used as deicers are bad for a dog’s pads and dry them out.
• If going for a walk, I suggest using booties on your dog’s paws. I would recommend prior to going on your walks to get your dog comfortable wearing the booties inside the house, otherwise you will end up calling me and saying your dog can’t walk when it is snowing out.
• Your dog will not need to be groomed as frequently especially since it’s best for them to have a longer coat in the winter months.

The following information about hypothermia is provided by Lindsay Pierce a Certified Veterinarian Technician at Garden Valley Vet Hospital. Hypothermia (body temperature is below normal, 99.5-102.5 degrees F) can be very dangerous and even fatal. Most dogs are designed to handle much colder weather than we are. They have fur that insulates their bodies and protects from snow, extremely cold water, and frost bite. Some breeds don’t have much hair and it is much hard for them to stay warm. Small dogs are even at more risk due to their lack of size and body mass.

If you suspect hypothermia, contact your veterinarian first then do the following steps:

• Immediately take the dog into a warm, dry place. If the fur is wet, use towels, blankets, and hair dryers to dry fur. Use caution when using the hair dryer as it can become TOO hot and burn your dog.
• If you suspect frostbite on your dog and have extra clothes, gloves or scarves, wrap them around effected areas.
• DO NOT poor warm water or cold water on effected areas. This can be extremely painful and once it is no longer warm, it will feel freezing.
• DO NOT hesitate to take your pet to the veterinarian. The effects of the cold and organ damage are often time irreversible.

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado wants to teach you to be able to enjoy your dog in any situation, even around severe distractions. Upon completing our programs, you will confidently:

• Walk your dog off leash around distractions.
• Understand your dog’s drives and behaviors to enhance your time spent together.
• Control common annoyances like pulling, barking, digging, or aggression. Include your dog in your daily life at home, the park, or the beautiful Colorado outdoors.

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado takes great pride in training Colorado dogs and their families — our mission is to ensure complete satisfaction with our clients. We offer both private and group training in your home and out, to address your needs when the dogs are at their most distracted. As our commitment, we offer absolutely UNLIMITED training for the life of your dog. Your family’s commitment to your dog is an important decision. We will show you an immediate return on your investment that will improve the relationship between you and your dog and show results to last a lifetime.

Call us today at 970-672-4454 to schedule your totally FREE demonstration and consultation with a professional dog trainer and their own highly obedient dog!

Khoko, 14 month old Aussie was chasing wabbits (she still lisps) in a nearly empty subdivision at about 6 o’ clock one morning in August. She was returning from a chase at a high rate of speed, about to cross the road to me, when a pickup appeared out of nowhere on a collision course with her.

Using our training I hollered at her to sit, which she did immediately, almost literally ‘on a dime’. She sat on the grass about 3 feet short of the curb as the truck roared past.

I sure am glad we were in this program. Otherwise I’d most likely be out looking for a new puppy.
Louis L. – Windsor Colorado

The first rule when it comes to muzzles is: when in doubt muzzle the dog. Just like with any piece of equipment you put on a dog, ensure you have the dog come to you to put the muzzle on. It is common for dogs to try and get muzzles off if it is new to them. Therefore, put the muzzle on at various times and locations and get the dog comfortable with wearing the muzzle. If the dog tries to get the muzzle off, stop the behavior instantly by making the dog walk or by lifting the head up with the leash. If you have a good amount of obedience from the dog, simply make the dog sit.,

Using the appropriate muzzle is vital. If the dog is going to be wearing the muzzle for an extended amount of time, then ensure the muzzle is one that the dog can drink and fully open it’s mouth while wearing it. Cloth muzzles are not reliable with an aggressive dog. (Trust me – early in my career I was bitten by a dog that we used a cloth muzzle on!)

The fit of the muzzle is arguably the most important factor when using a muzzle on an aggressive dog. Prior to putting the muzzle on, check all straps and buckles to ensure they are free of defects. To check for proper fit once the muzzle is on, grab the muzzle below the dog’s eyes on top of the dog’s snout and lift the dog so the two front paws come off the ground. If the muzzle doesn’t come off, the fit is proper.

Lastly, one thing I have found while training with the use of muzzle is that often when the dog wears the muzzle it is a humbling experience for the dog. Please be aware that dealing with aggressive dogs can be extremely dangerous and just because the dog is wearing a muzzle it doesn’t mean that everyone will be safe. It is crucial to consult with a professional dog trainer when dealing with an aggressive dog. Simply putting a muzzle on an aggressive dog WILL NOT cure the aggression.

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado wants to teach you to be able to enjoy your dog in any situation, even around severe distractions. Upon completing our programs, you will confidently:

• Walk your dog off leash around distractions.
• Understand your dog’s drives and behaviors to enhance your time spent together.
• Control common annoyances like pulling, barking, digging, or aggression. Include your dog in your daily life at home, the park, or the beautiful Colorado outdoors.

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado takes great pride in training Colorado dogs and their families — our mission is to ensure complete satisfaction with our clients. We offer both private and group training in your home and out, to address your needs when the dogs are at their most distracted. As our commitment, we offer absolutely UNLIMITED training for the life of your dog. Your family’s commitment to your dog is an important decision. We will show you an immediate return on your investment that will improve the relationship between you and your dog and show results to last a lifetime.

Call us today at 970-672-4454 to schedule your totally FREE demonstration and consultation with a professional dog trainer and their own highly obedient dog!

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• Best Western Kiva Inn 1638 E Mulberry Street Fort Collins – 970-484-2444

Dogs are allowed for an additional fee of $10 per night per pet. Dogs may not be left alone in the room at any time.

When making an online reservation please type “I am bringing my dog.” in the “Additional Comments and Requests” box in the first section of the online reservation form.

• Best Western University Inn 914 S College Avenue Fort Collins970-484-1984

Dogs are allowed for an additional pet fee of $15 per night per room. Dogs may not be left alone in the room.

When making an online reservation please type “I am bringing my dog.” in the “Additional Comments and Requests” box in the first section of the online reservation form.

• Comfort Suites 1415 Oakridge Drive Fort Collins
• Days Inn Fort Collins 3625 E Mulberry St Fort Collins
• Hampton Inn 1620 Oakridge Drive Fort Collins
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Ft. Collins 1426 Oakridge Drive Fort Collins
• La Quinta Ft. Collins 3709 East Mulberry Street Fort Collins
• Motel 6 – Fort Collins 3900 East Mulberry Fort Collins
• Quality Inn and Suites 4001 S Mason Street Fort Collins
• Residence Inn Fort Collins 1127 Oakridge Drive Fort Collins
• Sleep Inn 3808 Mulberry Street Fort Collins

Before you visit a pet friendly hotel, please contact them and verify that they are still dog-friendly and available, as policies and management change frequently. If you find an establishment that no longer allows dogs, please let us know so we can remove them from our list. To inform us about your favorite dog-friendly places, click here.

Prepare ahead of time for hiking with your dog by making certain your animal is current on flea and tick preventatives. Check with your veterinarian to determine what might be needed for your dog’s optimal protection in the particular area where you will be hiking, especially if it is a different geographic location than where you live.

If you plan to hike using a remote collar, be aware of the range and make sure it is well charged. Also note that the frequency may not work effectively around some inclines or declines.

In summer months plan, to hike early in the day or keep hikes short when the temperatures are high. If you plan to hike in snow, use protective booties for your animal’s feet.

Make sure your dog eats at least two hours before embarking on a hike. Stomach bloat can be caused if the dog exercises vigorously right before or after eating. Make sure to bring plenty of water for dog and owner. Collapsible fabric water bowls are available at sporting goods stores and work great for hiking and can attach to you belt or pack.  Bite size snacks are ok for Fido if the hike is extensive…. however focus on making sure your pet is well hydrated and drinks small amounts of water often.

Begin your hike by reading all the posted signs and regulations at the trail head. Be aware of the rules and warnings that are pertinent to dogs. Take note of any warnings about possible snakes,

Stay sensitive to the surroundings and possible hazards for dogs. (Wildlife, snakes… etc.)

Start with a walk on heel and transition into a looser walk.

Don’t’ allow your pet out of your line of sight, such as over the top of a hill, or even beyond a tree stand.

Have fun and enjoy bonding with your canine companion!

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado wants to teach you to be able to enjoy your dog in any situation, even around severe distractions. Upon completing our programs, you will confidently:

• Walk your dog off leash around distractions.
• Understand your dog’s drives and behaviors to enhance your time spent together.
• Control common annoyances like pulling, barking, digging, or aggression. Include your dog in your daily life at home, the park, or the beautiful Colorado outdoors.

Off-Leash Dog Training – Northern Colorado takes great pride in training Colorado dogs and their families — our mission is to ensure complete satisfaction with our clients. We offer both private and group training in your home and out, to address your needs when the dogs are at their most distracted. As our commitment, we offer absolutely UNLIMITED training for the life of your dog. Your family’s commitment to your dog is an important decision. We will show you an immediate return on your investment that will improve the relationship between you and your dog and show results to last a lifetime.

Call us today at 970-672-4454 to schedule your totally FREE demonstration and consultation with a professional dog trainer and their own highly obedient dog!

I have control over the dogs and can truly enjoy them now. It was great to work with Ryan; he’s a great teacher and great with the dogs.

Jessica T. – Ft Collins, CO

Ryan was a super trainer, kind knowledgeable, timely, patient… etc… etc.!!! We are completely satisfied.

K. Baker – Fort Collins, CO

Ryan took the time and patience to help me and my dog become more confident and successful.

Karen K. – Windsor, CO

I would definitely call Ryan again for help. He’s very personable and we enjoyed training with him.

S. Torimaru – Fort Collins, CO