Training At Redemption Ranch

At Redemption Ranch, our training methodology is tailored to each dog's unique needs, abilities, and skills. We understand that many of our dogs have had difficult beginnings, so we prioritize helping them rebuild trust in humans. Our approach is never "one size fits all."

We begin by allowing the dogs to decompress, relax, and simply learn to be dogs again. Once they feel secure in their new environment, we carefully transition them into the training phase.

Our training techniques are rooted in the same methodologies that our expert instructors have used to train, certify, and recertify countless police and military dogs across multiple states. These methods are widely used by police forces throughout the U.S. and around the world. In addition, we ensure our dogs are thoroughly socialized, making them handler-neutral, adaptable to various environments, and comfortable around other animals—qualities essential for working in any situation.

Our handler courses take a holistic approach to canine handling. We offer comprehensive instruction on shaping canine behavior, developing training plans, criminal case law, canine first aid, records management, scenario-based training events, and courtroom testimony. With years of real-world experience, our professional team ensures that when teams graduate from Redemption Ranch, they are fully prepared to hit the streets with confidence and the necessary skills to succeed.

Key Training Principles:

Positive Reinforcement: All training is done through rewards, such as treats and toys, creating a positive experience for the dogs.
Low-Stress Environment: Dogs are provided with a stable environment where they can decompress and recover from previous traumatic experiences, often from shelters or abusive situations.
Tailored Training: Dogs are trained according to their strengths—those with high toy drive are used for detection work, while those with prey drive may be trained for dual-purpose roles, such as apprehension and detection.

Success Stories:

Echo: A dog labeled as aggressive at the shelter was rehabilitated through daily positive reinforcement and training, eventually becoming a successful working dog.
Newt: Rescued from an animal cruelty case, Newt overcame her trauma and was trained as a therapy and gun detection dog for the Plainfield Police Department.

Goals for the Training Program:

Phase 1: Establish basic infrastructure (kennels, behavior shaping tools, and supplies) and identify dogs and police departments ready to begin training.
Phase 2: Build a permanent training facility and expand the program to handle more dogs and trainers.
Phase 3: Create a long-term, sustainable program that includes multiple handler and recertification courses per year, as well as publishing training materials for both adults and children.