Training Program Overview

Dog Training at Redemption Ranch K9

Redemption Ranch K9’s approach to training focuses on rescuing high-potential dogs from shelters and transforming them into effective working dogs through positive reinforcement and reward-based training. These dogs, often overlooked because they aren't from traditional working dog bloodlines, are carefully selected for traits like high toy drive and resilience.

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.

Redemption Ranch K9’s training philosophy is that rescue dogs with the right temperament and motivation can be transformed into a working dog.