Hadnot Creek Training Facility

The Instinctive Obedience® training system is a dynamic, effective, and simple method developed by Donnie Hult Jr. from decades of experience. It focuses on modifying a dog’s behavior by encouraging desired instinctive behaviors and suppressing unwanted ones in a safe and healthy manner.

The method requires consistent observation and interaction with the dog, and importantly, teaches handlers to lead so the dog follows. It integrates well with various training tools such as electronic collars, pinch collars, clicker training, and treat training, enhancing existing basic training methods.

The program is built upon “The THREE Golden Rules”: Rule #1 – You Own The Dog (dogs do not own anything, and owners reinforce this by examining body parts and taking space); Rule #2 – You Are Always Right (owners make all decisions for the dog’s well-being, even if unsure); and Rule #3 – You Always Win (owners must ensure the dog obeys commands, gently making them comply if necessary). This comprehensive approach aims to give owners the tools to effectively become the leader of their home and their dog, allowing the dog to instinctively respect and follow their lead.

Hadnot Creek Training Facility is associated with the NIODTA® (National Instinctive Obedience Dog Trainers Association), which promotes the Instinctive Obedience® training method. This method was developed by Donnie Hult Jr. over 45 years of experience, focusing on harnessing dogs’ natural instincts for obedience.

They provide training for a wide range of dogs, including police and military K9s, Search and Rescue dogs, Service dogs, and family pets, even those with difficult behavioral issues. The training emphasizes establishing the owner as the clear leader through consistent physical and mental stimulation.

The core of their philosophy is based on “The THREE Golden Rules”: You Own The Dog, You Are Always Right, and You Always Win. This approach aims to modify dog behavior by encouraging desired instinctive behaviors and suppressing unwanted ones in a safe and healthy manner, leading to a dog that respects and follows its owner’s lead instinctively. They also offer kennel and pet boarding services.

Accomplishments

Donnie Hult Jr. has over 45 years of experience training police, military K9s, Search and Rescue dogs, Service dogs, and thousands of family pets. He developed the Instinctive Obedience® system based on decades of experience and analysis of various training styles.

He built three successful dog training businesses and mentored many trainers nationwide. His father, Donald F Hult, Sr., was a Washington DC Metro Police Department K9 handler.

How to Get Started!

Clients can call with questions or contact NIODTA® to submit an application to become a trainer. The website also provides a contact form for inquiries.