I Heart K9

I Heart K9 offers group classes and private sessions. The Saturday Civilian K9 Class runs from 8-10am, focusing on obedience and K9-Handler relationship in the first hour, followed by protection work and drive building in the second hour. This class has four levels. The Wednesday Evening Class, from 7-8pm, is dedicated to Puppy/Beginner obedience only, mirroring the Saturday morning obedience portion. Both group classes allow drop-ins without prior contact. Private sessions are one-on-one, customized to address specific needs such as leash pulling, reactivity, desensitization, socialization, advanced obedience, and protection work. These sessions can take place at their K9 Training Field, the client’s home, or another suitable location.

Pricing Summary

Group classes are $20 for obedience only and $40 for obedience and protection. Private obedience lessons are $75/hour at the training field and $100/hour for local in-home sessions in Riverside, with a potential travel fee for locations over 20 minutes from the field. For large aggressive/reactive dogs, protection work, or out-of-Riverside private lessons, a quote from Jim Erickson is required. All payments at the field are cash only.

Policies

Clients must clean up after their dogs and ensure dogs do not urinate or defecate on obstacles. Strict rules against dog-dog interactions are enforced, requiring dogs to be kept 6 feet apart. Moving up in classes requires instructor approval. Petting other people’s dogs is prohibited as dogs are at the field to work. Loose dogs are not permitted in cars; dogs must have a secure place when not working. Current vaccine records are required for the first visit. A training waiver must be signed.

I Heart K9 is a dog training business that provides group classes and private sessions. They offer a Saturday Civilian K9 Class which includes both obedience and protection work, and a Wednesday Night Class focused on puppy and beginner obedience. Private sessions are available for tailored training needs, covering issues like leash pulling, reactivity, advanced obedience, and protection work.

Their training can take place at their dedicated K9 Training Field, in the client’s home (for local Riverside residents), or at another recommended location. I Heart K9 emphasizes real-life experience, with lead trainer Jim Erickson having over 30 years of teaching advanced classes and extensive experience as a K9 Handler and Lieutenant with the Riverside Sheriff Department.

The business also recommends various training products such as leashes, flat collars, prong collars, chain slip collars, and harnesses. They also suggest photography services for capturing memories with K9s.

Accomplishments

Jim Erickson has over 30 years of experience teaching advanced dog training classes and began working with Adlerhorst K9 over 27 years ago. He served 10 years as a K9 Handler with the Riverside Sheriff Department, eventually becoming the Lieutenant in charge of all K9s. Randy Gulick possesses years of working dog experience and has taught in various environments. Alex Aviles has years of experience with all breeds, including companion dogs, pack work, daycare, massage therapy, and working dogs.

How to Get Started!

For group classes, clients do not need to call or contact I Heart K9 beforehand; they can simply show up any Saturday or Wednesday. First-time attendees should bring their dog, current vaccine records, and required equipment, then proceed to the Check-In area on the field to sign a waiver. Prospective clients are also welcome to observe a class before participating. For private sessions, clients should contact Jim Erickson or Aleah Erickson directly to book.