Radical K9, LLC

Training programs are fully customized based on the dog’s age, breed, personality, and the owner’s goals. Options include private lessons at home or the 21-acre facility, board and train with daily sessions and family transfer instruction, and intensive Schutzhund title preparation. Puppy training focuses on socialization and foundational skills, while advanced programs include off-leash reliability and competition-level obedience. All programs include owner involvement and follow-up support.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed; customized programs are tailored to individual needs. Board and train, private lessons, and Schutzhund training are offered with ongoing support. Contact for specific rates and package options.

Policies

Client communications are responded to within 48–72 hours. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated, but ongoing support via phone or text is provided between sessions. Board and train includes regular updates via text, email, or FaceTime.

Radical K9, LLC, located in Elwood, Indiana, is a dog training business founded by Marla Stickel, a seasoned trainer with decades of experience. They offer customized training programs for dogs of all ages and breeds, focusing on building a strong bond between owner and dog through positive, balanced, and individualized methods. Services include puppy basics, obedience and manners, advanced tricks, Schutzhund competition training, board and train, and boarding. Their 21-acre farm facility features hayfields, wooded trails, and home-like housing for dogs, enabling real-life training environments. Marla’s background includes search and rescue, veterinary assistance, grooming, and Schutzhund competition, allowing her to address everything from basic behavior to high-level working dog needs.

They emphasize owner involvement, ensuring training continues at home, and tailor each program to the dog’s personality, energy level, and the owner’s lifestyle. Radical K9 also offers dog placement services to help families find the right companion, and provides boarding with daily enrichment and age-appropriate playgroups. Their approach combines structure with enjoyment, helping shy dogs gain confidence, energetic dogs learn focus, and competitive dogs achieve national-level titles.

The business is known for its personalized attention, real-world training settings, and Marla’s deep expertise across multiple dog disciplines, making it ideal for families, working dog handlers, and those seeking behavior rehabilitation.

Accomplishments

Marla Stickel has been training dogs since 1994, certified in search and rescue (SAR), DELTA Society therapy animal certification, and holds a degree from the Michigan School of K9 Cosmetology. She completed the Canine Behavior Course at Purdue University in 2007 and has been actively competing in Schutzhund at the world level since 2008. She has trained multiple dogs to IGP and KKL titles, including IGP 3 and FH levels.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact Radical K9 to schedule a consultation, explore the 21-acre facility by appointment, and discuss their dog’s needs. A customized training plan is then developed based on the dog’s behavior, the owner’s goals, and lifestyle.