Topnotch K9 Dog Training

Topnotch K9 offers a variety of group classes and private lessons. Group classes typically run for 6 to 8 weeks, with durations of 50-55 minutes for obedience classes and 1.5 hours for scent detection classes.

Classes include Puppy Class (for puppies up to 18 weeks), Puppy II Class (for puppies 4-9 months), Beginner Obedience Manners (for dogs 6 months and older), and Obedience Manners (Obedience 2) which builds on foundation skills. Scent detection classes include Introduction to K9 Scent Detection™ (for all dogs 6 months and older, suitable for shy/fearful/reactive dogs), K9 Scent Detection™ Introduction to Odor (requires prior scent detection class), and Continuing K9 Scent Detection™ (ongoing class for competition preparation). The Canine Good Citizen class prepares dogs for the AKC-CGC test. Private and semi-private training sessions can also be arranged.

Pricing Summary

Group classes range from $140 to $165 for 6-week or 8-week sessions. For example, Puppy Class is $140 for 6 weeks, and Introduction to K9 Scent Detection is $165 for 6 weeks. The Canine Good Citizen class costs $160 for 8 weeks, but this price does not include the AKC-CGC test fee. Continuing K9 Scent Detection is available at $30 per drop-in class. Pricing for private lessons is not specified.

Topnotch K9 Professional Dog Training offers tailored, force-free pet dog training programs utilizing advanced techniques based on sound learning theory and established science. They believe every dog has a unique personality and disposition, requiring individualized training.

The business provides a wide range of services including Police Canine Narcotics/Explosives Detection Training and Consulting, K9 Nose Work® – K9 Scent Detection for pet dogs, Puppy Classes, Obedience training, AKC Canine Good Citizen Classes and Evaluations, Problem Behavior Modification, and both Group and Private Lessons. They do not offer drop-off training, emphasizing handler involvement in the training process.

All trainers at Topnotch K9 are certified through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, ensuring competent and professional guidance for dog owners. They also host seminars and workshops.

Accomplishments

Topnotch K9 has achieved significant accomplishments in working dog disciplines. Topnotch K9 AAdams & Harlan placed 1st Overall in Explosive Detection at the 2014 American Working Dogs Association Seminar and Certification Trials, and 3rd Overall in 2016. They also placed 1st in Teams Explosive Detection in 2015. Topnotch K9 AAdams was selected as the very first Working Dog Magazine Working Dog of the Month. Additionally, Topnotch K9 Linus passed his 2024 Explosive Detection Dog Certification through American Working Dogs.

All trainers are certified through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Kimberly Houska holds certifications as a CPDT-KA, CTDI, AKC Temperament Test Evaluator, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and AKC STAR Puppy Evaluator. Harlan Houska is a CPDT-KA, Certifed Police Complete Detection Dog Trainer, Explosives Detection, Narcotics Detection and Tracking Trainer, Certifying Official for American Working Dogs, Certified Nose Work Instructor (2011-2013), NACSW Sanctioned ORT and Trial Judge, Certified Police Explosives Detection K9 Handler, UKC Nosework Trail Certifying Official and Judge, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Star Puppy Evaluator, approved Scentwork Judge, Certified Trick Dog Instructor, and Certified Stunt Dog Judge.

How to Get Started!

To register for classes, clients should email kimberly@topnotchk9.com. For questions about private and semi-private dog training, clients can submit a contact form or email Kimberly. The business aims to respond within 48-72 hours if a reply is needed. Signed waivers are required for each participant, as all training is considered an informed consent assumed risk activity.