Yolo Canine Academy

Training begins with an evaluation to determine the dog’s temperament and goals. Options include Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced group obedience classes (six weeks each), a two-week intensive board-and-train program with three follow-up private lessons, and specialized programs for police K9s, Schutzhund, and personal protection. All programs are tailored to individual needs, with advanced classes accepting dogs with reactivity issues after completing prior levels.

Pricing Summary

Private lessons cost $125 each or $100 per lesson when purchasing four or more. Group classes are $150 per level (six weekly sessions). Board and train programs vary based on evaluation. Police K9 and narcotics training pricing is customized per department needs. Boarding is $40/day (as of recent review), with additional fees for medication administration and grooming.

Policies

Appointments are required for all training and evaluations. Boarding drop-off and pick-up are only available during two daily windows: 7:30–9:30 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM, Monday–Saturday. No Sunday or holiday services. Payment is cash or check only. No card payments accepted. Boarding charges include the pick-up day. No refund policy mentioned for training programs.

Yolo Canine Academy, founded in 1995 and home of Vom Riegelhaus Kennels, is a full-service dog training and breeding facility led by Renee Lancaster, a certified trainer with over 35 years of experience. They offer private lessons, group obedience classes, board-and-train programs, and specialized training for police K9s, Schutzhund, and personal protection dogs. All dogs, regardless of breed, age, or past behavioral challenges, are welcome. The facility includes a 20-acre training grounds with indoor/outdoor training areas, agility courses, and a licensed boarding resort (29 Palms Pet Resort) that has been voted best in Yolo County. They also provide grooming, pet boarding, and operate a nonprofit rescue, Rotts of Friends Animal Rescue. Their training philosophy emphasizes individualized evaluations and proven techniques that have successfully rehabilitated dogs that failed elsewhere.

Renee is a former police officer and K9 handler with 22 years of law enforcement experience, a licensed veterinary technician with 42 years of licensure, and a certified POST canine instructor. She has competed internationally in Schutzhund and earned national titles, including 2018 USRC IPO 3 National Champion with her Rottweiler Chiron. The academy supports both pet owners and working dog handlers with tailored programs designed to bring out a dog’s full potential.

Accomplishments

Renee Lancaster is a two-time member of the USA World Team in Schutzhund, 2018 USRC IPO 3 National Champion with Chiron Vom Rottburg, and a 2019 IFR World Team selection. She has titled eight personal dogs to Schutzhund III, competed internationally, and is a POST-certified canine instructor. She holds a BS in pre-veterinary medicine and has been a licensed veterinary technician since 1977. She served 11 years as a police K9 handler and has trained over 60 Schutzhund dogs.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must schedule an evaluation by appointment to assess the dog’s temperament and training goals. Evaluations are offered at the facility or in-home. After evaluation, a customized training plan is created. Group classes require a $50 deposit to reserve space.