Alpha K-9 Obedience

Alpha K-9 Obedience is a full-service dog trainer based in Evergreen, Colorado. They offer a range of services, including fundamental puppy and dog training, behavioral issue training, aggression training and rehabilitation, and more. The business has extensive experience, leading to successful, long-term behavioral improvements for many clients. They also use personalized approaches tailored to each dog and owner, ensuring effective results. One client with a large German shepherd who was "leash reactive" sought help from Alpha K-9 Obedience after trying a reactive dog course and a private trainer, but their dog was still reacting. The trainer, Michael, showed the client how to communicate with their dog and establish themselves as the "pack" leader, allowing the dog to relax and stop reacting. Now, the client can take their dog out without stress, and the dog behaves perfectly. Another couple who rescued an Akita/German shepherd puppy found the puppy to be much more work than they anticipated. They were referred to Alpha K-9 Obedience and worked with Michael, who is described as knowledgeable, patient, and compassionate, with a thorough understanding of both dog and human behavior. He taught them how to address their puppy's behavioral issues, providing clear instructions and tools to reinforce positive behaviors and correct negative ones. A third client adopted a German shepherd, Bear, who was showing aggression towards their neighbor's male lab. They called Alpha K-9 Obedience, and Michael took a different approach, working to understand Bear as an individual. He explained that Bear's aggression was likely a protection mechanism due to past attacks, and he taught the clients how to show Bear that they were the leaders of the pack, allowing them to bring Bear around other dogs and in public without worry. Recently, Michael helped a client with their 75-pound, three-year-old chocolate lab, Auggie. After just a couple of sessions, Auggie was much calmer on walks, responding to commands and ignoring other dogs. The owner noted that walking Auggie became a completely different experience, with immediate improvements after the first session. The training involved techniques that were practiced daily, leading to a confident, responsive dog. Another client shared their experience with a new dog, Eiger, who was extremely afraid of noises, new places, and even the owners. Initially, they were unsure how to help Eiger, but after consulting with Michael, they learned to understand and support their frightened pup. Through training, Michael explained that Eiger needed to understand that the owners “had his back” and that they needed to “release his brain.” Over multiple sessions, Eiger transformed into a happy, confident dog who now greets visitors without fear and enjoys going on hikes. The owner expressed gratitude for Michael’s knowledge and insight, noting that his guidance helped turn a scared, insecure dog into an outgoing companion. Michael’s unique combination of scientific education as a behaviorist and intuitive understanding of dogs makes him a rare find. His training emphasizes understanding why dogs behave a certain way and how owners can modify those behaviors effectively. Many clients have responded well to his approach, seeing dramatic improvements in their dogs’ behavior and confidence. If you are looking for help with your dog, contacting Michael at Alpha K-9 Obedience is highly recommended.