Hi, I'm Alicia Ward, owner of K-9 Solutions. Although I look young (that is because I am) I've been training dogs for 20 years. I've been training dogs and their people as a full time profession since 1996. I got started with Golden Retrievers. My parents were breeders. I showed in Conformation and Obedience. My hobby was taking in every stray I could find to rehabilitate and adopt out to good families. I've owned just about every breed and mix thereof. The dogs have taught me many valuable lessons over the years.
Today I'm owned by a pack of Border Collies, a German Shepherd and two hairless Chinese Cresteds: Snowbird and Dino Ferrari. I compete in agility and have my sites set on winning the nationals with my Crested, Bird. Together we enjoy participating in agility, Frisbee, herding, obedience and conformation. My dogs have been seen in commercials, television shows and in magazines. Look for Paris, a blue merle Border Collie in the Furreal Friends' "Go Go my Walking Pup" commercial seen between children's programs. He plays 'Ginger' the mother of the 'Furreal' pups..... yes, I did say 'He'. Paris is a feminine looking pretty boy.
My goal as a dog trainer is not train dogs.. you heard it right. That responsibility is your job, I'm here to help, coach, coerce and beg you to make your dog an obedient family member. It is YOUR job to learn how to keep that dog perfect. So don't call me if you want a quick fix and no responsibility afterward. Be ready to join group class or a series of lessons to ensure you're as good a handler as your dog is well trained.
My theories on dogs and training are simple. Use what works and don't harm the dog. I can competently use every method invented when needed. I want your dog to learn quickly and easily. I set the dog up to succeed and keep training fun. I use food as my main motivator. Once a dog is competently understanding a command I replace the food with attention, play and real life rewards. I use training collars when needed on strong dogs and remote static collars to teach run-aways to respect boundaries and 'Come'. For tricks and fun behaviors I use a clicker. I won't pressure you to use any device or method you're not 100% comfortable with. You make the request and I'll follow suit.
I believe dogs are pack animals and understand clear guidelines and structure. I'm not an alpha-rolling, hovering, growling theorist. I see the dogs as simple creatures, like children, wanting a good parent roll to follow. I've found that dogs who are clear about their rules and owners who lay down easy, simple and doggie oriented guidelines for good behavior have very nice dogs. Spoiled rotten dogs who get their every whim met can turn into brats. Dogs need to have expectations of good behavior, training by owners of what good behaviors are and consistency. I'm here to teach you, the owner, how to lead.
K-9 Solutions
Alicia Ward
972-633-8616
Number of visitors since June 2003
