RSK9 Train It Forward Program: Paying It Forward in Dog Training and Beyond By Rick Pedersen At Rising Starr K9, kindness can transform dogs and entire communities. That's why I've launched the RSK9 Train It Forward Program—an initiative to encourage generosity and connection while creating positive change for dogs and their owners. I'm also excited to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to expand this initiative and make an even more significant impact. Whether donating…

⭐️ Sophie’s Transformation: From Ordinary Pup to Finishing School Star ⭐️ Before Sophie, there was no Finishing School. Her incredible journey transformed her life and sparked the idea for this elite program at Rising Starr K9. Her arrival not only transformed her life but also inspired the creation of this elite program at Rising Starr K9. Sophie, a lovable Golden Retriever, came to me with owners who, at almost 70 years old, wanted a well-mannered, focused companion. Their primary goals were s…

Taking Dogs in Public: A Journey from Chaos to Confidence Hey everyone, it’s Rick Pedersen here. As the owner and trainer at Rising Starr K9, I’ve seen it all—dogs who make you proud to walk into a public space and others who, let’s just say, make you wish you could disappear. Taking your dog into public places isn’t just about showing off their good behavior; it’s about preserving the privilege of bringing dogs into these spaces in the first place. Let’s break down how you and your pup can go…

Driftless Paws and Tales: Winter Adventures for You and Your Pup "Frosty Fun & Wagging Tails: Winter Adventures to Warm Your Heart!" Hi there, fellow dog lovers! It’s Rick Pedersen here, proud owner and trainer at Rising Starr K9. Welcome back to the Driftless Paws and Tales series, where we celebrate life with our four-legged friends. Winter is here, and it’s time to embrace those frosty days with tails wagging. Imagine snowy trails, cozy cafes, and priceless moments with your pup. This season …

Sophie: A Rising Star in Canine Excellence, Inspired by Elán’s Legacy Every so often, a dog comes along that exceeds expectations and redefines what is possible in training and connection. As the owner and sole trainer at Rising Starr K9, I, Rick Pedersen, have had the privilege of working with many incredible dogs, but Sophie is truly one of a kind. Sophie, a stunning Golden Retriever, is one such dog. Her journey through our program at Rising Starr K9 is a testament to the power of dedication,…

Wanderlust with Your Pup: Creating Seamless Adventures Together Hello, fellow dog enthusiasts! It's Rick Pedersen, your trusted dog trainer and the proud owner of Rising Starr K9. As we wrap up the year and head into a season full of adventure and travel, I want to talk about something near and dear to many: traveling with our four-legged companions. Whether planning a weekend road trip, a flight across the country, or even an international escapade, having a well-trained dog can make all the di…

The Rewards of Raising an AKC Canine Good Citizen Hello, dog enthusiasts! It’s Rick Pedersen, owner and trainer at Rising Starr K9 and an AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator. Today, we’re diving into the benefits and rewards of having a dog that’s earned the prestigious AKC CGC title. This isn’t just a certification—it’s a testament to the bond, dedication, and hard work between you and your pup. Let’s explore what it takes to achieve this remarkable milestone and why it’s worth every effort…

The Art of Socializing Dogs in Public: From Learning to Leading Hi there, fellow dog enthusiasts! It’s Rick Pedersen, your trusted trainer from Rising Starr K9. Today, we’re diving into an essential topic every dog owner should master: socializing dogs in public places. While taking your furry friend out and about can be a joy, it’s also a responsibility—for you, your dog, and everyone else sharing the space. Let’s explore how to turn your dog into a public-space superstar—without making you the…

Give the Gift of Training This Holiday Season Forget socks, gift cards, or gadgets that gather dust. 🎁 How about giving a gift that truly makes a difference—a well-trained dog! This holiday season, give the gift of dog training that builds bonds, improves lives, and brings lasting happiness. 🐾 Imagine the joy of seeing your favorite pup master new tricks, behave when guests come over, or finally ace that loose-leash walk. Training isn’t just a gift—it’s an investment in a happy, well-behaved b…

Winter Weather Training Tips for Your Dog: Keep Skills Sharp During the Cold Months Hey everyone, Rick Pedersen here from Rising Starr K9! 🐾 Winter is here, and while the cold weather might have us all reaching for another layer, it doesn’t mean your dog’s training has to go into hibernation! ❄️ Let’s talk about how to keep your pup's skills sharp—even when it's too chilly to spend much time outside. Trust me, a little creativity goes a long way when it comes to winter training! 😉 Indoor Train…

Board and Train: Living Like Family vs. Traditional Kennel Training Hey everyone, Rick Pedersen here from Rising Starr K9! 🐾 Today, I want to talk about an important choice when it comes to board and train programs for your dog. Not all board and train options are created equal—and there's a big difference between your dog learning as part of my family at home and traditional kennel-style training. Let me break it down for you. Living at Home: Becoming a Real Family Member When your dog comes t…

Building Confidence in Shy or Fearful Dogs: A Practical Guide Hi, I'm Rick Pedersen, owner and sole trainer at Rising Starr K9 in La Crosse, WI. Over the years, I've worked with countless dogs that just needed a little boost to find their confidence. Whether your dog hides from new people, gets scared in new environments, or shies away from other dogs, this guide will give you practical steps to help them build the confidence they need to be their best selves. Understanding Shyness in Dogs A shy…

Managing Separation Anxiety in Dogs: A No-BS Guide (Need help NOW? Let’s fix your dog’s separation anxiety today.) Hey, I’m Rick Pedersen, owner and sole trainer at Rising Starr K9. If your dog is destroying the house or barking non-stop when you leave, you’re dealing with separation anxiety. It’s stressful, but it can be fixed. And I’m here to show you how. What Is Separation Anxiety? Separation anxiety is when your dog freaks out when you leave. We're talking barking, chewing, or trying to…

Managing Multi-Dog Households: No-Nonsense Tips for a Happy Home I'm Rick Pedersen, owner and sole trainer at Rising Starr K9. With over 20 years of experience working with dogs, I've learned a thing or two about managing multiple pups under one roof. Here are some of my no-nonsense tips to help you keep your multi-dog household harmonious and happy. Living with multiple dogs can be rewarding, but let's face it—it's not always easy. Inspired by a balanced training approach, here are some practic…

Title: "From Desert Storm to Dog Training: My Journey to Rising Starr K9" Welcome to Rising Starr K9! I'm Rick Pedersen—a no-nonsense, conservative, blue-collar guy passionate about dogs, resilience, and a few brushes with death. My journey is about grit, adaptability, and an enduring love for animals, shaping who I am today and what I do at Rising Starr K9. My story is a blend of courage, dedication, and a bit of humor. From having our first family dog, Goldie, as an adult to getting Austin pro…

The “Leave It” Command: A Lifesaving Skill Every Dog Needs to Know Over the last 30+ years working with dogs, I’ve seen firsthand how critical the “Leave It” command is—not just for convenience, but for keeping our dogs safe. As a trainer, a dog owner, and a fellow pet lover, I want to emphasize the real-life implications of this command. Too often, I hear stories of dogs swallowing rocks, sticks, or corn cobs, getting lodged treats stuck in their esophagus, or even passing things like socks. Th…

Coping with the Loss of a Beloved Dog: Finding Healing, Comfort, and Support at Rising Starr K9 As someone fortunate enough to share life with many incredible dogs, I know firsthand the heartbreak of losing a beloved companion. Dogs bring so much joy, loyalty, and love into our lives, yet our time with them always feels far too short. Over the years, I’ve said goodbye to family dogs who were deeply cherished, like Goldie, our first dog; Austin, my first yellow lab and hunting partner; Starr an…

Refresher Training: Why It's Never Too Late to Keep Your Dog Sharp As someone who's spent a lifetime working with dogs—and seen a lot of life along the way—I've learned one undeniable truth: training is never finished. Like us, dogs need reminders, tune-ups, and consistent practice to keep their skills sharp. Whether you've just completed an entire training program or it's been months since your last session, there's always room for improvement and reinforcement. At Rising Starr K9, I introd…

Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby: A Smooth Transition for Your Growing Family Bringing a new baby into the house is an exciting time, but it can also be a significant change for everyone—especially your dog. As a dog trainer who's been at this for years, I have some tips to help make things go smoothly for your pup and the new family member. You should remember to get your dog, home, and yourself ready for the change. Step 1: Getting Your Dog Ready for the Change Brush Up on Basic Trainin…

The Total Package: Therapy Dog vs. Service Dog Introduction: Hello, dog lovers! Rick Pedersen here from Rising Starr K9. Achieving the "total package" in therapy or service dogs involves rigorous training, a specific temperament, and a clear understanding of their roles. Here, we'll explore the differences and requirements for therapy and service dogs, helping you understand what it takes to train these exceptional canines. Understanding the Roles Service Dogs: Definition: Service dogs are train…

What’s My Best Option for Dog Training? Hello, dog lovers! Rick Pedersen here from Rising Starr K9. When it comes to training your dog, there are many options to consider, and the best choice depends on your dog’s unique needs, schedule, and budget. Today, we’ll discuss popular training options, including online training, one-on-one sessions, group classes, board and train programs, and even purchasing fully trained dogs. At Rising Starr K9, we offer a variety of services tailored to meet …

Kids and Dog Training: Involvement by Age Group Introduction: Hello, dog lovers! Rick Pedersen here from Rising Starr K9. Integrating children into the training and care of a family dog can be incredibly beneficial for both the kids and the dog. By involving children in the process, you teach them responsibility, empathy, and how to interact safely with animals. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how kids can be involved in dog training and care from birth to 17 years old. Birth to 3 Years Old…

Being a Good Pet Owner: A Commitment to Responsibility and Respect At Rising Starr K9, being a good pet owner is a joyous journey filled with accountability, responsibility, and respect for your pet and community. While challenging at times, this journey is also incredibly rewarding. As dog trainers, we emphasize the importance of responsible pet ownership for your pet's well-being and creating a positive environment for others. Here's what it means to be a truly responsible pet owner. The Res…

Introduction: Hello, dog lovers! Rick Pedersen here from Rising Starr K9. As a dedicated dog trainer with years of experience, I often get asked various training questions. Today, I'm sharing the top 10 most frequently asked questions, detailed answers, solutions, and tips to help you and your furry friends. Whether you're dealing with a new puppy or an older dog, these insights can make training a more enjoyable and successful experience for both of you. 1. How do I stop my dog from pulling…

Mastering the Recall Command – Ensuring Your Dog Comes When Called Hello, dog lovers! Rick Pedersen is from Rising Starr K9, serving the area of La Crosse, WI. Today, we're diving into one of the most essential commands you can teach your dog—the recall command, or simply " come when called." A strong recall is crucial for your dog's safety and can prevent them from getting into dangerous situations. Let's explore practical techniques to help you build a reliable recall that works every time. Wh…

The Importance of Mental Stimulation for Your Dog Hello, dog lovers! Rick Pedersen here from Rising Starr K9. As we dive into another week, let's discuss a crucial but often overlooked aspect of dog care: mental stimulation. While physical exercise is vital, keeping your dog's mind active is equally essential for their well-being. Why Mental Stimulation Matters Dogs are intelligent creatures with an instinct to explore, think, and solve problems. Without adequate mental challenges, dogs can beco…

DRIFTLESS PAWS AND TAILS - Training and Exploring during Summer: A Dog-Friendly Guide to La Crosse, WI As we bask in the post-April bloom, let’s turn our attention to the charming city of La Crosse, Wisconsin. Nestled along the mighty Mississippi River, this gem is a haven for dog lovers, boasting an array of activities that cater to our furry friends. Our guide is brimming with training insights for outdoor and indoor fun with your pup, and this time, we’re highlighting twenty dog-friendly sp…

Blog Post: Proper Way to Socialize Your Dog By Rick Pedersen, Rising Starr K9 Proper socialization is crucial for your dog's development and behavior. Using the methodologies of renowned trainers Larry Krohn and Robert Cabral, here’s an engaging guide on how to socialize your dog effectively. Why Socialization Matters Socialization helps your dog develop confidence and adaptability. It reduces fear and anxiety, making your dog well-behaved and comfortable in various environments. Start Early and…

Blog Post: Proper Way to Socialize Your Dog By Rick Pedersen, Rising Starr K9 Proper socialization is crucial for your dog's development and behavior. Using the methodologies of renowned trainers Larry Krohn and Robert Cabral, here’s an engaging guide on how to socialize your dog effectively. Why Socialization Matters Socialization helps your dog develop confidence and adaptability. It reduces fear and anxiety, making your dog well-behaved and comfortable in various environments. Start Early and…

Blog Entry: 5 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know Posted on: Monday, June 24, 2024 Welcome to Rising Starr K9! As a dog trainer, I believe that teaching your dog essential commands can significantly enhance their obedience and your overall relationship. Here are the five essential commands every dog should know: 1. Sit Teaching your dog to sit is fundamental. It helps establish control and is a great starting point for other commands. Training Tip: Use a treat to guide your dog’s nose upwar…