Leash reactivity
Lunging, barking or spinning at dogs, people, bikes or cars on walks.
Reactive & problem dogs
Behavior Modification
Leash reactivity, dog aggression, resource guarding and nerves: the cases other trainers turn away are what we work on every week.
The short answerRiedel K9 trains reactive, aggressive, fearful and resource-guarding dogs in Middletown, DE through board & train and private lessons, not group classes. Every case starts with an evaluation so Training Director Nelson Miller can see the behavior, explain why it’s happening, and build a plan that also teaches you how to handle your dog.
What we work on
Problems we solve.
Dog aggression
Fighting or posturing with other dogs, at home or in public.
Resource guarding
Growling or snapping over food, toys, rooms, furniture or people.
Fear & nerves
Shut-down, skittish or anxious dogs that need confidence building.
Leash biting
Dogs that fight, mouth or bite the leash and handler.
Livestock & prey drive
Chasing chickens, cats or wildlife. Yes, we’ve fixed that too.
Our approach
Understand it. Then change it.
“Nelson thoroughly explains dog’s issues, why they’re acting the way they are, his approach to the situation, and why he does it.” (Joe L.)
Behavior problems are rarely random. We look at temperament, drive, history, and how the dog and family communicate, then build structure, clear boundaries and new habits that hold up in the real world.
Safety comes first. Dog- or people-aggressive dogs work privately or in a board & train, never in group class, and we bring you into the process so you can keep your dog successful at home.
The process
From evaluation to everyday life.
- 01
Evaluate
We see the behavior first-hand and learn your dog’s history and triggers.
- 02
Plan
We recommend board & train or private lessons with a clear timeline.
- 03
Train
Structure, obedience and controlled exposure, built step by step.
- 04
Transfer
Hands-on coaching so you can hold the line at home and in public.
From our clients
Real dogs. Real owners.
“I took my female German Shepherd here for the board and train program, and she came back as a completely different dog. She used to not let anyone in certain rooms in the house, and now has no problems — as well as made it possible for her to go on walks surrounded by other dogs, without any reactivity. I would 100% send any of my future dogs back without hesitation.”
“Very professional, highly skilled, and they help not only your dog, but you and how you handle your dog. I took both of my dogs there, one is very problematic with many issues. Nelson worked a mini miracle helping my dogs integrate into my home life in a safe and effective way. It has been a blessing in my life.”
“Their care and love for dogs is apparent from the very beginning. I was apprehensive about leaving my pup with someone else, but after seeing their interaction at our first training session I was immediately put at ease. As the weeks progressed and I could see the changes in my dog and the bond he had formed with Nelson, I was blown away. They worked no less than a miracle.”
FAQ
Behavior Modification questions
Do you train reactive or aggressive dogs?
Yes. Leash reactivity, dog aggression, resource guarding and fear-based behavior are a big part of what we do, through board & train, behavior modification and private lessons. For safety, dog-aggressive or people-aggressive dogs can’t attend group classes, but we’re happy to work with them privately.
Keep exploring
Related programs
Our flagship program
Board & Train
Your dog lives and trains daily with the Riedel K9 team, in our facility and out in the real world, and you come weekly for a private session so you can keep it going at home.
- Reactivity & aggression
- Off-leash reliability
- Busy families
Levels 1 · 2 · 3
Group Obedience Classes
Five-week, hands-on classes that take you and your dog from the basics to rock-solid obedience around real-world distractions.
- Puppies & adult dogs
- Leash manners
- Recall & stay
One-on-one coaching
Private Lessons
Focused, customized sessions built around your dog’s specific issues and your goals, at your pace.
- Specific problems
- Dogs not suited to groups
- Flexible scheduling
Start today
There’s a better dog in there.
Every program starts with a conversation. Tell us about your dog and we’ll recommend the right path, whether that’s classes, private lessons, or a full board & train.