Dog looking up attentively at its handler

Questions, answered

Dog training FAQ

Pricing, programs, requirements and what to expect, all in one place. Don’t see your question? Call the office at (302) 378-7943.

Pricing & getting started

How much does dog training cost at Riedel K9?

Day Camp is $60 per day, or save 10% with a 10-day package. For current tuition on board & train, group obedience classes, private lessons and our other programs, please call (302) 378-7943.

Where is Riedel K9 located?

Riedel K9 is at 955 Vance Neck Rd, Middletown, DE 19709 in southern New Castle County, Delaware. We have a large climate-controlled indoor training facility, kennels and fenced outdoor training areas.

Do you train all breeds?

Yes. We train all breeds and sizes, from Dachshunds and Doodles to Great Danes, Dobermans, Huskies, Labs, Rottweilers and working-line German Shepherds.

Who leads training at Riedel K9?

Our training is led by our Training Director, Nelson Miller, a graduate of Highland Canine School for Dog Trainers’ Police and SAR program. He is also the Mid-Atlantic Coordinator for the Eastern States Working Dog Association, an AKC Evaluator, and a service dog trainer for several nonprofit organizations. He works alongside his wife, Amy, who runs the office.

Is Riedel K9 a franchise?

No. Riedel K9 is a family-owned business in Middletown, Delaware. Clients work directly with Nelson and the Riedel K9 team, not a rotating franchise staff.

What areas do you serve?

Our facility is in Middletown, DE. Clients come from all over New Castle and Kent counties (Odessa, Townsend, Smyrna, Bear, Newark, Wilmington, Dover) as well as Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Virginia. We serve Delmarva and the surrounding states.

What are your hours?

Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Closed Sunday. Group classes are typically held on Saturdays.

How do I sign up?

Call the office at (302) 378-7943 or send a request through our contact form. For group classes, see the current schedule on our group classes page or call the office. For board & train and behavior cases we’ll start with an evaluation.

Board & train and behavior

What is a board and train program?

In a board & train, your dog lives at our facility and trains daily with the Riedel K9 team, both at the facility and out in public places like stores, parks and trails. You come in weekly for a private training session with your dog, so you know how to keep the results going at home.

How long does board and train take?

We offer basic and full custom board & train programs. Duration depends on the package.

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.

Group classes & day camp

What will my dog learn in Level 1 group class?

Level 1 covers place, sit, down, stay, heel and recall at the beginner level. Level 2 adds distractions, impulse control and proper behavior. Level 3 is advanced obedience with high distractions at public locations, off-leash where permitted.

What vaccinations are required for group classes?

Puppies must be up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations. Adult dogs must be vaccinated for rabies, distemper and kennel cough (Bordetella).

What is included in Day Camp?

Day Camp includes supervised exercise and play plus a customized training session for your dog. It costs $60 per day, or save 10% with a 10-day package. All breeds and sizes are welcome, and play is always supervised.

Service dogs, veterans & breeding

Do you train service dogs?

Yes. We train service dogs for PTSD, TBI and mobility, to ADA requirements and to the specific needs of each handler, bringing the handler into the process and supporting the team in everyday life after training. We also train every service dog placed through Delaware’s C.A.S.H. veterans program.

How can a Delaware veteran get a service dog?

Delaware veterans living with PTSD or TBI can apply for a fully trained service dog through C.A.S.H. (Canines Assisting Service Heroes), a donor-supported program of Vietnam Veterans of America Kent County Chapter 850. Riedel K9 trains the dogs. Contact Ray Harris at (302) 632-8510 or Joe Startt at (302) 242-8708.

Do you sell German Shepherd or Golden Retriever puppies?

Yes. Riedel K9 breeds health-tested, working-line German Shepherds, and we occasionally breed health-tested Golden Retrievers as well. Contact the office at (302) 378-7943 for dogs currently available and planned litters.

Start today

Still have questions?

The office is happy to help. Call or send us a note about your dog and we’ll point you in the right direction.