Been training here for a few months now. I love training my puppy here as I get trained as well. This is my third Dog Training attempt and I am here to stay. Going to take the CGC test soon! I started with private lessons, then went into the group, but you can start writing in the group lessons if you like. read more

Fortunate K9 Dog & Owner Training - Boca Bernedoodle staying nicely! - Pet Services Near Me - Derry, New Hampshire

We have had an amazing experience here training our puppy. We had a very nervous cane corso puppy. Rick helped me learn the best way to train her and build my own confidence when handling her. Her confidence has grown as well. We successfully finished the puppy class and signed right up for private lessons. Rick answers all of our questions and guides us through real life situations. Our puppy is happy to go to class weekly and is much less nervous. We are excited to have such a well behaved dog. Thanks Rick! read more

Fortunate K9 Dog & Owner Training - Puppy - Pet Services Near Me - Derry, New Hampshire

I've trained with Fortunate K9 personally with 2 of my adult Dobermans received from a rescue. The training we received there has been spot on. Mojo is highly reactive to other dogs & their training has helped me to handle him in a much better fashion. Kaiser was ecollar trained with him after breaking an outside run & flitting down the block after a teenager with a gallon of milk. Both of my dogs were fully grown adult dogs with behaviors already in place. They will evaluate your dog & offer the options they perceive to be the best fit for it. The training we received here was invaluable. I highly recommend them read more

For some reason I don't see my review here but these guys all work together to help you and your dog. My rescue pup was terrified by the outside world when I got him. I was lost. Seriously lost. (Parked in a parking lot crying because he wouldn't get out of the car to walk) I tried a lot of professionals but no one understood what he needed. After a lengthy discussion I felt I was on the same page at Rick. Rick did a "board and train" for 6 weeks and helped my dog immensely with his confidence. He also trained me on how to communicate with my pup. It was difficult leaving my dog with someone I didn't know for the lengthy amount but I'm so grateful I did. What a changed dog! I could go on....These guys get it. They want you and your dog succeed. read more

Rick, I appreciate your feedback to my wife's review of your business. We already received this well-written feedback from Julia. Hello Jessica My name is Julia McDonough and I am the Training Director for Fortunate K9 Dog & Owner Training in Derry. I wanted to apologize for the experience you had in your correspondence with Jen Ericson, our Puppy Prep instructor and an invaluable member of our training team. So much can be "lost in translation" when it comes to email, and I can see how Jen's questions regarding the origin of your pups might come across as judgemental rather than inquisitive. It's true that we don't see a high number of livestock guardian dogs for pup classes, so it's a pleasant surprise when someone wants to start them young. (The majority of LGDs we see here are adult dogs who have been adopted into pet homes after a career on a farm.) Jen's attempt to both learn more about your pups in particular while imparting some information that you may already know could have been worded better. It's truly too bad that this happened, because I believe that if you met Jen in person as your instructor, you would find her to be a very patient and compassionate dog lover who would be able to help you get the very best start with your puppies. Regardless of what training options you pursue, I wish you and your pups all the best. Your friend in dogs, Julia Julia V. McDonough Training Director Fortunate K9 Dog & Owner Training Derry, NH www.fortunatek9.com read more

My dog Lemmy and I completed the board and train program at Fortunate K9 Dog and Owner Training and I could not be happier with the results. First, Rick and his team are kind and caring people who truly want you and your dog to live happier lives. I adopted Lemmy about two years ago and while he is an incredibly sweet and goofy pup, he had major separation anxiety and developed dog "stupid" (as Rick likes to call it) and was not trustworthy around other dogs. When I went to see Rick I was at my wit's end and felt like I was trapped at home with my dog. FK9 gave Lemmy and I the tools to live more harmoniously. He is more comfortable being left alone and I am able to confidently control him around other dogs. Over Christmas I was able to bring Lemmy to my parent's house where he got along with my sister's dog. As an added bonus, his obedience is impeccable! He sits, lays down, stays, heals and places like a champ! I found FK9 after spending over $500 wasted dollars on other unsuccessful trainers. FK9's philosophy is direct and straight forward. As a result both you and you're dog know exactly what is expected of each other. I was worried that the board and train program would not transfer to life in the real world, but boy was I wrong. Lemmy is as obedient now as when I picked him up from Derry. Moreover, he is the same lovable, silly, and playful pup he's always been. I cannot recommend FK9 enough. I am eternally grateful for their guidance and continued support. Don't waste your money anywhere else! read more

Took my German Shepherd puppy to Jenn's Class and was very impressed with her knowledge, demeanor and approach to training both the humans and the dogs. Always polite and respectful to her class with patience when explaining the developing minds of these pups and how to better understand the meaning of behavior management. While positive only training has been all the rage with often dangerous consequences, Jenn teaches how GENTAL correction with the proper leash pressure and correct use of a prong collar speaks to a canine's natural instinct to follow the desired result while gaining confidence in it's success. The puppies connect the dots of understanding and you can see the light bulbs go off. Jenn truly understands canine development and knows how to explain this to her class in such a respectful and clear way. If you don't learn to teach your dog to control it's behavior then the dog will control you. In this world we tend to treat our pups as babies when they are animals with critical developmental stages and instincts. How "fortunate" we are to have Jenn and the services of Fortunate K9 in our area. Kathy and Dick S. read more

I have been with fortunate K-9 for almost 3 years both my dogs are best behaved happiest dogs you will ever meet. I have gone on family vacation where I have also boarded them with Jen and would board my dogs with anyone of the trainers. My only regret is I didn't come to fortunate K-9 sooner. We love the trainers here and I continue to go on a weekly bases and while continue telling all my friends and family about this place cause many have also come here and thank me all the time for telling them about this great place!! read more

Fortunate K9 Dog & Owner Training - Pet Services Near Me - Derry, New Hampshire

Every day I whisper "Thank you" to Jen and Rick for their patience and expertise in training me and my mixed breed dog. Ziva was a handful when she was a puppy and with both trainers' help and instruction I now have a wonderfully sweet well behaved dog. If it wasn't for their help I would probably not have a dog. I have continued training by going to the drop-ins with Jen on Tuesdays and occasionally with Rick on Saturdays. I have recommended FK9 to anyone who asks where my dog was trained. So very thankful that I found these trainers! read more

I took a puppy class with Jen and had a good experience. I am very surprised to hear other people have given negative reviews. I had a very difficult, stubborn Airedale Terrier and Jen taught me the skills necessary to keep my dog under control. Jen gave honest, constructive feedback to the owners so that we could each improve our knowledge and skills. I could tell that Jen really cared about each dog. read more

I know this place come highly recommended, but dealing with Jen is unbearable. She couldn't under stand why someone would want to cross the breeds together if the Mix dog I had. Sounds like Jen only likes purebred dogs? She's was rude and pretentious. read more

Thank God for Rick. Before fortunate k9 we were at the end of our rope. my dog was nuts and we were discussing our options. Thanks to fk9 we still have a dog and are much happier for it. thanks Rick. read more

Listen, This place is awesome! We had a dog aggressive Olde English Bulldogge and Julia and Rick SAVED this dog. I'am a dog breeder and animal lover. There is NO WAY I would give a place bussiness and send others to a place that ABUSED animals. Julia and her team are professional, down to earth and TELL IT LIKE IT IS! Maybe someone that wrote negative reviews did not like waht they were told which coming from Julia and Rick was probably the truth. Keep up the great work Fortunate -K9 you guys are tops! read more

Hung my 50 lb puppy from a prong collar. Puppy class actually puppy boot camp. Every dog on a prong collar regardless of the dogs behavior. Very negative atmosphere but very knowledgeable staff. Jen does not LOVE dogs, she loves controlling them. Hearing her talk about dogs it seems as though she loathes them. Loves talking about how dogs should be treated as animals, not that I don't agree with her, but it wierded me out the way she would talk about our k9 companions like objects... After a 2 1/2 hour introduction class without puppies we knew that Jen loved to hear herself talk. She did prove to be very knowledgeable throughout the entire 5 weeks we were there. By the third class all dogs were on prong collars. By the fourth class, Jen made multiple other dog owners uncomfortable, by the way she was handling their dogs with a prong collar on. Jen has a very abrasive personality to say the least, it's very clear to me why she left her job as a high school teacher, she has 0 patience for anyone or any dog. Extremely pompous personality. She will go out of her way to make you feel bad about yourself and your puppy. She always makes sure to start the class negatively. Jen almost lost her cool when I brought my puppy in with a short scarf. This REALLY bothered her, although she gave no good reason. You could see in her face she was fuming. Jen does not LOVE dogs, Jen loves controlling them, and there owners. Our fifth and last class ( that we attended ) our 50lb puppy wouldn't maintain a sit position with eye contact. Jen lifted him by his prong collar, raising his front paws off the ground multiple times. She did this again soon after, at which time I nicely asked her to please not do that because it made me uncomfortable. Jen snarked back that she wasn't pulling him hard. I said "I understand, but it still makes me uncomfortable. At which time she told me she didn't know how to proceed. I then thanked her for her services and politely left. All in all it was a good learning experience, Jen did teach us a few things, and Julia was awesome. Don't go to this training class if you aren't ready to deal with a similar experience to this. read more

Finding FK9 was the best thing that ever happened to me, my husband and my dogs! We found everyone that works at FK9 to be extremely professional. For 6 years we could barely take our reactive german shepherd for a walk around the block - after working with the trainers at FK9 now I can proudly say not only can I walk my shepherd anywhere he is welcome, but we have earned several obedience titles, which was beyond our dreams of possibilities! And our 2nd dog that we adopted - so shy she would roll onto her back in submission if you approached her - just proudly earned her therapy dog title! Hows that for proof of how great the trainers are at FK-9...we would highly recommend their services! read more

After having to other trainers and reading countless books I was in need of a lot of help for my female pit-pull. Up until this point her fear aggression issues seamed to be getting worse and I was seriously concerned about my ability to keep her in my life. I actually delayed my training with Rick at Fortunate after my initial assessment by about 6 months because I was fearful of how my dog would act around other dogs. I signed up the for the basic obedience class which was very reasonably priced considering they provide you with both a leather leash and collar. After the first class I was very relieved to have Rick as an instructor not only because of his experience with troubled dogs like mine, but also because he was able to show and instruct me on how to be a better owner and trainer with my dog. Rick's instruction saved my dogs life, and also has provided a much better quality of life for my dog as she is not nearly as nervous as she was prior to my class with Rick. Bottom line is Rick probably saved my dogs life - unlike the other non- effective trainers I had before who just confused me and the dog. Don't take my word for it - look at the popularity of their group classes, the demand for their individual training, and talk with other students. I think you will find what I did, knowledgeable professional trainers with years of experience that gets results. read more

I worked with Tom and he did an awesome job with my German Shepherd. I would go back again. Strongly recommend if you have a dog that is not good with people and/or dogs. read more

Two years ago we adopted a rescued 5 year old boxer. The dog was fine in the house, but completely HATED all other dogs or small animals (as well as toddlers!). He had been returned to the rescue twice and we were, frankly, his last chance. We took him to Julia and Rick just days after getting him and were AMAZED at the progress he made in only 5 weeks. We attended all the sessions together and have since attended many many of their drop in classes. The FK9 trainers have been nothing but kind and patient with both our dog and us (frankly, the dog learned much faster than I did, and when anything goes wrong now, I know it's likely me that made the mistake, "pilot error" I believe Rick called it). They did teach us to correct him, BUT taught us how to do collar corrections that are quick and only as strong as is absolutely necessary to stop our dog from injuring another animal. A dog like ours must understand that following his hearts desire is not acceptable and that he must obey us. If we hadn't leaned to do that he would have bitten another animal or, god forbid, a child. I have no doubt he would have had to have been put down. Thanks to FK9 there is no danger of that now, he has earned his AKA Canine Good Citizen and we can take him anywhere. We also will only board him with FK9 or one of their trainers because they are the only people we trust with our dog. read more

Ranger my 10 month old German shepherd has been training with Jen . We have had 5 prvt lessons so far and Ranger is doing awesome . Never in a million years did I think we would be able to walk into a store with him before training began. He was not very friendly to people and had a crazy side when he saw other dogs. Just in a few lessons and doing our home work I feel very confident with him and I'm not nerves to bring him to the park anymore. Jen has been very helpful and has been a pleasure to work with. Both Ranger and I are very excited to continue to train and make our lives so much more enjoyable. Smart Dog Happy Life. (thanks jen) read more

This review is so long overdue. My husband and I have a wonderful, mini-labradoodle named Cooper who we both adore. He is smart, loving, has never chewed one of my shoes or nibbled on a piece of furniture. So what possibly could be the problem you may ask. Since the time Cooper was a pup and I began the training process, I would tell Cooper to sit and Cooper would look at me and I swear in dog language say, "Ya right." Cooper would not sit, lay down (unless it was his choice), stay on command and when he saw a dog outside he could not pull me fast enough to get to the other dog. I actually developed a problem in my shoulder because Cooper pulled on his leash so hard. On top of all of this Copper was skittish. If a big truck or fire engine drove past him he would literally jump out of fear. I put him on anxiety medication but it did not agree with him. I really was at my whit's end. Then one day, I noticed one of my neighbor's dog in the elevator. He was calm, he listened to her every command she gave, never pulled or tugged on his leash...he was amazing. I had to ask where she trained her dog. She told me Fortunate K-9. So I looked into it. The reviews were great, the school looked great but in order to get the best results for Cooper, the owner Rick told me Cooper should stay there 3-4 weeks. 3 to 4 weeks I said to myself - that is a long time to be away from my Cooper...I can't do that. How could anyone do that I said to myself. So I waited and the months began to past. Cooper kept tugging on his leash, pulling me towards any dog that came in his sight, he would not sit, lay down or even come when I called him...unless a treat was at the other end. Finally, I got sick and tired of being sick and tired of Cooper's behavior - or lack thereof and I called Rick again and set a date to bring Cooper in. Having Cooper trained at Fortunate K-9 Dog training was the BEST thing I ever did for my family and my shoulder! When we came to pick up Cooper, my husband and I sat in a large room and Cooper walked in with Rick. The old Cooper would of went ballistic. But the new Cooper, as much as I knew he wanted to come over to us, was calm, cool and collected. Rick went through a routine with Cooper having him sit, stay in place, lay down, etc. I could not believe that this was my dog. Rick had Cooper walking right next to him - there was no pulling of the leash going on here! Rick would give Cooper command after command and Cooper would execute the command without hesitation. Then Rick gave Cooper permission to come over to see us. After our wonderful reunion, Rick showed my husband and me how to do everything he did with Cooper. I thought I was with a different dog. I would tell Cooper to sit and he would sit - lay down and he lay down! I was walking around with Cooper and he was by my side - no pulling of the leash! Although Cooper is still a little skittish (this is part of his genetic makeup), he has gotten so much better. People that knew him before cannot believe the changes in him. One person who knew him prior to my sending him to Fortunate K-9 is sending their dog for training next month so they can take their leash back. Cooper can now have a fire truck pass him and he has no reaction to it and so much more. So if you are sick and tired of your dog training you, take your leash back and contact Fortunate K-9. The new, better, loving bond you that is created with your dog as a result of this training is priceless. But the training does not stop after you leave...Rick has drop-in classes several times a week if you need a little help (and who doesn't). Mary and Ed Glazer Boston, MA read more

The people at Fortunate K9 teach people...to train their dogs. They helped me get my young dog off to an excellent start and taught me enough to maintain and adjust as we both become more reliable. I can't wait to get back to more classes and more fun, learning and progress. Their approach is effective and fair. The training they offer people and dogs is what helps keep dogs out of shelters. read more

When I first got my Australian cattle dog Jaxon I was in way over my head with him until I took Jens class. She was super helpful and very knowledgeable. I learned how to deal with jaxons behavior and he completely changed. I always get compliments on how well behaved he is. I would recommend Jen 100% she's super helpful and always has a good attitude. Jaxon took two separate classes both with Jen and I don't have a single negative thing to say. Jen is very passionate about the dogs and truly cares about your dogs but you have to understand her job is to make sure you are able to properly train your dog not to be best friends with your dog. The prong collar looks a little intimidating at first but it is really harmless. It is a really good training tool that I did a lot of research on and it is really effective. It does not choke your dog!! Please do some research yourself about prong collars and do not trust these negative uneducated reviews on here about the collars because people don't like the look of them. On a side note it is very immature of people to make multiple accounts on yelp to bash a local business (that I loved going to) just because they were uneducated about the subject and left the class early. read more

In response to the posting by "LL", who had the little dog that was lunging at and antagonizing the Pit bulls, English Bulldog, and Poodle, you should be commending Rick for keeping your dog and all the dogs and handlers safe. We all know what damage one of the bigger dogs could have inflicted on a smaller one like yours and possibly their handler, but Rick had total control of all the dogs in that class at all times which prevented any incidents....such is real life and dog ownership.. Thank you Rick for teaching Hank, an 85 lb choc lab/pit to ultimately respond to provocation by focusing on his handler and choosing obedience rather that reaction. His training made him a more reliable, trust worthy and happy dog, which ultimately helped him to find a forever home. Your compassion and years of experience has helped many of our shelter dogs learn and choose to be well behaved and happy canine citizens so that they may find and enjoy their forever home. If more dogs completed their basic training classes on beyond, there would be fewer dogs in shelters facing euthanasia for lack of competent homes to care for them. Donna Pelham,NH read more

Just finished our 101 training class. 6 weeks of the best training Zeus and I have ever seen. Rick taught my dog Zeus (Alaskan Malamute) to heal, sit, stay and recall better than I ever expected. Now after just 6 weeks, Rick has given me the tools and methods of commands that make dog ownership easy. I highly recommend this class. A safe dog is a happy dog. 2 thumbs up to Rick and Fortunate K9. Thank you for all your help! read more

I adopted a very reactive shelter dog in March of this year. I started doing private training with Julia at Fortunate K9 in April. Julia took the time to explain the importance of each command, show me the command/exercise with my reactive dog, and then let me do it while providing constructive feedback on my dog's behavior as well as my own and how my behavior impacted my dogs behavior. Even though Julia was experiencing some serious pain from a previous personal injury, she made it to each and every training session. She asked if I minded if someone sat in our lesson just to get a feel for what private training was like. My dog is not a people dog per se, but after a couple of weeks, he really enjoyed working with Julia and wagged his tail when he saw her and got excited when we turned onto South Ave. When I had questions, concerns and emailed Julia, she replied in a timely manner and had multiple suggestions that I could try with my dog to make him successful. The commands that we learned were reinforced through breaks, petting, and positive praise. Treats weren't used until we were nearing the end of our lessons. As a result of all of the training that Columbus and I received through Fortunate K9, I was able to take my dog on vacation with friends to a beach house without any issues. I found out about Fortunate K9 through my volunteer work at Salem Animal Rescue League and would highly recommend them for any dog training needs that you may have. They are worth the trip. read more

I know there are questions as to why I've waited until now to tell of my experience with Fortunate K-9 and also criticism about the way I've gone about doing so. I also know that whatever answers I offer up now will only continue to detract from the real issue at hand, which is that two dogs were strung up. Obviously anyone reading these reviews will see that my one bad experience is shadowed by many other good experiences. Not to mention all the reviews that have started a war of "he said/she said" will certainly have many doubt my account of that particular class. But I know what I saw, and what I saw was a dog lifted up off the ground by his collar for a good 20 seconds while he fought to be put back down. Again, from my recent research I've learned that dogs have suffered both physically and emotionally from such methods. - I understand this is a serious accusation I am making against Fortunate K-9 and, believe it or not, I am not trying to put anyone out of business; my only concern is for all the dogs. And no matter how bogus you think my story is I feel quite confident that the next time they use the "collar correction" technique it will not be done so dangerously. Of course I hope Fortunate K-9 eliminates the use of this method all together. For those of you out there looking for obedience classes in the area I encourage you to do your research and ask questions like, "do you use the collar correction method?" or "do you use positive methods of training?" You will be surprised, like I pleasantly was, how many trainers only use positive methods to train dogs and how detrimental they believe collar corrections to be. Original Review Posted 6/30/10: Last November my husband and I brought our dog to (un)Fortunate K-9 for the 6 week Obedience 101 class. We have a small dog who does not like bigger dogs and goes crazy every time he sees one, and we wanted to break him of that habit. Well, the first 3 classes were great, no complaints, then, on the forth class (which I did not attend) my husband and dog came home, my husband upset, my dog was clearly depressed, and my husband said that Rick, the trainer, hung our dog by his collar because he wouldn't lay down. My husband said he didn't want to ever go back (I wish I would have listened) but since the classes were expensive, and I wasn't there to see what really happened, my dog and I went back for the 5th class... Long story short, one of the bigger dogs didn't want to sit so Rick picked him up off the floor by his collar, feet dangling, the dog fought to get down. All the other dogs in class were extremely upset (barking & crying) and so seemed all the parents, except for the owner of the dangling dog (I believe the dog's name was Hank) we all just watched in horror until after a good 20 seconds, when the dog stopped fighting, probably because he couldn't breathe, Rick finally put the dog back on the floor. Needless to say we never went back after that... - I'm so upset with myself that I didn't do or say anything sooner but now I want to make sure no other dogs are harmed. Fortunate K-9 needs to stop this inhumane practice. Do not bring your dog there if you want to train your dog in a humane way. For more information on this abusive training techniques and the injuries they cause, see the sites below. http://www.1dogobedience.com/blog/dogtraining/abusive-dog-training-it-is-not-necessary.html http://aggressivebehaviorsindogs.com/content/view/24/1/ http://givepawdogtraining.wordpress.com/2009/08/12/choosing-the-dog-trainer-thats-right-for-you-and-your-dog/ http://www.care2.com/c2c/groups/disc.html?gpp=6684&pst=662345 http://www.pet-abuse.com/cases/153/OR/US/ read more

I have to disagree with one of the other reviewers, i have gone to ForunateK9 twice in the past for 2 different dogs. I have nothing but good things to say about them. I have never seen rick or anyone else hurt any dog. In fact, they noticed my dog had difficulty sitting and recommended we see a vet who diagnosed the dog with arthritis. He now gets injections for it and lives a pain free live. I just the dog was being stubborn. Thank u rick and fortunate k9!! read more

I found Fortunate K-9 to be a great experience for both me and my dog. Rick and the other staff are extremely knowledgable and a pleasure to work with. I would recommend them highly. read more

Fortunate K9 was a lifesaver.......Literally. Our dog was out of control and Dangerous. Working with Rick brought us back from and showed us how to create a safe environment in our home. Their methods were clever and humane and our dog had a blast. I wish all my friends would bring their dogs. read more

My pup Lolabelle, my husband and I are attending the same puppy class as Shosha and I am sad that she and her very handsome Doberman have left the group. My perception of the class and the instructor are very different. My pup is a Mountain Cur and is confident and assertive. Sometimes I feel like maybe I selected the wrong breed and I am not up to raising this pup properly. Listening to Jen talk about training, watching her technique with the dogs, and seeing the results she has helped us to achieve so far with Lola have made me see the truly great dog Lola can be - our loyal and loving companion. Yes we are using the prong style collar while we train. I admire Jen's ability to use the collar efficiently and only feel badly when we fail to use it properly. For me it is a training tool that can work and seems better than having Lola constantly pulling with a regular nylon collar. Lola is a hunter dog and has plenty of time in the woods with a check cord and regular collar. Perhaps some breeds can be trained without using a prong collar but for us right now it is working and we are more than satisfied with this class at Fortunate K9. read more

A little over three years ago, I decided to get my very first dog. I knew I wanted a rescue. I had images of taking my dog everywhere, going to dog parks, doggy playdates, and living this happy little life with my dog. I got a lab mix, thinking labs love life, they're always happy, this will be perfect. What I got was a dog that was terrified of her own shadow. I had to coerce her to even get her through a doorway. If somebody came over, she would just crazy pace, and never approach them, people terrified her. If somebody attempted to reach down and pet her, she would slink backward and try to get away. And with some other dogs, she was aggressive, growl, snarl, lunge. This was not what I signed up for. Luckily one of my good friends recommended Fortunate K9 and I signed up immediately. Fast forward three years later, I have a dog I take with me EVERYWHERE. We've literally traveled up and down the east coast numerous times. She walks happily by my side, sits and lets people pet her, and now has many doggy friends. And we can pass by dogs calmly. (Well, most of the time. But if she decides she has something to say, I know how to handle the situation before anybody even realizes there was a situation). I've worked with all the trainers here, and they all offer a little something different while still basing everything on the same theories. They're all amazing to work with! I have learned so much in how to handle my dog and work her through a variety of different situations. This is the only place around that I know of that offers weekly drop-ins as well. It's great to continually work on my dog's skills week-after-week, while always learning new things. And I've made many friends here too (human ones)! It's just amazing to go from a dog I felt I couldn't do anything with, to a dog I can do so much with. I feel like friends and family only hang out with me so they can hang out with Libby! They think she's just "the sweetest dog" and "so well behaved." I honestly can't even imagine what she would be like now if I never went here. I just can't say enough good things about Fortunate K9!! read more

We had a great experience with our Boston Terrier in the puppy class with Jen. The classes were great with very clear instructions and things to practice at home. It was clear that the staff wants what is best for each dog. We can't wait to begin the next class - Obedience 101! read more

I can't express how lucky I am to have found fortunate K9. I have a a dog agressive dog and I have been training there for only 6 months and have seen a comlete turn around in her behavior. I have never seen Rick, Julia, or any of the other trainers be abusive towards any dog. In fact Rick has even told me on occasion that I was too harsh when correcting my dog for lunging at another dog. I also have a golden retriever who is a big goof ball, however he could not be left alone without going into a panic. Rick was right obiedience training helped to build his confidence and now he can deal with the fact that we sometimes leave the house. At Fortunate K9 they always stess that you must be fair to your dog and I highly recomend them for basic dog obedience, and if you have a dog with behavior issues don't bother going anywhere else you may only be wasting your time and money. read more

I was referred to Fortunate K9 by a friend who had true success with a dog she stated was "beyond help". They did the boarding option and said it saved their dog. We were looking for instruction for our new black lab pup. Jen was amazing to work with! She had a calmness and a patience for both pet and owner; offered us great solutions for the issues we were facing. Our class was filled with a broad assortment of dogs and she was able to consider modifications to lessons (if one was needed) to accommodate the personality of a breed. I think every dog in our class benefited from the lessons and the style in which Jen taught. The progress was visible each. She helped me and my 6 yr old daughter (who attended each class with me) learn training tools to improve our relationship with our dog. My kids FINALLY love their dog "soooo much" since she has learned that nipping, jumping and puppy play is not ok. We are very pleased with our experience, will refer FK9 again, and am thankful for Jen's support in class and through email exchanges. See you in a few months for the next round of training! read more

A good Dog training business in Derry.

Julia was the 3rd trainer we saw & the only one that was able to help us. She was always there for us even after we completed training. I would recommend Julia to everyone that has a dog. She has passion & dedication that is rare to find. read more

Rick Froton was the person I dealt with at Fortunate K9...Not the most organized and def. not the most focused person. During my consultation he talked more with his colleague then he did with me, and he would constantly yell commands to his dog that was locked in a cage... very awkward. DO NOT PAY THIS MAN UP FRONT! He is a FRAUD. I was planning on bringing my dog to a training program but realized it was not the right fit. I never attended a class and I specified that we would not be able to attend the class until after my wife and I got married which was two months down the road. After our wedding we called to get a refund and they would not do so. I had to dispute the charge and Rick even had the nerve to fight it. read more

This company is ridiculous.....my husband went to a consultation with our dog Charlie and the trainer barley paid attention to him having constant interruptions and seemed half interested. We paid 269 for a series of training visits but then changed our minds be we weren't feeling comfortable with the level of care received from the consult. We never signed up for any specific classes and they refused reimbursement of any kind! read more

I took my Germ Shep puppy to puppy class and was more than impressed! Startinv with the owner/puppy evaluation/assessment. I was trained right along with her. Jen the trainer was excellent! She tailored instructions based on breed of dog and gave rationalizations for each technique learned. My experience with this dog is so much more positive than with my first Germ Shep that I took elsewhere for training. thank you Jen and Fortunate K9!! read more

We went to FortunateK9 with an "out of control" 115 lb. 10 month golden retriever and our nerves shot. We were feeling very frustrated and upset because we were on the verge of having to give up Rusty. When we arrived at the training facility I went in side to announce that we were there and to make sure nobody was in the path of our very unruly dog. Rick came to the door and witnessed Rusty taking my husband for a walk. He just smiled at us and said come on in. We've always had a dog but were with out a pet for about 2 years so when we got Rusty he was just so cute he ruled the house and the humans that lived there. There was snuggle time, tear up every toy in the house time, chew on the kitchen chairs time, and oh yha let me bite you if you try to take something from me time. RUSTY RULED!!!!!! Rick watched some of the fun times happening while we were there and said he could help. Rick trained both Rusty and the 4 humans that allowed him to take over. I had a knee replacement and was very nervous about walking Rusty because of his strength and his unruly behavior. Rick worked with me so that I'd be comfortable walking him and offered many suggestions on how to be in control when out. Rusty showed signs of aggression (biting & always leaning/pushing on us) but Rick was determined that we could conquer our problems. Well let me tell you life is good with Rusty (he has his moments but we know how to get the situation under control) and there was never a sign of abuse. We also kennel Rusty with Rick and go to classes. Rusty gets so excited when he sees Rick that it is actually comical. We will be always grateful to Rick & FortunateK9 because we wouldn't have been able to keep Rusty without them. Donna W. read more