X Learning K9s

X Learning K9s offers comprehensive training programs including Behavior Consultations, Private Sessions, Board and Train, K9 Scent Detection, CGC Testing, Safe Dog Program testing, and Weight Pulling. Behavior consultations and private sessions can be held in-home or at their facility, addressing issues like aggression, anxiety, resource guarding, and basic manners, as well as puppy foundations. They specialize in fear-based behaviors and require family presence for aggression cases involving children.

Their Board and Train programs provide intensive, individualized training in a home-like environment, with dogs receiving at least four training sessions daily, including public outings. These programs cover basic obedience, manners, and complex behavioral issues like aggression. Positive reinforcement is the primary method, with other tools like e-collars used under specific circumstances and with owner instruction.

K9 Scent Detection training, offered in both group classes and private sessions, teaches dogs to hunt and alert to legal odors, building confidence and problem-solving skills. This activity is suitable for all dogs and handlers, regardless of prior experience or behavioral issues. They also provide behavior evaluations for adoption purposes and training for UKC Weight Pulling.

Pricing Summary

X Learning K9s offers various pricing structures for their services. Basic training sessions are $110 per hour. Initial consultations for aggressive behavior are $250 for two hours, with follow-up sessions at $145 per hour. Shorter 40-minute consultations are available for $115. Travel fees apply: $15 within Davis County and $55 for areas outside, including Great Salt Lake, Utah, Weber, Cash Valley, and Box Elder Counties.

Board and Train options vary by duration and dog’s behavior. Single-day Board and Train for adult dogs without significant issues is $170 per day, while “difficult” dogs are $240 per day. Three-week programs for basic manners are $2935, and five-week programs for behavior modification (including aggression) are $4995, with additional weeks at $850. Puppy-specific Board and Train is $185 per day, and a three-week Puppy Starter program is $3250.

Boarding-only rates are $90 per day/night for adult dogs and $110 for young puppies or “difficult” dogs. Scent detection group classes are $300 for beginners and $350 for advanced levels (5 weeks, 1.5 hours per session), while private scent detection sessions are $105 per hour. Discounts are offered for Law Enforcement and Active Duty Military. Payments are accepted via Zelle, cash, or checks (received ahead of time), with PayPal available for deposits (higher fees apply).

Policies

For consultations involving aggressive behavior where younger children or teens are present, their mandatory attendance is required, as is the presence of any adult family members involved in problematic behavior. Initial consultation fees are refundable with a week’s cancellation notice, while 40-minute consultation fees require four days’ notice for a refund.

All training programs and prices are subject to change, and X Learning K9s LLC reserves the right to refuse service for any reason. Boarding services are generally reserved for dogs that have previously completed their Board & Train programs, though exceptions may be made. Muzzle training is recommended for all dogs, and dogs with aggressive behavior may be required to wear a muzzle for safety during their stay or training.

Payments are accepted via Zelle, cash, or checks (received ahead of time to reserve services). For services requiring a deposit, half of the total price must be paid through PayPal to secure the booking.

X Learning K9s, owned and operated by Valentina Foster, is a dog training business located in Davis County, Northern Utah, near South Ogden. They specialize in scent detection, behavior modification, and board and train programs, aiming to help companion animals and their guardians live together in trustworthy relationships. The facility provides a clean, quiet, and low-stress home environment for dogs, utilizing crates and kennels, white noise, and daily exercise including treadmills and yard time.

Their reward-based programs ensure individual attention, balancing physical and mental stimulation with rest. They offer services for a wide range of behavioral issues, including aggression, fear-based behaviors, and common manners. X Learning K9s also provides behavior evaluations for shelters, rescue groups, and individuals considering adoption.

Beyond general pet dog training, they train for scent detection competitions and working dog roles, drawing on experience with narcotics and explosives dogs. They also offer training for UKC Weight Pulling, an activity that builds muscle and stamina while fostering teamwork. X Learning K9s is Pet Tech CPR and First Aid certified, licensed, and insured.

Accomplishments

Valentina Foster, the owner and trainer, has extensive experience working with dogs since she was 18, starting in rescue settings in Italy and continuing in the US since 2001. She holds a diploma from the Companion Animal Science Institute (Dip. ADT, graduated with distinction).

Her expertise in canine detection training is significant; she began in sport scent detection in 2009 with the founders of the National Association on K9 Nose Work and has been exposed to military and police working dogs. She completed multiple Randy Hare’s Detection Trainer Schools and assisted with law enforcement detection classes. Her personal dogs, Mad Dog Maggie and Loggy The Log, have achieved high titles including NACSW Elite, Harry Award, and NW2. She is also an AKC Scent Work Judge and AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator, and an ADBA Safe Dog Program level I & II tester.

Valentina is Pet Tech CPR and First Aid certified and a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals. She has continuously pursued further education, attending numerous detection, behavior, and training seminars and workshops by world-renowned consultants and trainers. Additionally, she has titled dogs at high levels in UKC Weight Pulling.

How to Get Started!

To begin, clients can schedule an initial consultation, which is often the first step for addressing behavior problems. This consultation allows the trainer to meet the dog and owners, assess needs, and suggest a tailored training or behavior change protocol. A mandatory consultation is required before boarding “difficult” dogs.

For scent detection, an email with details, safety guidelines, and contracts is sent upon booking the first session. Proof of vaccinations (Rabies, Parvo, Distemper or antibody titer) is required via email before the first private session or class, or brought on the first day. Clients should contact X Learning K9s for booking and to inquire about specific vaccination requirements for group classes held off-site.