Ask about our Obedience Programs!

Best Friend K-9 Obedience was founded in 1978 by Jim Ottoson, professional dog trainer and canine behaviorist. For over 25 years Jim has trained and lectured both locally and nationally at universities and various educational forums and does both private and group obedience training. With over 30 years experience as a canine behaviorist he offers behavior modification for dogs exhibiting a wide variety of behavior problems. Specializing in pack behavior and aggression Jim is currently the behaviorist for the Illinois Alask'\ll Malamute Rescue Association (IAMRA),the Free Spirit Siberian Husky Rescue organization and over 20 other agencies in the northern Illinois, southern Wisconsin and northwestern Indiana area. He has competed professionally in the obedience ring for many years having raised and trained multiple National obedience champions himself.

Training Classes:

A wide variety of obedience classes are offered by Best Friend K-9 from puppy to adult in addition to competitive obedience. All classes are taught by Jim, himself, who uses the very same training techniques and expertise in his obedience classes that he uses to train his own dogs. Each class teaches how to train your best friend in a fun, hands-on way using positive reinforcement and proper correction techniques. The importance of "bonding' and meeting the specific needs of the dog are also a strong focus of the classroom instruction. Class sizes are kept small for the maximum instructor and student interaction.