About Off Leash K9 Training Memphis

Off Leash K9 Training of Memphis is the local arm of a national franchise – "part of the highest-rated dog training business in the United States … With over 130 locations nation-wide" – and works from "our new facility located at 975 N Germantown Pkwy Suite 1 – by appointment only" in Cordova.

What they run

Their published package list is a Basic and Advanced Obedience program of 8 private lessons; a 2 Week Board and Train described as a 14 day "Training Camp" for advanced off-leash obedience and behavior modification; a Puppy Consultation covering housebreaking, crate training, socialization and pack structure for dogs under five months; an Aggressive Dog Package of 8 private lessons targeting aggression and reactivity; Therapy Dog Development, where they are careful to say "We do not certify but we can help prepare you for the test!"; and In-Home Training "in or around your home". Free monthly pack walks are open to all clients.

The method, and the tool

The system is built around the remote collar and the site explains it at length rather than glossing it: an e-collar is "a collar with a stimulation mechanism … It is not used as a punishment or a 'shock' as many people assume, it is simply used as a training device for communicating with your dog", compared to "someone tapping your shoulder to get your attention". They say the dog will not need to wear it indoors once trained but recommend it outdoors off-leash, "like an invisible leash". They also publish a first-lesson guarantee: if you are not satisfied in the first lesson, that lesson is free.

Who trains

The owner and head trainer published on the site is Meredith Cox, who holds a bachelor's degree in psychology, moved to Memphis, trained under the franchise's founder, and whose stated specialism is behavior modification – "dog aggression, human aggression, reactivity, and anxiety". The about page also names a team lead and two further trainers.

Realistic expectations

Worth quoting, because it is unusually candid for a franchise page: "If you're dog has serious behavioral issues like aggression, fear, or anxiety, your dog may not be able to be off leash in all types of environments. Our approach will be to address the underlying behavioral issue so that your dog builds confidence and you are able to manage them safely and confidently!"