Training the Up and Down command is a higherlevel skill for your K9 to learn. As the developer of your K9 you will now begin the process of implementing the "pairing system" to develop conditional reflexes. The method of developing conditioned reflexes during dog training involves satisfying mandatory conditions necessary for forming a conditioned reflex: determining the system of parings, exercises, reinforcement methods, work, and rest schedule during each of the three phases, monitoring the formation of the initial conditioned reflex and the correct formation of the learned behavior or skill. The interrelationship of conditioned reflexes in complex learned behaviors and how they form from environmental stimuli are considered in the development of conditioned reflexes. "Pairing System": In training, pairing refers to the use of conditioned and unconditioned stimuli to develop the conditioned reflex. For example, the "UP" command is paired with a toy, compelling the dog to assume its proper bio mechanic, or the "HERE" command is paired with showing the K9 a treat. Modes of action of the unconditioned stimulus on the dog can be varied. Their purpose is to ensure the dog performs the required actions (reactions). Pairing the teacher's sign with the dog's response to the unconditioned stimulus forms the conditioned reflex. Single pairings do not result in the formation of conditioned reflexes, and certainly not of the skills necessary in utilizing a dog for work. A moderately complex conditioned response is generated after 3040 pairings. However, uninterrupted repetitions of pairings do not accelerate, but actually inhibit the formation of the initial conditioned reflex. One needs to determine the optimum number of pairings for the development of each type of conditioned reflex, considering the dog's level of energy and its interest in the work. A pairing system used in a specific program develops the initial conditioned reflex, which is strengthened until it becomes a learned behavior through numerous repetitions or integrated exercises.

K9s 4 American is a nonprofit company that helps provide service dogs to veterans and law enforcement. https://k9s4america.org/

Our Mission

We enhance the safety and improve the health of American communities by providing highly trained canines to law enforcement, veterans and schools. Specifically, K9s 4 America will:

Enhance the safety of our communities by providing MWD K9s that are highly trained for protection and detection to law enforcement agencies and first responders.
Provide renewed independence and enhanced quality of life for American veterans through the donation of specially trained MWD K9 service dogs.
Secure the safety of our communities by introducing specifically trained MWD K9s for the protection of children, teachers and other employees in our schools.

K9s 4 America has a deep passion and strong commitment for fundraising to support the donation of specially trained dogs to help law enforcement agencies, American veterans and schools in our communities. We want to ensure the vitality of K9 programs in local law enforcement agencies to help reduce the use of illegal drugs and other crimes in our communities.

K9s 4 America is dedicated to improving the health of American veterans who have served our country. Our donation of trained companion dogs will provide renewed independence and enhanced quality of life for veterans who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By helping veterans heal, we can improve their mental health and reduce the rate of suicide among this honorable population.

As America experiences a drastic increase in gun violence in our schools, K9s 4 America is uniquely positioned to be a pioneer for the use of specially trained canines to help detect illegal drugs, weapons and explosives in our schools. Through our donations we hope to expand the use of canines to protect our children and enhance the overall safety of American schools.