Over the course of more than 30 years, Raul Hernandez has developed and perfected unique and proprietary training methods, which consistently produce the finest trained European German Shepherds in the world.  The training starts with properly selecting the appropriate dog for the specific task(s) - family protection, law enforcement, service, agility, etc.  We know there’s an owner for every dog, and a job for every dog.  

Positive reinforcement is found at the core of all FTI K9 training.  Our methods are based upon the dog having fun during his training, and is motivated because he enjoys working for his handler, and being paid with praise, food, and/or a ball.

FTI K9 training is based on key principles:

Reality-based

The FTI K9 system is not another dog training system based on traditional approaches.  It is a modern, reality-based method of training characterized by logical thinking that builds up easy and practical techniques, learned with ease by both the dog and human.  

Integration

Our training system is well integrated.  The foundational techniques are used to teach more advanced level training, thus reducing the learning curve and making the techniques easier to retain.          

Practical

The emphasis of the FTI K9 training program is on fun, effectiveness, and simplicity.  Our system provides realistic training under a variety of scenarios and environment.

Performance

We implement training methods unique to the FTI K9 system to provide reality-based training to ensure our dogs perform and react without hesitation under stressful situations in a time of need.  Our dogs are taught controlled aggression - it’s more important to teach them how not to bite than to bite.

Proper socialization is one of the most vital aspects our training.  This process starts at a very young age - from the time he is a puppy we teach him what we expect from him.  Our dogs must be social in among other dogs, animals, and humans.  We want a protection dog that you can take everywhere.

Our canines are trained in basic and advanced obedience both on and off the leash. We use “real life” situations to train our dogs and have the ability to be “site specific” (warehouse, office, businesses, parking lots, yachts, etc.). The FTI K9 team uses the bustling Cities of Ocala, Gainesville and Orlando with its infusion of tourists and energy to facilitate the creation of the “bomb proof” dog that is comfortable and confident in any situation. Our Advanced Obedience Program builds on the basic come, heel, sit, down and stay both on and off the leash. Often depending on the country of origin, our canines are trained in English, Dutch, German or Czech. We focus our attention during this phase the basic commands, and the integration of socialization and proper manners in a public setting. We encourage the application of normal societal interaction with both people and other animals and stress restraint and obedience in confrontation.

FTI K9 prides itself on its Protection Dogs. It’s important to know we do not create mean, ferocious, or vicious uncontrollable dogs for protection; nor do we train dogs exhibiting these behaviors. Our first goal in training is obedience. We place emphasis on the word “protection” - we do not train dogs to attack. Our canines are trained to protect their owners/handlers. Our dogs are trained to bite and hold, or simply hold as is necessary while responding immediately to your commands.

A dog is first and foremost a companion to you and your family. Even if you employ our dogs specifically to “protect” your premises (business, office, etc.) the ability of your dog to adapt socially to an owner it vital. In a family situation you must have the ability to live a normal life. Your friends should be able to visit your home without feeling threatened, hence, our insistence on proper socialization. We train our dogs to recognize the difference between friend and foe, and even the difference when friend becomes foe. Lifestyle awareness is part of our training program and your FTI K9 Protection Dog will be your family member, your friend, and in a time of need, your defender.

We have the capability to train for advanced agility disciplines. We train your dog to walk the dog walk, climb, crawl, jump and tunnel. Our agility dogs are adept at weave poles, see-saw, collapsible chutes, and pause table. Your dog can train on both grass and packed sand (more closely resembling many showgrounds). We train both the serious competition dog in advanced agility and the home-grown Frisbee dog needing an additional energy outlet!

Beyond their advanced obedience and protection skills, our adult dogs can be trained to meet your specific requirements.  This may include service for disabilities, being around horses, searching your home for intruders, advanced agility, tracking, working on boats, being in hectic offices or crowded retail stores, working in movies, etc.  We have the experience and know-how to train our dogs for almost any task.