If your dog listens at home but falls apart around distractions, it’s not random, and it’s fixable. Rising Starr K9 (RSK9) provides real-world dog training in La Crosse and the Coulee Region for pulling, reactivity, and unreliable behavior that doesn’t hold up in public. With 25+ years of experience, Rick Pedersen has worked with over 1,000 dogs in training, building calm, focused, reliable dogs at home and anywhere you take them. Services include private training, group classes (AKC STAR Puppy, Intermediate, Canine Good Citizen), and in-home Board & Train with one dog at a time. Recognized as Best Dog Trainer 2026, RSK9 serves La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem, Sparta, Winona, Viroqua, Westby and the Coulee Region.
Training & services
Training goals
Behavior consultation
Canine Good Citizen preparation
Leash training
Obedience training
Puppy training
Socialization
Behavior support
Aggression training
Fear and confidence
Reactivity training
Separation anxiety
How training happens
Board and train
Group classes
In-home training
Pack walks
Private training
Dog age
Adult dogs
Puppies
Senior dogs
Training level
Advanced training
Beginner training
Intermediate training
Class options
Small classes
Support between sessions
Follow-up support
Homework and practiceCustomer-reported
Personalized training plans
Assistance and working dogs
Hunting dog training
Therapy dog training
Your dog’s background
Rescue dogs
Training approach
Balanced training
Positive reinforcement
Additional services
Boarding
Other listed services
View 13 additional details
Advanced Skills
Classes
Dog Kennel
Dog Training Facility
Dog Training Sessions
Great Training
In- Home Dog Training
Individual Coaching
Reactive Training
Skills Training
Specialized Training Classes
Training Equipment
Week Class
Confirm current programs and availability directly.
5/5Rick at Rising Starr K9 is amazing at what he does! I came to him with my one year old reactive dog and after only two sessions she is like a totally different dog. She used to pull me down the street and be uncontrollably reactive towards dogs, squirrels, and kids. Now she walks…Read full reviewClose full review
Rick at Rising Starr K9 is amazing at what he does! I came to him with my one year old reactive dog and after only two sessions she is like a totally different dog. She used to pull me down the street and be uncontrollably reactive towards dogs, squirrels, and kids. Now she walks nicely by my side and today I took her for a walk through the rotary lights and she did amazing! She walked loosely at my side and walked past running kids, multiple dogs, and the horses without a single reaction. I never could’ve imagined having a walk past all of her previous triggers go so smoothly and I can thank Rick for that. I would recommend him to anyone needing a dog trainer.
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Teale Aspeslet
5/5
Rick is amazing! He has given me the knowledge and tools to help to make sure my boy becomes the best dog he can be. Will definitely be going back for the next level of classes.
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Tina Poland
5/5
Rising Star K9 was so wonderful to work with for our Hy-Vee Veterans breakfast. The dogs were so well behaved and even the ones in training! They definitely do great work! The soldiers loved having them and the contact to get a therapy dog as well! Will definitely have them back!
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Lori Corbeil
5/5
After 1 session of his help my Dog Milo now can leash walk without dragging through the walk!! ☺️
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Brenda
5/5
Best decision I made for my dog Louie! Rick is an excellent trainer and I would recommend Rising Star K9 to anyone. We’ve just completed our puppy class and we are looking forward to starting the next level!
Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.
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