Decoy School

K9 Performance Plus Training Center is proud to present a Decoy school for those who are either looking to learn or better their skills in working with dogs for Police K-9, sport or personal protection.

About the Instructor
John Johnston is a nationally respected decoy in North America, Canada, Mexico and Europe.  John has been decoying dogs for over 15 years.  He is the owner of K9 Performance Plus Training Center, Inc. in Reading, Massachusetts.  John has taught numerous seminars on Police K-9 and bite development.  In 1998, John became a certified Level I French Ring Decoy.  After receiving this accolade, his career working with dogs skyrocketed and within one year John received his Level II National Selection under French Judge, Serge Ocard.  John is also known for having taught four decoys from the beginning and working with countless other to go onto certify as French Ring decoys. Out of the four that John worked with from the beginning Frank Cowen went onto certify as a Level II National Decoy and also was awarded the Decoy of the Year for 2004.  Another decoy, Ramon Miranda, who worked with John from the start, went on to not only certify as a Level II National Decoy, but also passed the test for his Level II in October of 2005.

As an instructor, John is very thorough and willing to help people learn and to be the best they can be.  He will put you through some tough training, but also make sure you are accomplishing everything possible so that you can go out and work with dogs with as much passion and love for decoying as he has for many years.

What You Will Learn
  • Foundation
  • Targeting
  • Working Together
  • Prey to Defense
  • Muzzle Work - Increase the Dog's Ability
  • Bite Suit Work
  • Hidden Sleeve
  • Man, Not Equipment
  • Stamina

FAQ
How long is the program?
2 weeks.  This time period is divided up between classroom and hands on work.  Total training hours is 90-100 hours.
Is housing available/provided?
You will be able to stay in our officers quarters for free but you must pay for your own food.  We also have a few hotels in the area which you can choose at your own expense.  Off-site accommodations are not included.
How much does it cost to attend Decoy School?
A qualified decoy is "priceless".  However for the extensive time it takes to make a great decoy and to meet the K9 Performance Plus criteria costs $2500.
How frequently are decoy schools held?
Every other month.  Each session accommodates up to four individuals.
What do I need to bring with me to Decoy School?
You must have a clean certificate of health.  If you have a dog of your own that does bit work or is in the beginning stages, you are allowed to bring your dog.  Additionally, any equipment such as bite suits, sleeves, tugs, etc. are encouraged.
Contact us for more information or to register for
K9 Peformance Plus Decoy School by clicking here.
All photos Copyright Dawn Norris, Absolutely Canine Photography.