About this episode
Send us a text We had a great conversation with Rodney Spicer of Gold Coast K9. Rodney shared how he became interested in working dogs in the 1980's. He also shared his insights into puppy and working dog selection. Rodney's transparency about his meager beginnings is refreshing. The theme that stands out is perseverance. We know that you'll enjoy what he has to say and most definitely will be inspired by his story. Be looking for a part two with Rodney Sr and Rodney Jr. Gold Coast began from one man’s love of dogs and developed into a world class training and performance center. Rodney Spicer transitioned to actual working-dog training in 1985. He purchased his first dog, a beautiful German Shepherd named Arras, and began working obedience skills. Rodney had a natural ability to read and work with Arras and together they were a great team. After some initial success with Arras, Rodney branched out and joined a working dog club, ultimately taking Arras and several other dogs to titles. In 1991, Rodney founded Gold Coast K9. Gold Coast K9 and Rodney went on to successfully compete regionally and nationally as handler, helper/agitator, training director, and judge. As Gold Coast K9’s capabilities grew through competition, Rodney focused on training police, military, and high-risk private client service dogs in both patrol and detection. Gold Coast K9’s unique, common-sense approach to overcoming real world distractions, pressures, and changing environments, while maintaining drive, enthusiasm, and goal oriented direction set a standard in the K9 training world. Gold Coast K9 teams went on to receive numerous awards including top dog, top agency, agitator’s choice, and medal of valor. We are pleased to have Vested Interest in K9's as a sponsor. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c(3) non-profit whose mission is to provide bullet and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs. Check it out www.vik9s.org. Please welcome Ray Allen Manufacturing as a sponsor to the podcast. Go to the most trusted name in industry for all of your k9 related equipment. For a 10% discount use the RAMWDDP10 discount code. Welcome our sponsor Gold Coast K9 . Gold Coast K9 trains and deploys hand-selected service dogs for personal and family protection, police agencies, and school districts. Their training programs rank among the best and most trusted in the world. Follow Gold Coast k9 on all social media platforms. For 10% off merchandise use the GCK910 discount code on their website www.goldcoastk9.com HLTK9 Conference continues to be a supporter of the WDDP. They are gearing up for the next conference in Myrtle Beach SC. Plan ahead, the 2026 conference will be April 14 - 16 2026. Register today at www.htlk9.com. Welcome our newest sponsor NCK9LLC. Located in Four Oaks NC, just east of Raleigh NC. Jim O'Brien and staff offer a variety of K9 services. Contact them at Phone : 919-353-7149 Email: jobrien@nck9.us