Owners

About Under the Sun Dog Training and Daycare

About The Owners

Under the Sun Training and Doggie Daycare was established by Colton and Heather in 2011. 

This husband and wife team combined their love and abundant knowledge of care, training, and dog behaviors to create an “in home” daycare atmosphere and a dynamic training system in the Colorado Springs Community. 

Colton and Heather and their Pup-friendly staff create a “home away from home” by providing quality care, exercise, and training to your furry family!

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Meet Colton

I was born and raised in Colorado Springs, CO, and I’ve worked with dogs my entire life—loving every minute of it.

With more than 23 years of professional dog training experience, I am dedicated to providing exceptional training and care for you and your dog. Partnering with you to identify the most effective training options and solutions is my top priority and the standard I strive for every day at Under the Sun.

Dog training and care is truly my passion. I continually expand my education by learning, refining, and adapting my approach based on hands-on experience and the most up-to-date industry research and best practices. I also attend and present at international training seminars to stay at the forefront of the field.

When I’m not working with clients and their dogs, I’m spending time with my family, handling and competing with our own dogs at the national level.

  • Top Ranked Owner/Handler of all time
  • Breeder/owner/handler of winningest Old English Sheepdog of all time
  • 2026 Westminster Herding Group Winner- Graham
  • 2024 Breeders of the Year: Bugaboo Old English Sheepdogs
  • 2021 Westminster Herding Group Winner- Connor
  • 2019 Santa Barbara Kennel Club Herding Group Breeder of the Year Finalist
  • Top ranked dog in the U.S. 2018 and 2014
  • 2015 Westminster Kennel Club Breeder of the Year
  • 2015 Westminster Herding Group Winner- Swagger
  • 2015 Santa Barbara Kennel Club Herding Group Breeder of the Year Finalist
  • 2013 Westminster Herding Group Winner- Swagger
  • 2006 American Kennel Club Breeder of the Year
  • Spirit of the Springs Award Recipient for Colorado Springs for Canine Ambassadorship
heather

Meet Heather

Dogs have always been an important part of my life. My parents raised Bullmastiffs, and before long our family became actively involved in the sport of AKC purebred dogs.

Throughout high school and college, I worked in grooming salons, boarding facilities, and veterinary clinics, gaining valuable hands-on experience in dog care, health, and handling.

In 2000, I traveled to Colorado to evaluate a Bullmastiff litter—and that’s when I met Colton. Fifteen happy years of marriage and three wonderful children later, the rest is history!

Today, our family proudly raises Old English Sheepdogs under the Bugaboo prefix alongside my in-laws, Douglas and Michealanne.

Our lifelong passion for dogs means you can trust that we will care for and love your dog as if they were part of our own family.

  • 2024 Breeders of the Year: Bugaboo Old English Sheepdogs
  • 2018 Handler of the Top Dog in the country with Ch, Bugaboo’s Let It Go Blu Mtn
  • 2015 Santa Barbara Kennel Club Herding Group Breeder of the Year Finalist
  • 2015 Westminster Kennel Club Breeder of the Year
  • 2013 Handler of the Top owner-handled dog of all time, Ch. Bugaboo’s Picture Perfect 
  • 2006 American Kennel Club Breeder of the Year
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Giving Back to the Community

A Brighter Path Together

Sunrise Service Dogs, founded by Colton and Heather Johnson, is dedicated to creating a bridge of possibility by partnering individuals with exceptional canines. Sunrise Service Dogs offers expert training and specially trained dogs to assist individuals with disabilities throughout Colorado.
 
Catering to veterans, civilians, and children, we focus on vital tasks such as physical assistance and psychiatric support. The bond between a dog and a human is transformative.  Find out how you can join the Johnson’s and get involved as a volunteer, donor or student. https://sunriseservicedogs.org/
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Dog Training and Daycare Services

Why Choose Us?

Expert Trainers and Staff:

Our team consists of experienced, caring professionals who understand canine behavior inside and out.

Customized Experiences:

Every dog is unique, and we tailor our programs to fit their specific needs and personality.

Supportive & Friendly Environment:

We create a welcoming space where both dogs and owners feel comfortable and confident in their journey.