1. What training methods do you use?
We primarily use positive reinforcement techniques, rewarding good behaviour to encourage your dog to repeat it. This method is not only effective but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

2. What types of training programs do you offer?
We offer a range of programs including basic obedience, puppy training, advanced behaviour modification, lead manners, socialisation, and specialised training for specific issues like separation anxiety or aggression.

3. How long does it take to see results?
The timeline varies depending on your dog's age, temperament, and the consistency of the training. While some behaviours may improve within a few sessions, others may require a longer commitment for lasting change.

4. Do you offer private or group sessions?
We offer both! Private sessions provide one-on-one attention and are tailored to your dog’s specific needs, while group sessions are great for socialisation and learning in a more dynamic environment.

5. At what age should I start training my dog?
It’s never too early to start training! We recommend beginning as soon as you bring your puppy home, usually around 8 weeks old. Early training helps prevent unwanted behaviours and sets the foundation for a well-behaved adult dog.

6. Can older dogs be trained?
Absolutely! Dogs of any age can learn new behaviours. While it may take a bit more time and patience with older dogs, they are just as capable of learning as puppies.

7. How do I know if my dog needs professional training?
If you’re experiencing challenges such as excessive barking, aggression, pulling on the leash, or difficulty following commands, professional training can be very beneficial. Even if your dog is generally well-behaved, training can improve your communication and strengthen your bond.

8. How many sessions will my dog need?
This depends on your dog’s individual needs and the specific goals of the training. Some dogs may only need a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing training.

9. Do you train only the dog, or do you involve the owner as well?
Owner involvement is crucial for successful training. We teach you the techniques and strategies you need to continue reinforcing good behaviour at home, ensuring long-term results.

10. What if my dog doesn’t respond to training?
Every dog learns at their own pace, and some may take longer to respond than others. We will work with you to adjust the training approach as needed and provide support to help your dog succeed.

11. What should I bring to a training session?
For each session, please bring your dog’s favorite treats, a leash, and any other training tools recommended by your trainer. If you’re attending a group class, bringing a water bowl and toy may also be helpful.

12. How do you handle behavioural issues like aggression or anxiety?
We take a compassionate and gradual approach to behavioural issues, focusing on identifying triggers and using desensitization techniques, combined with positive reinforcement, to change your dog’s behaviour over time.

13. What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that you provide at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. This allows us to accommodate other clients and maintain a flexible schedule.

14. Do you offer any guarantees?
While we can’t guarantee specific results, we are committed to working with you to achieve your training goals. Success depends on consistent practice and reinforcement at home.

​

15. Why can’t I get a quick fix for my dog’s behaviour issues?
Quick-fix solutions often mask the symptoms of behavioural issues rather than addressing the root causes. While they may show temporary results, they rarely lead to lasting change and can even create new problems, such as increased anxiety or aggression. True behaviour modification takes time, consistency, and a deeper understanding of why your dog is exhibiting certain behaviours. Our reward-based training focuses on long-term success by teaching your dog positive behaviours that will last a lifetime.

 

16. Why is dominance training not recommended?
Dominance training is based on outdated theories that dogs are trying to assert dominance over their owners, requiring strict, often harsh corrections. This method can lead to fear, anxiety, and even aggression in dogs, as it relies on punishment rather than understanding the root cause of behaviours. It also damages the trust between you and your dog. Modern, reward-based training is proven to be more effective in achieving long-term, positive behaviour changes without the risks associated with dominance-based approaches.

16. How do I get started with training?
Simply contact us to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll discuss your goals, assess your dog’s needs, and recommend the best training program to get started.

​​

17. What are some of the different dog training methods?

​Dog training methods can vary widely in philosophy and technique, each with different approaches to teaching and behaviour modification.

 

Here’s an overview of the different types:

17a. Reward-Based Training (Positive Reinforcement)
• Overview: This method focuses on reinforcing desired behaviours with rewards such as treats, praise, or toys. The idea is to encourage the dog to repeat good behaviour by associating it with positive outcomes.
• Techniques: Clicker training is a popular form of reward-based training, where a clicker sound marks the exact moment the dog performs the desired behaviour, followed by a reward.
• Pros: Builds a strong, trusting relationship between dog and owner. It's effective for long-term behaviour change and is considered humane.
• Cons: May require more time and patience as it focuses on encouraging behaviours rather than discouraging unwanted ones directly.

17b. Dominance-Based Training
• Overview: Based on outdated theories of dog behaviour that suggest dogs naturally try to assert dominance over their owners, this method involves establishing the owner as the "alpha" or pack leader.
• Techniques: Includes methods like alpha rolls (forcing a dog onto its back), lead corrections, and using physical dominance to control the dog.
• Pros: May achieve quick suppression of unwanted behaviours.
• Cons: Often leads to fear, anxiety, and aggression in dogs. It can damage the trust between dog and owner and does not address the underlying causes of behaviour. This approach is largely discredited by modern animal behaviourists.

17c. Balanced Training
• Overview: Combines elements of both positive reinforcement and corrective techniques (which can include mild punishment). The idea is to use a balance of rewards for good behaviour and corrections for undesirable behaviour.
• Techniques: This can include praise and treats for good behaviour, but also lead corrections, verbal corrections, or using tools like prong collars or e-collars for correcting bad behaviour.
• Pros: Can be effective in addressing behaviour issues quickly by offering both rewards and consequences.
• Cons: The use of punishment can cause stress, anxiety, or fear in dogs, and improper use of corrective tools can lead to physical or psychological harm. It can also confuse the dog if not implemented consistently.

17d. Clicker Training (Reward Based)
• Overview: A subset of reward-based training, clicker training uses a small device that makes a clicking sound to mark the exact moment the dog performs the desired behaviour, followed by a reward.
• Techniques: The clicker sound acts as a signal to the dog that they did something right, and a treat or praise follows immediately.
• Pros: Provides clear and precise communication, making it easier for dogs to understand what behaviour is being rewarded.
• Cons: Requires the owner to be consistent and precise with timing, which can be a learning curve for some.

17e. Aversive-Based Training (Negative Reinforcement)
• Overview: Focuses on discouraging unwanted behaviours by applying something unpleasant when the dog performs a behaviour that needs to be corrected.
• Techniques: Includes the use of shock collars, prong collars, choke chains, and other tools that apply discomfort or pain to deter behaviours.
• Pros: May stop unwanted behaviours quickly.
• Cons: High risk of causing fear, aggression, and a breakdown in the dog-owner relationship. This method is considered inhumane by many trainers and animal behaviourists.

17f. Scientific Training
• Overview: This approach is based on the principles of learning theory, behavioural psychology, and ongoing research in animal behaviour. It emphasises evidence-based methods for training dogs.
• Techniques: Uses positive reinforcement, behaviour modification techniques, and an understanding of how dogs learn and think to shape behaviour.
• Pros: Adapts to new scientific findings and is focused on humane, effective training.
• Cons: Can be complex, requiring a good understanding of canine behaviour and ongoing education.

17g. Relationship-Based Training
• Overview: Focuses on building a strong bond and understanding between the dog and owner. It combines elements of positive reinforcement and communication, with an emphasis on understanding the dog's needs and emotions.
• Techniques: Involves observing the dog’s behaviour, understanding its communication, and using positive reinforcement to guide behaviour, often adjusting the training based on the dog’s response.
• Pros: Enhances the dog-owner bond and creates a positive, cooperative relationship.
• Cons: Can be time-consuming and requires a deep understanding of the dog’s individual personality and needs.

17h. Force-Free Training
• Overview: Similar to reward-based training, this approach completely avoids the use of any force, punishment, or aversive tools. It focuses solely on positive reinforcement and management of the environment to prevent unwanted behaviours.
• Techniques: Involves reinforcing desired behaviours and preventing the dog from practicing unwanted behaviours through management and redirection.
• Pros: Humane and effective for building trust and fostering a positive relationship with the dog.
• Cons: May take longer to achieve behaviour change compared to methods that use corrections.

17i. E-Collar Training
• Overview: Involves using an electronic collar that delivers a mild electrical stimulation to the dog, often used as a corrective measure or to get the dog's attention.
• Techniques: The collar is controlled by a remote, and the level of stimulation can be adjusted. It is often used in conjunction with rewards to reinforce behaviour after the correction.
• Pros: Can be effective for off-lead control or in situations where safety is a concern.
• Cons: If not used correctly, it can cause anxiety, fear, or aggression in dogs. It requires careful training to avoid misuse.

17j. Model-Rival Training
• Overview: A training method that involves using a model (another person or dog) to demonstrate the desired behaviour, and a rival (another person or dog) to create competition for rewards.
• Techniques: The dog learns by observing the model being rewarded for the correct behaviour, which motivates the dog to imitate the behaviour to earn the reward.
• Pros: Can be effective in teaching social behaviours and encouraging dogs to learn from observing others.
• Cons: Requires a well-behaved model, and may not be practical for all training situations.

 

18. I keep hearing many different terms used for dog training, what is the difference?

Some of the terms you may hear with Training.

18a. Obedience Training
• Basic Obedience: Focuses on teaching fundamental commands like "sit," "stay," "come," "down," and "heel." This is essential for good manners and is often the foundation for more advanced training.
• Advanced Obedience: Builds on basic commands and includes more complex behaviours and off-lead control. This training is often for dogs that will participate in activities like agility or competitive obedience.

18b. Puppy Training
• Puppy Socialisation: Introduces puppies to various environments, people, and other dogs to help them develop confidence and proper social skills.
• Housebreaking/Toilet Training: Teaches puppies to eliminate in designated areas, whether indoors (using pads) or outdoors.
• Basic Manners: Focuses on early obedience, learning to walk on a lead, and preventing common puppy problems like nipping or chewing.
• Crate Training: Teaches puppies to see their crate as a safe and comfortable space, which can help with housebreaking, reduce anxiety, and provide a secure environment when unsupervised. This method encourages the dog to hold their bladder and bowel, helping with toilet training, and can also prevent destructive behaviour when the owner is away.

18c. Behavioural Training
• Behaviour Modification: Addresses specific problematic behaviours such as aggression, fear, anxiety, excessive barking, and destructive behaviour. This training often involves identifying triggers and using techniques like desensitisation and counterconditioning.
• Lead Reactivity: Helps dogs that overreact to stimuli while on a lead, such as other dogs, people, or vehicles. The training involves teaching the dog to remain calm and focused in challenging situations.

18d. Agility Training
• This type of training is for dogs participating in agility sports, where they navigate obstacle courses. It emphasizes physical conditioning, precision, and speed, along with advanced obedience.

18e. Service and Therapy Dog Training
• Service Dog Training: Prepares dogs to assist individuals with disabilities. This includes tasks like guiding the blind, alerting to medical conditions, or providing mobility assistance.
• Therapy Dog Training: Trains dogs to provide comfort and emotional support to people in hospitals, schools, and other settings. These dogs must have a calm demeanour and be well-socialised.

18f. Clicker Training
• A type of positive reinforcement training that uses a clicker (a small device that makes a clicking sound) to mark desired behaviours, followed by a reward. This method is popular for teaching new tricks and behaviours quickly and clearly.

18g. Protection Training
• Guard Dog Training: Teaches dogs to protect property and owners by alerting to intruders and, if necessary, defending against threats. This training is specialized and should only be done by professionals with experience in handling protection breeds.
• Personal Protection Training: Trains dogs to protect an individual or family. This includes teaching dogs to respond to specific threats or commands for protection.

18h. Search and Rescue Training
• Trains dogs to locate missing persons in various environments, such as wilderness, urban areas, or disaster sites. This training focuses on scent detection, tracking, and working in difficult conditions.

18i. Scent Work and Detection Training
• Nosework/Scent Detection: Teaches dogs to identify and locate specific scents, such as drugs, explosives, or even specific medical conditions. It can also be a fun recreational activity for pet dogs.

18j. Hunting and Sporting Dog Training
• Tailored for dogs that will participate in hunting, retrieving, or other field sports. This training often includes teaching dogs to follow scents, retrieve game, and work cooperatively with handlers.

18k. Trick Training
• Focuses on teaching dogs entertaining and complex tricks like rolling over, playing dead, or fetching specific items. It can be a fun way to bond with your dog and keep their mind engaged.

18l. Electronic Collar (E-Collar) Training
• Uses a remote-controlled collar that delivers a mild stimulation or vibration to reinforce commands or correct unwanted behaviour. As mentioned above, this method is controversial and should be used with caution and under professional guidance.

Each type of training serves different purposes and is tailored to the dog's needs, the owner’s goals, and the dog's natural abilities and temperament.