ALL DOGS CAN BE TRAINED!

A dog is never too old to learn, and every breed is capable of learning and being trained. Puppies can learn from the age of 8 weeks but the attention span is short.

Popular myths about certain breeds can be discounted! Hound breeds don't necessary "go off on a scent trail" if properly trained. Small terrier types aren't "yappy" or "snappy" if sensibly managed. Popular crossbreeds, such as the "doodles" (that is, anything crossed with a poodle) are simply "crossbreeds" and have no specific attributes. They are sometimes described as "easy to train" but are individuals just like any other dog.

However, some working breeds are often unsuited to pet homes simply because they are extremely active. These dogs need mental stimulation, and owners of working breeds should be prepared to put in many hours of regular training. A balance of "sufficient", rather than "excessive" exercise and regular, positive dog training sessions can help these highly active dogs live in harmony with their owners.

Not all gundogs are born with the notion of how to work to the gun, or how to retrieve. Some Border Collies may nip at the heels of small children and "round them up", but others may need to be taught how to "herd". (Border Collies aren't suitable pets if you have young children)

Class training with other people and dogs is fun and a great social activity. Dog training classes are structured and each dog and owner work at their own pace. Training is strictly non-competitive.

Indoor Dog Training Classes - Adult should dogs socialise too!

However, please note: Not all dogs are suited to dog class training sessions. Very shy, nervous or aggressive dogs of any age may need to be seen separately to address any behaviour problems.

Children are welcome at dog training classes, provided that they are capable of sitting quietly. Parents my find it difficult to supervise very young children and train a dog at the same time, so it's a good idea to bring someone along to help with children.

Incidentally, children and dogs should always be supervised at home too, and children of any age should never be left alone with a dog. Children should not be allowed to take a dog for a walk without adult supervision.

People with physical difficulties are also welcome in classes, although a home visit or one to one training can be useful initially. Please let me know if you intend to come to training classes and have any special requirements.

Please bear in mind that training a dog and changing behaviour takes time and patience.  Dogs don't understand how to learn in the same way that we do, and there will need to be lots and lots of repetition.  It takes roughly a year to eighteen month to gain the control that most people want - but every dog has different limitations according to age, breed and past experiences and invidual character.

Dogs with deep seated behavioural problems will need a more detailed behaviour consultation. Dogs that react badly to other dogs and/or people are not suited to class training and one to one training is recommended for dogs that are not sociable or are particularly vocal.

Positive dog training classes are a happy, social activity for dogs and their owners. After an introduction to "Lure and Reward" training methods, clicker training is included at all levels.

Outdoor Dog Training Classes

Debbie Gillard - Positive Dogs