~ Dog Training Classes (with a difference) ~

"In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesnt merely try to train him to be semi-human.... open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog."
- Edward Hoagland


Real Life Practical Dog Training Classes


As well as socialisation and learning general dog obedience (good manners), your group will be following an 8 week structure plan, with the following themes:

Week One - Walking on a loose lead

Week Two - Meeting and Greeting (other people, dogs and animals)

Week Three - Structured Play

Week Four - Reliable Recall

Week Five - Walking to Heel without lead

Week Six - Distance control

Week Seven - Agility

Week Eight - Assessment and certificates (from another dog trainer)


NEW ~ Wednesday evenings from 6.30pm ~ Forfar

~ Saturday mornings from 9.30am ~ Camperdown park Dundee

~ Sunday mornings from 10.30am ~ Monifieth beach


What to Expect

In our training classes dogs learn to be confident, sociable, calm and intelligent

Classes are small to make sure there is enough time to dedicate to everyone, and make for a sociable atmosphere. Unlike most 'dog training' classes, we concentrate on How dogs learn so we can confidently and positively change behaviours.

Many owners call up and ask if they can bring their older pup or dog, who has learned dis-obedience (ie. jumping on people or other dogs, not coming back off lead)  to the classes. In the past I would have welcomed these dogs along with other beginners, however time has proven this can disrupt the class.

A dog class is somewhere that a knowledgeable owner can practise what they have already taught their dog in the controlled environment of the class. If you are lacking in leadership skills and need to work on your control, then a private lesson will help you reach sound understanding of how dogs learn, and prepare you for the class. I often bring dogs that I am rehabilitating to the class, not to teach him new things, but to practise what I have already taught him but within the distractions of all the other dogs and owners. If he can concentrate and work well there, he can work anywhere!

This does not mean that only perfectly well behaved dogs come to the class... it means that if your dog does try to jump on another dog  you know what to do, and calmly and confidently can deal with any arising situation.

Owners can learn new skills in the class but dogs need a quiet atmosphere in which to learn. Practise during the week and by the next class the behaviour will be engrained, so you can both use that new skill in a 'real life' situation.

As a trainer I am very aware that everyone is more worried about themselves and their own dog. Take a deep breath, smile, and enjoy spending this special hour with your dog, in the exclusive company of other dog lovers.

Here are some things you never thought you would ever need to know...

  • socialisation and habitutation (with other animals too!)
  • human-canine communication  
  • every day manners and obedience
  • road safety  
  • basic first aid  
  • handling and grooming 
  • conditioned relaxing
  • trick training and fun agility obstacle courses 
  • motivation through clicker training
*NEW*
Training cards - to map your progress - will be ticked off every week, so you know what else there is to learn and how much you have achieved when you have completed the card, you can be assessed to pass 'practical skills 1'. If you want to continue, there are advanced cards too !


After some friendly games... 
You might notice some t-shirts, a desensitisation exercise, race to put on clothes and jump over obstacles on the way back!