These are training classes for the adult pet dog (or older pup). Suitable for all ages over 20 weeks old, and all sizes and types of dogs. Rescue and rehomed dogs are welcome. Really naughty dogs are expected!

It is not unusual for dogs to come to classes expecting them to be difficult intimidating places so they might start off by being overactive, barking, pulling, sniffing the ground a lot, even trying to pee in the hall and generally being very 'disobedient'. They might be unnaturally calm and still to the extent of not wanting to move around much. These are usually signs of stress which interferes with your dog's ability to learn and may be an indicator that your dog is not coping with the class yet.

The first priority is to reduce that stress, and help the dogs learn to relax and cope through calm and positive management and handling. We then aim to teach the dog what is wanted through appropriate reward-based training. Clicker training as a technique to help you achieve these goals is introduced.

Once the dogs (and owners) learn to relax and be calm, training becomes so much easier. Even better results begin to show if the dog actively enjoys the classes! If there is one problem we love to sort out, it's the dog pulling on the lead in order to get into the hall to join in the class!

The Family Dog classes are NOT suitable for dogs showing aggression or dogs being excessively noisy. One to one training or the One by One class is recommended. If you are not sure whether a group class is suitable or not, please contact me for a free assessment.

The Beginner Family Dog class is for older puppies and dogs (over 20 weeks old at the start of the course). It covers basic domestic exercises.

• Relax and de-stress!
• Coming when called
• Sit and stay
• Walking on the lead
• Using play and food to reward, exercise and motivate
• Understanding how your dog learns (and mislearns)

The 'Good Citizen' Family Dog class progresses all these exercises and introduces more advanced 'fun' training such as retrieving, tricks, and 'searching'. Kennel Club Good Citizen tests are organised twice a year.