FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS MY PET TOO OLD TO BE TRAINED?
No dog is too old to be trained. We are here to give you the correct tools to effectively train your dog in a secure environment using positive reinforcement and praise.
MY DOG BARKS. CAN I STILL BRING HER?
Dogs bark. Some bark more than others, for a variety of reasons, but the most common reason for excessive barking around other dogs is a lack of socialisation, and that is why you are bringing your dog. So the answer is YES. You can bring your dog even if she barks!
WHY DON'T YOU RUN SET LENGTH COURSES?
Dogs learn throughout their lives, as do people. They also forget. Unless you are consistent with training and working your dog he can easily fall back into bad habits, as can you! By having classes open to you throughout the life of your dog we can help you to remain consistent and bring new challenges to keep both of you on your toes and always learning.
WILL I HAVE TO TAKE MY DOG OFF HIS LEAD?
In the beginning, no, we won't ask you to take your dog off his lead. There may be occasions in the beginner group where we will ask you to do a recall off the lead, but this will be assisted by your instructor and done in a secure location. Once you move into Groups 2, 3 and 4, there will be times when we will ask you to work off the lead.
I JUST BROUGHT MY PUPPY HOME, WHEN CAN I BRING HIM?
We require that all dogs are vaccinated and recommend that they have a veterinary health check before bringing them to club. Your vet may advise you to wait for a period of time following his vaccinations before taking him out into the big wide world.
I WORK SHIFTS SO I CAN'T ALWAYS GET THERE. WILL THAT BE A PROBLEM?
Not at all. You pay your class fee weekly as you come so if you can't make it for any reason, you don't pay. It is obviously best for you and your dog if you can make it every week, but life isn't always as neat as that so the best thing is to come when you can.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANYTHING WITH ME?
There are some things that are necessary when training a dog:
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A well fitting collar or harness. Collars, half slip collars, slip leads, head collars and harnesses are all suitable. Slip chains are not advised but we will work with you to use them safely if that is your choice. We will not allow the use of electric collars or spiked/pronged collars or chains.
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A nylon, rope or leather lead. A flat, nylon lead is preferable, but please do not bring a chain lead or an extendable lead.
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Training treats.
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A ball or toy (kept in a bag/out of sight unless the instructor asks you to get it out).
MORE THINGS TO BRING...
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Dog's Vaccination Certificate. We will need to see this on your first visit to the club and shortly after each successive booster.
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Poop bags. It happens, a pupper has decided to take a wee or poop inside the centre, but we are on hand with a mop and bucket when it does.
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Sensible clothes and shoes. No long flowing scarves or tops. Keep it simple. Sliders, flip flops, sandals are not suitable for training. You are going to get tripped up or stood on and, believe me, those claws on toes really hurt!