FAQ's
Here are some of the most common questions I receive about dog training. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, do call me and I'll be happy to chat with you!
Many clients see results after the first or second session, while more complex behavioural issues like reactivity will likely take more time and consistency. Patience and regular training are key to long-term success, however, I do not string clients along or take their money to keep them around once an issue is resolved and they are confident and capable in handling their dog. If the problem is something I cannot resolve, I will refer you to someone who can.
Your dog's wellbeing is my top priority and I'm experienced in a range of training approaches, but prefer not to use labels or a 'one size fits all method'. Each dog has a unique personality, so I tailor my training to accommodate that and your own handling skills as an owner. With behavioural problems, my focus is firstly on identifying the emotion behind the problem and then helping your dog learn the desired behaviours through guidance, encouragement, and establishing clear boundaries inside and outside the home. My training is effective, enjoyable, and firm but fair, and makes the words YES and NO clear so your dog can understand when they are getting it right and when they need to stop doing something!
No I don't. There is no way that long lasting results come from a one off sessions with long gaps between them as learning cannot be maintained in this haphazard manner. My training is focused on solutions and delivering the result that clients want which involves training the dog and coaching the owner. Coaching support between sessions is provided in video calls which is very valuable for clients.
One off's are not something that professional dog trainers provide as the dog's welfare is at stake and the methods employed to do a 'quick fix' will likely be harmful for the dog.
Yes! A consultation call enables me to assess what is driving your dogs behaviour and discuss a suitable training plan to resolve the issues. Behavioural work goes beyond the remit of basic training so be aware that this takes more time than a standard package and requires consistency and patience while your dog learns. I’ll work with you to address your concerns in a way that is directly tailored to your dog’s specific issues and needs. All breeds, all ages, are welcome.
A first session typically lasts 80- 90 minutes, with subsequent sessions of 60mins, but the duration of teaching moments can vary depending on your dog’s attention span, the complexity of the training, and whether we are on a walk outside or working inside. Sessions include time to talk and explain things to you - owner, so do not involve intensely drilling the dog in commands which is counterproductive and ineffective. In your own home training, I recommend shorter, more frequent sessions to keep your dog engaged and ensure they don’t become overwhelmed.
Fair question! So, while dog walking is something quite a lot of people can do and requires some skill in reading canine body language, it does not require an understanding of how dogs learn, canine psychology, or canine behaviour. Dog training and behaviour modification are specialised fields that require advanced knowledge of different dog breeds, genetics, physiology, prey drive, and various needs for biological fulfilment.
Important skills for a trainer also include being able to teach the human who is handling the dog, which may be harder for some people than others! Dogs are part of our families and, in the same way we pay dentists to do complex work we cannot do ourselves, trainers come to your home (or you might go to them) to help you achieve a more harmonious relationship with your family member.
Note: situations involving dog aggression can be extreme and emotions tend to run high, so I would strongly recommend you invest in a 6 session package to help you get things on track and have professional support while you and your dog learn together. Please call me to discuss this option.
Training can begin as soon as you bring your puppy home, typically around 9 weeks old. Early socialisation and basic obedience are key at this stage. Note that it is important not to confuse socialisation with puppies meeting every dog or human they see which creates issues further on. For older dogs, it’s never too late to start training – dogs are very smart, so whether you're working on obedience or addressing behavioural issues, dogs of any age can learn new skills!
Absolutely! If you work full-time, we can arrange sessions at times that work for you. I also provide ongoing support via video catch ups between sessions, helping you manage your dog’s training while balancing a busy lifestyle. Your home training can be five minutes twice a day while the kettle is on or the pasta is boiling! I should note that RSPCA and vets strongly recommend NOT leaving your dog alone for longer than four hours and certainly not in a crate for that length of time. There are dog walkers and/or sitters you can hire to check in on and walk or play with your dog, and this should be a priority for you if working an 8 hour day outside the home.
Simply give me a call on 07555 377827 or use the online calendar to schedule your free consultation call to discuss your dog and the issues you are having and we can go from there.
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let me know as soon as possible, ideally at least 48 hours in advance. This allows me to offer the slot to another client and ensure your training plan stays on track.
Pricing is based on what you need help with as more serious, long term issues, take longer to resolve and require more support for clients. I will talk through your needs in the free consultation call and then advise you on a suitable package. Training packages provide you with a solid education in how to handle and train your dog, as well as build your own skills, which are not only applicable to the issues you have now, but to the whole life of your dog. This sort of focused training is highly valuable over many years so is not based on a per hour rate.
