Training for your dog. Whether they're starting from scratch, need a little refresher or a require a full boot-camp, my proven methods will bring you swift and permanent results.
A six week introduction to scentwork for pet dogs. Take the first steps to discovering the incredible power of a dog's nose. This class will cover the basics of search, scent ID, and indication. Each dog will work one at a time and free from the distraction of other dogs, allowing them to work at their own level in a comfortable and relaxed environment, making this activity accessible to reactive dogs. DOGS ATTENDING THIS CLASS MUST BE HAPPY AND ABLE TO REST IN THE CAR OR CRATE BETWEEN WORKING TIMES.
Open to anyone who has been to me for training, either 4 week basic course or the loose lead & recall workshops and understand how I encourage you to communicate with your dogs. We will continue to build on the basics - lead work around distractions, walking to heel off lead, recall, sit stay, impulse control, and manners around other dogs at a distance. Practising 'leave it' and 'drop' at a distance and going on group walks. If you have attended an introductory class with me, or your dog already has basic manners and you are ready to continue practising, this is the course for you
We will discuss and practise basic manners and behaviours and how to attain those through primarily reward-based training, the timing and types of rewards, and setting boundaries using distraction, redirection and appropriate correction for unwanted behaviours. The behaviours we will primarily cover will be; • Loose lead walking, including desensitisation to exciting triggers such as other dogs • Recall - ensure this is a positive, fun behaviour, for both you and your dog, and to ensure your dog doesn't learn to ignore your recall. • Sit, stay and wait • Impulse control games. We will also discuss and practice, where possible, manners and long-term aims for a well-mannered family dog, such as meeting strangers and other dogs, visitors to the home and unwanted barking or nervousness. Other issues as needed by individuals that arise in the group discussions
In private individual lessons, I aim to demonstrate, and help you learn, that we can communicate effectively with our dogs during our daily lives. For dogs we primarily do this with reward-based training and the use of resources and consequences of actions, for both the dog and yourself. We will also discover that it is ok to ask the dog not to do certain things, but in a non-aggressive way, to help the dogs understand what we don’t consider acceptable. We will further find that we can either encourage or suppress certain behaviours with positive and negative reinforcement and affirmatively communicate with dogs. The initial 1-hour consultation and lesson will usually occur at my premises near Lumphanan, so we can discuss and practice in a neutral, controlled environment. During this session I take the time to understand you, your dog and your needs. I also conduct training and address any behavioural issues. We often solve many of the common problems in this initial session. If needed, subsequent training can take place at my premises or a location that suits the issues - such as your home or a public place. The types of issues that I commonly help with are; Pulling on the lead Reactive behaviour when walking your dog on a lead - either over excitement or fear aggression Dog recall issues. Jumping up and bad manners with visitors and family members Excessive barking. Toilet training problems. Excessive 'mouthing' or biting. Stealing food or other objects. Anything else!
If you have already visited me for any training, including an initial 1-to-1 session, workshop or course and would like to come for a Follow-up, then please do book an appointment Support includes reinforcing and strengthening new skills and concepts for you and your dog and helping set new strategies.
Another of our popular one-off sessions for those who cannot commit to a series or need specific help in a group environment. Max 6 dogs in this workshop you will learn howto walk your dog on a loose lead around distractions and other dogs. With Jo on this bespoke workshop, feel confident about walking your dog to heel and on a loose lead by learning the skills, techniques, processes and commands. Understanding WHY your dog pulls will ensure you continue to ensure your dog doesn't pull or react once you leave the workshop.
We will continue to build on the basics -recall around distractions. If you have attended an introductory workshop or 1 to 1 with me, and you are ready to continue practising, this is the workshop for you. We will talk about and practice the basics of impulse control that will help you stop your dog from chasing cats, hares, other dogs etc