Group Classes
Teaching dogs and families real life skills to use throughout their lifetime.
Typical dog training
Most dog training schools offer packages with a fixed number of classes and set curriculum, so if you miss a class it can be hard to catch up.
At Alfoxton Dog Centre we do things differently!
Everyone starts with a private assessment
- Single session with a trainer
- Discuss any problems
- Share your expectations & goals
- Learn about our training philosophy
Then you can come to class!
- As many classes as you like
- For as long as you want
- Join in at any time
- Train when it suits you
- Pay as you go
- Come back whenever you need more help
So what happens in class?
Every class has the same structure:
- Socialisation
- Activities
- Troubleshooting
Classes start with closely monitored socialisation and an explanation of behaviour and appropriate play, followed by a variety of activities. We build self-confidence through games and tricks as well as basic agility. These activities are the foundations of many of the skills you will need to manage your dog at home.
You can come to class with questions and we can troubleshoot throughout the session, discussing problem behaviours with the goal of overcoming issues early, before they become habits.
Our classes are always attended by one or two mature dogs who model good social skills and moderate conflict.
Owners learn about dog behaviour, how to prevent problems, and how to advocate for their dog.
Our classes are mostly off-leash. We practice real life skills like working with distractions.
What you need to know
Dogs and families must have a private assessment first, after which you will be advised which class to attend.
Dogs who are new to classes with us might take a few weeks before they are relaxed enough and able to focus with other dogs around, at which point we can start to help you and your dog develop new skills.
Dogs who have participated in our puppy classes will be moved on to this level at the discretion of the trainer, where they will continue build on the skills they have developed.
Our classes are a safe place for dogs to play, have fun, and learn from their mistakes.
Goals
Dogs go through many developmental changes during their first three years of life, and we are here to support you through this. You may find your dog is developing nicely, then come up against a challenge at a certain stage, at which point you can come back and work on it with us in our ongoing classes.
Of course, dogs continue to learn and grow throughout their lifetime. This is why we offer Adult / Advanced classes as well as Workshops, so you and your dog can continue to be challenged and have fun together well into adulthood.
We know you CAN teach an old dog new tricks!
Problem behaviours
Many of the problem behaviours you may be experiencing with your dog will be discussed in class. Specific concerns will be addressed in your private assessment.
Often what is considered “bad behaviour” is due to a dog lacking confidence – they don’t understand what is happening in the world around them and they may not have the skills to assess and manage the situation correctly.
Common problem behaviours
Destructive chewing · Mouthing / Nipping / Biting · No Recall · Leash Pulling · Separation Anxiety · Whining · Mounting / Humping · Excessive barking · Jumping up on people · Dog reactivity · Inappropriate play · Digging · Resource Guarding · Howling · Inappropriate Toileting · Begging for food · Jumping on furniture · Fear of noises · Escaping · Eating poop · Easily Distracted · Ignoring instructions / Not Listening