Beginners Obedience
Basic manners and everyday skills for pet dogs, with some fun thrown in!
Beginners Obedience is suitable for dogs of any age, who are fully vaccinated.
Places are limited to make sure we can properly assist all members of the class. Bookings are essential, so please email our Head Trainer Louise to reserve your spot: lscwulfz@gmail.com
10th April
5th June
31st July
2nd October
Week 1: Signup Night (No Dogs)
Your first class will consist of signing up, receiving important basic information, and introducing yourself to the trainers. This is intended to make Week 2, your first week with your dog, a more relaxed event, and ensure you start training on the right foot.
Weeks 2-7:
During classes, you will learn about:
- How to teach your dog using positive reinforcement
- Reading your dog's body language
- Basic cues: Name game, Look, Sit, Down, Stand, Touch, Heel position, Stay, Recall
- Loose leash walking
- Walking at heel
- Introductions to other dogs (where suitable)
- Working around distractions
Other topics may be included, based on class interest, such as mat training, tricks, etc.
You will also have the opportunity to ask your instructor about common behaviour issues such as barking, jumping up, digging and pulling on lead.
Week 8:
In Week 8, you will demonstrate your accomplishments in the basic behaviours and 'graduate' from Beginners! We also have a fun taster session with various dog sports equipment, such as Agility and Rally-O courses. You will see how the basics you've learned translate into foundations for these sports.
FAQs
What do we need to bring?
- Lots of tiny, tasty treats - something special like sausage, cheese, chicken etc. Not dry food or crunchy treats.
- Non-restrictive harness - especially if your dog pulls on lead.
- Strong flat collar - No check chains, chokers or martingales allowed.
- Strong lead - suitable for height of dog, around 1.2-1.6m.
Optional: Mat/towel for dog to lay on, dog toy, longer lead (non-retractable).
What do I need to wear?
- Closed in shoes.
- Comfortable clothes with pockets for treats.
Optional: Treat pouch or bum bag, sun and/or rain protection depending on weather.
Do we train in bad weather?
Training usually still runs if mild heat or rain is expected. In very hot weather, we may cancel training or focus on low-intensity exercises instead. If extreme weather is expected, we will monitor the situation and post updates on our Facebook page to let you know whether class is running.
What if my dog isn't friendly?
We can often accommodate dogs that need extra space from other dogs and/or people. However, some dogs may find the class environment too challenging. Please contact us to discuss your dog's specific behaviours before signing up.
Does my dog have to be desexed?
No - however, if your female dog is in season (on heat), please leave her at home. Owners are still welcome to attend class.
Enquiries: Contact Head Trainer Louise with any further questions. lscwulfz@gmail.com
Please Note:
All dog training at GDKC uses techniques and training equipment that does not cause pain or fear to the dog. We use positive reinforcement to encourage preferred behaviours from our dogs. This is in line with ethical training requirements from Dogs West and other reputable organisations.
Intermediate-Advanced Obedience
Have you graduated from Beginners, but you'd like to achieve more?
GDKC runs Intermediate and Avanced classes in obedience. These classes are suitable for dogs who are, or are working towards being, trial-ready in Obedience. Classes are run on Wednesday evenings. Check back in the new year for class times.
Training fees are detailed on our Fees & Charges page.
What to Bring:
Lots of tiny, tasty treats - not dry food - something special like sausage, cheese, chicken etc.
Strong flat collar - No check chains, chokers or martingales allowed.
Strong lead suitable for height of dog.
Other obedience equipment you may be working on such as: dumbells, gloves, mat, etc.
Non-restrictive harnesses are encouraged if your dog is practicing loose lead walking or has health reasons.
What to Wear:
Closed in shoes.
Old vest, pants or jacket with pockets for treats.
Sun and/or rain protection depending on the weather.
Enquires:
Contact Head Trainer Louise with questions. lscwulfz@gmail.com
Intermediate Classes
Intermediate Obedience is ongoing throughout the year. You will need to be paid up for the full year of training, which means you can participate in any class you wish. Intermediate classes provide a bridge between Beginners and trial-ready, and also provide practice opportunities for dogs who need to train around distractions.
Intermediate classes may be combined with Advanced classes at times, depending on instructor availability.
Time: Wednesdays, 5:30 - 6:15pm
Classes will commence on 31st January 2024.
Trial-Ready Obedience Classes
Advanced Obedience (Trial-Ready) classes are ongoing throughout the year. They are aimed at dogs who are aiming to compete in Obedience Trials. These classes provide a practice opportunity for dogs who are aiming to compete in Companion Dog, Novice and higher Obedience trials.
Classes will run on alternating Wednesday evenings.
Time: 6:15 pm - 7:00pm
Classes will commence on 31st January 2024.
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