Common Questions

What people are asking us

Are you unsure what is the right training method for you and your canine companion? Hopefully these frequently asked questions will give you the information that you need to better understand the world of pet training.

Which of your services is right for me?

I offer a broad range of dog training services, no matter what dog breed, age, or level of training you have. For most first-time trainees I generally suggest giving me a call to discuss what you want to get out of training. Typically I would start with a one-to-one session first for us to get to know each other, and work out how I can best help you and your dog. Each dog and owner's needs are very bespoke, so I always make sure that we have an introduction meeting after which I can give you a clearer idea of a training programme.

Is my pet too old to be trained?

No. Dogs are never too old to be trained. For once the old adage that 'you can't teach an old dog new tricks', simply isn't true. While older dogs may take a little longer to pick up skills, they still deserve to be given the chance!

What is your approach to pet training?

I am a balanced Canine Trainer and proud to be certified by Robert Alleyne with a diploma in Positive Reinforcement And Minimally Aversive (PRAMA) balanced training techniques, a set of principles I use to ensure the best outcomes for you and your dog, no matter what situation or behaviour you are faced with.

How much does a training session cost?

An hour one-to-one session costs £40, or an hour and a half costs £60.

I also run group sessions, for more information and prices please contact me on 07775439378.

How many training sessions will my dog need?

How long is piece of string! In all seriousness it depends on how much the owner is willing to practice learnings from training with their dog outside of training sessions, how receptive the dog is to the training, and specifically for gun-dog training it all depends on how strong the dog's natural drive for working is.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach for your dog, so it is not helpful to put a number of sessions required to achieve a certain outcome. Every training session is bespoke to your dog and gives you progression, and you will leave every session with homework which can be used to continue your dog's progression - it is up to the owner how many sessions they feel they need.

How long does a dog training session last?

Again, every session is bespoke to the owner and the dog. Standard training sessions last for an hour, but for people travelling this can be increased to two hours, and for puppies can be decreased with 45 minutes often the optimum time.

Sessions in excess of an hour can also add in elements of theory, depending on the dog's natural energy levels and willingness to continue learning. They are all tailored around the dog and the owner's needs.

How much does a behavioural consultation cost?

The cost of a consultation is a sliding scale depending on the severity of the behavioural issues. Consultations typically last between two to five hours. Sessions begin with a detailed questionnaire to assess the problem, will always be based at your home, and will cover diet, exercise, and suggest any changes that will help to improve the behaviour.

Owners will receive handouts explaining the process, as well as a bespoke written programme detailing specific changes that need to be made to eliminate the problem behaviour. This will be followed up with weekly phone consultations to check the the behaviour is improving.

Sessions start from £350.

What do your group sessions look like?

I hold monthly group dog sessions at Paley Farm in Cranbrook which focus on honing gun-dog skills. Activities include confidence building, puppy and beginner sessions, novice test training, introductions to picking-up, water workshops, and cold game sessions.

Stay tuned to our events page and social channels for details of upcoming events!

What do I need to bring with me to a training session?

A dog – preferably yours! But joking aside, I have everything that you will need for your first session, after which I can advise you of any equipment that you need if you wish to continue training with me. You should wear suitable footwear, normally wellies or walking boots depending on the season, and bring clothing to account for all weathers, you just never know!

For gun-dog training you will need a dummy bag, dummies and a whistle; treats or other high-value reward items and a long-line can be useful training aids, if needed. A towel and drying coat is also advised, and a sense of humour is absolutely mandatory!

Do you charge a cancellation fee? / What is your cancellation policy?

I have a 48-hour cancellation policy on one-to-one sessions, inside of which the full price must be paid, unless the place can be filled. Group training sessions get booked up very quickly so the full price must be paid in advance in order to hold your place. Once your place has been has been booked there is a 72-hour cancellation policy, inside of which refunds are not provided.

Can I book you to come to me for training?

Yes. However this depends on the specific requirements of your training, you and your dog. Mileage is charged for these sessions, and sessions are charged at the standard £40 per hour rate.

I have a very small dog, does it still need training?

Yes it does! In my opinion all dogs need three things to be a joy to own and exercise; a loose-lead walk, a "leave it" command, and a reliable recall. With these three things in place, you and your dog will be happy and content, and I am happy to help you achieve all three no matter how small or large your canine companion!

My dog is very aggressive, can I still bring it to a training session?

If your dog has aggressive tendencies, please contact me directly to discuss the problem, I will typically offer a specific one-to-one training session or a consultation depending on the severity of the problem, in order to help improve the behaviour. While displaying aggressive behaviours, your dog will not be able to participate in group sessions, but on a one-to-one basis I am confident we will be able to solve the aggression problem, allowing them to later be included in group sessions.

Disclaimer - the serious bit.

Please come equipped for all weathers, typically wellies or walking boots are preferred depending on the season, and bring refreshments if required. Training is conducted in fields and on working farms, so ensure your footwear is suitable and note that your participation is always at your own risk - dogs can be unpredictable. You must take responsibility for your own dog, handle it safely, and ensure it is under control, and any instruction given by me (the trainer) must be adhered to. All faeces must be cleared up after the dog, and bitches in season should not attend group training sessions. Please note that there are no toilet facilities in the field where the training is held.

Naturally, I reserve the right to ask any client to leave if they refuse to listen to advice or instruction, as it can often put other people or animals in danger, and simply will not be tolerated.