INTD - Dog Training FAQ

How old does my dog have to be?

You can start training at any age, however conditioning your dog as soon as you acquire them is essential. Whether you have them at eight weeks or five years old, start as you mean to go on. You can join our puppy class as soon as the puppy is fully covered by his vaccinations.

My dog has problems at home will the classes help?

The dog’s home can be the source of much of the problem. How the owner treats the dog here and their general attitude toward the dog has a dramatic effect on the dogs temperament. For this reason we may recommend a home visit and bespoke training plan. Most dogs and puppies will benefit from a group training programme, but this would normally be in addition to 1-2-1 training.

What happens if my dog is too aggressive/anxious with other dogs?

If your dog is showing aggression/anxious to dogs or people we provide private consultations at our training centre or your home. We can build up their tolerance very slowly and bring them into a class when ready.

Do you cater for all breeds?

Yes we do.

When do I pay for the training?

If you would like to reserve a place full payment is required on booking.

What methods do you use?

All our methods involve positive reinforcement getting the experience/timing/attitude of the handler right first is essential.

Do you sell Gift Certificates?

Yes we do sell gift certificates. If you contact us you can discuss what you need. We can then print a nice gift certificate for you that you can give to a friend or family member.

Do classes get cancelled in the bad or hot weather?

Usually not, generally just make sure that you're wearing the right clothes we do have an indoor space that we'll utilise where possible. If training is cancelled a message will be sent out via the group Facebook page.

What is a ‘clicker’ and do I have to use one?

A clicker is a tool used to tell your dog ‘yes, you got it.’ It’s an excellent way of marking the precise behaviours you want. A clicker is the equivalent to a whistle used in marine animal training. We use the word ‘yes’ instead of a clicker in many of our classes. Some people find clickers hard to coordinate with a treat bag and a leash and a dog. We can all use the word ‘yes’. We also use the lure-reward method of training; it is fun, highly effective and great when involving children into the training process. If we do use clickers within one of our classes INTD will provide one free of charge.

What do I need to bring to a group class?

A hungry dog. Please don’t feed your dog for at least 4 hours before class. If you have a highly food-motivated dog then you may want to give them half their food rations before class.
You will need some very yummy treats. They should be soft and the size of a small fingernail. We recommend chopping up hotdogs, cheese hotdogs or soft liver treats for the first class.
You will need a standard (non-flexi) leash and flat collar or body harness.
You should bring a squeaky toy that can be used to get your dog’s attention. You can also bring a tug toy. We will use it to teach ‘take it’ and ‘leave it.’
When you arrive at class please keep your dog busy until everyone arrives and class starts. Your Trainer will advise you on the safety protocol in the first lesson. Please try to keep your dog relaxed while you wait for class to start. We want our dogs to learn to pay attention to us and not to become rambunctious around other strange dogs and people.

It’s Not the Dog say they are Positive dog trainers?

As it is used in dog training, the term “positive” can be very misleading and confusing to the pet owner. In the context of learning theory, the science behind how we all learn, the term positive means the addition of something. Positive reinforcement means you are giving the dog something it likes for a behaviour we want to encourage. For more on positive reinforcement click here.

Can I observe a dog training class?

Absolutely. You are welcome to visit us at any of our group training classes please call to let us know you are planning to come. Please do not interrupt the class though, and let the Trainer know you are there to observe. Also, please leave your puppy or dog at home.

If I have a puppy in my home with other, older dogs do you still recommend Puppy Class.

Yes. Socialisation is much more complicated than just exposing your dog to its own pack. Correct socialization means ever widening exposure to new and varied objects, places, people, dogs etc.

Which training class is right for my dog?

This question can only be answered by your local Trainer and will depend on your dog’s age, experience, previous training history, your goals, schedule, budget and family situation. We have a dog training program for you that offers the training you need, when you need it.