Classes and Courses

Because our classes are set courses with only a limited number of spaces available, this means that a refund cannot be given if you decide to pull out at any time.  Remember, we still have to pay the hall and staff fee's even if you don't turn up. Please ensure that you can attend your chosen course before booking and making payment as we do not offer refunds once a course is paid for.

One to One tuition.

You have 2 options for paying for one to one tuition.  One option is to pay session by session, giving you the choice to stop sessions as and when you please.  Your alternative option is to pay for a set course at a discounted rate. However, if you decide to choose this option, no refund can be given if you decide to cancel at any time.

Social Walk & Mixed Ability Class cancellation

Unless 24 hours notice is provided for cancelling a session, we reserve the right to charge full session rate.

Sometimes a mixture of courses can work best.  For example, you may want to join a beginners class, as well as a Recall Workshop or Scent Work.  Or if you are more advanced, you may want to join the Improvers course alongside the Advanced class.

When should I start training my puppy?

You should start training your puppy from the moment you welcome them into your home. In fact, the greatest impact on future social behaviour will be made by any experience that happens through 16 weeks of age. Therefore you should take every opportunity to socialise your puppy and shape desired behaviour as soon as possible! It is recommended you take advantage of our New Puppy home visit before your puppy is old enough to join classes. This will help with settling your puppy at night, toilet training, play biting and ensuring you are doing all the right things with your puppy from day one. Your puppy can join classes as soon as he's had his first vaccination.

What methods are used?

At Adolescent Dogs we promote a positive reinforcement training environment for all dogs. We base all of our training on building a strong bond with all the people who will be handling the dog. All desired behaviour is reinforced by a reward such as play, touch, voice and occassionaly natural food treats. The type of reward greatly depends on the individual dog's sensitivity and motivations. All unwanted behaviour is either re-directed or as needed, corrected. A correction may consist of a voice (i.e. "ah ah" or "Shhh") or other non harmful method to either mark the unwanted behaviour or break the focus to enable the handler to direct the behaviour to something that will earn a reward. All corrections are based on the individual dog and levels of sensitivity. Dogs are very quick to learn what behaviours earn them rewards and what behaviours are marked or ignored, thus the experience becomes more and more enjoyable for them.

Can I come and visit classes before I book?

We encourage all prospect customers to visit the school at any time. We run classes at a variety of venues throughout the week. You are more than welcome to come and watch some of our classes so that you can get a feel for the methods we use and so that you can meet the trainers. Every class is run by Jenny, and usually an assistant.

How many dogs are there in each class?

We limit classes to small groups and take no more than 6 to 8 dogs per class. This ensures that personal attention is available when (or if) needed.

Who should bring the dog to training?

We encourage everyone who will be involved with the dog to come to classes. This will teach your dog to respond to all members of the household. It is important that everyone gets involved with the training at home.

Can my son/daughter train the dog?

Yes, as long as they are physically capable of handling the dog.

What do I need to bring with me for the first session?

You will need: Your dogs favourite toy, treats, spare poo bags and your dogs vaccination certificate.

What happens if my dog is ill or comes into season?

If your dog is ill, please leave him at home. Where possible, we recommend you come to the class without the dog as you will still learn the necessary techniques to practise at home.  If your dog comes into season, you are still welcome to bring her to classes.

What happens if I miss a class?

If you miss a class for whatever reason, it is advised that you book a private session with the trainer to catch up, although this is not compulsory. We cannot spend time in the class catching up with individuals who miss sessions as it is unfair on the rest of the group. Private catch up sessions are charged at a discounted rate and are usually conducted prior to the start of the next class.

What standard will I achieve?

We have classes to cater for all levels of training. It is entirely up to you as to whether you just want basic training or want a more advanced level.

Surely my dog can't be trained in just one hour per week?

No. As we do not have access to your dog 24/7, we can only give you the tools and skills to train your dog, it is then up to you to practise at home to progress at a steady rate. We recommend at minimum of 3x15 minute sessions every day.

I have an older rescue dog, is it too late to start training?

No, dogs can be trained at any age, however you will find your older dog may have picked up some bad habits and will be more of a challenge than a puppy. Because our classes are small we will be able to give you any individual attention you need to help you progress at a steady rate.

Why can't I train my dog myself? I've bought a book on dog training.

Books can be a useful source of information, however they cannot offer any correction if things don't go according to plan. It would be like buying a book on learning to drive a car and then hitting the road on your own! A recipe for disaster!