Skip to main content Scroll Top

a very happy bulldog lying on the ground

Booking Complete

Thank you for booking in with DSPCA Dog Training Academy, 100% of our income goes directly to fund the work of the DSPCA in helping sick, injured and cruelly treated animals.

For all class policies click here.

At the DSPCA we believe it is indispensable for dogs to have the opportunity to learn from their owners to live successfully in a human world. At the same time, it is essential for us as dog owners, to learn how can we give consistent guidance.

Education brings security, security brings confidence and a confident dog is a happy dog.

We only use positive methods and aim to make our training classes as enjoyable as possible for both owners and dogs. We focus on teaching you & your dog by rewarding appropriate behavior, instead of just correcting mistakes.

Training should be reward based only. Rewards can be treats, play, toys, praise.

Class Rules:

  • Our method of training is positive reinforcement only!
  • We do not allow anyone to take part in the class with a choke, shock, prong or chain collar. (Nylon or leather collars / harness only)
  • We do not allow retractable/flexi leads and do not recommend the use of these.
  • We do NOT use pain, punishment, intimidation, yelling, degradation, humiliation, shame, guilt or other things that can hurt your dog, their self-esteem, emotional growth, well being or their relationship with you.
  • There must be a minimum of one person per dog.
  • Classes do generally go ahead in all weather conditions, however with extreme rain or storms classes will be postponed until the following week. Your trainer will be in contact with you if this is the case.
  • Class will start at the scheduled time; please ensure you are on time each week.

Treats:

We want your dog to have as much fun as possible while learning, so we will be using treats throughout the course. Please bring along plenty of high value (tasty) treats each week.

We would recommend avoiding a heavy feed before class. This is to ensure maximum doggy motivation. If your dog has a favorite toy we would also recommend that you bring this along.

Remember that you are always training your dog: at every meal, every walk!

Be patient, go at your dog’s pace but most of all enjoy!