top of page

Frequently 
Asked 
Questions

FAQ's for Group Classes & Workshops
My dog has come into season, can I still attend group classes?
 

When they are fully vaccinated we have group classes that will be suitable for puppies. Prior to this we offer home visits to get your new addiiton started on the right paw.

Do you offer training classes for older dogs or rescues?
 

Yes! We offer classes for dogs of all ages and capabilities. If you are unsure which group course is right for you, please get in touch.

Will classes help with the behaviours that we are experiencing within the home?
 

The content of a group class is structured with a degree of flexibility to cover requirements of individuals but is aimed at general obedience. If you are experiencing challenges at home our trainers will be able to advise you on what steps you can take or if you need to book an individual training session.

​The whole family is more than welcome to attend the classes with your dog….after all, the whole family should be involved in your dog’s training! Consistency is very important, so the whole family must do the same thing.  All we do ask is that children do not run or shout when in class, as this can upset and cause stress for the dogs.

Can more than one person attend the class with the dog?
 
I am attending classes and have additional needs, how do I inform you about these?
 

Our venue is wheelchair accessible and we are always happy to make adjustments for anyone that requires them. Please get int touch via email or phone and we will be able to help you.

What type of treats should I use when training my dog?
 

In a class setting or when you are outside training, it is best to use high value treats such as cheese, chicken, liver cake or hot dog sausages, depending on your dog’s tastes.  Whereas your dog may work for dry kibble when training at home, when you factor in more distractions (new people, dogs, smells etc) you will probably find the dry treats do not catch your dog’s attention because they are more aroused.  Training treats should be small in size – about the size of your small finger nail.  As a rule – use higher value treats for more ‘difficult’ training exercises.  So for example, save your highest value treats for recall and loose lead walking training!

Will I always need to use treats to get my dog to respond?
 

No absolutely not. We use food in our hands initially to make it easier for the dog to understand what we are asking of them. We very soon encourage you to remove the food lure and reward from a treat in a treat bag or pocket, and then show you when the right time is to introduce a verbal cue.  Once your dog knows the verbal cue, there is no need to treat them every single time, although it is still important to reward them every so often.

Why does my dog struggle to listen outside but responds well in the home?
 

In a class setting or when you are outside training, it is best to use high value treats such as cheese, chicken, liver cake or hot dog sausages, depending on your dog’s tastes.  Whereas your dog may work for dry kibble when training at home, when you factor in more distractions (new people, dogs, smells etc) you will probably find the dry treats do not catch your dog’s attention because they are more aroused.  Training treats should be small in size – about the size of your small finger nail.  As a rule – use higher value treats for more ‘difficult’ training exercises.  So for example, save your highest value treats for recall and loose lead walking training!

When can my puppy start group classes?
 
I am going to miss a session of the course, will this be detrimental and how can I inform you?
 

Missing one week of a six week course is common, life is very hectic. We understand. We have created an online portal to support our Puppy and Adolescent courses, any content missed in person is able to be caught up on via the portal meaning that you do not miss out. 

Please let The Woof Pack know if possible that you will not be attending a session via text to 07449038484. 

My dog has come into season, can she still attend the group course?
 

Bitches in season can find it very hard to concentrate and learn effectively whilst in season. We will liaise with you to rearrange the course after the season has finished so that you get the full benefit of training.

FAQ's for Individual Training

We understand that booking a behaviour consultation with one of the Woof Pack behavioural team requires an investment of both time, and money. For this reason, the better you are prepared, the more you will achieve and the faster you will see results with your dog.

 

By meeting your family, discussing your pet’s daily routine and observing their behaviour, an assessment and treatment plan can be formulated, using force-free, kind and effective methods which will fit in with your life-style and achieve fast results.

Why do you need consent from my Veterinary Practice for behavioural treatment?
 

All pet behavioural problems are seen on referral from your veterinary surgeon. This is for two reasons. The first is that many behaviour problems are directly related to clinical conditions. These may be ‘hidden’ and the only symptom is that your pet is behaving differently. Often, we will work closely with your vet to give your pet the best possible ‘joined-up’ treatment.

How to I arrange for a referral from my Veterinary Practice?
 

The initial consultation can be booked prior to gaining Veterinary referral, we would ask that the form is returned a minimum of 48 hours prior to the consultation taking place. Often Veterinary practices will complete the form providing that your pet has been seen recently. 

Prior to a consultation we would always recommend a nose to tail check to rule out any underlying medical conditions. 

What happens in the initial consultation?
 

Consultations are held on an appointment basis, often in your own home. They normally last 90 minutes. If possible all family members involved should be present, and it’s very important that time is set aside to focus on your pet and the way in which he or she relates to the family. For this reason, we ask that you switch off the TV, phone and internet for the duration of the consultation!

A full history of the problem will be taken and your pet’s temperament assessed, after which we will discuss the motivation for the behaviour and help you devise a treatment programme that’s going to work for you as well as your pet. As well as practical training to start to address the challenges you are experiencing. 

Treatment programmes vary according to the nature and severity of the problem. Sometimes only one consultation is necessary, but most require a minimum of three sessions. Further advice and after-care can be provided via the telephone, email or support/training visits. 

After your initial consultation you will be sent a behavioural report outlining what was covered and what our team would like you to work on. We will also send you the discounted prices for follow on sessions as well as a link to book the catch up session included within your package.

What happens after the initial consultation?
 

Yes - you will need food rewards that your puppy/dog particularly likes. It can be helpful to have a mixture of regular training treats and extra special rewards for the sessions. These ideally will be cut up into fingernail size bites so they will last the length of the session and your puppy/dog does not become full up! It is also helpful if you have your collar/lead/harness ready so that if your session requires it, it is to hand.

We also ask that the forms are completed by yourself and your veterinary practice and returned to ellenthewoofpack@gmail.com.

Do I need to prepare anything ahead of the consultation?
 
If you have any questions please get in touch.
 
bottom of page