Frequently Asked Questions
We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and we have given the answers to some of the most commonly asked below. Behavioural advice cannot be given out without an initial consultation as history of the dog and any problems needs to be known and understood, many details are needed to ensure behaviours are worked with appropriately.
If your question hasn’t been answered then you are welcome to contact us.
How long should I be walking my puppy?
The general rule of thumb is five minutes per month of age, plus five minutes. So if your puppy was five months old you would want to be walking a maximum of thirty minutes at any one time. However this can differ between breeds; a Great Dane or German Shepherd should be shorter than this due to their renowned hip problems. Exercise should be controlled, especially for any puppies under one year. A dog stops the majority of its growing by eighteen months of age. If you are unsure we can advise on a more personal level.
Do I need to get my dog micro-chipped?
Currently micro-chipping is only required by dogs with lawfully docked tails, certain types of dogs, racing greyhounds and dogs using the pet travel scheme. However in April 2016 it will be a legal requirement to have all dogs micro-chipped – it is stated that all dogs will need to be micro-chipped and details registered by eight weeks of age. It is the owner’s responsibility to keep all microchip details up to date. Micro-chipping of dogs aids lost dogs to get reunited with their owners.
Does my dog need to wear his/her collar?
The Control of Dogs Order 1992 states that all dogs must wear a collar and identity tag in a public place. It goes on to say that ‘every dog while in a highway or in a place of public resort shall wear a collar with the name and address of the owner inscribed on the collar or on a plate or badge attached to it’. I put surname rather than dogs name. I also ensure that I have mobile numbers on the tag.
I have had dogs previously, do you think classes are needed?
Many people have had dogs their whole life but I would advise that most of our clients have commented that they are glad they did classes with their new puppy or rescue. Every dog is a blank canvas and its important to understand that no two dogs will learn or train in exactly the same way and that’s why I am there!
I am getting a puppy, what sessions would you advise?
All the sessions are designed to help different stages that you will go through:
Pre puppy session – for before you bring your dog home – preparing for the new arrival to help the settling in and common issues in the first weeks.
Puppy session – for when the puppy is home. For puppies between 8-16 weeks. Helping work through the common puppy issues. Tailored to your requirements.
Puppy Level One Classes – a 7 week course to work through obedience, to be followed by the Level 2 and 3.
Should I use a harness or collar?
It is down to personal preference, however, if you dog pulls a lot a harness is advised to relieve the pressure on their neck as this can do extensive damage. Most harnesses make a dog stronger, through your training we will talk about harnesses and no doubt loose lead training. It is important to train loose lead and ideally to then use a preventative when you aren’t doing the training.
I would advise to avoid slip leads or equipment that is restrictive on your dog. Head collars are best to be avoided unless they are absolutely necessary, then we only go for one brand.
Do you train outside if it is raining?
Yes, we train in all weathers outside. We only call off if the weather is absolutely awful. At the end of the day, if you get a dog, you need to walk it. It shouldn’t be weather permitting or they will never be walked over the winter! Bring waterproofs for you and a coat for your dog! If you suffer with the cold, I use heat pads throughout the winter!
We want to get a puppy, what breed suggestions do you have?
We have sessions tailored to help you find the right breed for you and your family. We discuss your preferences and work to find a best suited breed for you. We also go with some clients to help pick a puppy or to view potential litters.