Question 1

What is your training philosophy?

Accepted Answer

I use balanced, clear, and practical training methods focused on building real-world neutrality, motivation, and reliable focus. The goal is to build clear two-way communication between you and your dog by heavily reinforcing the behaviours you want, teaching solid impulse control, and setting fair, consistent boundaries.

Question 2

Do you use clickers or verbal markers?

Accepted Answer

I primarily use precise verbal markers (such as "Yes", "Good", or release words) rather than clickers. Your voice is always with you—leaving your hands completely free to handle the leash, deliver rewards, and manage real-world situations smoothly without juggling extra gadgets. Verbal markers act as an instant, clear bridge so your dog knows the exact second they earned their reward.

Question 3

What equipment do you use or recommend?

Accepted Answer

Training gear is tailored to what is safest and most effective for you and your dog. Typical setups include standard flat collars, slip leads, and long lines for recall work. I avoid overly complicated gadgets or retractable flexi-leads in favour of tools that promote clean handling and clear communication.

Question 4

Why do we use standard leads instead of flexi-leads during sessions?

Accepted Answer

Flexi-leads have their place for relaxed decompression walks in open fields, but for structured training sessions, we use standard fixed leads (like flat collars, slip leads, or long lines). Fixed leads eliminate constant background tension, give you precise control, and leave your hands free to handle food, toys, and timing without bulky plastic handles getting in the way.

Question 5

How many sessions will my dog need?

Accepted Answer

Dog training is not a one-time quick fix; lasting change depends on owner consistency and daily practice. While you will see immediate handling shifts during our sessions, packages are structured to give you step-by-step guidance and accountability as your dog advances through higher distraction levels.

Question 6

Do you work with adult dogs as well as puppies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with dogs of all ages, not just puppies. Whether your dog is young, adolescent or fully grown, we’ll tailor the session to suit their needs and your goals.

Question 7

Can you help with barking, lead pulling, or reactivity?

Accepted Answer

Yes, these are exactly the kind of everyday challenges we often support. We’ll look at what is driving the behaviour and build a practical plan that feels manageable for you and your dog.

Question 8

Where do you offer in-person training sessions?

Accepted Answer

Service Catchment & Travel RadiusWe provide in-person 1-to-1 dog coaching across North and East Glasgow via bicycle. To ensure fair travel times and reliable scheduling, sessions are organized into local travel zones:• Zone 1: Primary Area (Included in Standard Rate)Covering areas within 0–3 miles of Barmulloch, including Robroyston, Springburn, Balornock, and Millerston. No additional travel fee.• Zone 2: Extended Cycling Radius (+£7.50 Travel Surcharge)Covering locations 3–5 miles from Barmulloch, including Bishopbriggs, Dennistoun, Riddrie, and Carntyne. A small £7.50 fee is added per session to cover transit time.• Outside 5 Miles / Beyond Cycling Range:For locations outside our direct cycling catchment, we offer:1. Flexible Online Video Consultations (ideal for puppy routines, house manners, and marker mechanics).2. Outdoor Park Sessions (meet at a local North/East Glasgow park such as Robroyston Park or Springburn Park).

Question 9

How do online consultations work?

Accepted Answer

Remote video consultations are available wherever you are based. Virtual sessions are ideal for troubleshooting puppy routines, crate training, house manners, marker mechanics, or reviewing video footage of your handling technique between sessions.

Question 10

What equipment do you use or recommend?

Accepted Answer

We tailor equipment to what is safest, clearest, and most effective for each dog and handler.Fixed Leads & Collars: Standard flat collars, slip leads, and long lines are our preferred setup because they allow for clear, subtle communication with minimal clutter.Harnesses: We can work with a harness if preferred, but keep in mind it alters the mechanics of loose-lead walking and handling. With a harness, we lean more heavily on strong engagement and verbal marker clarity.Retractable Leads: While flexi-leads have their place for decompression walks in open fields, we ask that you bring a fixed lead to our training sessions for safety and timing.

Question 11

What should I bring to our first training session?

Accepted Answer

Keep it simple and focused:A standard flat collar or slip lead (no retractable leads)A treat pouch with your dog’s favourite high-value food or portion of daily kibbleA favourite toy or tug (if your dog is toy-motivated)A hungry, rested dog ready to work and engage

Question 12

What age can my puppy start training?

Accepted Answer

Foundation work can start as early as 8–10 weeks old. We focus on engagement, verbal marker systems, bite inhibition, and household structure at home first, transitioning to outdoor public spaces once full vaccinations are complete.

Question 13

How do I book an initial session?

Accepted Answer

Fill out the online intake form on the contact page with details about your dog, their current routine, and your primary training goals. We’ll arrange an initial consultation to map out a clear plan.

Question 14

What happens if it rains?

Accepted Answer

Being based in Glasgow, sessions run in standard Scottish weather—just bring a waterproof jacket! If conditions become severe, dangerous, or counterproductive for learning, we will reschedule or move the session online.

Question 15

What if I need to reschedule or cancel my session?

Accepted Answer

If you need to change your appointment, please let us know as soon as you can. We’ll always do our best to find a new time that works for you.

Question 16

How do I pay for sessions?

Accepted Answer

You can pay using cash, credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or Tap to Pay. If you have any questions about payment before booking, just get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

Question 17

Will I get things to practise between sessions?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We want progress to continue at home, so you’ll usually leave with clear next steps and simple exercises to practise between sessions. If anything feels unclear, we’ll keep it easy to follow.

Guides & FAQs

FAQ

Our Core Training Method & Vision

What is your training philosophy?

Do you use clickers or verbal markers?

What equipment do you use or recommend?

Why do we use standard leads instead of flexi-leads during sessions?

How many sessions will my dog need?

Do you work with adult dogs as well as puppies?

Can you help with barking, lead pulling, or reactivity?

Where do you offer in-person training sessions?

How do online consultations work?

What equipment do you use or recommend?

What should I bring to our first training session?

What age can my puppy start training?

How do I book an initial session?

What happens if it rains?

What if I need to reschedule or cancel my session?

How do I pay for sessions?

Will I get things to practise between sessions?

Contact