Frequently asked questions about puppy training
What age should a puppy start training?
Puppies should ideally remain with their mothers for at least 10 weeks.
We offer Private Puppy Training as well as Puppy Group Training and Socialisation Classes for puppies between 12 weeks and 4 months of age.
We require that your puppy has at least had its second vaccination which includes innoculation against the parvo virus should you choose Group Puppy Training and Socialisation classes, for the safety of your puppy, as well as the other puppies in the class.
Do you offer puppy training classes in Cape Town?
Yes we do. Our primary areas of operation are listed on our home page. We do however offer services outside of the primary areas. Travel charges may apply.
We offer a 3 week Private Puppy Training course spanning three weeks at your home. We are flexible (based on availability) as to the time and date of the session provided we are notified at least 24 hours in advance. It is essential that you commit to at least one class per week for the duration and practice the homework that we provide daily to ensure that your puppy has the skills from the previous session cemented and is ready for the next lesson. Sessions generally last between 45 mins to 1 hour.
Alternatively, you can enrol for the Group Puppy Training and Socialisation class which runs over four consecutive Saturday mornings, at 10AM from the first Saturday of each month at our premises in Durbanville all year round. Sessions are generally 45 mins, plus an extra 15 minutes for socialisation and play.
Do you train rescue dogs?
Yes we do, provided they have had their vaccinations and fall roughly within 12 weeks to 4 months. Your vet will be able to assist with this.
We strongly support the #adoptdontshop philosophy, and receive many referrals from rescue organisations.
We also receive referrals from many reputable breeders.
How long does dog training take?
This depends on how much time you invest in doing the homework we provide you with during the sessions. Like humans, dogs learn best through repetition.
We recommend a minimum of at least 3 x 15 minute sessions per day between weekly training sessions. Perseverance, patience and persistence are key.
Consistency over intensity will ensure the best outcome!
Whilst some puppies are food-driven, others may be attention-driven, that is for some puppies, attention is their reward, and for others it will be treats. If your puppy is less responsive to certain treats, you may use “high-value” treats such as chopped up boiled chicken breast, viennas or cheese, bear in mind the latter two are higher in sodium and should be used sparingly.
The time of day is another important factor. Puppies are less receptive around nap time and feeding time. Training is best done on an empty stomach, before or after breakfast, lunch or dinner.
What is the 3-3-3 Rule of integrating a new puppy or foster, rescue, adopted or rehomed dog into your home and setting them up for success?
it’s very important to understand the stages your new dog or puppy will go through during the initial phases of being introduced into a new home. We’ve written a detailed guide to help you understand what this entails. Click the button below for an overview and to learn more.
We’d be happy to answer any questions or provide you with any additional information you require. Simply complete the form below.
You can also reach out to us by calling the number on our contact page, or using the WhatsApp button on the page