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This is The Good Dog Academy logo

...because everyone wants a Good Dog!

Hi! I’m Karen,
a passionate dog Training Instructor based in Ashford, Kent using reward-based, force free training.

Kennel Club Approved for the Good Citizen Dog Scheme.

Also, proud owner of Bernese Mountain Dogs, Tallulah, Taya and new pup Travis.

Karen and Tasha
The Trainer of Choice...
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Dunbar Academy

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT ME

I've always had dogs and I love turning them into bundles of love and fun! I feel so proud when people come up to me when I'm out and comment on how they wish their dogs were as calm and well behaved as mine. I'll then give them some tips on what they can do and normally when I meet them again, they come up to me and tell me it worked!

After years of all this 'free' training, I decided to get myself qualified and start my own dog training to help owners get the most from their dog and really enhance their relationship.

 

All my classes are reward-based, choice training with no aversive equipment or hard punishment.  When your dogs are in my classes, they are taught that good behaviour brings rewards, they are not doing it out of fear but because they have made the correct choice.

I am very proud to announce that I have recently been accepted by The Kennel Club as an Approved Club to teach the Good Citizen Dog Scheme.  The GCDS is the UKs largest dog training programme.  

After lots of studying, I have been accepted by THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CANINE ETHICS as a Professional Member. 
An excerpt from their Charter explains -

'We believe in treating every dog with kindness, respect, and understanding, recognising their unique needs and emotions. Our organisation is committed to promoting ethical training methods that prioritise positive reinforcement and compassionate approaches, ensuring the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of dogs.'

On Friday mornings, you will find me at Aldington Village Hall, where I assist Teresa and Ron Mills of Gefion Dog Training, teaching The Good Citizen Dog Scheme.  I am honoured to be part of their team.

Kennel CLub Good Citizen Dog Schemem logo
ABOUT
Group Training with The Good Dog Academy

LESSONS

All our lessons are carried out on our own secure field or on the hardstanding outside the classroom.  The whole area has been approved by Ashford Borough Council as suitable for dog training.  Being taught outside is really being in the 'real world'.  The sounds of birds, voices, cars, lorries, tractors, bikes, sirens - can all be heard and these distractions keep your dog more focused on YOU!  In the Winter months we do have our own 'classroom' but will still be outside as long as it's not raining or freezing (because I hate being wet and cold!)
I only ever have a maximum of 5 dogs in my classes, so you and your dogs will get the attention you have paid for.  I don't leave you fending for yourself or wondering if you are doing things correctly because I'm too busy talking to others.


If you are interested in The Kennel Club's Good Citizen Dog Scheme, click on the tab on the first page to find out more about The UK's Largest Dog Training Scheme.

ONE TO ONE TRAINING AND HOME VISITS

These classes are suitable for dogs (or owners!) who may need a bit of extra help.  These can include rescue dogs who need to learn basic training, anxious dogs who may find classes a bit overwhelming and new owners who are not really sure where to start.

Home visits are also available on the one to one basis.

GROUP CLASSES

Young puppies need to be socialised from a young age so they can grow up to be a Good Dog! So as soon as your pup is ready to mix with other dogs (usually after their second puppy injection), book them into one of our puppy classes. Here they will start to learn that really important loose lead walking, how to play and interact with people and other dogs, food manners, knowing when we want them to 'settle' and of course the basic commands of sit, down and stay.  This course will include a High Street walk, games and some very low impact agility.

Puppy Classes
GROUP CLASSES

Dogs that have had basic training at an early age will probably behave themselves for many years.  However, circumstances may change for the dogs and they may find themselves in situations where training has lapsed. If your older dog has forgotten how to behave properly, then one of our refresher courses can help.

Classes for Older Dogs

SERVICES
CLIENTS

SOME OF OUR HAPPY CLIENTS

Currently Accepting Dogs From These Locations

If you live in an area not included in this list, please contact me for a chat. 

Locations
CONTACT

CONTACT ME

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