Has anyone been yet? I'm thinking of taking Porscha down this Thursday

Fox :)

Hi Fox
This is the first I have heard of it. I went to a new class that started last week at Shiregreen.
Kath

I had a new tag cut for my pooch at the cobblers in Morrisons and he told me about it. I think I'm going to take her along see what its like.

Let us know how you get along , I might even come along to that one too.
kath

If you're going to any new dog classes it's a good idea to go and look without your dog ;)

Make sure you approve of any training methods they're using before you bowl along with your dog!

We had a replacement trainer at our class for a few weeks. I think he ran a class at that end of town. He was an ex-police dog trainer and was demonstrating how to punch a Rott in the shoulder as part of it's training :suspect:

We had a replacement trainer at our class for a few weeks. I think he ran a class at that end of town. He was an ex-police dog trainer and was demonstrating how to punch a Rott in the shoulder as part of it's training :suspect:

:o:o :mad:

Let us know how you get along , I might even come along to that one too.
kath

kath im trying to pm you back it says inbox full!

(its about a dog class not going off OP)

Hi,

we've been going to these classes with Lola (our Westie) since the start of the year...

My bitches (one of the hairy variety and one of the female variety ;-)) have had a brilliant time and Lola seems to have made great progress. Everyones friendly, good fun, helpful...

Unfortunately we're in the process of moving away from Sheffield so can no longer attend :-(

Hope you enjoy it!

Thats good to hear. Do you have any info on cost etc as there isn't much info on the HASA website.

From what I can remember, we paid an initial £10 joining fee. After that, it costs £2.50 per owner participating.

There is 3/4 classes, puppies/beginners/intermediates and advanced. The puppies class starts at 7:00 and all other classes follow...

From what I can remember, we paid an initial £10 joining fee. After that, it costs £2.50 per owner participating.

There is 3/4 classes, puppies/beginners/intermediates and advanced. The puppies class starts at 7:00 and all other classes follow...

:huh: She's 8mths old, so I guess she might still be in puppy class age?

dose anyone have any info ie phone numbers or web site .

i went and felt abit patronised to be fair. i have been training my dog for 7 years and have completed the kennel club good citizens award. we were looking for something abit closer to home and on a different night.

they asked me if i had any experience i explained what we had done and was then put in to a puppy class with a 7 year old dog that was getting very bored walking round in circles sitting then walking round again.

i would highly recommend Wadsley Bridge dog club that trains on a monday night from 7 pm in the summer we are on the fields opposite the admiral rodney, and when it gets darker we train on fox hill raod in the chruch hall.

:huh: She's 8mths old, so I guess she might still be in puppy class age?

She's just finished the beginners class...

We've been taking her since she was about 3 1/2 months old... As we've never owned a dog before, it's been incredibly helpful and reasuring to get a little advice whenever needed and get her socialised with other dogs.

Well mines a rescue and I've only had her 2 mths

i went and felt abit patronised to be fair. i have been training my dog for 7 years and have completed the kennel club good citizens award. we were looking for something abit closer to home and on a different night.

they asked me if i had any experience i explained what we had done and was then put in to a puppy class with a 7 year old dog that was getting very bored walking round in circles sitting then walking round again.


Maybe they just wanted to see what your dog was capable of before he/she was assigned a class???

We considered the class in Wadsle Bridge but unfortunately I tend to work late on Mondays.

no they put me in puppies with a 7 year old dog if they wanted to see what she could they i would have thought it would have benn better to go in beginners not puppies. i felt the way i was spoken to aswell made me feel belittled as if i had never gone to training before and she
was my first dog.

but that is my opinion of the place and how i felt.

no they put me in puppies with a 7 year old dog if they wanted to see what she could they i would have thought it would have benn better to go in beginners not puppies. i felt the way i was spoken to aswell made me feel belittled as if i had never gone to training before and she
was my first dog.


Yup, couldn't agree more...

The missus is looking for dog schools in Milton Keynes over the next few weeks, it'll be interesting to see how she gets on and how they integrate a new dog to classes.

Well we went along and everyone was lovely. They have a socialisation session at the beginning with off lead getting to know you time for all the dogs. Everyone was very well behaved :)

Then Porscha and a little Dally did some lead work to heel - I was very proud of her. The registration is £15 and subsequent classes are £2.50.

After seeing the progress of the older dogs and how well mannered and well behaved they are we will continue to go.

If any other forummers venture in please come and say hello :)

so....its on a thursday at sports arena...what time and do you have to ring before going down?

Glad you enjoyed it, was your dog the dalmation puppy?

No,
<---- Thats my dog. An 8mth Staffy x

so....its on a thursday at sports arena...what time and do you have to ring before going down?

Its starts at 7 but they do socialisation from 6.45. No need to ring ahead, just turn up. The instructor is quite strict but seems to know their stuff.

right ill give it a go next thursday with my two.mine have started to become aggresive with other dogs on walks so im a bit scared of taking them incase im judged!!

right ill give it a go next thursday with my two.mine have started to become aggresive with other dogs on walks so im a bit scared of taking them incase im judged!!

Don't worry, Elvis the littlest dog in the class got a bit grumpy and he was soon sorted out. There is some pecking order sorting out when they socialise but the trainers are on hand to make sure nobody comes to any harm.

Don't worry, Elvis the littlest dog in the class got a bit grumpy and he was soon sorted out. There is some pecking order sorting out when they socialise but the trainers are on hand to make sure nobody comes to any harm.

oh that sounds fantastic!!ill excuse their behaviour on here before next thursday!!!elvis!!what a great name!!iv not had mine off lead for months now as im afraid of what they might do....they used to be so good too....:help:

No,
<---- Thats my dog. An 8mth Staffy x

Mudst have just missed you last night, I popped down after an 8 mile run for a pint and to say hello to my kanine friends...

If i make it next week i'll say hello!

Glad you enjoyed it fox !
Kath

Well what a rubbish day for getting out and about. We did the park in the rain and then went to K9 class. Porscha was a git, but granted lots of the dogs who turned up were grumpy too (must be the weather).

Sorry to the Yorkie she frightened :( I learnt loads! The classes are really helpful. Changed her collar for a half check one for walking and it works brill, no staffy trying to hang herself anymore, she caught on immediately what she had to do :)

The other dog owners are fab and very understanding of a grumpy dog :) I hope the dallys will turn up next week!

... Changed her collar for a half check one for walking and it works brill, no staffy trying to hang herself anymore, she caught on immediately what she had to do :)They work wonders don't they? :D

did they show you how to position it correctly so it gags rather than chokes fox? If a half check is worn too low down the neck it can damage the windpipe - they have to be worn higher up and closer to the ears where they are uncomfortable but don't cause damage (and you get most control too)

hey...couldn't get this week as hubby worked till 10.30!!! will hopefully make it next week....cant handle them both together!!!! is it £10 per dog by the way?

Well what a rubbish day for getting out and about. We did the park in the rain and then went to K9 class. Porscha was a git, but granted lots of the dogs who turned up were grumpy too (must be the weather).

Sorry to the Yorkie she frightened :( I learnt loads! The classes are really helpful. Changed her collar for a half check one for walking and it works brill, no staffy trying to hang herself anymore, she caught on immediately what she had to do :)

The other dog owners are fab and very understanding of a grumpy dog :) I hope the dallys will turn up next week!

Yes it was my yorkie she frightened! lol..he was a bit shook up at first but back to his "10 men" self after we got home lol..what frightens me is that he's so little what would usually be a nip or a bit of "rough and tumble" to other dogs could seriously do him some damage..so i feel i cant let him socialise with other dogs unless they arent much bigger than him! and obviously this isnt good for him because he needs to socialise, but i just cant chance him getting hurt! Am I being a bit OTT? It really worries me which is why I took him to the training class in the first place but its just as likely to happen there? Im not sure what to do? Any advice?

peewee - I really don't know what I'd be like in your situation because I have a medium sized dog but really if dogs are allowed offlead play they should be put with dogs that are either the same size or well socialised enough to be careful with smaller dogs.

My dalmatian is great with tiny dogs, she was brought up playing with tiny dogs and is actually really gentle - she'll be in the middle of rough play with a similar sized dog and will turn to a tiny dog and immediately alter her play to suit the dog she's playing with.

Your dog should not be put into a situation with dogs larger than him if they cannot control their actions and make they don't squish him - I'd be surprised if trainers were allowing this... even if they don't mean to, they could hurt him and it's not only the potential physical damage, but he could quickly learn that big dogs = danger.

Thanks for that Lotti because I thought it was me being a little overprotective! Because that is what I was thinking but in this group, as much as everybody seems really nice, many of the dogs seemed quite aggressive, im not sure if thats normal? but my Mo just wants to play and its seems every dog he comes across seems to go for him immediately without him even doing anything, and not only is it making him nervous, its making me nervous and so even if a gentle dog like urs was to come into contact with him id now be too nervous to allow it i think which is a shame because he LOVES other dogs, im not sure if it is because hes too bouncy or an easy target..im only tiny so they say like like dog like owner! lol
xxxx

don't forget the old addage that 'it all goes straight down the lead!'

if you're nervous, you'll make your dog nervous!

having said that, I've already had to fork out a small fortune for a spinal injury to my dog which may have occurred during play with a much bigger dog (egged on by an idoiot :rolleyes: ). It wasn't just the expense, but the 18 months of rehabilitation and the possibility that he'd never fully recover so may not ever walk properly again

If you're not happy with a dog class, vote with your feet

Aggressive dogs certainly shouldn't be allowed to do offlead play with other dogs, and those with 'play aggression' (arousal that turns into aggression) should be pulled out before they get to the state of arousal that gets them to become aggressive. Of course, I've not been to class and often play can be misinterpreted as aggression.

Socialisation play should always remain calm and owners should be encouraged to call their dogs away during play to break off arousal levels before they get too much. I've not been to the class so can't say what I think of their behaviour.

Personally, I wouldn't allow my dog to have offlead play somewhere she couldn't get away if the other dogs showed play aggression (or indeed if it was just a big group of dogs being allowed to play instead of being introduced to the group one by one) because it can have such a negative effect on the dog.

Not to mention, in your case the physical risks you have of your dog getting trodden or jumped on. I don't think you're being over protective, I've known people with dogs who have been left with major vet bills following an accident from an over exuberant larger dog.

Yes it was my yorkie she frightened! lol..he was a bit shook up at first but back to his "10 men" self after we got home lol..what frightens me is that he's so little what would usually be a nip or a bit of "rough and tumble" to other dogs could seriously do him some damage..so i feel i cant let him socialise with other dogs unless they arent much bigger than him! and obviously this isnt good for him because he needs to socialise, but i just cant chance him getting hurt! Am I being a bit OTT? It really worries me which is why I took him to the training class in the first place but its just as likely to happen there? Im not sure what to do? Any advice?

I really do think it was a bad weather day Peewee84, and sorry again :(

Porscha is usually totally submissive but that day they were all on one, and if heckles are up its easily transferable. TBH its the first time she has encountered such a little dog and the last time she met something so small it was a cat and the cat won :hihi:

Give it another go tomorrow and speak to the trainer about your concerns. Porscha is so much better with the advice of the trainer and the lovely lady with the mad GSD (who is brave on lead and a coward off ;) )

When she was off lead she was fine with all the other dogs just wasn't sure about Mo :) It happens but thankfully no harm done and I really hope you come over tomorrow so we can see if they can solve their differences.

Foxy

edit: Lotti, the off lead was managed, only my dog and one other went off lead due to the others being grouchy. P did the walkabout, got the warnings from other dogs and backed off submissively, she was just curious as Mo was so tiny. Mo got a bit worried and they exchanged snaps, P obviously bigger caught mo but was pulled off straight away and put back on lead. I was mortified

yes exactly strix and thats my problem because im fully aware that im passing this nervous energy onto my dog (yes i watch Dog Whisperer lol)

the thing is this dog class is the closest to my home and across the road from my mums house, and its not the trainers that i have the problem with, i can see the problem of bigger and potentially dangerous dogs occurring in whichever dog class i go to, unless theres a specialised one for miniture dogs which i doubt there is in sheffield!

Thanks fox,

As I said, I've not been to the class so don't know but I am hoping to go tomorrow just to watch. From what I've heard I don't think it's the right environment for my guys at the moment (and I'm skint) but it's still worth going along to watch :)

Thanks fox,

As I said, I've not been to the class so don't know but I am hoping to go tomorrow just to watch. From what I've heard I don't think it's the right environment for my guys at the moment (and I'm skint) but it's still worth going along to watch :)

See you there then :D come and say hello.

Will do! (If I get there and if I recognise you that is!)

<----- The dog :hihi:

Lotti, I think thats exacty what it was, where play turned into aggression as they got a bit excited, and any other dog would be able to handle it usually but Mo dont really stand a chance! So ill just have to be more cautious..it was managed Porsha was pulled off and put back on lead immediately

Foxy, its fine I know it wasnt your fault lol..it was just a bit unexpected as it was my first time and i didnt know what to expect, and obviously Mo's first time so we were both a bit shook up..tho i was surprised to see how he perked up within 15 mins of being at home haha.. i cant make it tomorrow as im working a late shift unfortunately :( and i want Mo to get back into the swing of it but ill be there the week after for definate :)

Good no hard feelings :) BTW that was only Porschas second class :roll: shes a rescue so its all new to her too :)

shes beatiful looking BTW..my dad has a large black staffie called Tasha and they get on great..(or should i say she tolerates him lol) tho she puts him in his place when needed :)

oh and she was a rescue too bless her

:) It'll be fine. An 8 mth old staff pup vs a Yorkie in a play situation is always going to be interesting. Just dont give up, Mo was great on the mat and walked really well :thumbsup:

See you next week

If we ever manage to come along to the class, I'll come and stand with you peewee , my dog is currently the smallest one at the class I go to. I think he makes up for with, enthusiasm what he lacks in size. He could do with a small friend.
Kath

Oops shant be there afterall... I am having a friend around for dinner and wine :D

If we ever manage to come along to the class, I'll come and stand with you peewee , my dog is currently the smallest one at the class I go to. I think he makes up for with, enthusiasm what he lacks in size. He could do with a small friend.
Kath

Aw thanks that would be nice Kath :) what type of dog is he? you will spot me straight away, im the small one with the small one lol

He is a Tibetan Spaniel, I posted some pics if you look at my previous posts, as I am not sure how to link to it. Do the classes you attend run all the time ? Or do they run in set weeks ? It sounds like everyone is enjoying them. I am currently attending one on a wednesday night, and it seems really good , but I think that Thursdays would suit me better to be honest.
Kath

aw bless, theyre lovely dogs..im sure they would get on great :) yes the classes are every week as far as i know..be nice to see another little dog there..

hiya i'm laura from hillsborough knine club, its every thursday any dog is welcome, puppies (under 6months) can join any thursday, dogs 6months + can join on new dogs night, our next new dogs night is on the 11th of septmember, come along. All new dogs who are over 6months are placed straight into the beginners class, however if you have done training with your dog elsewhere let us know on the night what you've done and what you've done and we'll assess your training and see if you should go up into another class

our last new dogs night was two weeks ago and we can still accept new dogs upto this thursday if you want to join, if your can't get to join by this thursday the 24th of july then i'm afraid you'll have to wait till the 11th of september if your dog is over 6 months

will i be in time if i bring my dog this thursday? he's a 7 year old rescue staffy, also how much are the fees please and is it at the hillsborough leisure centre and what time shall i get there?

thanks!

yeah sure you can join this thursday, because your dog is 7 years old you will go in the beginners class so that he can be watched and if he/she has been trained before they may move you up. its £15 on your first night and that is your joining fee. then every thursday after that it will be £2.50 for whoever is training the dog on that night and if anyone is watching it will be £1.00 for them. there is two lots of 15minute sessions so if you have a partner they can train the dog in the first class and you could train in the second class, if you do this it will be £2.50 each (£5.00 in total) it entirly up to you. it starts at 7 o'clock and is at the Hillsborough Park Arena on the edge of the park, its where the big rugby if played. if you look on the website address there is a map on the contact us page
http://hillsboroughknineclub.googlepages.com

thats great i will see you tomorrow, thanks for all the info :)

thats great i will see you tomorrow, thanks for all the info :)

no problem, yep see you tomorrow,
my name is laura by the way

dose anyone have any info ie phone numbers or web site .

the website for our club, (hillsborough knine club)
http://hillsboroughknineclub.googlepages.com

laura

I really enjoyed the class today, and Otis did too, i think he wanted to play with porcha, will def have to take them for a play date in the park :)

See everyone next week

xxx

I really enjoyed the class today, and Otis did too, i think he wanted to play with porcha, will def have to take them for a play date in the park :)

See everyone next week

xxx

:wave:

Really glad you and Otis had a good time (he is adorable) and we shall deffo meet up for a walk. Bad news is I totally forgot I'm not going to be there for the next two weeks :(

I have the Arab Horse Society Nationals at Malvern next week and were on our Jollys the week after.

BUT, we shall be back to training straight away when we get back. I was so pleased with Porscha last night she did really well :)

Hillsborough knine club, every thursday night at Hillsborough Park Arena
message me for more info if required
many thanks laura

Hi, sorry we missed last week, Otis had an upset stomach and didn't want to make a mess or pass it to other dogs, we will be there this week though :)

Hi, sorry we missed last week, Otis had an upset stomach and didn't want to make a mess or pass it to other dogs, we will be there this week though :)

its ok, hope he's ok now, c you thursday x :)

The next new dogs night is on the 9th of July for anyone with a dog who is 6months and above to join, if your dog is under the age of 6months then you can start any week. this is at hillsborough knine club
http://hillsboroughknineclub.googlepages.com

I have been taking my pup, Juno, there from 10 weeks old. she's only 15 weeks now, so not been going long. But have been enjoying it. I've always had dogs so don't really need telling how to train one, just take my pups to socialise them as much as anything, and for fun. they have been really good with me. Though I have to say the puppy class is getting a bit full. They tend to keep them in puppy class up to 6 months. If you get there for 6.45pm, they have an off lead session for puppies, where they can all just play. Mine's a bit shy so it's mostly wasted on her :-), but it's fun to watch them.

The next new dogs night is on the 9th of July for anyone with a dog who is 6months and above to join, if your dog is under the age of 6months then you can start any week. this is at hillsborough knine club
http://hillsboroughknineclub.googlepages.com

hey thats my kcs in the photos,not sure who enjoys these classes most poppy or my husband,lol

where hillsborough park arena, i live parson cross need a training class for my rescue dog, think shes about 15 16 months ish, pulls like mad on lead but generaly a good dog just needs to be tough not everybody walking past wants a nose in there leg and not eveydog she can go to, will need to bring my baby on if thats ok though, if i am ok to come then please let me know with prices and times ectx

i live parson cross need a training class for my rescue dog, think shes about 15 16 months ish, pulls like mad on lead ectx

Might I recommend a different dog trainer? During the last 12months I have been attending classes run by 'People and Dogs - Victoria Cooper'. Prior to attending these classes, I had attended classes elsewhere - ones that were more local to me and cheaper. My dog had one or two 'little' problems (including pulling on a lead) that were NEVER EVER resolved (and as the dog got older and bigger they were no longer 'little' problems) - despite being told that I just needed to be patient. I then did a bit of looking around and researching trainers etc... and chose to go with 'People and Dogs'. All the trainers there are highly qualified and highly experienced and belong to reputable associations (I couldn't find any biographies of the trainers on K9 hillsbro'). It is without any hesitation that I recommend P&D classes. They are not as cheap as K9, but you get excellent value. I am in the process of looking for another puppy, and once I know when I'm getting it 'People and Dogs' will be the first phone call that I make. :thumbsup:

Our Club does have trained and qualified trainers, they have been down on the Pet Dog Training Instructors Courses (PDTI Courses) and have qualfications and many of them have been training dog obediance for over 20 years with a different club. Therefore just because people can't find biographies on our trainers doesn't mean people can suggest we are not qualified, and have no reason to suggest this on the forum.

We understand that our training methods may not work for everyone different dogs and handlers respond to different method of training and we all understand this, its just a matter of finding which one works best for you and that means trying different clubs and training aids and may involve a balance between two methods. If anyone one who is joined at the club is experiencing specific difficulties we are very approachable down at the club and will offer one on one advice and recommendations.

many thanks
Gatley

where hillsborough park arena, i live parson cross need a training class for my rescue dog, think shes about 15 16 months ish, pulls like mad on lead but generaly a good dog just needs to be tough not everybody walking past wants a nose in there leg and not eveydog she can go to, will need to bring my baby on if thats ok though, if i am ok to come then please let me know with prices and times ectx

hello
due to your dog been over 6months old you will need to start on the next new dogs night which is on the 9th of july. Your first night is £15 and that is your dogs membership for its life, and then every thursday after this it will be £2.50 for the person training the dog and a £1.00 for a spectator.
all the details or on our website
http://hillsboroughknineclub.googlepages.com
or you can contact us on 0114 2449859

hi thanks for that gatley but do i have to pay for my baby?hes only 1 not realy spectating just there becouse he has to be lol,and can you tell me exacly where hillsborough arena is i aint got a clue lolx

hi thanks for that gatley but do i have to pay for my baby?hes only 1 not realy spectating just there becouse he has to be lol,and can you tell me exacly where hillsborough arena is i aint got a clue lolx

no you wouldn't have to pay for a 1 year old but it may be difficult for you to train if you brought your baby along unless there was someone with you to look after them?, as you would be sat around the hall until it was your class to train and then you would be on the floor training. By all means you can come down this thursday to have a look at the club to see what you would be doing then you would know what it would be like.
its situated along side the main Hillsborough Park off middlewood road where the tram tracks run. there is a map on our website if it helps, if not ring up anytime tomorrow and Norma will be in to give you full directions.

Hi, well I guess most of you wont want to know about my pet dog courses with Qualified and Accredited trainers! As from the above it appears that most of you go to the more 'old school' style dog clubs?
I can't comment on the classes at Hillsborough except to agree with 'Strix' in that you should always go along and make sure that the methods are kind, with no aggressive dogs on the course and that the trainers are not shouting and yelling, punching or choking thier dogs, as one awful place I've heard of at Attercliffe!! :rant:
If anyone wants group courses on the south west side of Sheffield. please take a look at my site. You''ll be assured of a warm, experienced and supportive welcome, small groups, fun activities and heaps and heaps of behavioural knowledge and advice imparted in every lesson. :thumbsup:

I can't comment on the classes at Hillsborough except to agree with 'Strix' in that you should always go along and make sure that the methods are kind, with no aggressive dogs on the course and that the trainers are not shouting and yelling, punching or choking thier dogs, as one awful place I've heard of at Attercliffe!! :rant:Strix doesn't like being misquoted, but is more than happy to find an aggressive dog in a dog class, and has been instrumental in assisting with the rehabilitation of aggressive dogs herself, but you should ensure that the trainer has the whole class under control, and that any aggressive dog in the class is being handled well without putting other members of the class in danger

I'm afraid I have far more respect for trainers and behaviourists who can can deal with ALL aspects of dog training, not just hand picking the easy ones with inexperienced owners :rolleyes:

Strix doesn't like being misquoted, but is more than happy to find an aggressive dog in a dog class, and has been instrumental in assisting with the rehabilitation of aggressive dogs herself, but you should ensure that the trainer has the whole class under control, and that any aggressive dog in the class is being handled well without putting other members of the class in danger

I'm afraid I have far more respect for trainers and behaviourists who can can deal with ALL aspects of dog training, not just hand picking the easy ones with inexperienced owners :rolleyes:


Apologies for any misquote, to anyone.. I am new to the forum and forum etiquette.
On the subject of 'aggressive dogs in class' however, I stand firm that dogs with aggression need extra special help and their owners too. Dogs with aggression should NOT in my experience and with my vast knowledge of behaviour, be in group training classes for the average dog. There are valid behavioural reasons for this and its nothing to do with being selective or just hand picking the easy ones with inexperienced owners or even being picky or inexperienced!
It is for the good of all concerned in the class, most especially the stressed out dog. Flooding as a behavioural technique is not recommended for dogs with inter dog aggression as it just confirms their fear and or anxiety. Aggression is usally triggered by fear and is used by many dogs as a 'space increasing' strategy. Every time a dog gets to practise lunging and aggression the problem intensitifes.
Gradaul de-sensitisation, combined with counter conditioning techniques on the other hand do work. Quite apart from the dogs emotions are those of the poor owner with the 'problem' dog, who are often, tense, embarrased by thier dogs behaviour in a group class, anxious and stressed and benefit most from 1-1 help with an expereinced and supportive trainer. (This does not mean 1-1 in isolation but in selected places with selected well behabved dogs) It is not often possible to meet special needs or even the needs of the many, or to provide this in a group class of mixed abilities. And this is not just my opinion or experience, but experience, advice and knowledge of world renouwnded behaviourists and dog trainers. Pick up any book on dog aggression or go to any seminar or lecture and you will hearit over and over, that group training for aggressive dogs, in the intial phases or rehabilitation, is definitely NOT recommended.

I do, however, have occasional dogs in my more advanced group classes. Dogs with inter dog aggression or on leash aggression, These owners and dogs are encouraged to sit at a distance and use behaviour modification techniques that they have been taught in 1-1 lessons. I find this the most succesful way of incorpating a dog with issues into group training, as the owner has had several 1-1 lessons, has mastered most of the techniqes, which increases their confidence, and is able to practise quietly from a distance while a more genrral lesson is in proces.

I do not subscribe to the melting pot methods of the more 'old school' club type classes. Many of my inter-dog aggression clients have in fact been subjected to this sort of 'training' which has most definitley made the dog worse. Also the other dogs in class, can develop aggression or become stressed as a result of the aggressive dogs presence.

In that case we're singing from the same hymnsheet vixc :thumbsup:

I certainly wouldn't expect to find an aggressive dog thrown into the middle of the room surrounded by other dogs, but the ringcraft classes we've attended have welcomed ALL dogs for their ringcraft style obedience (including crossbreeds usually frowned upon by the KC brigade), and have even had rescue dogs with aggression problems attend for socialisation. These owners were initially asked to turn up early to sit in a specific part of the hall where they could see what was going on, but all arrivees thereafter were instructed to sit elsewhere and given a little background on the situation. The dogs didn't take part in the class at this stage, just had the opportunity to absorb the new environment amongst a collection of dogs SO used to other dogs (as virtually all show dogs are) that they don't bat an eyelid at being barked at

In addition, show dog people tend to come with more respect for other people's dogs than I've found the average pet owner to. For instance nobody at a ringcraft class would dream of fussing your dog without asking your permission first, and certainly wouldn't feed them! They also don't tend get in a flap at a set of gnashers going ten to the dozen in a noisy fashion ;)

Yup, couldn't agree more...

The missus is looking for dog schools in Milton Keynes over the next few weeks, it'll be interesting to see how she gets on and how they integrate a new dog to classes.

I suggest you check out http://www.apdt.co.uk for a list of nation wide accredited, qualified, kind and effective trainers... there are several in Milton Keynes. Regards:thumbsup:

The next new dogs night is on the 9th of July for anyone with a dog who is 6months and above to join, if your dog is under the age of 6months then you can start any week. this is at hillsborough knine club
http://hillsboroughknineclub.googlepages.com

I must admit I am highly concerned at the practise that puppies up to the age of 6 months are mixing with puppies as young as possibly 12 weeks or less, which are incredibly vulnerable to negatvies experiences such as the following;

we open at 6:45pm so that they can have a socialisation part of the night, [B]where all the puppies are let of the leads in the hall and therefore allowing them to become familiar with other dogs.[B] Therefore we ask you to be careful when entering the room in case the dogs are still off the lead and keep the required doors shut.

puppies from age 3 weeks and UNDER 16 weeks are in the Socialisation phase of psychological development and are extremely vulnerable and easily traumatised. Puppies over 18 weeks are in the juvenile/adolescent stage of psychological behaviour and development and as such their needs are different. they tend to be rougher, more sexual, bigger, more independent etc and can gang up and bully smaller or younger puppies. I dread to think of large burly 6 month old puppies charign into and on top of smaller younger puppies with less confidence. Free 'play' of this type is not recommeneded and I urge anyone with a young puppy or even an older one to cosider the long term effects of these experiences. I have seen numerous dogs in my behaviour practise who have attended puppy schools like this, and who are either truamatised and dog-dog defensive or have learned how to bully other dogs. :(

please think twice

ps: the above post should of had quotes around it. I apologise.

we open at 6:45pm so that they can have a socialisation part of the night, where all the puppies are let of the leads in the hall and therefore allowing them to become familiar with other dogs. Therefore we ask you to be careful when entering the room in case the dogs are still off the lead and keep the required doors shut.

ps: the above post should of had quotes around it. I apologise.

we open at 6:45pm so that they can have a socialisation part of the night, where all the puppies are let of the leads in the hall and therefore allowing them to become familiar with other dogs. Therefore we ask you to be careful when entering the room in case the dogs are still off the lead and keep the required doors shut.

To follow this up we do not have any puppies under the age of 15wks anyway and so they are not in the vulnerable stage of development and we assess every puppy that comes through the door and tell them they don't have to let them off if they don't want. All the area is observed by trainers and the behaviour is watched. the word all 'Puppies' was a general term meaning obviously if we have a very large breed or bouncy 6month old which could bully or trample smaller dogs they would be advised to keep them on a lead. The socialisation is for a short period of time so that 'gangs' are not able to form and so that playful behaviour does not turn into aggressive behaviour
thanks for your concerns

[QUOTE=Vixc;5095457]Apologies for any misquote, to anyone.. I am new to the forum and forum etiquette.
On the subject of 'aggressive dogs in class' however, I stand firm that dogs with aggression need extra special help and their owners too. Dogs with aggression should NOT in my experience and with my vast knowledge of behaviour, be in group training classes for the average dog. There are valid behavioural reasons for this and its nothing to do with being selective or or even being picky or inexperienced!
It is for the good of all concerned in the class, most especially the stressed out dog. Flooding as a behavioural technique is not recommended for dogs with inter dog aggression as it just confirms their fear and or anxiety. Aggression is usally triggered by fear and is used by many dogs as a 'space increasing' strategy. Every time a dog gets to practise lunging and aggression the problem intensitifes.
Gradaul de-sensitisation, combined with counter conditioning techniques on the other hand do work. Quite apart from the dogs emotions are those of the poor owner with the 'problem' dog, who are often, tense, embarrased by thier dogs behaviour in a group class, anxious and stressed and benefit most from 1-1 help with an expereinced and supportive trainer. (This does not mean 1-1 in isolation but in selected places with selected well behabved dogs) It is not often possible to meet special needs or even the needs of the many, or to provide this in a group class of mixed abilities. And this is not just my opinion or experience, but experience, advice and knowledge of world renouwnded behaviourists and dog trainers.[QUOTE]

Interestingly my rescue dog is dog aggressive (still is but is improving rapidly) We tried 1 to 1 sessions but have found that dog training in group sessions has been the only thing to work. After 3 months of it he can now walk past other dogs without lunging and is in training class without a muzzle and is off lead (with muzzle) playing with other dogs. The class is very controlled so no other dog ever runs at him. On his walk with 15 other dogs he is learning to avoid the bad tempered dogs (also muzzled) and play with dogs that want to, he has only had one lunge in the all the group walks we have done. It was a risk taking him to group training as I knew it would either make or break him, but he was so scared that he was totally incontrollable dispite 12 months of different methods and we had reached the end and was considering having him pts.

I'm guessing we are at the stage that the counter conditioning methods taught may work now as he has enough contol over his fear that he can normally be distracted. He still wears a muzzle out as he cannot cope with other dogs running at him when on lead and as his doggy manners are still not great he runs at dogs aggressively and tries to attack them... then completely leaves them alone or play bows and plays chase nicely so he is not allowed off lead if dogs are around. Oddly he only does this on walks when we meet one dog if there is a large group of dogs he is fine and just plays, which I still do not understand? Any ideas?

I am actually looking for another training class to attend closer to home alongside the other class I go to just to increase his confidence further as it seems to be the way he works best.

You seem very bitter Vixc. Is there a genuine reason for the animosity in your posts or do you just feel like slagging K9 off??

Just asking as I will be attending K9 this week.

Bitter?!! Thats a very personal comment to make on a Forum. not bitter, nor "slagging K9 off" .. but I do feel it is my duty to warn the public of potential dangers to their vulnerable dogs.

the general dog owning public is not aware of the stages of psychological development that a dog goes through and the critical stages of social development, nor are some trainers who may just be teaching parrot fashion.
Many members of the publci assume that a dog training class is run by professionals, such as in the case of a riding school where you have to BHSA qualfications.
when often they are run by a people who have trained dogs as a hobby and do not, in fact, have nationally recognised or accredited qualifications. I feel it is right to warn people of the dangers they are possibly puting their dog into.
Free playfor random sized puppies of mixed ages is a potentional recipe for disaster. I see many clients in my behaviour practise that have developed inter-dog aggression as a result of attending crowded classes or 'free for all' puppy parties. Pups are placed into situations that make them feel vulnerable and threatened. The Association of Pet Behaviour counsellors (APBC) has seen a marked rise in cases of inter dog aggression in the last 20 years, since the onset of vets surgeries, training clubs, etc running puppy parties or free play sessions.

I was horrified to read the above post of a little yorkie being jumped on by a Staffy! A knowledgable and qualified trainer would not allow that to happen and would carefully select puppies to integrate 1on 1, or in small groups, according to size, breed, temeprament and age.

You (In Uppers) may view this as bitter, however, my aim is to try to help educate the dog owning public and inform them of the dangers that might occur to thier dogs in certain circumstances.

I just want to add my two penneths here in support of Vixc. I have attended many of her classes over the years with various dogs of mine, mostly rescues with inherited behavioural problems. I can't speak highly enough of Vixc's classes and knowledge and all my dogs have graduated as social, well mannered dogs rewarded by positive training methods.
Previously I had attended many dubious classes and became disheartened with the old fashioned methods some classes were using and still use today.
I can assure anyone interested in positive dog training that Vixc's classes are in my opinion amongst the best in the Sheffield/Derbyshire area.

hiya i'm laura from hillsborough knine club, its every thursday any dog is welcome, puppies (under 6months) can join any thursday, dogs 6months + can join on new dogs night, our next new dogs night is on the 11th of septmember, come along. All new dogs who are over 6months are placed straight into the beginners class, however if you have done training with your dog elsewhere let us know on the night what you've done and what you've done and we'll assess your training and see if you should go up into another class

Hi Laura I just want to ask if you guys have now finished with Attercliffe dog training club and are now renamed as Hillsborough K nine Club?

Hi Laura I just want to ask if you guys have now finished with Attercliffe dog training club and are now renamed as Hillsborough K nine Club?

hello
I still go to attercliffe aswell, the other trainers who are at Hillsborough with me are not at Attercliffe anymore, they broke away and started our own club in a different area, so attercliffe are still going aswell on mondays, the hillsborough knine club is on thursdays
laura

All our trainers are qualified trainers and have there qualifications which they gained from the Pet Dog Training Instructors Course www.pdti.org and we are situated at Hillsborough Sports Arena and are every thursday night (except bank holiday weeks). Any dog under the age of 6 months old can join on any night, if your dog is over 6 months you must join on a new dogs night which are every 10weeks so that you are joining at the start of a new course with all other new starters. you can by all means come down to take a look first before you enroll
www.hillsboroughknineclub.googlepages.com

I attended classes at hillsborough sports arena when the classes forst started and thought they were good.

Vicx, you seem to have come on here and are nit picking at gatley's classes. If you want to just state how good your group is and better than everyone elses then start your own thread!!!!!!!

Hi Laura. I have attended both Attercliffe and H/k9 club with my dogs. I have to say whilst both club are run to a very high standard, I preferred your club for the sole purpose of the dog interaction. IMO if all dogs were socialised from this early age there would be less aggression when the dogs mature. When i first attended Hillsbourgh i was a little unsure about letting my dogs run free, But all my fears were unwarranted as the trainers place them selves around the room, keeping there eyes on any puppies who were getting a little boisterous. Another thing i like about k9 club is the friendly trainers. Whilst you do get 1 or 2 trainers at Attercliffe coming over to chat, Your club trainers interact with all of the members and are always willing to help.
So in my opinion keep up the good work and TY
Cayton