FAQs

Who can attend?

Anyone who owns a gundog breed and wants to participate in gundog pursuits using kind methods with a group of like minded others.  Whether you intend to actively work your dog on a shoot, want to harness your pet dog’s natural abilities or are simply undecided as to your intentions, we have the expertise to point you in the right direction.  Canine Solutions does not however, have any interest in Field Trialling.

Can I attend with a non-gundog breed?

So long as you feel your dog will enjoy hunting, retrieving, jumping, water work and all the other activities traditionally associated with gundog training.

How old does my dog need to be?

Minimum age is 6 months due to the length and content of our training sessions.  There is no upper age limit.  Some activities such as jumping cannot be attempted by dogs under 12 months but other more appropriate activities will be organised instead.   However, if you have just acquired a very young pup, there are still lots you should be doing with regard to socialisation and foundation training.   Please contact us for details on Puppy Socialisation and Training classes.

What are your training methods?

Our methods are kind, fun, effective and based on a scientific understanding of how dogs learn.  Richard, Caroline and Rebecca have each been assessed and approved by the APDT according to a strict code of practise.  We do not advocate the use of electric or prong collars and will not tolerate owners kicking or hitting their dog.  Your dog’s welfare is our prime concern at all times.

Do I need to be a member to attend?

Yes, please see our membership page.  Membership numbers are limited and you are advised to join up early to avoid disappointment.  We aim to preserve quality by keeping quantity low.

How much does it cost to attend a training session?

Each 2 hour training session costs £15 per dog.

Can I use food treats to reward my dog?

If your dog is incentivised by and values food treats in an outdoor environment then using them as a reward will work very well if done correctly.  Likewise for some dogs the thrill of getting a dummy from a retrieve is a reward for them as it is a dog hunting and finding objects.  If you are to use food as a reward, we advise using small pea size, high quality food; chicken, other meats, liver, cheese etc as opposed to dry biscuit.  Food rewards can eventually be phased out so that your dog is not dependent on them. 

I am undecided as to whether I want to use my gundog for beating or picking up. Does this matter?

Not at all.  The majority of our training will be beneficial whatever you decide to do.   When you have made up your mind then we can facilitate training targeted towards that purpose. We have access to various forms of land and equipment where we can work specifically on hunting, retrieving, quartering, steadiness etc.

Can children attend?

Well behaved children are very welcome.

My bitch is in season. Can I still bring her?

No please leave her at home. If you are a member then you are welcome to come as a spectator without your dog.

My dog does not like other dogs. Can we still attend?

Dogs must be comfortable around other dogs and people. Aggressive dogs or those likely to be stressed by the close presence of others cannot be accepted. Indeed their problems are likely to get worse not better in this type of training environment. More appropriate help is available for such dogs so please contact us.

Is outdoor training better than indoor classes?

The majority of our clients have done at least one of our indoor training courses which will enable them with basic skills to control their dog in the calm, kind and effective manner that we endorse.  When done properly, small, structured indoor classes (such as those offered by Canine Education and Four Paw Solutions) offer a fantastic foundation to you and your dogs training.  The exercises and distractions provided by us make an indoor environment far from sterile.

I would like to train my gundog using a clicker. Is this possible?

Absolutely! All instructors at Canine Solutions are experienced and competent clicker trainers as well and if this is your preferred method we will do all we can to support you and further your knowledge.

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