Question 1

I have a new puppy. When can I come to class?

Accepted Answer

Congratulations on your new family member. We look forward to having you in our classes.

To keep your puppy safe, they must be fully vaccinated before joining our classes. Typically, puppies are fully vaccinated from 16 weeks. Check with your vet if you are unsure.

We don't run puppy exclusive classes. Our classes are outside and grouped by skill, not age. New entrants classes will be made up of all kinds of of dogs of varying ages. Additionally, the reserve is public grounds.

Question 2

I have a new rescue dog. When should I come to training?

Accepted Answer

Congratulations on your new family member. We look forward to having you in our classes.

You are welcome to bring your new dog to class as soon as they are fully vaccinated. However, rescue dogs need special consideration.

We recommend you spend a few weeks at home before coming to class. This will allow you to bond with your dog and establish trust with your family.

Question 3

I haven't been to class before. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

Make sure you have completed your enrollment form and paid your fees before you come to class.

You will find our enrollment form HERE
All class participants MUST be members of the club to attend classes.

Come early to see us in the clubrooms. We will check your enrollment form and fees, and run through some onsite H&S.

New Entrant classes are held on the grass next to the carpark. Let your dog sniff around and relieve themselves before class. This can help reduce anxiety, stress, and over-excitement at being in a new place.

IMPORTANT: Please keep your dog on leash. The grounds are not fully fences and there are hazards in the reserve.

Question 4

What do I bring?

Accepted Answer

Bring your dog/s on a short leash (we do not recommend using a retractable leash). All dogs must be on leash in the clubrooms, on the grass areas immediately in front of the clubrooms, and the grass adjacent to the carpark.

If your dog is a bite risk, please bring a muzzle for your dog. This is for your safety, as well as the safety of others.

Make sure your dogs collar and/ or harness is fitted correctly. 
Click here for a quick video on fitting your dogs collar. 
Click here for a information on fitting your dogs harness correctly. 
If you choose to use a harness on your dog, we recommend using one with a front chest clip for easier training.

Bring food for your dog. For easy digestion, we recommend a soft food such as partially dehydrated dog roll like Possyum. It is readily available in most supermarkets. If you are concerned about overfeeding, either skip dinner and/ or give your dog half portions for the meal/s that day.

Classes are held outside, on grass. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Check our website or Facebook page for cancellation notices. 
The grounds will sometimes be muddy. You might like to bring gumboots or old shoes to wear during the class, and an old towel for your dog to protect your car.

Question 5

Does my dog need to be fixed (neutered/ spayed) to participate in classes?

Accepted Answer

No, we don't require dogs to be fixed before joining the club, or attending classes.

However, you cannot bring your female dog to class while she is in heat, and make dogs must not be allowed to mount people or dogs.

Question 6

When do your courses start?

Accepted Answer

Our training classes do not have start and end dates. You can bring your dog to class as soon:
Your dog is at least 16 weeks old AND fully vaccinated
You have completed the enrollment form AND paid you membership fees

All new dogs start in the New Entrants class. Your instructor will let you know when you can move to the next class.

Question 7

Do I have to start in New Entrants? My dog can already sit, down, stay, come when called, and walks well on leash.

Accepted Answer

All new member start in the new entrants class regardless of their current ability. New environments, new dogs, and new smells are a big test. We want to set all dog up for success.

Your instructor will let you know when you can move up to the intermediate class.

Question 8

How much are classes?

Accepted Answer

Classes are $5 each.

Alternatively, you can buy a 6-class concession card for $25.

IMPORTANT: We recommend paying online. We do not keep cash on premises. If you pay on the night, please bring the correct amount as we will not be able to give change.

Question 9

How big are your classes?

Accepted Answer

Our classes do not have a minimum or maximum size, but class size varies greatly.

Sometimes there might only be a few dogs, other times you might be in a class with up to 20.

Class size has a lot to do with the season. Winter classes are typically smaller than in Summer.

Question 10

How long are your training courses?

Accepted Answer

Our training classes are not restricted to set course periods. As soon as your dog is enrolled and vaccinated, you can bring them to class.

As your ability improves, your instructor will let you know when to move to the next level. You can join from the following week.

There are no make-up classes. If you do not attend a class, you return the following Monday.

Question 11

When do I move to the intermediate and advanced classes?

Accepted Answer

There are certain skills each dog & handler need to understand before they can progress to the next class.

Your instructor will let you know when you can move to the next class.

If you are concerned about your progress as a handler, please speak to your instructor before or after class.

Question 12

Am I allowed to join the competition class?

Accepted Answer

Competition classes require a good foundation of obedience skills.

Let your instructor know you are interested in competing so they can make sure you cultivate additional foundation skills in the intermediate classes before progressing to the competition group.

Question 13

I'm interested in competing, but I've never done it before.

Accepted Answer

On the first class of each month, we will be hosing club competition for people to try there hand at competing.

This does not count toward any national rankings, but will give you a glimpse of what it's like.

Question 14

When can I join Rally-O Classes?

Accepted Answer

Rally-O classes require a reasonable level of obedience and learning ability.

Typically, you will be able to join the Rally-O class if you have progressed to the intermediate class.

Learn more about Rally-O HERE

Frequently asked questions