Dog School

Advice and practical training to help you and your pooch understand each other better. Dog School offers training programmes for puppies and their owners, and self-led training resources for dogs of all ages.

Labrador puppy enjoying Dog School class with owner

Building a strong bond with your dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have—but it takes more than love alone. From the joyous chaos of puppyhood to the steadier days of adulthood and beyond, Dogs Trust is here every step of the way. Our expert-led training not only supports your dog’s growth at every stage of their life but also empowers you to navigate the key moments of your own journey as a dog owner, deepening the connection you share. Through training, you’ll not only teach your dog essential skills but also strengthen the bond that forms the foundation of a lifelong relationship. 

Welcome to Puppyhood!

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, heartwarming, and… a little chaotic! One minute they’re snoozing like an angel, and the next, they’ve turned your favourite shoes into their new chew toy. Sound familiar? We’ve been there! That’s why we created Your Puppy Toolkit—a set of expert-led courses designed to help you navigate puppyhood with confidence. 

What’s Inside Your Puppy Toolkit? 

Our two online courses are designed to help you build a great relationship with your puppy while teaching them important skills and setting the stage for a lifetime of positive training. 

Puppy Management Course – Navigate those early weeks with confidence 

This course supports you as you welcome your puppy home and tackle the typical challenges that come with early puppyhood: 

  • Helping Your Puppy Settle – Create a calm, comforting routine (including tips for crate training).
  • Toilet Training Made Simple – Build a routine that works and helps reduce accidents.
  • Redirecting Playful Chewing – Save your shoes, furniture… and fingers!
  • Exploring New Environments – Boost your puppy’s confidence with new sights, sounds, and situations.
  • Encouraging Good Habits – Set your puppy up for smooth, stress-free training later on. 

 

Puppy Training Course – Teach your puppy the skills they need for everyday life 

Once your puppy has settled in, it’s time to start training! This course helps you teach practical, everyday skills that make life together easier: 

  • Attention & Focus – Help your puppy tune in, even in busy places.
  • Loose Lead Walking – Enjoy walks without the tug-of-war.
  • Reliable Recall – Teach your puppy to come back when called (most of the time!).
  • “Leave It” – Support your pup in ignoring things they shouldn’t pick up.
  • Sit & Settle – Teach calm behaviour wherever you go.
  • Building Confidence with Positive Reinforcement – Strengthen your bond using reward-based training. 

 

Why choose Your Puppy Toolkit? 

  • Expert Support – Created by professionals who know what it’s like to raise a puppy.
  • Bite-Sized Learning – Short, practical lessons that fit into your daily routine.
  • Learn at Your Own Pace – Flexible learning, with reminders to help you stay on track.
  • Easy Access – Mobile-friendly courses you can take with you anywhere.
  • Live Support Sessions – Join two live online group sessions with our expert trainers (included in the Puppy Training Course). 

 

Ready to Get Started? 

Your journey to building a stronger bond and a positive training experience with your puppy starts here. 

Your shoes (and your sanity) will thank you!  

Our approach

At Dogs Trust we train dogs using reward based methods, and do not advocate the use of any training equipment which changes behaviour by causing pain or fear in dogs.

Dogs which are trained with rewards enjoy learning - they are a partner in the training sessions and often 'offer' new behaviours to see if they get a reward.

Reward based training works to change behaviour and enhances the bond between dog and owner.

We also make sure you get the support and resources you need to help you in our classes and beyond. These courses include access to our owner support hub to enable a strong start to your training.

Dog School coach supporting owner and her dog

More ways to learn

Our puppy training may not be the best option for everyone. Here are some other ways we can help, including self-led training resources for dogs of all ages and information for schools and educators: 

Teaching your puppy good habits

Teaching your puppy good habits

Prevent unwanted behaviours

Prevent unwanted behaviours

How to train your dog to be patient in doorways

How to train your dog to be patient in doorways

Educational events and workshops

Educational events and workshops