Cosford Dog Training Services

Behavioural Consultations (Shropshire, Staffordshire, West Midlands)

There are no standard qualifications for canine behaviourists. Some franchisers claim to be able to turn you into a behaviourist after a 6 month course, oh and after paying them a lot of money. There are many other bodies that award their own qualifications. Obviously some of these organisations have a vested interest in you passing their course or they wouldn't have many members. I have lost count of the number of individuals who claim they used to train Police/Guide/Guinea pig rescue (delete as applicable) dogs.

For my part I hold a Foundation Degree in Canine Behaviour & Training by Hull University, coupled with 30 years experience as a Police dog trainer in the RAF. You will note that my qualifications and experience is all aimed at dogs. That's what I specialise in, so you will have to take your hamster, parrot or monkey elsewhere. I am a member of the Kennel Club Accredited Instructor (KCAI) Scheme for Dog Trainers and Behaviourists.

For dogs with behavioural problems the starting point is invariably a home visit to see the dog in its natural environment.  This is where the dog generally displays the problem behaviour and therefore is the most appropriate place to see it displayed in all its glory.

It is, in my opinion impossible to accurately assess problem behaviour over the telephone or in an artificial environment. Others may claim to be able to do it, but I can't, so I don't make such claims.

The initial consultation will generally take between two and two and a half hours during this time the dog is observed in the circumstances when it displays the problem behaviour.  Wherever the problem manifests itself, that's where the consultation takes place.  It may be inconvenient but it is effective.

You, the owner are supplied with a full, detailed written report is supplied within seven days to the owner.  This can be sent via the post or more commonly via e-mail.

This report is the only the starting point for the programme.  It is essential that close contact is maintained between us, in order that the programme can be amended as progress occurs. The behaviour modification program is a living document which needs to be amended as we move forward with the dog.

One to one training

One to one training can be undertaken at Cosford Dog Training or in your home environment.

If you are unable to attend the training class due to lack of transport or unusual work patterns training sessions can be arranged at your own home or in the area where you usually exercise your dog.

One to one training sessions generally last for about an hour, unless the specific problem requires longer or shorter sessions.

All aspects of basic obedience training can be undertaken during one to one sessions or specific problem areas, such as pulling on the lead or poor recall can be addressed.

If you have ever felt embarrassed or awkward when dealing with your less than perfect dog in a class situation these sessions allow you to deal with problem in a one to one, professionally coached situation.  This invariably results in you learning quicker and consequently a better response from your dog.

Ideally, this is used as a stepping stone to get you and your dog integrated into one of the regular group training classes.

If you have any concerns or questions to ask feel free to phone and discuss your dog's particular needs.  Dog training is not a one size fits all solution for every dog.   I am quite prepared to tailor the training program to the needs of you and your dog.

This is your opportunity to get help with something that may be detracting from your relationship with your dog.  It is the first step to a better, stronger relationship with him or her.  That's why you got a dog, isn't it?

Group Classes

Basic training is primarily geared to the Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme Awards.  CDT has been running these awards for 10 years now from the Puppy Foundation awards through to the Gold award.

The GCDS is an ideal introduction to basic dog training and building a strong relationship with your dog.  Courses can be done to achieve a good basic standard or used as a stepping stone into many other aspects of dog training.

There are separate courses for Bronze, Silver and Gold. You all start and finish together to develop team spirit and benefit from mutual encouragement.

Advanced Training  

Having achieved good basic skills advanced training in obedience, agility and search is available. Security training to NVQ standards is available in certain circumstances to handlers and dogs of proven ability and reliability.  Enquiries are welcome from SIA licence holders and training is currently provided to several security companies. 

It is very easy to teach a dog to be aggressive and bite.  It is equally easy to appear in court having done so. The real skill is in teaching this in a controlled and responsible manner. Such training is not provided until I am satisfied about your ability, the dogs suitability and that such training is appropriate.

Training Presentations

Training presentations and practical demonstrations are available to schools, colleges and other organisations. Please phone or e mail to discuss your requirements.

A Training Lecture and Practical Demonstration at Rodbaston College

Reasons to Train Your Dog

Dogs don't know the difference between right and wrong. They learn from the consequences of their everyday experiences, whether they be good or bad. We usually play a major role in providing those experiences and consequences.

We often forget to teach them what we want them to do and instead punish them for doing the wrong thing. I know many trainers who are guilty of this; just take a look at the grinning mexican bloke on the telly, who spends a large part of each episode poking dogs with his hands and feet. I haven't seen many happy looking dogs there.

Investing a bit of effort in understanding and teaching your dog as opposed to whacking it for getting something wrong isn't always easy, but will always pay dividends and develop a stronger relationship with a well behaved, well trained and happy dog.

Few owners need or want an obedience champion.  But having a well behaved, well socialised and responsive dog is one of life's great pleasures and a source of pride.

Owners that take a pride in their dog generally take responsibility for all aspects of their dog's lives, keeping them healthy and safe.  Training plays an important part in achieving both.

Training keeps both you and your dog fit, physically and mentally.  Ever heard the phrase; The devil makes work for idle hands?  Well believe me the same goes just as well for idle paws.

Dogs lacking in mental stimulation are often the ones that get into mischief.  The dog rescue centres are full of dogs that had they been given some training and the accompanying mental stimulation that goes with it, would be asleep at home in front of the fire now, dreaming of a lifelong relationship with their families.

So what do I do now?

Invest the price of a phone call and we'll discuss your needs and those of your dog.  Together we'll find the most effective approach to achieving your goal.  It's never too early and seldom too late to start.

         Bronwyn Mai aged 2 and Sophie aged 9 demonstrate loose lead walking  

Terms and Conditions

Group classes. Deposits accepted for places in group classes are non returnable except in exceptional circumstances. Fees are payable in full before training commences. Once training commences fees will not be refundable.

In the event that a course is cancelled by Cosford Dog Training before it commences all deposits will be refunded. In the event that a course is cancelled by Cosford Dog Training after it commences fees for the remainder of the course will be refunded to customers.

One to one fees are payable in full at the time of the training session. Cancellation made by customers 24 hours in advance of the lesson will not be charged. Cancellations after this period will be charged in full.

One to one fees paid for in advance are subject to the same 24 hour period of notice for cancellation or the session will be charged in full.

By booking training customers agree to these terms and conditions.