Brain Train
A fun and positive enrichment session to give your dog’s brain a really good work out
DAY-STAY AND TRAIN SERVICE
Beginning in May 2023 we will be introducing a structured training add-on package for daycare dogs. Examples of problems that our NDTF accredited trainer can work with are:
—Loose leash walking (gently teaching your pup that pulling is never acceptable and bringing the joy back into the daily walk)
—Proofing basic obedience skills in a highly stimulating environment (eg. Teaching your pup to remain in a sit while exciting things are going on around them)
—Manners (eg. Learning to greet dogs and strangers politely)
—Social skills and confidence building (teaching young dogs to play well with and/or interact with dogs both bigger/older/younger and smaller than themselves)
—Jumping up on people (we can help to teach that jumping up is not an acceptable greeting behaviour)
—Specific coaching for ‘COVID’ pups, born since January 2020, that need a little bit of extra help with their confidence and social skills
We can also help with some anxiety issues, with the understanding that many behaviour problems will require a home visit. We do not provide home visits, however we can refer you to other training companies that do.
Please call us to discuss your specific needs; we will also go through a questionnaire detailing the areas that you’d like us to work on. At departure, we will discuss how your pup has progressed towards their goals during their stay and we will talk to you about ways that you can continue to build on your dog’s new skills. You can then call us at any time for advice or help on stubborn problem areas.
All stays longer than one week will require a training add-on package.
Enrichment
We can also offer more general enrichment sessions, aimed at busy & inquisitive dogs that love a challenge and perhaps prefer the company of humans over other dogs. Some dogs benefit from a structured leash walk around the property, while others love an extended session of tug, or a game of fetch with a tennis ball.
We can even teach your dog a new party trick to show you when they get home if you think that’s something that they would enjoy!
Sessions are fun and very POSITIVE. Our aim is to engage your pup through games and activities to give their brain a really good work out. Enrichment activities will cover elements of agility, obedience and tricks, supercharged with a big dose of doggy fun.
We will spend the session on FOCUSED ONE-ON-ONE TIME with your pup during their stay.
We are happy to provide toys, kibble and treats for lures and rewards. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can bring along a portion of their daily food allowance, treats, or a favourite toy for us to use.
Feel free to have a chat at pick-up or drop-off, or by email or phone if you prefer.
Give us a call on 02-4982-1182 and ask for Phillippa, or email us at bookings@nelsonbaykennels.com if you think your dog might benefit.
Prices
2022 rates:
– Regular session (15 minutes): $20
– Extended session (30 minutes): $40
Most dogs find that a 15 minute session is just right, however your pup may enjoy a longer session.
Please note that availability is limited.
FAQs
What can I expect from Brain Train?
Brain Train is intended to provide a one-on-one session of focused interaction to help your pup to develop calmness, focus and work on areas of weakness. If your dog struggles with social interactions with other dogs, then this is something that we can help with in a safe, controlled environment.
What training tools do you use?
We use positive reinforcement, games, and concept-based training to build optimism and engagement between owner/trainer and dog. We aim to give the dog skills to generalise their learning to the outside world.
Will you fix my dog’s behavioural issues / aggression?
Not necessarily – that is beyond the scope of Brain Train. In fact, dogs with serious behavioural issues may not be suitable candidates for Brain Train. Please consult with a qualified trainer such as Julie at Barkers in Balance (www.barkersinbalance.com.au) first.
Will it help my new puppy?
Certainly! Once a puppy has graduated puppy school, it is important to continue training to ensure that they keep up the good habits and don’t learn bad ones. Brain Training for puppies would focus on de-sensitisation and socialisation, to help build optimism in a young dog. Please note, a longer session may be beneficial for puppies.
What about working breeds?
Yes! Brain Train is especially good for terriers and working breeds who are looking for their purpose in life… and generally finding it in all the wrong places.
What if the weather is bad?
Bad weather may affect whether we can effectively perform outdoor / off-leash activities, so we may have to postpone the session. Alternatively, we may be able to use an indoor venue.
A fun, safe and comfortable place to leave your pet when you go on holiday, renovate your house, or travel for family or work engagements.