FAQs.

We are based in Stoke-on-Trent and provide services throughout Staffordshire and Cheshire. All our Training Programs include travel costs up to 15miles from ST6 (see image below). For longer distances, we may suggest meeting at a convenient location halfway between us. You can find a list of the areas we cover on our Contact page . If your area isn’t listed, please feel free to reach out—there’s a good chance we can accommodate you.

To get started, we recommend visiting our Qualifications page , where you'll find a comprehensive list of all our qualifications and training. We detail everything we do to ensure you have a clear understanding of our expertise and approach.

For detailed information about our journeys and experiences as dog trainers, please visit our 'About' page . There, you can read our full bios and gain insights into our professional backgrounds and qualifications.

We embrace a holistic approach that goes beyond merely modifying behaviour. We delve into the underlying reasons—the why—behind your dog’s actions to address the root causes effectively. Our goal is to empower you as a confident and capable dog handler. We provide comprehensive support throughout your training journey, focusing on real-world scenarios to ensure you and your dog are well-prepared for any situation you may encounter. Having navigated our own training challenges, including reactivity and varied experiences with other trainers, we understand the highs and lows of dog ownership firsthand. Our personal journey allows us to empathise deeply and offer insightful, practical guidance tailored to your needs.

Having experienced negative interactions with trainers ourselves, we understand how disheartening it can be to feel judged or belittled. We are committed to ensuring that our clients never face these feelings with us. Our passion for dog training goes beyond our love for dogs; it stems from a genuine desire to support and assist people. We are here not only to guide you through the challenges but also to celebrate your successes with you. Consider us your supportive partner, ready to offer a listening ear and a cheerleading spirit throughout your training journey.

All of 'em! We've worked with chihuahua's through to Bernese mountain dogs. You can explore the full list of breeds we've worked with on our 'About Us' page. The only breeds we cannot accommodate are those listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. However, we are able to work with American XL Bullies on both a 1:1 basis and in group classes, provided they have an Exemption Certificate and comply with Government guidelines.

While we prefer not to adhere to a specific 'label'—dog training social media can be quite diverse—we align most closely with the principles of LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive). Our holistic approach emphasises positive reinforcement, focusing on teaching and guiding your dog towards desired behaviours rather than reprimanding them for mistakes. We are dedicated to changing mindsets, creating new behavioural pathways, and building strong, trusting relationships between dogs and their owners. Although our preferred tools are flat collars and harnesses, we may suggest slip leads in certain situations where safety is a concern, such as with an arthritic client working on loose-lead walking with a large dog. We welcome clients from all training backgrounds and always recommend the best approach tailored to the individual needs of each dog.

Absolutely! Visit our Facebook page or Google Profile, or check out the 'Reviews' highlight on our Instagram page.

Head to our T&Cs page to see all our cancellation and refund policies, as well as our terms and conditions. Different services have different policies so make sure you read it thoroughly.

Honest Hounds is a fantastic community of dog owners and trainers working together to improve the lives of their dogs. As Neutral and Social Walk leaders for Honest Hounds and Mentee Trainers with Honest Hounds, Dundee Dog Training, and Think It Change It Therapy, we are proud to be part of this exceptional network. Honest Hounds offers an array of valuable resources on topics ranging from aggression to loose-lead walking, helping you connect with others who share similar challenges and solutions. To learn more about Honest Hounds, visit their website. If you'd like to join, use our code HHCONSTELLATION to receive 1 month of The Pack membership for only £1.

Effective dog training requires time and consistency. One session alone is rarely sufficient to address behavioural issues, correct years of ingrained habits (such as lead pulling), or teach new behaviours. Given the wealth of information involved, it’s natural to forget some details between sessions. Our Training Programs are designed to provide extensive support between sessions, ensuring we are there to guide you every step of the way. For more information about our comprehensive Training Programs and how we can assist you, click here.

1. Head to our booking page and go to 'Dog Training'. 2. Select 'Explore Plans'. 3. Select the Program that you would like to book. 4. Enter your payment information. You will get an email confirmation confirming that you have booked the Program.

1. Head to 'Dog Training' and click 'Book Now'. 2. Select the date/time on the calendar that you would like to book. Head to 'Next'. 3. Fill in your information. Under payment it should say 'as part of a plan'. 4. Finish the booking process. Instead of 'buy a plan' it will say text relating to your individual plan.

We recommend booking our Training Programs and splitting the sessions between your dogs. While we can accommodate two dogs in a single session, we typically find that 30 minutes per dog is often insufficient unless there are two handlers present. For the best results, we suggest getting in touch before booking to discuss the most effective approach for your specific situation.

For our 1:1 sessions, we come to you, typically starting with an initial visit to your home. We may also conduct sessions in local parks, familiar walking routes, or other locations you wish to work on, such as coffee shops. Our focus is on real-world training to ensure practical, effective results. During your first session, following an initial onboarding call, we will take some time to meet you and your dog, discuss your goals, and begin the training process. Our aim is to build your confidence and skills so you can continue training effectively at home, supported by our comprehensive follow-up assistance. Subsequent sessions will dive straight into training. Throughout, you can expect a friendly, compassionate, and non-judgmental experience tailored to your needs.

We can begin working with you even before your new puppy comes home! Our Training Programs are designed to start as soon as you have your pup, and we offer support even before their vaccinations are complete. Let us help you prepare for a smooth transition and set the foundation for a successful training journey right from the start with our Training Programs.

Absolutely! Teaching an older dog new tricks is definitely possible. However, be aware that progress may take a bit longer and will require consistent effort, particularly if we are addressing long-established behaviours. With patience and dedication, we can work together to achieve meaningful improvements. Find out more about our Training Programs or get in touch for our recommendations.

The duration of a dog’s training journey varies widely. Some issues, like loose-lead walking, can see significant improvement after just one session, while challenges such as reactivity may require more time. Factors including breed, temperament, and age also influence the length of the training process. That’s why we focus on comprehensive Training Programs rather than single-session 1:1s. Our clients who achieve the best results typically engage in at least 5 sessions or work with us over several months. The more effort you put into practicing between sessions, the faster you’ll see progress and the more enduring those results will be. 😊

While our clients often achieve fantastic success and our methods are proven to be effective, we cannot promise or guarantee specific results. Since we only spend a fraction of your week with you—about 1 hour out of 168—the bulk of your progress depends on the effort and dedication you invest between and after sessions. Your commitment to continuing training is key to seeing the rewards.

We like to think we can help with most dogs, but some may require more specialist help. We have a great network of trusted trainers and behaviourists that we can refer you to, and we can also work with your veterinarian if needed.

With nearly three years of experience in mantrailing, including numerous workshops with our own dog, we have developed a deep understanding of this specialised field. Ryan has further enhanced his expertise by participating in dedicated mantrailing training days. In October 2022, we were approved as Barn Hunt UK Instructors after shadowing sessions led by the head of BHUK. We were inducted as Qualified Barn Hunt Judges in October 2024. Our commitment to continuous learning is reflected in our extensive reading, listening to a wide range of podcasts, and ongoing participation in courses and workshops. This dedication ensures that our knowledge remains current and comprehensive. For more information about our experience check out our Experience & Qualifications page.

Barn Hunt is suitable for puppies aged 6 months and older. For mantrailing, training can begin at any age, though we generally recommend starting at 6 months or older, particularly if you aim to engage in scent disciplines. There is no upper age limit for either activity, and dogs are welcome to start their journey at any stage of life.

Mantrailing Equipment: Harness: A suitable y-front or anatomical harness. Long-Line: Ideally 5 or 10 meters in length. Rewards: High-value treats (lickable foods are particularly effective) or whatever your dog finds most motivating. Scent Articles: A minimum of 3 scent articles (e.g., microfiber cloths, socks, scarves) in ziploc bags to share with other handlers. Water: For both you and your dog. Poo Bags: For clean-up. Additional Recommendations: Wear clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty, and sturdy footwear such as walking boots or wellies, especially if it has been raining. Barn Hunt Equipment: Lead: A standard lead for walking to and from the arena. Rewards: Treats or toys that your dog loves. Water: For your dog. Poo Bags: For clean-up.

Absolutely! Reactive dogs, whether reactive to humans or other dogs, are more than welcome to join our Mantrailing and Barn Hunt workshops. Both activities can be customised to meet the needs of your dog, and individual attention is given to each participant in these sports. If your dog wears a muzzle, that’s perfectly fine. However, for Barn Hunt trials, the Judge must be able to safely interact with you and your dog in the ring. If your dog poses a bite risk, even when muzzled, you would be limited to attending training workshops or non-competitive classes.

Absolutely! Mantrailing: We do not require dogs to approach or interact directly with the trail layer. It’s sufficient for your dog to acknowledge that they have found the person, and you can reward them directly rather than involving the trail layer. Muzzled dogs are welcome to participate without issue. Barn Hunt: We can adjust the environment by moving spectators away from the ring and providing coaching from outside the ring, ensuring that it is just you and your dog inside. Muzzled dogs can easily take part in the training. However, for Barn Hunt trials, the Judge must be able to safely be in the ring with you and your dog. If your dog poses a risk, even with a muzzle, they will be limited to training workshops and non-competitive classes.

Workshop: A Workshop is a training and practice session designed to help you and your dog improve skills. These workshops are conducted in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. Fun Test: A Fun Test is a licensed event where you and your dog can practice the criteria of Official Trials under the same rules but without the competitive pressure. Fun Tests do not award Qualifying Scores or Titles. Both unregistered and new dogs are welcome to participate. Official Trial: An Official Trial consists of a series of classes at various levels where you and your dog work towards earning Titles. Only registered dogs are eligible to compete in Trials and can earn qualifying runs towards Barn Hunt Titles. Each licensed Trial is limited to a maximum of two Trials per day. For more details on Trials, please refer to our 'Barn Hunt Trials' FAQ section.

Fear not—your dog’s chase drive is not an issue in Barn Hunt! We frequently receive this question, and the answer is no. In Barn Hunt, the rat tube remains stationary, and the rat itself is not visible to the dogs, so it does not trigger their chase drive. Instead, Barn Hunt provides mental enrichment through scentwork and engages your dog in fulfilling parts of their natural predatory sequence. This can help satisfy their instincts in a controlled environment, potentially reducing the likelihood of them expressing these instincts in less desirable situations.

Barn Hunt is a formally recognised and structured sport, which entails several specific requirements and associated costs. To ensure a high-quality experience for you and your dog, we invest in: Straw Bales: We use 50+ straw bales for each workshop to create a proper course setup. Frozen Rats: Essential for the competition, these are included in our expenses. Venue Hire: Securing suitable venues for our workshops and trials involves rental fees. Maintenance: Regular upkeep of fencing and creation of new rat tubes (approximately £90 for three) are necessary to maintain the equipment. Course Equipment: Continuous investment in course materials to enhance the training environment. Affiliation Fees: We pay fees to Barn Hunt International for running workshops and trials. These investments ensure that our Barn Hunt events are conducted at the highest standard, providing a professional and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Unfortunately, we do not recommend or endorse using your dog for any official Search and Rescue (SAR) purposes through our programs. If you're interested in pursuing SAR training, we advise contacting your nearest SAR organisation. For those in Staffordshire, you might consider SSART, or you can explore NASDU courses for additional training options.

Currently, we have reservations about some mantrailing organisations, including the most well-known ones. We find that their methods can be overly prescriptive, which limits our ability to tailor workshops and individual trails to the specific needs of each dog. Additionally, the cost of these courses can be quite high, and we believe that completing a short 2-5 day course should not qualify someone to become an instructor without extensive hands-on experience. We are excited to announce that we are awaiting the release of a new training course from Kryus Canine, one of the leading operational scent detection organisations in the UK. Our goal is to achieve accreditation with them by the end of 2024, which will further enhance our ability to provide specialised and flexible training for your dog.

We understand that your first walk with your dog might feel a bit overwhelming—it’s a new environment with new people, dogs, and expectations. Rest assured, you’ll settle in quickly! Our walks offer a great opportunity to connect with us and fellow dog owners, participate in engaging training exercises, and be part of a supportive, non-judgemental community. You can learn more about our Group Walks here. Neutral Walks are conducted on-lead with no interactions between dogs, ensuring a calm and controlled environment. Social Walks encourage positive interactions, with a mix of on-lead (short leash or long-line) and off-lead dogs, fostering a more social atmosphere. Each Social Walk starts as a Neutral Walk, progressing to long-line or off-lead as suitable for individual dogs. Throughout the walk, you’ll gain insights into body language, learn how to advocate for your dog, and understand when to manage interactions. We limit the number of reactive dogs to ensure a relaxed and productive environment and regularly include a 'Green Gang' of stable, well-mannered dogs for positive social learning.

Neutral Walks: A standard lead Rewards for your dog (treats or toys) Poo bags Water for your dog (optional) Muzzle (if needed) Please note that Flexi leads are not permitted on Neutral Walks to ensure safety and control. Social Walks: A standard lead (a long-line is also recommended) Rewards for your dog (treats or toys) Poo bags Water for your dog (optional) Muzzle (if your dog is reactive or if you prefer additional peace of mind) We recommend using a muzzle if you have any concerns about your dog’s reactivity, as it helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for everyone.

Neutral Walks: Reactive dogs are welcome to join our Neutral Walks. These walks are designed to provide a controlled environment where dogs remain on-lead and do not interact, allowing for a stress-free experience for all participants. Social Walks: Spaces for reactive dogs on our Social Walks are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure that Social Walks are suitable for your dog, a 1:1 assessment walk is required prior to joining. If the assessment indicates that a Social Walk may not be appropriate, we will recommend a Training Program and re-evaluate suitability after the program.

To book your 1:1 Social Walk assessment, please contact us via email or message us on social media. We will coordinate a suitable date and time and then provide you with a payment link to secure your spot.

All Social Walk assessments begin as a neutral, on-lead walk with no interactions between dogs. Depending on how your dog responds, we may then transition to using a long-line or off-lead, allowing for controlled interactions. During the assessment, we'll offer guidance on managing interactions and help you recognise key body language from both dogs. For safety and your peace of mind, we strongly recommend muzzling reactive dogs. Following the assessment, we will inform you whether your dog is suited for Social Walks and, if so, add you to our WhatsApp group chat for scheduling and booking. If your dog is not suitable, we will suggest a Training Program and arrange for a reassessment.

Once you have successfully passed your Social Walk Assessment, you'll be added to our WhatsApp group chat for Neutral and Social Walks. In this group, we post all details about upcoming walks. If you'd like to join a particular walk, simply reply to the message, and we'll provide you with the payment link. Please note that spaces for reactive dogs are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. This may occasionally mean missing out on some walks. Rest assured, this is to ensure that each group remains cohesive and comfortable, setting everyone up for success.

It's very important that we set you and your dog up for success, and the last thing we want is you turning up and yourself or your dog struggling. By having a 1:1 assessment first, we will be able to advise you if/when Social Walks are suitable to make sure that it is a positive experience for you both and to ensure a safe environment for all dogs involved. Get in touch for more information.

We highly recommend that any adults who will frequently interact with your dog attend the walks as consistency is crucial. If you'd like to bring a friend for moral support, they are welcome to join as well. For children: Neutral Walks: Must be accompanied by an adult who is over 18, dog-savvy, and understands the importance of not approaching or interacting with other dogs during the walk. Social Walks: We advise against bringing children, as the presence of off-lead dogs may pose a risk of injury if children are running around. For further details, please refer to our T&Cs regarding children attending our services.

We are committed to holding our walks regardless of typical weather conditions—we are, after all, in the UK! However, if the weather poses a significant safety risk, such as extreme heat, heavy snow, or storms, we will cancel the walk. In such cases, we will either reschedule to a different date or transfer your booking to the next available walk that fits your schedule.

Absolutely! American XL Bullies can join our classes and walks, provided you have an Exemption Certificate and adhere to Government guidelines, such as using a muzzle and leash in public.