Training the Family Dog was established in 2014. It was created to support families and their pet dogs with modern, effective and ethical, training solutions.

I am a mother of two beautiful children, a wife and a businesswoman. Samantha, my eldest child lives with special needs. Our household is blessed to have a Labrador named Eric, an assistance dog that supports Samantha and is her very best friend.

My younger years were focused on horses with a trusty dog by my side. In 2009, I began working professionally with dogs. I studied and achieved my certificate lll in Dog Behaviour and Training in 2012. To this day, I am actively engaging in conferences and events for ongoing support and up to date knowledge.

As a pet dog trainer, I see many families who don’t foresee the challenges of adding a puppy to their home. Families adjust better when they know how to manage their puppies and appropriately involve the household in Training the Family Dog. The bond between the family and the dog can suffer if unsuitable methods are used. I believe I provide a realistic way for busy families to include and train their dog(s). Teaching families how to communicate effectively and ethically with their dog will establish a happy environment for all.

• -Helping create an environment where families enjoy their dogs and dogs enjoy their families
• -Offer training, related to everyday life situations
• -Helping make your dog a well-mannered and a welcome member of your family
• -Ensure the well-being of your dog
• -Assisting owners to better understand their dog and the way they learn
• -Helping create a trusting home for your dog
• -Improve your understanding of dog behaviour and responsible pet dog ownership
• -Promoting a relationship of trust, reliability, protection and respect

• -Government Accredited, Nationally Recognised Dog Trainer
• -Certificate lll Dog Behaviour and Training
• -Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT)
• -Member of Pet Professional Guild
• -Actively engages in industry conferences and events for ongoing support and knowledge

Puppies 8 weeks to 15 weeks (the sooner the better)

Congratulations on the arrival of your bundle of joy, have fun and enjoy. Puppies learn so quickly and now is the time to teach them the behaviours your family want, using appropriate positive reinforcement training.

• Dogs Per Class: Minimum 3, Maximum 5
• Fee: $200.00
• Duration: 1 hour/week for 4 weeks
• Venue: Matraville Veterinary Practice

Topics include; but are not limited to:

• -Toilet training
• -Puppy biting
• -Home skills
• -Puppy play
• -Increasing bond
• -Crying when alone
• -Barking
• -Chewing
• -Children and puppies
• -Socialisation
• -Stealing objects
• -Jumping up

Training includes; but are not limited to:

• -Name
• -Sit
• -Down / drop / lay
• -Leave something alone
• -Come to you when called
• -Trade items / food

The ideal age to start group training with Training The Family Dog is straight after puppy classes, or if you believe your dogs may be becoming more independent with challenging and unwanted behaviour. During these classes your instructor will help you to begin, or continue your journey to achieve a well-mannered family pet.

• -Bonding with your dog
• -Learning to read your dog’s body language and react accordingly
• -Well behaved family pet
• -Walking nicely on a leash
• -Come when call, (off lead)
• -Mutual respect and trust

• Dogs Per Class: Minimum 2, Maximum 5
• Fee: $120.00
• Duration: 1 hour/week for 3 weeks
• Venue: Classes are held locally to Matraville

**Dogs over 5 months must have been through puppy classes or had a consult with Training The Family Dog**

Behaviour issues including, but not limited to:

• -Jumping
• -Rushing through doors
• -Digging
• -Chewing
• -Barking

Basic obedience include:

• -Walking on a leash nicely at your side
• -Sit
• -Down
• -Stay
• -Come