PLEASE NOTE: We are currently not offering obedience classes

Providing your dog with a basic level of obedience is very important. It allows you to have the ability to control your dog when required, along with the peace of mind that you will be able to avert the dog from danger through commands such as rapid down or recall.

It also allows the dog to have a better understanding of its place in the pack. If a dog is not controlled by the owner, what is to stop the dog thinking it is the leader of the pack? This is when behavioural problems can arise, but through the development of control through obedience, you and your dog will be able to live a happy life together.

Below, some of the basic obedience commands are explained along with why they are important.

The Recall - The dog comes when called

The recall is probably the most important command that you will ever teach your dog. It will allow you to let your dog off the lead in the knowledge that you can call it back when required.

This allows your dog to run free and enjoy a greater level of excercise which will improve its fitness level. You will be able to call your dog away from dangerous situations, it will allow the dog to meet other dogs in a more natural way, off lead and it will allow you to teach your dog further commands, such as the rapid down.

The Sit - The dog sits either in front of you or at your side

The sit is an important command to teach your dog, it allows other people to greet the dog in a relaxed manner and makes physical examination of the dog easy, particularly of the eyes, ears and mouth.

The Rapid Down - The dog lies down where it is

The rapid down is as important to you and your dog as the recall. This command allows you to control your dog at a distance. The dog should lie down immediately upon hearing your rapid down command. This can prove to be life saving if the dog is heading for a busy road. It also allows you to control the situation when a cyclist or horse is approaching.

These are just a few of the commands a dog should be aware of and be able to respond to.