Obedience.
The first step in having an obedient dog is to take it to training. There is no better place to start than at Douglas Dog Training Club.
Every Tuesday evening throughout the year, like-minded folk meet with their dogs, and get great enjoyment out of training their pet (or pets!) – even the dogs enjoy it!
We have members with a cross-section of breeds (including many cross-breeds), and we welcome all standards of handlers and their dogs.
If you have a new dog or puppy you will start in the beginners class. Here you will learn how to command and control your dog, whilst he/she is able to socialise with other dogs under supervision of experienced handlers and trainers.
The primary aim is to promote socially acceptable dogs and to teach owners how to train their dogs. There will be regular assesment nights to track your progression.
After working a basic dog obedience course, you may want to try your hand at competitive obedience training.
There are six obedience classes available for entry at open shows and all dogs start from the basic Pre- Beginners Class and by a series of first prizes qualify through to Class C, the highest on the island (and most difficult). Each class contains a set of exercises which the judge will ask you and your dog to perform.
The exercises range from heel-work (on and off the lead), to a recall as well as control exercises such as a sit and a down stay. As you progress through the classes the exercises obviously become more difficult until you reach Class C where your dog will have to perform (in addition to those previously mentioned) a scent discrimination exercise and also a send away and distant control exercise.
Your first step to competitive obedience may be to enter a Companion Dog Show, which are organised by Dog training clubs on the Island. There are also three ‘Open Shows’ on the island every year.
Whether you train for competition or fun your dog will be more sociable and you will have fun together.
How much?
Membership costs £12 annual subscription for an adult and £9 for junior members (16 and under). If you already are a club member through agility then one subscription covers both.
Obedience training is paid in a block amount for a ten week course. This is paid on your first night you come training with us.
When is it?
Obedience training is held on a Tuesday night.
Class 1 18.30hrs – 19.30hrs
Class 2 19.30hrs – 20.30hrs
Class 3 20.30hrs – 21.30hrs
Where is it?
Union Mills Football Club (Strang Road, Braddan) during the winter.
Onchan Park (on the green in front of the race track) during the summer.
What do I need?
For obedience training you will need lots of nice yummy treats like sausages or cheese. You will also need to bring a toy your dog likes, and lots and lots of patience! A collar and lead are also essential items of kit.
Some points to mention with regard to the Club:
- Rough handling, smacking and shouting at your dog will not be tolerated.
- When a bitch comes on heat you must not bring her to training for three weeks.
- All dogs must be vaccinated, you must bring your vaccination card to your first training session and all dogs must receive their annual boosters.
- Bring treats or a toy to help with training (remember human chocolate is poisonous to dogs).
- Please turn up for your classes on time & please wait outside until the previous class has finished before you enter.
- Please ensure you always have a supply of “poo bags” with you, and ensure you always clear up after your dog.
