Frequently Asked Questions
 

First Steps Dog Training | Canterbury, Kent

Whether you're looking for puppy, adolescent, adult dog obedience training or perhaps behavioural issues such as anxiety or reactivity we can help. Through one-to-one/private sessions within Canterbury and the surrounding areas.
 

Do you offer one-to-one dog training in Canterbury and surrounding areas?

Yes. At First Steps Dog Training, we specialise in personalised one-to-one training sessions throughout Canterbury and the surrounding areas. Every dog is different, so each programme is tailored to your dog's individual needs, personality and your training goals.
 

Do you offer home dog training as well as local park visits?

Yes. Training in your own home can often be the most effective way to address behaviours that occur in your dog's everyday environment. Home visits allow us to work on issues exactly where they happen.
 

What areas do you cover?

We provide dog training across:

Canterbury. Chartham. Ashford. Whitstable. Herne Bay. Faversham. Dover. Deal. Thanet. Broadstairs. Ramsgate . Sandwich.
 

If you're unsure whether we cover your area, simply get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
 

What training methods do you use?

We use positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods.

We reward behaviours we want to encourage through food rewards, toys, praise and play.

This helps build confidence, strengthens the relationship between you and your dog, and creates long-lasting results.
 

Core Commands And Training For Obedience Whether A Puppy/Adolescent Or Adult Canine:
Sit: Making your dog pause and sit on command.

Down: Telling your dog to lie flat on the floor.

Stay / Wait: Having your dog remain in position until released.

Come: Returning to you reliably when called (recall).

Heel: Walking calmly beside you without pulling the lead.
Leave it: Ignoring dangerous or tempting food and objects.
 

Name recognition

Confidence building

Socialisation advice

Household manners

Preventing unwanted behaviours

We also provide guidance on routine, enrichment and building positive habits from day one.
 

Can you help with behavioural problems?

Absolutely. Many owners contact us for help with:

Pulling on the lead

Excessive barking

Jumping up

Poor recall

Reactivity

Nervous behaviour

Confidence building

Rescue dog adjustment

General obedience

Household manners

Understanding the trigger

Reducing stress

Increasing focus

Calm engagement

Confidence building

Practical management strategies
 

Our aim is to identify the cause of the behaviour and create a practical training plan that works for both you and your dog.
 

Can you help with nervous or anxious dogs?

Yes. Many nervous dogs lack confidence rather than obedience. We focus on:

Confidence building

Trust

Calm exposure

Positive associations

Reading body language

Building resilience

Training always progresses at the dog's own pace.
 

Do you work with rescue dogs?
Yes. Working with rescue dogs is one of the biggest passions behind First Steps Dog Training. With experience supporting rescue charities, rehabilitation work and dogs from difficult backgrounds, we understand that many rescue dogs simply need patience, understanding and clear communication to thrive.
 

Every rescue dog receives a training programme tailored to their individual experiences.
 

Can you improve my dog's recall?

Absolutely. Reliable recall can transform your walks and give your dog more freedom. We teach recall through:

Positive reinforcement

High-value rewards

Games

Long-line training

Gradual progression

Real-world practice
 

Every dog progresses at their own pace, helping to build a dependable recall over time.
 

What happens during the first session?

Your first appointment includes:
 

Initial behavioural assessment

Discussion of your goals

Observation of your dog's behaviour

Personalised training plan

Practical exercises

Advice on homework between sessions

This provides the foundation for the rest of your training programme.

Do I receive support between sessions?

Yes. Training doesn't stop when the session ends. You'll receive:

Training Progress Reports after every session

Homework to practise

Personalised advice

Ongoing guidance throughout your package

Consistency between sessions is one of the biggest factors in long-term success.

Are you insured?

Yes I am fully insured up to £5,000,000 for public liability and first aid trained. 

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