Think Dog! ™ Instructor Course
An all-practical course designed for those who wish to become top-notch training class instructors

Taking exceptional dog training classes is both a science and an art! It is essential that all instructors are adept at assessing, handling and training dogs, and also that they are excellent teachers, understand group dynamics and are able to communicate their ideas clearly and effectively.

This unique course is held over two x 2-days - and is all practical, to give participants the maximum amount of hands-on experience and practical training possible. It incorporates practical handling and training of dogs, individual tuition and feedback, experience in running a mock class and the chance to be involved with a real-life training class in action

Sarah Whitehead and Stella Bagshaw are two of the country's most experienced and innovative instructors, with an unsurpassed behavioural approach and a passion for positive, modern, fun training.

Part One - Teaching Dogs
Venue: Millbrook RSPCA Centre, Chobham, Surrey.

Contents: Practical, hands-on training with dogs from the shelter will focus on how to train basic exercises, to improve handling skills and to learn to rapidly assess dogs behavioural and training needs.

The course will include:

• Using positive reinforcement in the real world!
• Rewards and non-rewards - how to use them effectively
• Assessing a dog's needs - understanding canine body language
• How to train in class using clicker training and clicker principles
• Methodology: the seven main exercises - attention/sit/down/stand/recall/walking on lead/leave
• What happens when your method doesn't work - flexibility and alternative approaches
• The effects of diet / environment / physiology on canine behaviour

Part Two - Teaching Classes
Venue: Knowl Hill, Maidenhead, Berkshire

Contents: Workshop-style planning and goal setting for your classes. Involvement & observation of a real-life training class run by experienced professionals. Practical experience, instructing and assisting in a mock class, with individual tuition and feedback.

The course will include:

• Structure and content - what to teach and why
• Teaching people - learning styles / verbal teaching skills and presentation coaching
• Assisting vs Instructing - understanding the importance of each role
• Equipment - how to select, fit and use: when, where and how
• The effects of stress on dogs in classes - observations and interventions
• How to set up your classes - venues / marketing /pricing / insurance / administration / evaluation
• Games, tricks and competitions - how to incorporate them seamlessly into classes

Some pre-course reading is strongly recommended. The book list will be provided on registration.

Course details:
Two day attendance at Chobham, Surrey
Course date: 12/13 June 2008
Cost: £375 (non-accredited course)
Plus
Two day attendance at Maidenhead, Berkshire
Course date: 18/19 September 2008
Cost: £375 (non-accredited course)

This course is designed in two parts to be strategically progressive. It is strongly recommended that both parts be taken in one year, and Part One must be completed before Part Two. £25 discount when you pay for both Parts together.

Who is this course for?

All those who have an ambition to run their own exceptional training classes, those who are currently instructing or assisting or those who wish to extend or update their own knowledge and experience in training dogs and people.

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