Give your puppy a head start
I’m Katya, a reward-based dog trainer in Edinburgh. I help new owners start well, with training that’s fun for you both.
Accredited member of the Professional Association of Canine Trainers and a certified ABTC Animal Training Instructor.
What a class looks like
How I can help
New puppy or older dog, every option is reward-based and built around your family.
The place to startNew Puppy Program
A 1.5-hour consultation at your home or online, plus a PDF guide. We cover routine, toilet training, the crate, biting and socialisation before habits set in.
£90
Puppy Classes
Five Saturday classes in a small group, with a written summary and video clips after each one. Level 2 follows.
£120 for 5 classes
Private Training
One-to-one help with a specific issue: a consultation, a training plan and sessions that fit your dog.
£85 consultation, £55 per session
Family Program
An intro session and six sessions at home, with games the kids can join in, homework, a video library and WhatsApp support.
Ask me about this one
Scentwork for Beginners is taking a break for now. Register your interest and I’ll let you know when it’s back.
- Five 45-minute classes on Saturdays
- Small groups, so every puppy gets my attention
- A written summary and video clips after each class
- A secluded garden in Colinton, or Pentland Scout Hall in winter
Small classes in a quiet garden
Puppies learn best somewhere calm. My classes are small and relaxed, so you can focus on your puppy and practise at home with confidence.
About Puppy Classes
Hi, I’m Katya, and I really love dogs
I left my office job to follow my passion, and now I train dogs and their people in Edinburgh.
I believe in reward-based training because it makes learning fun for you and your dog, and it builds a happy dog who listens. Between sessions I stay in touch with notes, video clips and WhatsApp, so you’re never guessing.
And then there’s Steve, my ruby Cavalier. Head Start wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for him.
What owners say
“Head Start Dog Training was perfect for me and my dog. As a first time dog owner, I needed as much training as he did. I’m absolutely delighted with our progress.”
Fiona CarpenterRalph’s owner 
“He’s a well trained, obedient, sociable and a happy dog. The early training formed the foundations for this to be possible and we couldn’t recommend Katya highly enough.”
Scott RogersBeau’s owner, Weimaraner 
Got a new puppy, or one on the way?
Tell me about your dog and what you need. I reply in the evening, once the day’s training is done.
