Reward-based dog & puppy training in Edinburgh

Call 07366 464040
Head StartDog Training
Get in touch

Hi, I’m Katya

I’m a reward-based dog trainer in Edinburgh. I left my office job to follow my passion for dogs, and now I help dogs and their people get off to the best start.

Get in touchSee how I can help
Katya holding Steve, her ruby Cavalier, on a street in Edinburgh
Steve, Katya’s ruby Cavalier, relaxing on the sofa at home

It started with Steve

Steve is my ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. He was born in January 2020, and Head Start wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for him.

You’ll see a lot of him on my Instagram, @headstartdogtraining.

How I train

  1. Rewards, never punishment

    I only use reward-based training. It makes learning fun for you and your dog, and it builds a happy dog who wants to listen.

  2. Small groups, real attention

    My classes are small on purpose, so I can see every puppy and tailor the exercises when one needs it.

  3. You’re never guessing

    Between sessions I stay in touch with written notes, video clips and WhatsApp, so you know exactly what to practise.

  4. Start early, start well

    The name says it: I love helping new owners give their puppy a head start, ideally before problems appear.

Katya kneeling beside an owner, helping settle a fluffy puppy in a red harness

Qualified and accredited

I’m a certified ABTC Animal Training Instructor and an accredited member of the Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT).

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
A black poodle cross standing in the sunshine at class

Where to start

  • New Puppy Program

    A puppy is coming and there are a million questions swirling in your head. In one relaxed session I’ll help you get the house, the routine and yourself ready, so your pup starts well from day one.

    £90 for the consultation and guide

  • Puppy Classes

    Five Saturday classes where your puppy learns good manners and to listen to you, even with other dogs around. Groups are small, so every pup gets proper attention from me.

    £120 for a block of 5 classes

  • Puppy Classes Level 2

    The next step once your pup has finished Level 1. We build on everything you’ve learned and take it outside, with the last two classes in the park for real-life practice.

    £140 for a block of 5 classes

I also offer Puppy Classes Level 2 and a Family Program. Group classes run in Colinton, and I visit homes across Edinburgh, includingColinton, Bonaly, Redford and Craiglockhart.

Let’s give your dog a head start

Tell me about your dog and what you’d like help with. I reply after training for the day.

Get in touchOr call 07366 464040
Katya in her garden during a class, reaching into her treat pouch