Family Dog Training Program

Bringing a puppy into a busy family? Congratulations. This program helps parents, kids and your new dog live together safely and happily, and fits around the life you already have.

A little girl at a class with the family puppy nearby
  • 1 + 6an intro session, then six at home
  • Gamesthe kids join in
  • WhatsAppsupport between sessions

Every family is different, so let’s talk it through.

Ask about the Family Program

Why a family program

Being a parent is already the most demanding job there is. A puppy can be thrilling and challenging at the same time, especially when everyone’s schedule is full.

I help you fit your puppy’s needs into your daily routine, so training works without adding stress to your week.

Safety for every family member, through games

Safety comes first. The program teaches children how to be around their new dog safely, and gives parents the tools to supervise those moments.

I come to your house and play interactive games with the kids, so they remember the rules and boundaries and have fun at the same time.

Help with the tricky puppy stuff

Puppies are bundles of energy, and chewing, barking or digging can wear anyone down. You’ll get practical strategies for those behaviours, so your puppy grows into a happy, well-behaved member of the family.

Two puppies meeting on the lawn while a child looks onKatya kneeling beside an owner, helping settle a fluffy puppy in a red harness

How it works

  1. Introductory session

    A 60-minute visit to meet your family and your puppy and plan around your routine.

  2. Six sessions at home

    Six 45-minute sessions, with games that teach the kids how to handle and train your dog.

  3. Support in between

    Homework, a video training library and WhatsApp support, so you’re never guessing.

A golden puppy bounding across the lawn towards its owner during a class

What you get

  • One 60-minute introductory session
  • Six 45-minute training sessions
  • Games that teach your kids how to handle and train your dog
  • Help fitting training into your daily routine
  • Advice on preventing and handling common puppy problems
  • Homework between sessions
  • A video training library
  • WhatsApp support

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 spaniel puppy sitting nicely for a treat while Katya watches
Katya in a garden during a class, reaching into her treat pouchSteve, Katya’s ruby Cavalier

You’ll be training with me, Katya

I left my office job to follow my passion, and now I train dogs and their people in Edinburgh. I only use reward-based training, because it makes learning fun for you and your dog.

And then there’s Steve, my ruby Cavalier. Head Start wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for him.

Accredited member of the Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT)ABTC Registered Animal Training Instructor

Where

I come to your home anywhere in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas.

Ask if I cover your areaSee Colinton on Google Maps(opens in a new tab)

Ready when you are

Tell me about your family and your puppy, and I’ll explain how it would work for you.

An owner hugging her happy spaniel at a class