Top Barks Dog Training
Kind, fair and effective training

Training services

Our tailormade services

Top Barks believes in using reward based training. Experts already know that dogs repeat things they are rewarded for. Here at Top Barks I utilise a method which is right for you. There are many ways to motivate a dog to do what you want. My task is to find out what pushes your dog’s buttons. Lessons are available at a range of times to suit you. They can be booked singularly or in blocks of 4. With every block booking you will receive a Top Barks goodie bag filled with treats and delights for your dog. For more detailed information on my services click on the links.
Top Barks Dog Training
Kind, fair and effective training
© Top Barks Dog Training 2021

Training services

Our tailormade services

Top Barks believes in using reward based training. Experts already know that dogs repeat things they are rewarded for. Here at Top Barks I utilise a method which is right for you. There are many ways to motivate a dog to do what you want. My task is to find out what pushes your dog’s buttons. Lessons are available at a range of times to suit you. They can be booked singularly or in blocks of 4. With every block booking you will receive a Top Barks goodie bag filled with treats and delights for your dog. For more detailed information on my services click on the links.

Dog training

Gain a better understanding of your best friend and learn some basic obedience for everyday use. Learning with your dog should be fun so sessions are aimed at both you and your dog enjoying your training together.

Details

The lessons last one hour and are on a one to one basis with the dog and owner. Our training programmes include: General obedience training: These lessons are used to train basic cues for the usual obedience exercises, including sits, downs, lead walking, stays and recalls. The course does not follow a strict routine, and can be tailored to the individual dog and owner. The dog training programme is held in your own home, and lasts as long as your dog needs. Training walks are also available. Focus and control: Ideally suited for those dogs who do not pay attention to their owners on walks. I aim to improve your ability to control your dog in distracting environments.

Pricing structure

I offer both single lessons, blocks of 4 1-hour lessons and tailor made packages for locations within the York radius. Other areas are covered. Please contact us for a quote.

Gundog training

Train your pet to be a gundog

I specialise in helping people who have family pet gundogs who may not want to take their dog shooting by giving them an outlet for what they have been bred to do. Training is of course open to non gundog breeds and provides excellent stimulation for your pet. I help establish obedience basics to shape a well mannered dog both home environment and out in the world and teach gundog skills so that owners and dogs can be effective and have fun together in their daily exercise. I teach people, not dogs. I work on teaching owners with pet dogs to have fun together, enjoying a relationship based on clear rules, boundaries and respect. My methods are always kind, fair and effective. Of course you may want to take your pet shooting and this can be catered for too. I compete with my dogs in working tests and trials with one dog running currently at open level. I also go beating with my spaniels and hope to have my bracco picking up on shoots this season. I offer both single lessons and blocks of 4 1-hour lessons for locations within the York radius. Other areas are covered. Please contact us for a quote.

One-to-one puppy training programme

Training puppies on a one-to-one basis has a number of advantages over traditional group classes. I believe that training puppies in this way achieves great results. Some of the advantages of one-to-one puppy training are: 1. Puppies are calmer, because they are not over excited by other puppies. This allows them to concentate and learn. 2. Owners are more relaxed and able to concentrate, as they are not controlling an over excited puppy. 3. Focus on specific exercises that are important to you, rather than concentrating on a generic syllabus. 4. Work in your home and on your walks so you get the training where you need it. 5. Flexible training times to fit around your lifestyle and the pups development so you never miss a lesson. 6. Tried and tested older dogs to help teach your dog proper canine etiquette and how to talk dog. For pricing details please get in touch. I also offer training walks, so why not let Top Barks be your pup’s personal trainer? I believe training walks are an ideal complement to the puppy training package (see menu for the link).

Behaviour consultations

Dogs can suffer from many types of behaviour problems, excessive barking, aggression, inappropriate toileting, chasing vehicles or anything that moves. By understanding why your dog is behaving in this way, you can start to work with your dog to overcome these problems. In time you will see the huge benefits of reward based training and you and your dog can start to enjoy life together. The consultation is the start of your dog’s rehabilitation, two hours dedicated to you and your dog. Learn why your dog is showing its unwanted behaviour, and how you can help them. As part of the behaviour I offer three options: 1. An initial consultation only, which provides practical help and understanding of why your dog behaves in the way it does. 2. The initial consultation and a written behaviour report to consolidate the initial session and a plan to improve your dog's behaviour. 3. The initial consultation followed by two extra 1- hour behaviour sessions. Throughout this process phone support is available at no extra cost. Prices for sessions in the York area are available on request. Other areas are covered, please contact us for a quote at mark@topbarksfordogs.co.uk.

Show training

I offer ringcraft training on a one-to-one basis at your home or a venue of your choice. If you are looking to get started on the road to showing your dog to a high standard, and don't know where to start, these sessions are for you. I have a wealth of experience and show currently in the UK and Europe with our field spaniel, Arthur, and bracco italiano, Eric. I have appeared a number of times at Crufts with group and best in show wins to our credit at open and championship show level. My proudest achievement to date is Eric being awarded best puppy in show at the Scottish Kennel Club Show in August 2017. I specialise in showing gundogs, having shown clumber spaniels and italian spinoni in the past. Please contact me for more details. Both Eric and Arthur were best of breed at the World Dog Show in 2018. This gained Arthur his final points for his Dutch champion title.

Training walks

Training walks with your pup’s own personal trainer. Give your pup the best start possible in the hands of the experts. Training walks last up to one hour and are the perfect alternative to regular dog walking or doggy day care. Ideally this service is for youngsters under 6 months old. It is perfect for new puppies (older dogs can be catered for too)! If you work regularly throughout the day, or have a busy lifestyle, then this service is for you. Training walks can also be booked as a package with our regular training sessions so we can show you how to carry on the work we have done. Daily training sessions can be booked for your puppy with me. I will come to your home, like a dog walker, but unlike a normal dog walker, you are getting a professional trainer working with your puppy, establishing the key skills it will need for life. I will also ensure your puppy has controlled exposure to the world which is an essential part of your pup’s socialisation. What I teach is guided by you but generally the following specifics I find stand puppies in good stead for the rest of their lives: Calling your dog back to you Meeting and greeting (not jumping up) Walking on a lead Dealing with the worlds distractions Confidence building To wait patiently

Cancellations policy

Cancellations and requests for changes to pre- arranged appointments by the Client must be received no later than 48 hours before a scheduled appointment. Refunds and rescheduling If a cancellation is made by the Client less than 48 hours before the lesson, no refund will be given for that lesson and it cannot be rescheduled. Refunds will not be given for non-completion of blocks of lessons on the part of the client. Deposits Any deposit paid is non-refundable in the event of a cancellation prior to the commencement of a lesson. Unforeseen circumstances If your dog is ill, issued with a treatment by a veterinary practioner, comes into season or suffers an injury before the appointment, please contact us immediately.

Resources

Below are our lesson resources. A password will be provided, if appropriate, during your lesson.