Frequently asked questions

It all began with a simple idea fueled by a deep passion. As a small business, we pride ourselves on personal attention and dedication to every detail. Our approach is rooted in quality and integrity, ensuring that everything we do reflects our commitment to excellence.

I have a new puppy. When can I come to class?

Congratulations on your new family member. We look forward to having you in our classes.

To keep your puppy safe, they must be fully vaccinated before joining our classes. Typically, puppies are fully vaccinated from 16 weeks. Check with your vet if you are unsure.

We don't run puppy exclusive classes. Our classes are outside and grouped by skill, not age. New entrants classes will be made up of all kinds of of dogs of varying ages. Additionally, the reserve is public grounds.

I have a new rescue dog. When should I come to training?

Congratulations on your new family member. We look forward to having you in our classes.

You are welcome to bring your new dog to class as soon as they are fully vaccinated. However, rescue dogs need special consideration.

We recommend you spend a few weeks at home before coming to class. This will allow you to bond with your dog and establish trust with your family.

I haven't been to class before. What do I do?

Make sure you have completed your enrollment form and paid your fees before you come to class.

You will find our enrollment form HERE

All class participants MUST be members of the club to attend classes.

Come early to see us in the clubrooms. We will check your enrollment form and fees, and run through some onsite H&S.

New Entrant classes are held on the grass next to the carpark. Let your dog sniff around and relieve themselves before class. This can help reduce anxiety, stress, and over-excitement at being in a new place.

IMPORTANT: Please keep your dog on leash. The grounds are not fully fences and there are hazards in the reserve.

What do I bring?

Bring your dog/s on a short leash (we do not recommend using a retractable leash). All dogs must be on leash in the clubrooms, on the grass areas immediately in front of the clubrooms, and the grass adjacent to the carpark.

If your dog is a bite risk, please bring a muzzle for your dog. This is for your safety, as well as the safety of others.

Make sure your dogs collar and/ or harness is fitted correctly.

Click here for a quick video on fitting your dogs collar.

Click here for a information on fitting your dogs harness correctly.

If you choose to use a harness on your dog, we recommend using one with a front chest clip for easier training.

Bring food for your dog. For easy digestion, we recommend a soft food such as partially dehydrated dog roll like Possyum. It is readily available in most supermarkets. If you are concerned about overfeeding, either skip dinner and/ or give your dog half portions for the meal/s that day.

Classes are held outside, on grass. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Check our website or Facebook page for cancellation notices.

The grounds will sometimes be muddy. You might like to bring gumboots or old shoes to wear during the class, and an old towel for your dog to protect your car.

How long are your training courses?

Our training classes are not restricted to set course periods. As soon as your dog is enrolled and vaccinated, you can bring them to class.

As your ability improves, your instructor will let you know when to move to the next level. You can join from the following week.

There are no make-up classes. If you do not attend a class, you return the following Monday.

When do I move to the intermediate & advanced classes?

There are certain skills each dog & handler need to understand before they can progress to the next class.

Your instructor will let you know when you can move to the next class.

If you are concerned about your progress as a handler, please speak to your instructor before or after class.

Am I allowed to join the competition class?

Competition classes require a good foundation of obedience skills.

Let your instructor know you are interested in competing so they can make sure you cultivate additional foundation skills in the intermediate classes before progressing to the competition group.

I'm interested in competing but I've never done it before.

On the second Monday of each month, we will be hosting club competition for people to try there hand at competing.

This does not count toward any national rankings, but will give you a glimpse of what it's like.

When can I join Rally-O classes?

Rally-O classes require a reasonable level of obedience and learning ability.

Typically, you will be able to join the Rally-O class if you have progressed to the intermediate class.

Learn more about Rally-O HERE

Does my dog need to be fixed (neutered/ spayed) to participate in classes?

No, we don't require dogs to be fixed before joining the club, or attending classes.

However, you cannot bring your female dog to class while she is in heat, and make dogs must not be allowed to mount people or dogs.

When do your courses start?

Our training classes do not have start and end dates. You can bring your dog to class as soon:

  • Your dog is at least 16 weeks old AND fully vaccinated

  • You have completed the enrollment form AND paid you membership fees

All new dogs start in the New Entrants class. Your instructor will let you know when you can move to the next class.

Do I have to start in New Entrants? My dog can already follow basic commands.

All new member start in the new entrants class regardless of their current ability. New environments, new dogs, and new smells are a big test. We want to set all dog up for success.

Your instructor will let you know when you can move up to the intermediate class.

How much are classes

Classes are $5 each.

Alternatively, you can buy a 6-class concession card for $25.

IMPORTANT: We recommend paying online. We do not keep cash on premises. If you pay on the night, please bring the correct amount as we will not be able to give change.

What's your address? Where are you located?

We are behind Captain Springs Reserve at 140 Captain Springs Road, Onehunga.

Follow the driveway next to the basketball hoop, and turn right into the carpark. You will see our clubrooms down the back of the grass fields.

The entry is signposted, but it can be obscured during the winter months due to lack of light, and vehicles parked on the road.

NOTE: Although the sign says the gate is locked at night, Auckland Council come by later on Monday's due to classes finishing at 8pm.

Do I have to join the club? I just want to come to training.

Yes. As a requirement for our trust status, all class participants are required to join the club.

Individual Membership $50/ year.
Family Membership $60/ year.

Membership must be renewed annually.

You will find our enrollment form HERE

What's the difference between individual and family memberships?

Individual memberships are for one handler. Family memberships are for when there are multiple handlers coming to training.

If you are an individual with 2 dogs, you can complete the individual membership, but you cannot train both dogs in a single class. Each dog must be with it's own handler.

If you are a family with one dog, and 2 people will be sharing handling, you need to complete the family membership.

Can my son/ daughter join your club?

Minors require a parent or guardian to register with the club under a family membership.

Your son or daughter can participate in class with your dog if they are able to follow verbal instructions, and are strong enough to keep hold of your dog.

All children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

I have a mobility impairment. Are your classes accessible?

Our suitability will depend on your specific circumstances.

Our ground are leased from the council, and are not fully accessible.

Classes are held outside on grass fields that can be uneven and muddy during Winter months. There are curbs around the fields, and while the carpark is mostly sealed, part of it is cobbled.

Club and bathroom facilities are accessed via steps.

We recommend joing Manukau Dog Club. Their facilities are fully enclosed, with no curbs or steps.

Manukau Dog Training Club:
Click HERE for the website
743 Clevedon Road, Ardmore, Papakura
mdtc.secretary@gmail.com

I'm nervous about bringing my dog to training.

If you're nervous, come see us at the club this Monday without your dog. Chat to the trainers and watch the classes to see how they are structured.

Speak to us about your concerns so we can make sure you get the support you need.

My dog is reactive/ I have been advised by the council I need to attend K9 training. Can I join your club?

You can join our club, but chat to us first so we can address your specific needs. We may recommend an alternative training option.

Come see us this Monday WITHOUT your dog. Let us know the behaviours & challenges you are looking to correct.

REACTIVE DOG NON-NEGOTIABLES:

  • MUST be kept on a short leash (not a retractable one) attached to a well fitted collar.

  • If your dog is a bite risk, they MUST be muzzled for your dogs safety as well as others.

  • MUST be handled by someone strong enough to keep hold of them.

  • CANNOT be handled by a minor.

I want to bring my dog to obedience training by Onehunga is too far away.

There are a number of obedience dog clubs around Auckland.

DogsNZ has an extensive list of dog clubs on their website: Auckland Obedience Dog Clubs

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We can't wait to see you at class.
If you have any other questions, please complete the contact us form, or come see us this Monday.