My Training Policy

At Wolfgang's Way Dog Training, I use kind, science-based, non-punitive training methods. Every dog is an individual, and my training programmes are designed with the dog's welfare, individual needs and the owner's circumstances in mind.

These terms are intended to make our work together clear, safe and positive for everyone involved.

Training Methods and Welfare

1. Kind, reward-based training only. Harsh handling and aversive training methods are not permitted. This includes choke chains, prong collars, electronic shock collars and other coercive or punitive techniques.

2. Your dog's welfare comes first. Training recommendations are based on the information available at the time and may need to be adjusted as your dog's behaviour, health or circumstances change.

3. Veterinary care. Behavioural difficulties can sometimes be influenced by underlying health conditions, pain or other medical factors. I may recommend consulting your veterinarian before starting or continuing training. My services do not replace veterinary diagnosis, treatment or medical advice.

Training Results and Owner Responsibilities

1. No guaranteed results. Dogs are living, sentient individuals, and their behaviour and responses to training can be influenced by many factors, including health, environment, previous experiences and changes in circumstances.
   While I use evidence-informed methods and develop training plans tailored to each dog, I cannot guarantee a particular outcome, rate of progress or timeframe for achieving training goals.

2. Working together. Successful training depends on collaboration. Owners are responsible for following the agreed training and management recommendations, communicating any concerns or changes in their dog's behaviour or health, and providing accurate and up-to-date information.

3. Training plans and adjustments. Recommendations are developed for the individual dog and circumstances discussed during our consultation. Owners should contact me before making significant changes to an agreed plan, particularly if their dog shows signs of distress or worsening behaviour.

4. Managing your dog safely. Owners remain responsible for the day-to-day care, supervision and safe management of their dogs. In public areas, dogs must be kept under control and on a lead unless otherwise agreed and appropriate.

5. Safety and liability. Dog training and behaviour modification involve some inherent unpredictability. Owners are responsible for informing me of any known bite history, aggression, relevant health conditions or other safety concerns before training begins.

Online Consultations and Behavioural Assessments

1. Accurate information. For online consultations, assessments and training programmes, recommendations are based on the information, observations and video footage made available to me. Owners agree to provide accurate information and to communicate significant changes that could affect their dog's behaviour or training.

2. Remote training limitations. Online assessments may not reveal every aspect of a dog's behaviour, environment or physical health. Further observation, adjustments to the training plan or veterinary assessment may be recommended where appropriate.

In-Person Training

1. Children. Children are welcome to participate in training, but anyone under 16 must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult.

2. Health and hygiene. Dogs attending training in public areas should have appropriate preventative healthcare, including vaccinations and parasite control, as advised by their veterinarian. Owners are expected to clean up after their dogs.

Payment, Cancellations and Refunds

1. Payment. Payment is required in accordance with the invoice or booking confirmation and, unless otherwise agreed, before the first session or commencement of the programme.

2. Appointment cancellations. Please provide at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours' notice may be charged at the full session fee, subject to applicable consumer rights and any exceptional circumstances.

3. Training programmes and refunds. Training programmes involve reserved appointment time, preparation, assessments, individual planning and ongoing professional support. Once a programme has started, fees are generally non-refundable for services already provided or work already undertaken.

4. Programme transfers. Training programmes and sessions are personal to the client and dog for whom they were booked and cannot be transferred to another person without prior written agreement.

Questions or Concerns

I want every client to feel comfortable asking questions and raising concerns. If something isn't working for you or your dog, please get in touch so we can discuss it and consider appropriate adjustments.

For any questions about these terms, please contact alex@wolfgangswaydogtraining.com.