General Questions
What training methods does PupFocus use?
PupFocus trainers use reward-based methods focused on trust, clear communication, and building positive relationships between dogs and their owners.
Which locations do you cover?
I’m based in Warrington and I can provide training across the North West, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cheshire, and Lancashire.
Do you train any breed?
I am comfortable working with most breeds, regardless of size, age, or temperament.
Unfortunately, I am not able to work with any breeds suspected of being listed as banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 due to restrictions placed on my insurance policy as a professional dog trainer. This does not reflect my personal opinion on whether some breeds are more dangerous than others.
Will you train me or my dog?
Honestly? A bit of both! One of our core aims is to improve you and your dog’s ability to communicate with each other, enabling you both to work better as a team.
Each PupFocus session will help you to understand your dog’s needs and speak their language, while also showing you how to guide their behaviour in a clear, consistent, and kind way.
Do you offer group classes?
We do not offer group classes as we find that the presence of other dogs is a big distraction, and can make it difficult for your dog to focus on the key skills we aim to teach.
PupFocus Sessions
Where do training sessions take place?
Training sessions can take place wherever you and your dog feel most comfortable. This could be in your home, at a nearby park, or wherever you usually go out for a walk.
Depending on what you’d like to achieve with PupFocus, it may be necessary to arrange sessions at a specific location to get the most effective results.
How long is each session?
PupFocus sessions usually take place over the course of 1 hour. This time is often split into groups of about 10 – 15 minutes focusing on any one exercise, allowing time for short breaks in between.
What should I prepare before a session?
PupFocus employs positive-only, reward-based training techniques without the use of any corrective tools that can cause stress or discomfort. Owners should come to every PupFocus session prepared with:
- A well-fitted, flat collar or harness
- A leash that does not stretch or retract
- Water, and a bowl for your dog to drink from
- LOTS of treats (twice as many as you think you’ll need!)
How many sessions will my dog need?
The answer to this question depends heavily on the issue you’d like to work on, and the level of results you’d like to achieve. This is something that we would discuss during your meet-and-greet.
What if my dog doesn’t behave during training?
Don’t worry, that’s exactly what we’re here to help with! Training can be a little stressful or overwhelming for some dogs, with new people, places and expectations all being a factor.
With a bit of patience, and clear communication, your dog will quickly learn that training is actually a lot of fun.
Adult Dog Training
Is my dog too old to be trained?
Some people say “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks”. Here at PupFocus we think differently.
Learning is a great form of enrichment for dogs of any age. With clear communication, patience and respect, learning new skills is something any dog can enjoy, and even look forward to.
Can you help with rescue or adopted dogs?
Yes, absolutely. Dogs are social animals after all, so it can be challenging to move on and build trust with a new family. For this reason it’s incredibly common for rescue/adopted dogs to display some behavioural issues.
Rest assured, at PupFocus we promise to treat all dogs with patience and respect, putting their comfort and welfare above all else.
Do you work with stubborn dogs?
With pleasure, I do love a challenge! Some dogs are a lot smarter than they look, and can get used to having their way if it’s been allowed in the past.
However, respect is a two way street, so it’s important that dogs also learn to treat their owners with respect. The trick here is teaching your dog that treating you with respect is a good thing, and can actually be a lot of fun.
Can you fix bad habits my dog already has?
Dogs can be very adaptable, but it’s easy for problem behaviours to become habit if it’s been allowed in the past.
Here are some examples of bad habits we’ve had success with in the past:
- Pulling on the leash
- Reacting to other dogs
- Excessive barking at home
- Eating things they shouldn’t
- Jumping/Crowding guests at the door
Puppy Training
When can my puppy start training with PupFocus?
Puppy 1-to-1 sessions can begin one week after receiving their final set of vaccinations.
It’s important to remember that inviting others into your home can bring your puppy into contact with dangerous diseases from outside.
If you’re unsure, consult with your veterinarian before attempting to book any PupFocus sessions.
Is my puppy too old for puppy training?
Smaller breeds often mature by 10-12 months, while large and giant breeds may take up to 18-24 months to fully reach physical and emotional maturity.
To keep things simple, at PupFocus we consider any dog under 18 months of age to be eligible for puppy training.
Do you help with toilet training?
Yes, this is a very common reason that can cause owners to look for support with their new puppy.
During PupFocus sessions, we can help you identify the signs that your puppy needs to use the toilet and advise on how you should react. With the right feedback, your puppy will learn that going to the toilet outside and keeping the home clean is a good thing.
Can you stop puppy biting and nipping?
Yes absolutely. Biting and nipping can seem like a normal part of play to young puppies, so it’s vitally important to teach them early on how to play nicely with their owner and other humans.
Do you cover crate training?
Yes we do. There are inevitably going to be times when puppies and adult dogs need to be able to relax in their crate. It’s vitally important to introduce puppies to their crate early, and ensure that they are able to enter and remain there calmly.
Booking & Policies
How do I book a session?
If you’d like to book a session with PupFocus, the best place to start is with a free meet-and-greet. We’ll use this time to discuss your goals and and decide whether we’re a good fit.
Please use the contact form and select “Request a booking”. The form will collect a few details about you and your dog, and a member of the PupFocus team will reply to your message as soon as possible.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend sending your request to book at least 2 weeks in advance.
Booking ahead gives you the best chance of securing a day and time that is convenient for you.
Do you offer weekend or evening sessions?
Yes absolutely. We understand that life is busy, especially on a weekday.
PupFocus sessions are designed to suit the individual needs of you and your dog. Being flexible with our sessions is a key part of how we work.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you have paid for a single session, and you cancel at least 7 days in advance of your session, you will receive a full refund.
If you have paid for multiple sessions as part of a package deal, a refund cannot be offered after attending the first session but you do have the option of rescheduling.
If you request to reschedule at least 48 hours in advance of your session, there will be no extra charge.
Within 48 hours of your session, there is no option to cancel or reschedule and your payment will be forfeit.
Please see PupFocus T&Cs for full details on cancellation fees.
Pricing & Packages
How much do PupFocus sessions cost?
We offer 1-to-1 sessions for both puppies and adult dogs. We also offer discounts for booking multiple sessions.
| Service | Quantity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy 1-to-1 | 1 | £20.00 |
| 3 | £50.00 | |
| Adult 1-to-1 | 1 | £35.00 |
| 3 | £90.00 |
What payment methods do you accept?
When you request to book a session with PupFocus, we will send an invoice from PayPal to the email address you have provided.
You will have the option of using a PayPal account, Apple Pay, or credit/debit card. You do not need a PayPal account in order to pay.
When do I need to pay for my session?
All sessions must be paid for in advance.
This is so that we can get straight into training on the day and make the most of your PupFocus session without any distractions.
Still have questions?
Head over to our contact form and ask away