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īweriū Working K9

Foundation · 8–16 weeks

Puppy Training

Puppy training is not obedience class. For a working dog it is the deliberate construction of engagement, confidence and communication during the only window in which those things form easily.

What the programme covers

We build the four foundations every working career rests on: engagement with the handler, a clear marker system, environmental confidence and an off switch. Formal obedience follows naturally once those exist.

  • Marker charging and reinforcement mechanics
  • Name response, engagement games and focus building
  • Crate training, settle and independent calm
  • Graded environmental exposure in real public settings
  • Food and toy drive development, tug rules and outs
  • Recall foundations and lead pressure understanding

Why engagement comes first

A puppy that finds its handler interesting will train itself. We spend the first sessions making you the most valuable thing in the environment through food delivery mechanics, movement, play and timing. Commands are added later, onto a dog that is already choosing to work with you.

Socialisation done properly

Socialisation is not meeting every dog and stranger. It is teaching neutrality: the world exists, it is not threatening, and it is not your business. We run short, controlled sessions near traffic, in town centres, around livestock, on unfamiliar surfaces and in enclosed spaces, always ending while the puppy is still confident.

Structure at home

Most puppy problems are management problems. We set up your routine: crate placement, feeding through training, sleep schedules, toilet routine, chew provision and rules around doors, furniture and greeting. A structured day produces a calm dog without any formal training at all.

Delivery format

Delivered as weekly one-to-one sessions at your home and in public environments, with a written plan, video review between sessions and direct messaging support. Board and train options are available for owners with limited availability.

Frequently asked questions

When should working puppy training start?

The day the puppy comes home, typically at eight weeks. Waiting until six months wastes the most valuable learning window of the dog's life.

Can I start before vaccinations are complete?

Yes. Carry the puppy for exposure work and use clean private environments. The socialisation window closes long before full immunity is reached.

Enquire about Puppy Training

Tell us what you need the dog to do and we will tell you honestly what is possible, what it costs and how long it takes.