Force-free training for a happy and well-socialised dog 

Just welcomed a puppy into your life? Have an older dog that could brush up on their skills? Or have you rescued a new family member that needs some help adjusting to their new life?

RSPCA Dog Training offers a range of small group classes and specialised workshops to suit every dog!

Using the most up-to-date scientifically based force-free methods, we offer a range of programs to suit every dog’s needs.

Click “BOOK YOUR CLASS” to learn more about the program, see dates, locations and to book directly online. 

What’s even better? All proceeds go towards helping animals in need, so not only are you making a difference in your dog’s life, but you’re also making a huge difference to animals in need across South Australia.

Unsure which course is right for you?

Fill out the form below and we will match you with the most suitable class!

Small Group Classes:

Puppy Partnership

Where it all begins. Our pivotal class for puppies aged 8–16 weeks.

Foundation Program

Stage one for adult dogs. Aimed at dogs aged 14 weeks and over.

Canine College

Stage two! For dogs who’ve completed our Foundation Program.

Dogtorate Program

Stage three! For dogs who’ve completed our Canine College.

Specialised Workshops:

Nosework

Fun scent work activities for dogs who like to sniff. From Intro to Odour skills.

One-on-one Training

One-on-one Training

        Training sessions in your home tailored to what you and your dog need.

Hyper Hounds Workshop

Hyper Hounds Workshop

A workshop with personalised coaching for dogs with complex social needs.

Meet our RSPCA Dog Trainers

Paula Dickerson

RSPCA South Australia Dog Trainer

Paula is a reward based dog trainer specialising in dogs with anxiety. She is committed to increasing awareness that Positive Force Free methods are not only effective, but are also the most successful way of training. Paula is a proud member of Delta Institute, APDT, PPG, RSPCA SA Force Free Trainers list and Zoos SA. Paula currently teaches our Puppy Partnership, Foundation Program, Hyper Hounds and Canine College in our Lonsdale locations. 

 

Sharon Hobbs
RSPCA South Australia Dog Trainer

After training her own dogs, Sharon discovered her passion for dog behaviour and has now been in the industry for several years. Sharon has a passion for educating owners and loves to see how they progress during training with their furry family members. She especially loves watching the bond between owners and their dogs grow as they become more confident with force-free training methods. Sharon is a member of the APDT and PPG with certifications trough the Delta Institute. Sharon currently teaches our Puppy Partnership through to Dogtorate at various locations across Adelaide as well as One on One consults.

 

 

 

Margaret Carruthers
RSPCA South Australia Dog Trainer

Margaret has been involved with the RSPCA for 10 years working with various behaviour issues. She is also a dedicated foster carer and especially loves socialising puppies. Margaret takes training classes with a number of clubs. She is a certified training technician and a member of various professional organisations. Margaret enjoys continuously learning the most up to date scientific research to give our dogs their best lives. She currently teaches our Puppy Partnership and Foundation programs at our Lonsdale and Seaford venues.

 

Katie Emson

RSPCA South Australia Dog Trainer

Katie is a positive reinforcement and force free dog trainer involved in the animal care industry for a number of years. Katie is a student member of the PPG and currently undertaking her Cert IV in Animal Behaviour and Training. Katie began with the RSPCA Dog training team as a volunteer for a number of years and currently teaches our Puppy Partnership and Foundation Program at various locations across Adelaide.

 

 

 

 

 

Jeannette Booth

RSPCA South Australia Dog Trainer

Jeannette’s passion for dog training began after developing an unshakable bond between her and her Labrador after many dedicated hours of training, earning them the award of Top Gun Dog, Balmead Shield 1st place and State Champion. It was then that she pursued her passions by studying dog training and psychology. Jeannette supports force free training methods and reinforcing positive behaviours that will build the bond between you and your dog and improve their quality of life. She currently teaches our Foundation Program at our Lonsdale locations.

 

 

 

 

 

Amanda Ware

RSPCA South Australia Dog Trainer

Amanda is the owner and head instructor of Noses in Motion, her own business teaching companion animals to use their wonderful sense of smell to hunt out target odours, as well as teaching their people how to read and understand how amazing their dog is. Amanda is a graduate of National Association Canine Scentwork, with a long list of qualifications including Dr Susan Friedman’s Living and Learning with Animals course and completed courses including masterclasses in dog aggression, ethology and family dog mediation. She currently teaches all of the Noseworks courses.