The aim of our Play Group is for all dogs and handlers to enjoy themselves and relax in a controlled environment. Socialisation is so important and should be done and continued from a very early age. Usually the larger puppies or dogs reaching adolescence play with the bigger dogs therefore keeping the smaller less mature puppies in a separate area.  When they are all tired the smaller dogs are always encouraged to meet the bigger dogs whilst being kept well under control.  No dog or dogs are allowed to gang up on one another and a close eye is kept on the play sessions at all times.  None of the dogs are put under any pressure to join in and sometimes puppies attending their first play session may prefer just to sit and watch, they generally gain in confidence pretty quickly and join in the next time they come.

Un-socialised dogs are also allowed to attend the playgroup; often in a play group for the very first time a dog will begin to communicate with other dogs. Owners are taught and shown why their dogs go into such an aggressive display and how to help their dog over come its fear of its own species. Helping dogs learn how to meet & greet is so important to gain a happy relaxed dog when out walking meeting other dogs. During these sessions dogs play off-lead as well as socialise on-lead as it is very important for them to be able to behave appropriately in both situations.  We also practise recalls away from other dogs which a vital command for your dog to learn.

All dogs attending playgroups must be attending our weekly courses and be thoroughly assessed before being allowed to attend any playgroup. Dogs that have severe aggression problems are only socialised with dogs that are very good at calming signals in a separate session.

Click here to see pictures taken at the Playgroup (7th Oct 2006)

Click here to see pictures from previous Playgroups