Question 1

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I require a minimum of 48 hours cancellation notice. For cancellations within 48 hours or non-appearance, the full rate will be charged.

If you cancel a booking within 48 hours of making payment, you will receive a refund minus a processing/admin fee of £20.

See my full T&Cs here: https://www.betsysdogschool.co.uk/terms-conditions

Question 2

What areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Gateshead, Cramlington, Ponteland and surrounding areas.

Question 3

Why choose a package instead of individual sessions?

Accepted Answer

A package provides a complete and supportive training journey beyond individual sessions. Alongside expert guidance and a structured plan tailored to your puppy’s or dog's needs, you'll have the flexibility to ask questions between lessons, so you’re never without professional support. I also offer video reviews of your training progress with personalised advice, plus bonus training guides tailored to your specific training needs.

The Puppy Foundations Package & Puppy Kickstart packages also include my comprehensive Puppy Training Guide, covering essential topics like toilet training, chewing, play biting, and socialisation—ensuring you have all the tools needed to give your puppy the best start in life.

Question 4

I'm not sure what service is right for me, can I talk to someone to discuss?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can book a free, no obligation, 15-minute discovery call we me to discuss your puppy or dog.

All details on how to get in touch are on my contact page.

Question 5

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

You can pay for my services by bank transfer (preferred) or with a card (via Stripe).  Payment is due in advance of your training program starting. Instalments are available at Betsy's Dog School's discretion.

Question 6

How do I contact you to book?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to reach me is by filling out my contact form.

Question 7

What age can you start training a puppy?

Accepted Answer

A puppy can start training as soon as they come home.  After a period of settling into their new home and working on play biting, chewing, toilet training and socialisation, you can start to train basic cues.  It's never too early to start training good behaviours!

Question 8

What do I need for our 1-2-1 Sessions?

Accepted Answer

Make sure you have plenty of treats available for training and have a variety including some of your pup's favourite treats.

It's also useful to have some of your puppy's toys available and chews or a stuffed Kong you can give your puppy if they need to be distracted and settle down while we discuss training.

Question 9

What training methods do you use?

Accepted Answer

I only use reward-based, force-free training methods that focus on positive reinforcement because they are backed by science as the most effective and kindest way to train your dog/puppy.

I never use or condone the use of aversive, punitive training methods, this includes the use of bark collars, choke chains, spray collars, lead corrections or any equipment/methods that cause a dog/puppy pain, discomfort or distress.

Question 10

Should I walk my dog before our lesson?

Accepted Answer

Try to follow your usual routine for that day, if we are training when your dog usually goes for a walk, take your dog out for a quick walk beforehand.  This will keep to your usual routine but not tire them out too much so they are ready for training.

Question 11

Can the whole family attend the 1-2-1 training sessions?

Accepted Answer

I would encourage all family members to be present at the session if at all possible so everyone is on the same page with your puppy's training.

Don't worry if this is not possible, it's fine for just the primary caregiver to be there as notes are always provided for the training session afterwards.

Question 12

What if I have questions in between our lessons?

Accepted Answer

As part of my packages, you can email, text or WhatsApp any questions you have in between lessons, and I'll gladly help.  If you have any questions about your training technique, you can also send me a video via WhatsApp.

Question 13

Do you only work with puppies?

Accepted Answer

While I specialise in training young puppies, I also offer lessons for older puppies and adolescent dogs. These sessions are perfect for focused help with specific behaviours like recall, lead walking or polite greetings.  I can also help with recall and lead walking for adult dogs.

Question 14

Do you work with fearful or aggressive dogs?

Accepted Answer

No, I’m unable to work with dogs showing signs of fear, aggression, or reactivity. These behaviours are best addressed by a qualified canine behaviourist who specialises in this area.

Frequently Asked Questions