The name really says it all: this course is the foundation of your training. In six weeks, you and your dog will be set up for a great partnership. The basic Van Stal course consists of Two two-hour theory lessons and four 45-minute practical lessons. You will also have access to an online environment with additional theory lessons, training videos, quizzes and articles totalling more than 8 hours. In addition, you can ask questions and receive feedback on submitted videos on a daily basis. Included with your registration are a welcome package and a Van Stal clicker. So register quickly for the basic course!
Do you NOT want your dog to:
Do you WANT more that your dog:
In this course you learn to look at things like a trainer: why does your dog do what it does? What are the underlying emotions and motivations for behaviour, and how do you deal with them in a positive way? We take a closer look at subjects such as body language and communication, stress and emotions, and the learning process of dogs. Moreover, we pay a lot of attention to dogs’ needs: what does your dog need and how can you fulfill If you understand why your dog exhibits certain behaviour, understand how dogs learn, and are aware of your dog’s needs, you can handle any situation.
The Elementary Course starts with a comprehensive theory lesson on dog training. At Van Stal, dog training is about getting to know your dog and understanding dog behaviour. In order to change behaviour, we first need to know what causes it. Only when it is clear which factors are involved is it possible to adjust behaviour. We do not do this solely by teaching cues. Instead, we delve into the essence of the dog: what is your dog trying to tell you, and what does your dog need?
Halfway through the course, you attend another theory lesson. This will be an interactive session with all the other course participants: together you will work on a case study and solve a common problem. The four practical lessons cover concrete exercises and skills, such as walking without pulling and reliably coming ‘here’. We also work on attention exercises and self-confidence, and spend time learning how to deal with stimuli. In six weeks, we work on building a stable foundation and good cooperation.
All our courses consist of a combination of theory and practice. The basic course consists of two theory lessons and four practical lessons, and can be attended at different times (see below). In addition to the lessons at our location, you get access to an online environment with additional theory material and training videos.
Wednesday evening from 19:30
Saturday afternoon from 14:00
CAUTION! The theory lessons always last two hours. For the practical lessons, you will be divided into small groups. These last 45 minutes and start on Wednesdays at 19:30 & 20:30, and on Saturdays at 14:00 & 15:00. It is possible to pass on your preference during the first theory lesson.
There is also a specific English edition, which only takes place on Saturdays if there are enough registrations. For more information, please visit this page: Elementary Course.
Bring your vaccination booklet or passport with you on the first lesson.
A long leash and harness are available in our shop. We will help you fit a good harness and offer a rental service for growing puppies.
There is always a clean snuffbox and water waiting for you in our training hall. Van Stal has a covered hall, so in bad weather you are always dry! If the weather allows it, we go outside to train for variety.
CAUTION! Slip lines, choke chains, anti-tugging devices or other aversive aids are not allowed. We strongly advise against the use of coiling lines. At Van Stal, you will learn to walk relaxed with a long leash.
Now that you understand what your dog needs and you have laid a good foundation together, you can get on with training!
To really get to know your dog and work together, you need to acquire a lot of theoretical knowledge and practice (new) skills regularly. That sounds like a lot of work, but let’s be honest: there is nothing more fun than working with your own dog, right?
We now offer a completely new, unique range of courses: a monthly subscription to all kinds of themed lessons, varying in subject, theory and practice. This means you can take lessons with us for a dog’s lifetime!
