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 three-quarter-hour practical lessons. You also get access to an online environment with additional theory lessons, training videos, quizzes and articles. Moreover, you can ask questions daily and receive feedback on submitted videos. Included in your registration are a welcome pack and a Van Stal clicker.
Do you NOT want your dog to:
Do you WANT more that your dog:
In this course, you’ll learn to look through the eyes of a trainer: why does your dog behave the way they do? What are the underlying emotions and motivations behind the behaviour, and how can you respond in a positive way? We take a deeper look at topics such as body language and communication, stress and emotions, and how dogs learn. We also focus extensively on canine needs: what does your dog require, and how can you meet those needs? When you understand why your dog behaves in a certain way, how dogs learn, and you’re aware of your dog’s individual needs, you’ll be better equipped to 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. To change behaviour, we first need to know what is causing it. Only when it is clear what factors are at play is it possible to adjust behaviour. We don’t do this just by teaching commands or signals. Instead, we delve into the dog’s being: 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.
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 believe that with a dog, you are never done learning. From March 2025, we will offer a completely new, unique course offer: a monthly subscription to all kinds of themed lessons, varying in subject matter, theory and practice. That way, you can spend a lifetime with us on lessons!
Please be patient… We are busy organising and planning the new course offer.
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