Theme-sessions – Hondenschool Van Stal

THE NEW COURSE OFFERINGS COMES ARRIVING!

We believe that dog training is much more than just teaching a dog to sit or lie down—it’s about learning to understand your dog so that you know exactly what they need to be happy. It’s not necessarily your dog that needs training, but you! To truly get to know your dog and work together effectively, you need to gain theoretical knowledge and regularly practice (new) skills. That may sound like a challenge, but let’s be honest—what could be more fun than spending time with your own dog?
Since learning with a dog never really stops, we are launching a new format for our course offerings: a monthly subscription to a variety of themed lessons, covering different topics, theory, and practice. This way, you can continue training with us for a lifetime!

Since learning with a dog never really stops, we are launching a new format for our course offerings: a monthly subscription to a variety of themed lessons, covering different topics, theory, and practice. This way, you can continue training with us for a lifetime!

What can you expect?

In the new year, we will offer two standard courses:
A revamped puppy course for puppies and young dogs
A new foundation course for all dogs beyond the puppy stage
After completing the foundation course, you can sign up for a subscription. For a fixed monthly fee, you will have unlimited access to themed lessons, guided walks, and workshops. We offer a variety of lessons at set times and days, and you can register for each session individually—allowing you to tailor your training to your own schedule!
Each month, we host an in-depth lecture or workshop, included in your subscription. Additionally, you will have access to our new online learning platform filled with theoretical material and can participate in our monthly social walks.

The months of January and February are a transition periodSome courses will be offered one last time in their current format. Starting in March, we will fully transition to the new course structure.

Dogs need regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors. Brain games can take different forms, such as scent work, where your dog searches for specific smells, or teaching them new behaviors. This can range from practical exercises, like going to their place when the doorbell rings, to fun tricks like waving.

Brain games are especially beneficial for insecure dogs. They help build confidence, enhance problem-solving skills, and make dogs feel more secure in new situations. They provide a sense of fulfillment, strengthen the bond between you and your dog, and make you a more creative trainer. Even on rainy days, brain games offer a great way to challenge your dog without long walks. It’s the perfect way to keep your dog mentally fit, happy, and confident!

In our theme lessons Carefree Walkingwe focus on overcoming the daily challenges of walking your dog. We work on handling distractions, leash pulling, social interactions, and improving focus on you. Additionally, we teach fun and engaging exercises that strengthen your bond with your dog. How can you use your surroundings to teach your dog new things and make your walks more interactive and enjoyable?

These lessons provide a space for you to ask all your questions about your dog’s behavior during walks. Turn every walk into a pleasant and educational experience for both you and your dog!

Dogs are naturally social animals, but in our modern society, it can be difficult for them to display socially appropriate behavior. Many dogs need guidance to interact positively with other dogs. A lack of understanding of body language and social behavior often leads to miscommunication and negative experiences with other dogs. Additionally, using a leash during walks can sometimes restrict natural communication, causing tension.

In our Social Skillsyou’ll learn to better understand and recognize your dog’s body language. We discuss what social behavior looks like and how to encourage it. You’ll also learn how to minimize the impact of the leash, allowing your dog more freedom to express themselves naturally. By doing so, you can guide your dog toward appropriate social behavior and help them feel comfortable in their environment.

Your dog’s adolescent phase often starts as early as four months old, meaning you’ll find yourself facing puberty struggles sooner than expected. Just when you think you’ve made it through the puppy stage, your dog suddenly seems to change overnight. It may feel like you’re dealing with a completely different dog! You might wonder if you’re the right owner or if you can handle this phase. Don’t worry—it’s completely normal!

In our adolescent problemswe help you understand how a teenage dog’s brain works and give you the right tools to navigate this phase successfully. Adolescent dogs can be a lot of fun—especially when you know how to manage them. We’ll guide you through all the ups and downs of adolescence so you can fully enjoy this stage with your dog!

As the name suggests: funfun is guaranteed! Fun & CooperationIn our Fun & Cooperation lessons, you’ll practice engaging exercises that you can use in daily life with your dog. Dogs need more than just physical exercise—they also need mental challenges to prevent boredom, which can lead to problem behaviors. Do you want to mentally stimulate your dog, improve your teamwork, and have fun at the same time? Then these lessons are perfect for you! They help build confidence for both you and your dog while strengthening your bond. Become the best trainer for your dog and enjoy the journey together!

These lessons provide the tools to boost your dog’s confidence through targeted training, exercises, and social skill development. A lack of confidence can lead to behavioral issues, ranging from minor problems to more serious challenges. These issues may not always be immediately obvious to you, but they can still cause significant stress for your dog.
By helping your dog develop more stability and self-assurance, you create a happier, more relaxed companion while deepening your bond. The result? Companion who can enjoy it together with his dog

After completing the Reactive Dog Course, it’s time to continue practicing in real-life situations—but with the guidance of our experienced instructors. In these follow-up lessons, we work with different dogs in controlled settings, helping you reinforce newly learned skills until they become second nature.

The goal is to increase your dog’s confidence, gradually reducing reactivity and teaching them to make better choices in various situations. You never stop learning with a reactive dog, and these lessons provide the ongoing support you need to continue progressing. Together, you and your dog can work toward a calmer and more balanced future.