ViridianK9s Walk & Class Guide

Neutral Walks / The Great Sniff Out

Purpose

Designed to build neutrality, engagement, confidence, and good decision-making around distractions. Ideal for reactive dogs, dogs in training, or owners who do not want their dogs greeting other dogs.

Rules

  • All dogs remain on lead throughout the session unless instructed otherwise by a trainer for a specific exercise.

  • No dog-to-dog interactions, greetings, or play.

  • No socialising between dogs.

  • Dogs should remain neutral around one another and focused on their handler.

  • Please maintain appropriate space from other dogs at all times.

  • Reactive, nervous, or dogs in training may be attending.

The Great Sniff Out

  • Dogs will be encouraged to use their noses during scent-work exercises.

  • Dogs should not be greeting or interacting with other dogs.

Pack Walks

Purpose

Designed to develop social skills, appropriate dog-to-dog interactions, and reliable freedom around other dogs.

Rules

  • Some dogs may remain on lead, whilst others may be on a dropped long line or e-collar depending on their training level.

  • Dogs may interact and greet one another where appropriate.

  • Play is permitted in moderation but remains structured and supervised.

  • Dogs are given more freedom to explore, sniff, and move naturally as part of the group.

Suitability

  • Not suitable for dogs with significant reactivity or for owners who do not want their dogs greeting or interacting with other dogs.

  • Attendance is subject to trainer approval to ensure the safety and suitability of the group.

London Trip & Train

Purpose

London Trip & Trains are training-focused events designed to expose dogs to real-world environments, distractions, transport, people, and urban settings.

What To Expect

  • These events are a mixture of Neutral Walk and Pack Walk principles.

  • Dogs are attending to train, not simply to socialise.

  • The level of social interaction may vary depending on the location, environment, dogs attending, and goals of the session.

  • Some London Trip & Trains may be more neutral in nature, whilst others may allow more appropriate social interaction where suitable.

Rules

  • Trainer instructions must be followed at all times regarding greetings, lead handling, positioning, and dog interactions.

  • Dogs may be required to remain on lead, on a long line, or be given more freedom depending on their training level and the environment.

  • Reactive, nervous, or dogs in training may be attending, therefore all handlers should respect space and follow instructions from trainers.

Goal

The primary goal is education, engagement, neutrality, confidence building, and real-world training.

Obedience Classes

Purpose

Our obedience classes are designed to be a structured training environment where dogs and handlers can focus on learning without unnecessary distractions.

Rules

  • Dogs are attending to train, not to socialise.

  • No on-lead or off-lead greetings are permitted before, during, or after class unless specifically instructed by a trainer.

  • Dogs should remain neutral around one another and focus on their handler.

  • Please maintain a respectful distance from other dogs and handlers at all times.

  • Do not allow your dog to approach another dog, even if they appear friendly.

  • Dogs must remain on lead throughout the class unless a trainer instructs otherwise for a specific exercise.

  • Some exercises may require dogs to be off lead; however, this will only be done under trainer instruction and when it is appropriate and safe to do so.

  • Reactive, nervous, fearful, young, or dogs currently in training may be attending the class, so respecting space is essential.

  • If your dog becomes overwhelmed, please create distance and speak to a trainer for assistance.

  • Please follow all trainer instructions regarding positioning, lead handling, rewards, and movement around the training area.

Suitability & Assessments

Before Booking

  • If you are unsure whether your dog is suitable for a particular activity, please contact me before booking.

  • Some activities, particularly Pack Walks, may require your dog to complete an assessment beforehand.

  • Assessments help ensure your dog is placed into the most appropriate environment for their training level, temperament, and safety.

Trainer Discretion

  • The suitability of each dog will be determined at the trainer's discretion.

  • ViridianK9s reserves the right to refuse attendance at any event if it is deemed unsuitable for the dog, handler, or group.

Our Goal

These guidelines help create a safe, structured, and productive environment for all dogs and handlers attending ViridianK9s events.