Frequently Asked Questions – Beyond Your Home at Focus Dog Behaviour and Training

Beyond Your Home is a structured programme of coached real-world training walks, designed to help you transfer your dog’s learning beyond your home and into everyday outdoor life. Run by Pippa, an ABTC-registered Animal Training Instructor and multi-certified dog trainer, sessions take place in public spaces across Shipley, Bingley, Cottingley, Saltaire, and surrounding areas.

These training walks help you apply the skills and knowledge gained in class to real-life situations. Depending on the level you attend – Foundations, Urban, or Wildlife – you may also learn completely new skills tailored to more advanced environments.

Yes, you need to bring everything your puppy or dog will need to support them on a walk. At a minimum this will include water and a water bowl, poo bags and training treats. If we are using long-lines your puppy or dog must wear a harness. You may also be asked to bring a non-squeaky toy, a well-maintained long-line, a mat/bed/something for your dog to settle on (a cheap bathmat will be enough) and any weather protection you and your dog require. An email will be sent out with all the information you need.

Sorry, no. These sessions are only available to graduates of a beginners course with Focus Dog Behaviour and Training. This ensures everyone has the same foundation before working in real-world environments.

Yes, all participants are expected to have third-party liability insurance in place for their dog at a minimum. This type of cover protects you in the event your dog causes injury or damage to another person, animal, or property during the session – whether that’s to a member of the public, another dog, or within the group. Please check your policy wording to ensure this is included. It’s often part of standard pet insurance, or it can be purchased separately for a minimal amount from providers like the Dogs Trust membership scheme.

The sessions are an hour long unless severe weather causes the session to be cut short.

This is subject to prior approval. The Beyond Your Home sessions are not social walks, they are coached trainer led sessions. Children remain the responsibility of their caregivers at all times.  They must not approach other participants or their dogs. Caregivers must ensure they are aware of the full training conditions and terms before bringing their children.

Yes but this is not a social outing. Anyone accompanying you must have a relationship with the dog and be there to support the training, or you, in some capacity, not just to spectate. Please make sure they’ve read this information in full before the session. They must not approach other participants or their dogs at any time. All attendees remain the responsibility of the person who booked the session.

We train in all weathers – it’s real life, after all! Make sure you check the forecast to help you decide what to wear or pack for. In hot weather, we’ll adjust pace, seek shade, and may shorten the session if needed. In the event of severe weather (e.g. storms, snow, heatwave etc), I’ll reschedule, I’ll contact you with as much notice as possible.

Outdoor sessions may involve exposure to varied environments and unpredictable stimuli – such as people, traffic, off-lead dogs, wildlife, or sudden noise. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure their dog is managed appropriately on lead and under control at all times. Please consider whether it is appropriate to book their dog onto the session. Full training terms and conditions apply.

Filming or photography of any kind is NOT allowed. This is already part of my class policy, but it’s especially important in public spaces. It protects client and dog privacy, helps your dog stay focused on you, supports your ability to stay alert to hazards, and preserves the group’s comfort and learning environment. If I ever wish to take a photo or video for educational or promotional use, I’ll always ask your permission first.

No - These sessions are not for reactivity. If you're dog is reactive it is best to seek the advise of, and work with a Clinical Animal Behaviourist.  After working with them, as your dog progresses their new learning and behaviour, the coached training walks may be suitable for your dog on a one to one basis.

No.  The rules of the class are very strict. A bite history precludes your dog from joining any group activity.

Please don't hesitate to contact me. It's important to me you are happy and well-informed before you book.