Many thanks for dropping in. You're at this page because you are interested in joining us at YGSD Training, or you have happened across us while surfing. The information that follows should answer most questions you may have. If it doesn't, just ask us. We’re a friendly bunch and we’d love to help you find the right path to training your German Shepherd.
We have updated the way we operate in order to remain COVID-safe, but our aim remains the same - we want you to enjoy your dog and get the most out of the time you spend with them.
First day at dog school can be a scary thing and it is important that you do not worry. Your dog will pick up on your nerves and this will make them uneasy. If you are calm and relaxed when you arrive, your dog will be calm and relaxed too.
Many new owners don't realise how much their dog takes its cue from them. This is especially the case when you both enter an unfamiliar place. Your dog may be unsure when coming into the club for the first time, especially if it is full of gobby German Shepherds! Your dog will look to you for guidance - if it sees you walk in as though it is an everyday occurrence then it will quickly settle down and relax.
It is also important not to worry about your dog showing you up - we guarantee it will, and we'll all have a good laugh! In two minutes you'll be laughing at the next person... The most important thing you can take on our field is your sense of humour!
Although amusing points they are actually more important than you might realise. If you come in full of nerves your dog may quickly become nervous. If your dog is nervous it is very important not to fuss it, you could be inadvertently telling your dog it's okay to feel that way. Your aim may be to reassure your dog that everything is ok. In your dog's head you are praising it and therefore reinforcing it's nervousness.
Your very first session with us takes the form of an induction. We go through clothing and equipment, toys, rewards, and treats. We also cover why and how dogs learn - we talk about the different methods of training and give you all the basic skills so that when you enter your first class you are best prepared to enjoy it and get the most out of it.
We induct new members at 11:00am. We advise people to arrive around 10:30 so that you have plenty of time. There is tea and coffee and the odd bun available in the club house.
Please please please do not arrive late. It is very disruptive to classes when people need to pass through to get to their class. Also the dogs in class take a few minutes to settle. If another dog arrives 5 mins after start all the other dogs become unsettled and need another few minutes to settle once more.
Our address is Carr Road, Calverley, LS28 5NE. On arrival drive down the track and turn around at the end. There is room. Come back up the track and park on the left as close to the car in front as possible, remembering to leave enough space for the car in front to get their big hairy GSD out.
If it is your first time, you will need to join the club you can complete the online form or fill one out on your first day. Payment can be made via BACS or by cash or a cheque. Cheques to be made out to "Yorkshire German Shepherd Dog Training"
The Online Membership Form can be completed by clicking below:
Please don't worry too much about what to bring. We don't throw you in at the deep end and put you straight into a class. Your first session will be an induction, the aim of which is to give you all the information you need on equipment, clothing, treats and toys. We also cover how dogs learn, how we train. We will show you a few little exercises to practice at home. Then the following week, we throw you in at the deep end! Below are some items that you will need but please don't rush out and spend a fortune on kit. There is no need.
Suitable footwear and clothing. We always train outdoors on a field.
Training lead. Leather is best as it is more comfortable to use. Avoid nylon "seatbelt" type materials as they can be uncomfortable. Length should be 4 to 6 feet ideally. A training lead with a number of rings so you can adjust the length is a good idea.
Suitable collar. A half check (or training) collar is generally regarded as one of the better types of collar to use. A full check or choke chain is not necessary and should never be used on a puppy and certainly not on an older dog without proper instruction first. These can do a lot of harm if used incorrectly. Pinch, spike and electric collars are not allowed. Training is fun and pain is not!.
Training treats. Soft easily chewable treats are best. Avoid hard biscuit based treats. Cheese, chicken, hot dogs, ox liver are all popular choices. Be careful to make sure the treats you use do not upset your dog's stomach. It may take some experimentation to find the best ones for your dog.
Waste disposal bags. Please take these with you after class as we have no facilty to dispose of these for you.
Your sense of humour, you're going to need it.