Marina
I wanted to say that I really enjoyed the lesson and found it very helpful. Thank you again to Chris.
I would like to book a follow up lesson please.
cindy.dewee@firstimpact.co.za
Marina
We recently took our two dogs to basic obedience training with an instructor that trained with you years ago. The experience was unbelievably positive. Our dogs were obedient to start with, but seeing how the training made them more confident and how them understanding simple commands have enhanced our lives and relationship with them have really triggered an interest in both of us to pursue the training ourselves.
We are > South Africans currently working and living in Botswana. I see that you have done training with people from all over the world.
Thank you for the work that you do. It is wonderful to see how the instructors that you trained are changing lives, and I hope for us to soon be part of that group.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Zané
Loved the presenters, both. Enjoyed Christine’s humour and Chris’s enthusiasm.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Gloria
The seminar was very informative and eye opening for me.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Melinde
It was straight forward while maintaining a friendly, supportive, and interactive atmosphere.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Brett
Behaviour shaping is most important.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Lindo
I learnt about dogs in general, behaviour is most important, so is poison proofing, and I enjoyed everything, made more sense.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Beancia
I’m happy about courses. Would be awesome to represent while I move around in conversation industry. Please be my mentors!
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Leslie
I really enjoyed level 1. Working with and seeing dogs with behaviour issues was good to see in person and not just read about it.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Elmar
How very special dogs really are! The course was awesome! Thanks, you are doing a great job.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Samuel
Animal behaviour, dog psychology, reactivity addressing. Presenters are excellent. Animal behaviour – Christine, general education on dog psychology – Chris. Venue was perfect, environment is also perfect.
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Deneil
It was fantastic. I felt very proud because Luna was doing very well. I realised I had more learning to do then she did.
I loved the entire session and would not change a thing.
Thanks so much
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Clarinda
Apart from Nova’s reactivity, the lesson itself was excellent.
Thank you 🙂
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Ernest
I found it excellent thanks
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Melinda
Hi there, the lesson was good. It was a bit challenging getting our boy to calm down at first as there was a lot of dogs barking and some a bit reactive.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Bryan
We really enjoyed the first session!
We did feel a bit shell-shocked at first, as we jumped straight into the lesson with about-turns and other exercises. It felt like we may have missed a session. That said, we quickly caught up with the pace and appreciated the hands-on approach.
We understand this is the Obedience course, so the intensity makes sense—but the jump from the theory session to the practical lesson was quite noticeable. We’re planning to arrive a bit earlier next time to help Hiro settle in and get her bearings before class starts.
Overall, we truly enjoyed the experience and are looking forward to the next session.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Klipriver)
Sue
I am well hope you are too. I enjoyed the class. It is a big class, so Debbie had to repeat everything she said. My Ollie was very nervous at the beginning, but he seemed to settle down, and I think he enjoyed the training too. I was very satisfied with the training and look forward to the training on Saturday.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Liza
Our first lesson with Debbie was great.
I was trained this week as madame was not interested to participate in the class. Hopefully things will be better this week around.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Steve
It was good but we were very overwhelmed.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Brett – Klipriver)
Gayle
Experience was fantastic! Chris explains well and keeps the class engaged and fun! Takes the time to give each handler a bit of personal attention to assist with issues.
Looking forward to my next lesson
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Eloise and Norman
We do want to say that Max is really having a great time at puppy training and we can see a big difference in him, thank you.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Nicole
Good day, My husband took our dog to the first lesson. He said that he and our dog really enjoyed it and are looking forward to their next lesson.
Thank you for following up. We are very happy we choose SADTC for our training.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Ronnie
Very happy with Keith and looking forward to carrying on, on the 26th.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Ronnie – Klipriver)
Eliose
It was great!
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Mikateko
I really enjoyed the lesson. Especially with how well you could mange the chaos.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Klipriver)
Jess
Thanks so much for our first class! I was looking for a much more structured and thorough training course, and I think this is just perfect for us.
The tip of hand feeding at home has really helped and I feel like Maple is a lot more engaged now and training is a lot more productive. She is also very happy in the collar you recommended.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Klipriver)
Kirsten
The first lesson was fine, thank you. It was quite basic in that we repeated the sit, down, stand and look commands that Chris had asked us to practice at the orientation lesson. But I think a basic first lesson is necessary as the pups are over stimulated by the new environment, so I think this was appropriate.
I did find that the trainer at Honeydew (forgot his name) tends to take a ‘punitive’ approach; asking questions with the intent of using incorrect answers as an example to the others which, by the end of the class meant people were less likely to want to answer in fear of being wrong. Having said that I think the trainer relaxed a bit by the end, and he began listening a bit more.
So overall it was good, although there were moments of concern. I look forward to future lessons, thank you.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Brett – Honeydew)
Rose
Thank you to Biata for a very interesting class. We really enjoyed working with her and got a lot out of the class. We really like that Biata is firm with people, she sees where we are struggling and makes suggestions to correct and help. The only thing we would change is extra homework. We work on the tasks set at training, but it would be nice if extra tasks to work on during the week could be suggested. Thank you.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Klipriver)
Lucine
The first lesson was very informative. Some of how I was approaching the training was corrected, although Koa wasn’t very co-operative because he was so distracted – I can definitely see the value of this training already!
I felt the individual attention received was appreciated! Keith is very knowledgeable and patient, he really made Koa and I feel at ease. I am excited to see how we progress.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Keith – Klipriver)
Lizette
Kenya will be my 6th dog going through puppy socialisation at SADTC and once again I realised how many mistakes I make. The class was fantastic. I have learned so much. Christopher is very kind and soft with the pups. Excellent knowledge. Gave me a lot of advise and extra homework as we attending a show on Saturday coming in order for us not to fall behind.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Nataley
Just a shoutout to @Romayne. You are truly the backbone of SADTC keeping everything together and organized. Answering all the messages and emails. Keeping track of payments and orders. Keeping us informed of who will be attending classes and who won’t.
You are an absolute STAR! THANK YOU! Thanks for your unwavering help and assistance at all times.
Christopher and his assistant are absolutely amazing, patient and gentle with the pups. He is extremely knowledgeable in regard to not just training but the general anatomy and behaviour of dogs and I look forward to learning from him! I can already see a difference in my puppy dog.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Handler’s dog waiting in queue for her handler to get coffee.
Ernest
I found it excellent thanks.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Melina
Hi there, the lesson was good. It was a bit challenging getting our boy to calm down at first as there was a lot of dogs baking and some a bit reactive.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Bryan
We really enjoyed the first session!
We did feel a bit shell-shocked at first, as we jumped straight into the lesson with about-turns and other exercises. It felt like we may have missed a session. That said, we quickly caught up with the pace and appreciated the hands-on approach.
We understand this is the Obedience course, so the intensity makes sense—but the jump from the theory session to the practical lesson was quite noticeable. We’re planning to arrive a bit earlier next time to help Hiro settle in and get her bearings before class starts.
Overall, we truly enjoyed the experience and are looking forward to the next session.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Honeydew)
Sue
I am well hope you are too. I enjoyed the class. It is a big class, so Debbie had to repeat everything she said. My Ollie was very nervous at the beginning, but he seemed to settle down and I think he enjoyed the training too. I was very satisfied with the training and look forward to the training on Saturday.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Liza
Our first lesson with Debbie was great. I was trained this week as madame was not interested to participate in the class. Hopefully things will be better this week around.
Have a great day.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Klipriver)
Steve
It was good but we were very overwhelmed.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Brett – Honeydew)
Gayle
Hi there. Experience was fantastic! Chris explains well and keeps the class engaged and fun!
Takes the time to give each handler a bit of personal attention to assist with issues. Looking forward to my next lesson
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Eloise and Norman
We do want to say that Max is really having a great time at puppy training and we can see a big difference in him, thank you
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Nicole
My husband took our dog to the first lesson. He said that he and our dog really enjoyed it and are looking forward to their next lesson
Thank you for following up. We are very happy we choose SADTC for our training.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Ronnie
Very happy with Keith and looking forward to carrying on, on the 26th.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Keith – Klipriver)
Eloise
It was great!
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Mikateko
Hi There,
I really enjoyed the lesson. Especially with how well you could manage the chaos.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Klipriver)
Jess
Thanks so much for our first class! I was looking for a much more structured and thorough training course and I think this is just perfect for us.
The tip of hand feeding at home has really helped and I feel like Maple is a lot more engaged now and training is a lot more productive. She is also very happy in the collar you recommended.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Klipriver)
Kirsten
Hi Romayne
Thanks for the email. The first lesson was fine, thank you. It was quite basic in that we repeated the sit, down, stand and look commands that Chris had asked us to practice at the orientation lesson. But I think a basic first lesson is necessary as the pups are over stimulated by the new environment, so I think this was appropriate.
I did find that the trainer at Honeydew (forgot his name) tends to take a ‘punitive’ approach; asking questions with the intent of using incorrect answers as an example to the others which, by the end of the class meant people were less likely to want to answer in fear of being wrong. Having said that I think the trainer relaxed a bit by the end, and he began listening a bit more.
So overall it was good, although there were moments of concern. I look forward to future lessons, thank you.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Brett – Honeydew)
Rose
Hi Romayne
Thank you to Biata for a very interesting class. We really enjoyed working with her and got a lot out of the class. We really like that Biata is firm with people, she sees where we are struggling and makes suggestions to correct and help. The only thing we would change is extra homework. We work on the tasks set at training but it would be nice if extra tasks to work on during the week could be suggested. Thank you.
Kind regards
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Klipriver)
Lucine Southcrest
Hello Romayne, I hope you are well too!!
The first lesson was very informative. Some of how I was approaching the training was corrected, although Koa wasn’t very co-operative because he was so distracted – I can definitely see the value of this training already!
I felt the individual attention received was appreciated! Keith is very knowledgeable and patient, he really made Koa and I feel at ease.
I am excited to see how we progress. Kind Regards,
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Keith – Klipriver)
Lizette
Hi! Kenya will be my 6th dog going through puppy socialisation at SADTC and once again I realised how many mistakes I make. The class was fantastic I have learned so much. Christopher is very kind and soft with the pups. Excellent knowledge. Gave me a lot of advise and extra homework as we attending a show on Saturday coming in order for us not to fall behind.
Regards
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Klipriver)
Kiara Chartwell
It was really good. Very gentle training which was great. Thank you
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Honeydew)
Instructor Course Level 2 Ceremony (2025)
Diane Redelinghuys
So excited to embark on level 2 and 3, ( intermediate and advanced ) dog instructors’ course at South African Dog Training College South African Dog Training College today. The next two weeks I will be tapping into the knowledge and years of experience of Chris Vd Westhuizen and his wonderful wife Christine.
I have been attending “school ” just over 18 months, and their daughter Biata has taken Alex and I from basic home obedience right up to the advanced class in only 18 months. In the first year, Alex achieved his Canine Good Citizen Gold level, the highest level. This is an international recognized programme. Alex has learnt to negotiate all the obstacles in an agility course, learnt how to ride escalators, lifts, negotiate open stairs and walk on open grid surfaces.
Chris exposed me to scent work, organising a seminar with Clinton Cilliers and Ansunet Cilliers. I attended a week long course with The Master Miguel Angel Carbajal Porto and his team from Spain with Clinton Cilliers doing mantrailing. I saw my Alex come alive. He LOVED it.
I have now started my young terrorist, Benjamin on the same Journey.
Diane Redelinghuys
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Diane Ferreira Redelinghuys
I want to thank South African Dog Training College for all the tools they have equipped my toolbox with when it comes to training dogs. I completed my level 2 Instructors course today. (Awaiting my results).
I adopted a submissive pup from CLAW (Community Led Animal Welfare) in March this year. The reason being that Alex did not tolerate high energy confident puppies that got into his face.
Benjamin howled blue murder out the back of my car window at the cars behind him. I am sure if he was a human child, people would have called the cops.
This was a month before I was to leave for 4 weeks to NZ. I applied the 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months rule that I was taught in the Basic home obedience instructors course. The primary issue was to get Alex and Benjamin to bond without my interference, if needed. I never needed to interfere. Alex was the best Alpha ever!
I started teaching Benji just the sit for his food. I got pet sitters to look after my 4 animals, 2 cats and the dogs while I was away. They did a sterling job! When I returned, Benjamin was 5 months old and I started puppy socializing classes with Chris Byron at the club. Wow! What a guy with puppies! This allowed for Benji and I to form a bond, and so much more! I only learnt during this course that Benji and I skipped a level straight into Debbie’s class. Another PHENOMENAL basic home obedience trainer.
I brought Benjamin to the course, wanting to expose, introduce and teach him about agility. Going over the A- frame, the “board walk”, (which is terrifying for 99% of dogs and need several days of luring to do. Going through a hoop and through a pitch black tunnel. I used Alex as lead dog for the A frame and board walk, and Benji did not flinch. He did the tunnel and Tyre without hesitation.
For those that have seen Benjamin’s incredible propensity to serve, (opening drawers, cupboards, carrying and picking up ANYTHING,
I need to say ONE thing.
Without the knowledge I have obtained by doing the Instructors courses, being taught by the best I have come across in my 63 yrs, I would not have been able to “create and mold” such a happy and confident pup / dog.
Thank you Chris Vd Westhuizen , Christine, Biata, Chris Byron, Tammy Schutte and Debbie (?).
Michelle Potts Weedman ….thank YOU and CLAW for all your hard work and dedication you put into rescuing animals and reaching out to the uneducated. Without CLAW, I would not have the incredible dogs I have!
I am truly blessed!
Diane Redelinghuys
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Kiera
It was really good. Very gentle training which was great.
Thank you
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Chartwell – Honeydew)
Hannecke & Kobi
Hannecke and her dog Kobi train with us and Kobi was with her on her wedding day. Hannecke is a paramedic who has trained Kobi to be a Therapy dog. Kobi travels in the ambulance with her to different scenes, and is a wonderful support dog for trauma patients, allowing Hannecke to do her job at the same time.
Stunning achievement doing excellent service!
Training type: Therapy Dog Training
Chantelle
I really enjoyed our first training session at Kliprivier. Mackayla was really efficient and communicated very well with both me and my dog. What I appreciated very much is that she gave us homework in not only obedience work, but also in therapy training tips for what we aim to have at the end of the process.
Petunia loved everything and especially all the attention she received. She was dead tired and slept the rest of the afternoon away.
Looking forward to this weekend’s training.
Training type: Dog Training (Honeydew: Instructor – Mackayla)
Chantelle
I want to give some feedback about Petunia (after just two lessons with you guys). Last weekend we went on a hike at a park with many other dogs, people, and mountain bikes. Normally I had so much trouble getting her under control, and eating at the pet-friendly restaurant afterward was out of the question. I took a friend along with me who knows Petunia as being a handful. She was so obedient – to the extent that we had a lovely lunch at the restaurant with no issues at all. She listened to all the commands I gave her without too much trouble. My friend even sent me a voice note later that night saying how he is super impressed with the training so far as he has seen another side of Petunia and even in my way of handling and speaking to her.
Looking forward to this coming weekend’s training! Thanks so much for checking in – I really appreciate it!
Training type: Dog Training (Honeydew)
Nicole
It went amazing and robin helped me and my baby and she was AMAZING!!!
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Leam)
Veronica & Willem
Willem thoroughly enjoyed his first class. I found Chris to be very knowledgeable and he was very helpful.
I was also quite impressed in his ability to manage the class. Thank you for your time and effort.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Kliprivier)
Donna
Thank you, we really enjoyed the first lesson at Kliprivier. Nala must go for an eye operation, still waiting for the confirmation dates.
Will let you know as soon as possible.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Kliprivier)
Sheronica
First class was very informative and a lot of fun. Chris is really great with the dogs and super knowledgeable. I appreciated that he took the time to give one-on-one instructions to each handler. Can’t wait for the next class.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Kliprivier)
Colin
It was great! Looking forward for the second lesson. Also would like to know where we can get crates for our dogs?
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Honeydew)
Jason
Our first lesson was incredibly well received by Robyn and Sterling. Information was clearly and easily conveyed to us. In terms of a rating, easily 10/10. Professional, interactive, informative and just a pure joy to be apart of. Looking forward to the rest of the program and the results.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Honeydew)
Adelle
All was good, looking forward to the next lesson.
Speaking of, will there be a lesson this week as this is a long weekend?
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Mackayla)
Cheryl
Chris was my pups trainer and was I shocked to know that so many things matter, for too long, people grow up with thinking dogs are there to protect you and to just be. And man, did I learn so many things.
Firstly, treats matter. What they work for and consume on training matters. I had silly old Maltons treats which was just not doing the trick anymore, my pup got tired of listening to me, trying to put dog type ‘junk food’ down his throat. He kept listening to the trainer which in return made me a little upset. Not at the trainer but at myself… why work for R10 reward when you can work for R100 reward… makes sense. Good, wholesome treats like biltong nibbles makes a huge difference. The way we talk to our animals matters. The way we enforce obedience in a proper way, matters.
I just wanted to thank Chris for his loyalty and for teaching us the proper way. Although it was only my first training session, I learnt so much. Wow. The first day of training, trained me as a person, let alone my pup.
I look forward to the next few weeks getting to really know and train my pup on a deeper level.
I’m glad I signed up to be trained, dogs imitate owners and if we don’t handle them correctly, how will they know. Thank you too to the SADTC for facilitating a good organisation to help us know and understand more.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher)
Helen & Bruce
Our first training lesson went well. The instructor was great. The biggest problem is ME. I need to relax with Bruce. I am so scared of making mistakes. He feels my nervousness.
Will come in chilled this weekend.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Honeydew)
Chantelle & Pitunia
I really enjoyed our first training session at Kliprivier. Mackayla was really efficient and communicated very well with both me and my dog. What I appreciated very much is that she gave us homework in not only obedience work, but also in therapy training tips for what we aim to have at the end of the process.
Pitunia loved everything and especially all the attention she received. She was dead tired and slept the rest of the afternoon away.
Looking forward to this weekend’s training.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Mackayla – Kliprivier)
Cecilia & Olaf
It was great! It was just super hot, but we enjoyed it. I got a lot of help training Olaf my Yorky.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Mackayla – Honeydew)
Steve
We had an individual lesson with Kirana. We saw progress which was fantastic, and she displayed a very professional attitude, and we enjoyed our time with her.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Kirana – Honeydew)
Shailen & Kenji
Hope all is well.
1st day was amazing and stressful at the same time. Was really exciting to learn and gain the knowledge from Liam and John.
Still nervous about how Kenji reacted (barking and pulling) hopefully he calms down soon.
Looking forward to Saturday’s class.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Leam – Kliprivier)
Debbie & Rocky
Thank you for the email – we (Debbie, Ben, Leon and our bullie Rocky) are all VERY happy with the first lesson! It went a lot better than we initially thought and we were nervous but Biate did an excellent job to calm all of us down (incl Rocky).
Our son (Leon) is already looking forward to the 2nd lesson.
Dominique
Selwyn
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Biata – Honeydew)
Dominique
I loved the course and this is why I came back. The dog addiction has bitten me and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Dominique
Selwyn
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
EJ
The seminar was a good experience. The presenters are very knowledgeable and I did not have problems with their instructions.
EJ
Pretoria
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Kate
It is a great venue. It was a fantastic course, there was a lot of work and a lot to take in, but it was worth it. Thank you so much Chris, Christine, Biata, Mackayla and Romayne.
Kate
Pretoria East
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Kirana
All instructors were fantastic. Great venue, has a good variety of uses, all spaces were correct for purpose. The course is well structured, information is pertinent and delivered with complete transparency. I really admire the way it was done.
Kirana
Randpark Ridge
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Caroline
The knowledge of commands exercises – strategies on behaviour problems and what to read. The first Aid. I enjoyed all the topics presented and loved the relaxed setting.
Caroline
Zimbabwe
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Bianca
Behaviour and how to look for root causes, not just displayed behaviour. Presenters have a wealth of knowledge and I am very thankful for their willingness to share it.
Bianca
Pretoria
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Beaux
Coming into the course with zero experience with animals as a whole. I have learned a lot and would happily do it again in the future.
Beaux
Pretoria
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Dinisha
10 out of 10. I love been here. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with us, what you guys created is amazing, keep up the excellent work.
Dinisha
Midrand
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Ashveer
The real value of dogs and the actual impact they have and can have on the human population. Most valuable – think like a dog. I am bias towards Christine, so no complaints. Chris’s passion and knowledge, any criticism, none from me. I enjoy the life experiences with dogs.
Ashveer
Midrand
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Hannecke
How to use desensitization and flooding on nervous and anxious dogs to build their confidence. I enjoyed and found value in all the topics. Venue is suitable. I enjoyed the course. It has changed my view on how to train my dogs and given me insight on what I should teach other people about dogs.
Hannecke
Walkerville
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Laura
All the sickness and dangers to the dog. That you must do proper homework before getting a puppy/dog. It was nice sitting outside, fresh air, and I loved the horse visits.
Laura
Paarl
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Terina
The venue was suitable. What you said we will walk away with in the end was what you gave us to take home.
Terina
Roodepoort
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Jana
The handling of dogs and the progression of training. My overall experience was positive and informative.
Jana
Nelspruit
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Loyiso
Dog behaviour and how to use dog’s minds to make training easier for both the dog and myself. Venue was comfortable and convenient for me. The presenters were very helpful and gave a lot of real-life examples to explain the concepts being taught.
Loyiso
Aspen Hills
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Nicolas
The presenters handled well in the topics and had a wide range of knowledge. Training was well presented and all instructors were well informed in their specific fields.
Regards
Nicolas
Selwyn
Training type: Dog Instructor Course Level 1
Nicole
It went amazing and Robin helped me and my baby and she was AMAZING!!!
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Robin – Honeydew)
Veronica & Willem
I hope you are doing well?
Willem thoroughly enjoyed his first class. I found Chris to be very knowledgeable and he was very helpful.
I was also quite impressed in his ability to manage the class.
Thank you for your time and effort.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Kliprivier)
Donna
Thank you, we really enjoyed the first lesson at Kliprivier.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Kliprivier)
Sheronica
First class was very informative and a lot of fun. Chris is really great with the dogs and super knowledgeable. I appreciated that he took the time to give one-on-one instructions to each handler.
Can’t wait for the next class.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Honeydew)
Colin
Hope all is well.
It was great! Looking forward for the second lesson. Also would like to know where we can get crates for our dogs?
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Honeydew)
Jason | Robin & Sterling
We are doing great thanks, hope you are too.
Our first lesson was incredibly well received by Robyn and Sterling. Information was clearly and easily conveyed to us. In terms of a rating, easily 10/10. Professional, interactive, informative and just a pure joy to be apart of. Looking forward to the rest of the program and the results.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Baita – Honeydew)
Adelle
All was good, looking forward to the next lesson.
Speaking of, will there be a lesson this week as this is a long weekend ?
Regards
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Mackayla – Kliprivier)
Cheryl Garthdale
I trust you’re doing well.
Chris was my pups trainer and was I shocked to know that so many things matter. For too long, people grow up with thinking dogs are there to protect you and to just be. And man, did I learn so many things.
Firstly, treats matter. What they work for and consume on training matters. I had silly old Maltons treats which was just not doing the trick anymore, my pup got tired of listening to me, trying to put dog type ‘junk food’ down his throat. He kept listening to the trainer which in return made me a little upset. Not at the trainer but at myself… why work for R10 reward when you can work for R100 reward… makes sense. Good, wholesome treats like biltong nibbles makes a huge difference. The way we talk to our animals matters. The way we enforce obedience in a proper way, matters.
I just wanted to thank Chris for his loyalty and for teaching us the proper way. Although it was only my first training session, I learnt so much. Wow. The first day of training, trained me as a person, let alone my pup.
I look forward to the next few weeks getting to really know and train my pup on a deeper level.
I’m glad I signed up to be trained, dogs imitate owners and if we don’t handle them correctly, how will they know. Thank you too to the SADTC for facilitating a good organisation to help us know and understand more.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Christopher – Honeydew)
Helen & Bruce
Thank you for your email. Our first training lesson went well.
The instructor was great. The biggest problem is ME. I need to relax with Bruce. I am so scared of making mistakes. He feels my nervousness.
Will come in chilled this weekend.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Baita – Honeydew)
Chantelle & Pitunia
I really enjoyed our first training session at Kliprivier. Mackayla was really efficient and communicated very well with both me and my dog. What I appreciated very much is that she gave us homework in not only obedience work, but also in therapy training tips for what we aim to have at the end of the process.
Pitunia loved everything and especially all the attention she received. She was dead tired and slept the rest of the afternoon away.
Looking forward to this weekend’s training.
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Mackayla – Kliprivier)
V – Midrand
I am doing very well thanks, and you?
So, we were with (name withheld,) at their Honeydew branch.
The founder, is very knowledgeable, and don’t ask me why we didn’t just come back to SADTC when we moved back to Gauteng, because I have no idea – “lekker dof” if you ask me.
So, has taken a step back from the school and handed the reins over to one of her more experienced instructors. And I don’t think that, the new owner/person in charge, has the experience with big dogs that is needed.
She specializes in agility and doggy yoga – which is fine, but not what we need.
When Frieda used to act up in class, she would be moved behind a screen, so she couldn’t see the other dogs. This didn’t really help, and Kay was given the side-eye any time that she would try and correct Frieda. To such an extent that Kay felt like she was doing something wrong when correcting Frieda, when we came to you.
Ever since Markus, our Malinois died in November last year, poor little Frieda seemed a bit lost. Since we got little Willem, she is much more interactive and the way that Debbie handles the class (thanks to you), has really shown what Frieda is capable of.
You have given us back our little girl, and for that, we are forever grateful!
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Kliprivier)
V – Midrand
We wanted to let you know about our GSD female, Frieda’s story (so far), She is 1 year and 10 months old.
In 2023, we lost our whole pack, save for Frieda. It struck all of us very hard as we are a very tightly knit family.
At that time, we were at another dog training school, but once Frieda started acting out, there was no real help or advice – not everyone knows and understands the mind of a dog.
Earlier this year, we decided to make the shift (back) to SADTC. After being placed in Debbie’s class (been 3 weeks now), the progress and change in Frieda is substantial. Debbie truly takes the time to understand her students and gives advice and guidance based on her well of knowledge.
So just thank you, SADTC and Debbie, for changing the narrative for us from problem dog to a dog willing to work . We will remain forever grateful!
Training type: Dog Training (Instructor – Debbie – Kliprivier)
Samantha
Our first lesson on Sunday at Honeydew was great.
I was extremely anxious beforehand because our boy is very boisterous but the team were so patient and accommodating and didn’t make us feel embarrassed at all. They walked us through every step and explained everything so well.
Looking forward to our next lesson.