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Behaviour & Training - Group Classes

Puppy Class

Happy Dogs Byron Bay

Next Class: ​

SATURDAYS 

21st February
5 weeks duration

3 - 4pm
$295 (GST incl.)

Small group class
5 puppies max
For puppies

8 -15 weeks old

1 dog per booking.

5 week classes

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Location:​​

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Petcare Byron Bay 4/55 Centennial Cct, Byron Bay NSW 2481 

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* This indoor pet shop is safe and secure, free from roaming dogs.​ 

 

Floors and equipment will be cleaned and disinfected using veterinary hospital-grade disinfectant (F10)​​

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The first class is a “Puppy-free orientation” & will merge the 2 classes together at 3 - 4:30pm.

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         Must have proof of 1st Vaccination

Next available classes for booking:

Puppy Parents will receive expert advice on: 

  • Positive reinforcement/force-free principles for effective learning.

  • What SOCIALISATION really is!

  • How to shape behaviours rather than teaching pups to follow food lures. 

  • Navigating fear periods during your pup’s development.

  • Environmental management strategies to prevent unwanted behaviours at home.

  • Prepare your puppy for vet visits and grooming through comfortable handling.

  • Interpretation of canine body language and communication cues.

  • Comprehensive coverage of puppy challenges: nipping, chewing, house training, addressed with kindness and compassion. 

  • Techniques to ensure your puppy comes when called by teaching fun and engaging games.

  • Preventive measures for resource guarding, leash reactivity, separation distress, and more as your pup develops. ​​

Puppies will learn: 

  • To respond to their name and focus on you. 

  • To enjoy being handled, held by their collar, and put on a lead. 

  • The value of calm positions (sit & down) to earn all the good things in life (rewards/reinforcement)

  • The value of walking by their guardian’s side in “reinforcement zone” rather than pulling out in front when on lead. 

  • To be empowered by showing self-control/ impulse control through games of choice (Susan Garretts foundation game “Its yer choice”)

  • Reliable recall training: coming when called.

  • Play tug, fetch, and other engaging games.

  • Body awareness and confidence-building exercises.

  • Social skills with dogs and people – when to meet, greet and play vs when to ignore. 

  • Crate training/mat training/ bed training 

  • Relaxation skills to promote calm behaviour.

8 week course

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Location:

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Bangalow Public School.

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Notes:

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The class will run for 8 consecutive weeks.

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First class is a Dog Free Orientation

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* Not suitable for dogs with on-lead reactivity, fear, anxiety or aggression unless undertaking a private training program with Michelle or another certified Force - Free trainer. 

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Doggie Manners

Happy Dogs Byron Bay

Next Class: ​

Small group Class

6 dogs max

For puppies over

3 months and older

Saturday OR Sunday 

31st Jan/ 1st Feb 

2026

8 weeks duration

8:00 - 9:00 am

$490 (GST incl.)

1 dog per booking.

Next available classes for booking:

Games based learning

  • ​For improved:

1. RECALL,

2. IMPULSE CONTROL,

3. LOOSE-LEAD WALKING

 4. BOUNDARIES/ BED TRAINING

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  • Goal: for dogs to grow their motivation and desire to focus and listen to you instead of being distracted by other dogs and the environment.

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  • Info will also be provided on:
    1. The benefits of Force-Free, Positive Reinforcement training
    2. Dog body language/communication
    3. How dogs learn
    4. Normal dog behaviour
    5. How to manage undesirable behaviour. 
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  • Basic Verbal Cues learned: "come", "leave it", "on your bed", "to me" (heel), "stay", "break" (release cue), etc...

The benefits of Doggie Manners:

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  • Builds Trust and Strengthens Bond: Dogs learn to associate training with positive experiences, deepening their trust and connection with their human.

  • Encourages Willing Participation: Dogs are more eager and motivated to learn when rewarded for good behavior, making training sessions enjoyable.

  • Reduces Fear and Anxiety: Without the use of force or punishment, dogs feel safer and less stressed, leading to a more confident and relaxed pet.

  • Promotes Long-Term Learning: Positive reinforcement helps dogs remember and repeat desired behaviors, as they are rewarded for making the right choices.

  • Improves Socialisation: Dogs trained with positive methods are more likely to be friendly and well-adjusted around people and other animals.

  • Decreases Unwanted Behaviors: By focusing on rewarding good behavior, undesirable actions are replaced with positive alternatives.

  • Supports Emotional Wellbeing: Dogs experience less frustration and confusion, contributing to their overall happiness and mental health.

  • Safe for All Breeds and Ages: This approach is gentle and effective for puppies, adult dogs, and seniors, regardless of breed or temperament.

  • Empowers Owners: Positive reinforcement gives owners practical tools to communicate clearly and effectively with their dogs.

  • Encourages Problem-Solving: Dogs learn to think and make choices, which can boost their confidence and cognitive abilities.

Advanced Manners

Happy Dogs Byron Bay

Next Class: ​

Small group class

6 dogs per class


For dogs 3 months and older

SATURDAY

​28th February

​

RECALL FOCUS 


4 weeks duration

9:30 - 10:30am 
$240 (GST incl.)

1 dog per booking.

4 week courses

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Location:

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Bangalow Public School.

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Notes:​

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Highly recommend completing Doggie Manners first before attending Advanced Manners. However,some dogs may have enough foundation skills to attend these advanced classes. Please Contact Michelle if unsure.

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Each 4 week class will focus on a different theme including:

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1. Loose Lead Walking

2. Recall

3. Impulse Control 

4. Boundaries/ Bed Training

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* Once an initial 4 weeks has been completed anyone can attend any class on a casual basis - $60 per class

Next available classes for booking:

Course description:

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1. Loose Lead Walking 
Teaches dogs to walk calmly on a loose lead without pulling, using positive reinforcement and fun shaping games. Builds focus and connection between dog and handler for enjoyable walks.​

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2. Recall Games 
Focuses on reliable recall through engaging games and rewards. Dogs learn to come back quickly when called, even with distractions, making outings safer and more enjoyable.

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3. Impulse Control  (Reduce Chasing, Jumping, Stealing)
Helps dogs develop self-control around temptations like chasing, jumping up, or stealing food. Uses science-based, force-free methods to encourage calm choices and polite behaviour.

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4. Bed Training/Boundaries 
Teaches dogs to settle on their bed or mat and respect boundaries at home. Uses layered shaping games to make learning boundaries fun and stress-free for both dogs and humans.

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*** These classes are not suitable for dogs with on-lead REACTIVITY (lunging/barking at other dogs) unless you have been working a private training program with Michelle (or another Force-Free trainer).

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All classes use modern, positive reinforcement techniques that are force-free and science-based, ensuring training is enjoyable and effective for every dog and their person.

Course benefits:

​​​Loose Lead Walking

  • Builds calm, enjoyable walks without pulling or tension

  • Strengthens communication and focus between dog and handler

  • Reduces frustration and physical strain for both dog and handler

  • Encourages polite walking habits in real-world environments

  • Promotes relaxation and confidence around distractions

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Impulse Control

  • Teaches dogs to think before acting, improving overall manners

  • Reduces jumping, grabbing, and overexcitement in daily life

  • Enhances patience and self-regulation in stimulating situations

  • Builds trust and reliability through consistent, kind training

  • Helps handlers manage high-energy or reactive behaviours calmly

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Recall Games

  • Improves responsiveness and reliability when called

  • Builds a strong, positive association with returning to the handler

  • Increases safety and freedom during off-leash activities

  • Strengthens the bond through fun, engaging interactions

  • Encourages focus and attention even around distractions

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Bed Training / Boundaries

  • Provides dogs with a calm, safe space to settle and relax

  • Helps manage excitement during mealtimes, visitors, or busy moments

  • Encourages independence and emotional regulation

  • Supports polite behaviour in multi-dog or family environments

  • Gives handlers a practical tool for managing behaviour in daily routines

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Overall Benefits

  • Strengthens the relationship through trust, respect, and clear communication

  • Builds confidence in both dog and handler

  • Creates a supportive, social learning environment for dogs and owners

  • Promotes lifelong good manners and emotional wellbeing

  • Encourages a positive, enjoyable approach to training and teamwork

4 week course​​s

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Notes:

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On lead class.

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The class will run for 4 consecutive weeks​.

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Highly recommend completing Doggie Manners first before attending. However, some dogs may have enough foundation skills to attend. Please Contact Michelle if unsure.

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​Each 4 week class will focus on a different theme including:

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      1. Agility

      2. Scent Games 

      3. Herding Games 

      4. Trick Training

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* Once an initial 4 weeks has been completed anyone can attend any class on a casual basis - $60 per class

Sunday FUN-day 
 

Happy Dogs Byron Bay

Next Class: ​

SUNDAYS

March 1st

 

HERDING GAMES 


4 weeks duration

9:30 - 10:30 am

$240 (incl GST)
 

Small group class
6 dogs max


For dogs 3 months and older

1 dog per booking.

Next available classes for booking:

Course description:

1. Agility
Build confidence, focus, and teamwork through fun obstacle challenges. Dogs learn to navigate jumps, tunnels, and weave poles using positive reinforcement, improving coordination and communication with their handler.

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2. Scent Games
Engage the nose and mind with scent-based problem-solving activities. Dogs discover the joy of using their natural sniffing abilities while developing focus, patience, and confidence in a relaxed, rewarding environment.

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3. Herding Games
Channel natural instincts into structured, playful exercises that promote control, responsiveness, and teamwork. Perfect for herding breeds or any dog that loves to chase and think on their paws.

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4. Trick Training
Boost confidence and strengthen the bond between dog and handler through creative, reward-based trick training. From simple spins to impressive routines, dogs learn new skills while having fun and staying mentally stimulated.

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*** These classes are not suitable for dogs with on-lead REACTIVITY (lunging/barking at other dogs) unless you have been working a private training program with Michelle (or another Force-Free trainer).

​

All classes use modern, positive reinforcement techniques that are force-free and science-based, ensuring training is enjoyable and effective for every dog and their person.

Course benefits:

​Agility

  • Builds confidence through mastering new obstacles and challenges

  • Enhances coordination, balance, and body awareness

  • Strengthens communication and teamwork between dog and handler

  • Provides a healthy physical outlet for high-energy dogs

  • Encourages focus and impulse control in a stimulating environment

  • Fosters a fun, supportive community for both dogs and handlers

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Scent Games

  • Engages the dog’s natural sniffing instincts in a rewarding way

  • Promotes mental stimulation and problem-solving skills

  • Reduces stress and anxiety through calming scent work activities

  • Builds independence and confidence as dogs learn to trust their noses

  • Strengthens the bond between dog and handler through cooperative searching

  • Suitable for dogs of all ages, breeds, and physical abilities

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Herding Games

  • Channels natural herding instincts into safe, structured play

  • Improves responsiveness to cues and handler direction

  • Develops focus, patience, and self-control

  • Provides mental and physical exercise in a controlled setting

  • Builds teamwork and trust between dog and handler

  • Offers a fun way to explore instinctive behaviours without livestock

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Trick Training

  • Boosts confidence through learning new and creative skills

  • Enhances communication and understanding between dog and handler

  • Provides mental enrichment and prevents boredom-related behaviours

  • Encourages problem-solving and adaptability

  • Strengthens the bond through shared success and positive interaction

  • Offers opportunities for socialisation and fun performance activities

What Clients Say

“Absolutely amazing dog training classes! Wish we had started working with Michelle sooner! She packs the classes with so much extra information. It’s all very easy to implement and you see real improvements quickly throughout the course. Tina our Jack Russell pup graduated from Doggie Manners and now we’re starting Tricks & Agility Prep Classes with Michelle. Can’t recommend her enough!”
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***** Marcella Maloney
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