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Back To Basics
Dog Training · Sunderland
Help & FAQs

Questions? We've got answers.

Everything owners usually ask before joining a Sunderland dog training class: booking, prices, ages and breeds, our approach, and honest advice on the training worries we hear most. Still not sure? Just give us a call.

A Back To Basics dog trainer briefing a class in Sunderland
Classes, booking & prices

Getting started with us

How much are group dog training classes?
Group classes are £10 per 45-minute session. On your first day it's £40, which covers your first 4 sessions (non-refundable), then £10 per class after that.
How do I book a dog training class?
Get in touch by phone or WhatsApp on 07494 457540, email us, or send an enquiry through our contact page. We'll help you pick the right class or session and get you booked in.
Do I need to book, or can I just turn up?
We ask you to get in touch and book in first. Before your first class we'll email you joining instructions on what to bring, and a member of our friendly team will get you settled in on the day.
How old does my dog need to be for classes?
Our Puppy class is for puppies 6 months and under. We also have Intermediate and Advanced classes, plus 1:1 training, for dogs of all ages.
Do you offer one-to-one (1:1) dog training?
Yes, fully tailored one-to-one training for behaviour and training issues. A single session is £100, a 3-day course is £150 and a 5-day course is £250 (prices may vary by distance outside Sunderland).
How far do you travel for 1:1 training?
Our group classes are based in Fulwell, Sunderland, but we offer 1:1 training at any location. The price may vary for locations outside Sunderland.
Where in Sunderland are you based?
Our group classes are held at Fulwell Methodist Church, Seaburn, Sunderland SR6 8LN. We also offer 1:1 training at any location, with the price varying for areas outside Sunderland.
What breeds do you work with?
All breeds. We have a vast amount of knowledge and experience with all breeds of dogs, especially across the North East.
Do you work with blind, deaf or disabled dogs?
Yes. We cater for dogs with both physical and sensory limitations, focusing on adaptability and building confidence.
Do you work with aggressive dogs?
Yes. Managing aggression is one of our training disciplines, alongside building confidence for fearful dogs and obedience work.
About us & our approach

How we train

What dog training methods do you use?
We look at you and your dog as a team, and we train the owners as much as the dogs, so you learn to read your dog and build trust.
Are you insured and qualified?
Yes. We're fully insured with appropriate public liability insurance in place, and the team holds decades of professional experience, from police-dog training to specialist canine diplomas. You can see the full list on our qualifications page.
What should I bring to my first class?
Before your first class we'll email you joining instructions on exactly what to bring. As a rule, come with your dog on a lead, plenty of small tasty treats and some water. And don't be nervous, we're here to help.
Training questions

The worries we hear most

Every dog is an individual, so these are starting points, not one-size-fits-all fixes. The real work happens together in class or a 1:1.

What age should I start training my puppy?
You can start training the day your puppy comes home. Early controlled socialisation and good habits are far easier than un-learning problems later. Our Puppy class is for puppies 6 months and under.
How long will it take to train my dog?
Honestly, training is never really "finished". It's an ongoing relationship. Most of our families stay with us for years, and we're always here to help long after you've left us. How quickly you see progress depends on you and your dog.
What treats should I use for training?
Small, soft and really tasty, something your dog genuinely loves. Keep the pieces tiny so you can reward often without overfeeding, and mix them up to keep training exciting.
How often should I train my dog?
Little and often wins. A few short, upbeat sessions through the day beat one long, tiring one. Keep it fun and finish while your dog still wants more.
How do I toilet train my dog?
Consistency and routine are everything: get them outside every few hours, even during the night, and lots of calm praise the moment they go in the right spot. Every dog gets there at their own pace. If it isn't clicking, bring it to class or book a 1:1 and we'll build a plan around your dog and your home.
How do I deal with separation anxiety?
Separation struggles are common and very manageable with a gradual, positive approach that builds your dog's confidence at being alone in small steps rather than overwhelming them. Because the causes vary so much dog to dog, this is one we'd usually tackle in a 1:1 so we can tailor it properly. Get in touch and we'll talk it through honestly.
How do I stop my dog biting?
It helps to understand why first, because puppy mouthing, over-excitement, fear and guarding are all different and need different handling. We look at what's driving it and give you ways to redirect and manage it. If biting is a worry, please get in touch. It's exactly what our 1:1 sessions are for.
How do I stop my dog barking?
Dogs bark for a reason, whether that's boredom, alerting, excitement or worry, so the fix depends on the "why". We help you read what your dog is telling you and respond in a way that lowers the barking over time, without shouting or quick-fix gadgets. Come to a class or book a 1:1 and we'll get to the root of it together.
Still have a question?

We're always happy to help.

Call, text or WhatsApp us and we'll answer honestly. No pushy sales, just good advice for you and your dog.

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