Frequently Asked Questions

🐾 General Training FAQs

1. What training methods do you use?
We use force-free, positive reinforcement methods that are backed by science and recommended by vets and behaviourists.

2. What age can I start training my puppy?
In person classes can start as early as 9 weeks of age, as long as your pup has had their first vaccination one week prior.

We also advise having them home for at least one week before starting so as to not overwhelm. Early socialisation is crucial and really sets your pup up for success.

Online learning can begin even before you bring you puppy home. We show you the products you need and

3. Do you work with older dogs or just puppies?
Our training is beneficial at any age. We work with dogs of all ages and breeds.

4. How many sessions will my dog need?
This depends on your goals and your dog’s needs. We’ll guide you after a chat over the phone or email us below.

5. What’s the difference between group classes and private sessions?

Group classes are fun and great for socialisation and skill development but you do need to commit to a 4hr course over 3 weeks.

Private sessions allow for more tailored support, especially for behaviour concerns and it can be scheduled at a time that suits.

6.Why choose Paws Plus Consulting for dog training?

The dog training industry in Australia is currently unregulated, meaning anyone can run puppy classes or offer behavioural advice—regardless of their qualifications or experience. At Paws Plus, we believe our dogs and their families deserve better.

That’s why we hold ourselves to the highest ethical and professional standards, using only force-free, science-based methods that are vet-endorsed and recognised by major pet insurance companies.

With over 33 years of combined industry experience, both Ally and Ryan bring not just expertise, but real-world perspective. As qualified trainers, parents, dog parents and industry professionals, they understand how to support both dogs and the people who love them.

From puppy school to private in-home consultations, group classes, Fast Track sessions, and even Therapy Dog and Urban Paws community programs, we guide you through every stage with clear communication, consistent methodology, and compassionate support.

Choosing Paws Plus means working with a team you can trust—one that’s experienced, insured, evidence-based, and truly invested in helping you and your dog thrive.

7. I have a question about my dog, but I’m not sure I need a full session—can I still speak with someone?

Absolutely! That’s exactly what our "Your Questions Answered" service is for. Whether you’re a current client or just looking to learn more about our services, you can book a convenient phone consultation with Ally to talk through your concerns or get some guidance.

It’s a great way to get trusted advice without committing to a full session. Book your call here: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

7. How do I get started ?

All bookings are done via the website. Just click the BOOK NOW button to access all courses and times for private sessions.

🐾 Puppy School – In-Person Class FAQs

1. What is puppy school and why is it important?

Puppy school is a structured training class designed for young puppies during their critical socialisation period (under 16 weeks). Our in-person puppy classes in Kirrawee focus on building confidence, teaching essential life skills, and setting your puppy up for a lifetime of success.
Early training helps prevent behavioural issues and allows your pup to socialise safely with other puppies under the guidance of qualified trainers.

2. What age can my puppy start puppy school?

Puppies can begin in-person training from 9 weeks of age, as long as they have had their first vaccination and are otherwise healthy.
The ideal window for socialisation is between 8 and 16 weeks, so starting early is key.

Our training venue is fully sanitised and puppy-safe, with strict hygiene protocols in place.

3. What will my puppy learn?

In puppy school at Paws Plus, we lay the foundation for a happy, confident, and well-mannered dog in a fun, supportive environment. From day one, you’ll learn how to communicate clearly with your pup, understand their body language, and gently guide them through the early stages of learning.

We cover essential skills like recall, settling, focus, polite greeting and reading body language, all while your pup plays and learns to socialise safely with a variety of breeds. You’ll also pick up real-life tips for toilet training, mouthing, enrichment, and managing typical puppy challenges at home. Each week builds on the last, helping your pup learn to focus even around distractions. It’s the perfect mix of practical training, play, and confidence-building—for both of you.

5. Where and when are your puppy classes held?

Our in-person puppy school classes are held at IPET Store in Kirrawee, right in the heart of Southern Sydney. We run group classes six days a week, with convenient options on weeknights from 6:30pm and Saturday mornings at 7:30am. This flexibility makes it easy to fit training into your schedule while giving your puppy the best start in a safe, supportive environment.

6. Can kids attend puppy school?

Yes! We encourage the whole family to get involved. Children are welcome to attend so long as they are school aged. If your class is at capacity, we do have to limit to 2 family members per pup. You will receive an email on the morning of class advising limits.

7. What happens if I miss a class?

We understand that life happens! We offer one make-up class per course, subject to availability. Please let us know as early as possible if you can’t attend.

8. How do I book puppy school?

You can book directly online via our booking portal here:
https://PawsPlusConsulting.as.me/BOOKPUPPYSCHOOLHERE

Still have questions? We're always happy to help—reach out via email below or call us on 0410 667 414

Online Puppy Course – FAQs

1.What does the online course cover?

Our online puppy course is designed to give you all the essential tools to raise a confident, well-mannered puppy using force-free, science-based training.

You’ll learn about:

Toilet training
Diet
Puppy biting and chewing
Settling at home, including sleep and set up
Recall (coming when called)
Basic cues like sit, down, stay etc
Building focus and confidence
How to manage socialisation safely
Handling and grooming

Each module is easy to follow, with short, practical videos and downloadable resources you can refer back to anytime.

2. How long is the course and how do I access it?

The course is self-paced, so you can go through it in your own time. You’ll receive instant access once you purchase, and you’ll be able to log in as many times as you like for 4 months.

3. Do I still need to do puppy school if I do the online course?

While the online course gives you amazing foundational knowledge, nothing replaces safe, real-life exposure to other puppies and humans during the critical socialisation window.
We recommend combining the course with in-person puppy school if possible—but the course is a fantastic start if you're not ready or able to attend yet.

What happens after Puppy School?

Great question! Puppy school is just the beginning of your dog’s learning journey.

The benefit of joining Paws Plus Consulting is that you’ll use one consistent, force-free method all the way through—so there’s no confusion, no need to unlearn outdated techniques, and no catching up from what was taught differently at another school.

After Puppy Preschool, we offer:

Primary School classes – to build on your puppy’s skills in more distracting environments
Fast Track Sessions – focused, one-on-one affofordable sessions to target specific training needs
Private In-Home Training – for more tailored support or behavioural concerns
Therapy Dog Training & Assessments – for those looking to progress toward becoming a certified therapy dog team
Urban Paws Program – our specialised community-based training for dogs working in real-world environments, including therapy and support roles

We’re here to guide you from day one through to advanced training and even community contribution—no swapping methods, no confusion, just clear, kind, science-based support every step of the way.

🐾Private In Home Consultations FAQs

1. What happens during a private in-home session?

We come to you to observe your dog in their home environment, where they’re most comfortable and behaviours are most natural. We assess the full picture—including your dog’s daily routine, lifestyle, environment, and emotional needs—and provide personalised, science-based strategies to help you reach your goals.

Each session includes practical training, education, and a written summary or plan so you know exactly what to focus on next.

2. What issues can you help with in a private session?

We can support a wide range of behaviours, including:

Barking, jumping, pulling on lead
Separation distress or anxiety
Fearful or reactive behaviours
Settling, attention, and impulse control
Resource guarding or handling sensitivity
New rescue dog transitions
Foundation training and set up for puppies or adult dogs
If you’re not sure if your concern is suitable for a home visit, just reach out and we’ll guide you.

3. Why choose an in-home session instead of a group class?

Private training allows us to focus on your individual dog’s needs in a setting they know and feel safe in. It’s ideal for dogs who are anxious, overstimulated in group settings, or have specific behavioural concerns that aren’t addressed in standard classes.

We work at your dog’s pace and tailor strategies to your home, family, and routine at a time convenient for you.

4. What areas do you service?

We offer in-home sessions across the Sutherland Shire and Southern Sydney. If you're outside this area, feel free to get in touch—we may still be able to assist or recommend an alternative.

5. How long is a session and how many will I need?

Our initial session runs for approximately 90 minutes and includes a comprehensive assessment as well as hands-on training tailored to your dog and household.

The number of sessions needed really depends on your individual goals and how your dog progresses. For some situations, one session with follow-up support by phone or email is enough. For more complex behavioural concerns, a short series of sessions may be more appropriate to ensure lasting results.

We always aim to be transparent and realistic with our advice. That’s why we don’t offer rigid training packages for private consultations—every dog is different, and we’ll never sell you more than you genuinely need.

If you’re unsure, a quick phone chat with us is the best way to get a clearer idea of what might be right for you and your dog.

6. Do you offer support after the session?

Yes! All in-home sessions include a written summary with key takeaways and action steps. We also offer email support for any follow-up questions related to your session along with a check in via phone one week post session. Ongoing support options are available if you'd like more hands-on guidance as you continue your training.

Have a question we havent answered?

Send us your question and we will get back to you.

Building Confident Dogs & Happy Humans Across Sydney 🐾 Learn with Sydney’s #1 Rated Dog Trainer — online, in class, or privately!