Core

Core is the first program Clever Canines launched in 2005. It has evolved and grown since, but the underlying goal has remained the same: To help you enjoy freedom with your dog, in real life! Core does more than just show you how to work with your dog. No matter your current training level, the unique design of this program will help you create lasting patterns of behaviour and build skills that will become second nature for you and your dog. Training will become a seamless and fun part of your daily life.

New dates coming in the fall!

I want to take my dog everywhere.

A dog you can take everywhere isn’t a dream.  Dog training, like exercise, is not a one-time event.  The more you do the stronger your skills become and the easier it gets. The most fun you can have with your dog is for them to be happy and welcome wherever you go. Core is lifestyle training – with a deep understanding of canine behaviour and psychology, and instruction in real-life settings, you will gain the tools and experience to create a well-balanced dog that you can take literally anywhere.

Preparing for all that life has to offer.

Relationships, travel, promotions, family, moving – our goals affect our dogs, too – and Core will help you prepare for the years ahead. The time and energy you give to your dog now will set them up for the rest of your life together, no matter their age. Any goal is attainable when you approach it with your dog’s individual needs and personality in mind. Core will put you on track to meet and exceed what you thought possible with your dog. 

Achieving a well-mannered, respectful, good dog is a journey.

Improve your dog’s mental health and create balance with core to guide you as you explore the intricacies of your dog’s behaviour. You’ll learn how to promote positive associations, confidence, sociability, and reliability. Plus, pinpoint triggers for excitement, reactivity, or nervousness to reduce unwanted behaviours. Core illustrates “the why” so you can manage and keep your dog safe in any situation.  Take part in the #gooddogchallenge and see what’s possible.

What to Expect

  • introduction to canine behaviour

  • understanding of how dogs think, learn and perceive the world around them

  • in-class application of fundamental canine psychology and behaviour

  • progression from on-leash to off-leash walking

  • fundamental skills: loose-leash walking, focus, recall, patience, stay

  • fundamental obedience: sit, down, stand, stay, recall, let’s go, wait

  • advanced skills: stop, distance work, distractions

  • safety: stairs, vehicles, travel, etc

  • greetings: human to dog, dog to dog

  • canine massage

  • basic canine first aid and emergency responder protocols

  • praise and reward: learn how to truly Be the Cookie

  • support and confidence building for reactive or shy dogs

  • games, mental stimulation, play and contests

  • getting your specific behaviour issues addressed and more coaching from you

  • instructor straining fundamentals and key concepts

  • exposure to different environments to learn how to handle different real-life situations

  • street safety

You’ll also receive:

  • access to additional information and on-line resources

  • ongoing support, even after you graduate

  • ability to join Club Evolve after you graduate

  • lessons on canine communication and behaviour problem solving

  • Opportunity for ongoing support and ability to connect with like-minded dog owners

  • access to an interactive library full of supporting material

  • 10% off the purchase of a martingale collar and six-foot leash from Unleashed

  • SO MUCH MORE

Class structure and details:

  • two instructors at every class

  • 2 hour opening seminar (humans only)

  • 23 classes over 8 weeks

  • live 3 hour communication and behaviour seminar

  • outdoor classes (to deal with real-life situations)

  • make-up class options

    $975 + GST

What client are saying
about Core at Clever Canines!

  • “The staff at Clever Canines are truly amazing with the biggest hearts, they go above and beyond with their attention to detail & care for every dog they train & help. Our puppy Harvey is very high energy, and Clever Canines has given us the tools to harness his energy on a positive level. Clever Canines are a lifesaver - all the staff have given us exceptional support. Even once training finishes, you can still contact Clever Canines with questions. They educate YOU to understand your dog’s signals, so you can effectively communicate with your dog and build a relationship based on trust & respect. Understanding my dog’s signals has made life so much easier and we can now take Harvey anywhere. Go train your dog here if you are looking for an excellent training facility and daycare!”

    ~ Cathy + Harvey

  • “Highly recommend using Clever Canines for the fur babies. Clever Canines was recommended to us by our breeder. As it was 20 years since we've owned a dog - we thought a refresher course would be a great idea. We completed Jumpstart and were surprised that a dog could be trained without a clicker or a treat! . Izzy responded so well to this - we enrolled her in Core. Yes it is a huge commitment - but so is owning a dog. We learned so much and had fun with the group - the time flew by. The leaders, Alex and Bobby are wonderful. They are there to support and answer any questions. At the end of the 10 weeks - the difference in our dog was remarkable! Our dog also attends dayschool and has so much fun with her buddies.

    ~ Gina + Izzy + Ruby

  • “We recently completed the Core program with Clever Canines. Our trainers Ashleigh & Karli were excellent. We really enjoyed working with our dog and watching her learn new skills. Every class is in a different environment and exposes both you and your dog to new challenges. It was fun watching the other dogs and owners in the group progress as they move through the classes. We have 3 rescue dogs and have been through several good training programs with other trainers, but Clever Canines was by far the most comprehensive. Well worth the price!”

    ~ Mark + Macy