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Discovery School In Person

Where we all should start with our dogs.
ENROL ON COURSE

Course Summary

Discovery School is about understanding “both ends of the lead” before focusing on training.


This course has been put together for new caregivers, or anyone wanting to truly understand the dog in front of them.  Rather than immediately stepping into obedience classes, what if we took the time to get to know our dogs, understand what they are trying to tell us, and build a lasting relationship?  Then, when we introduce life skills training, we can progress together with greater confidence.


When your dog is given choice and feels calm and comfortable, they are better able to engage with learning, process information and retain what they have learned.  By also providing opportunities to decompress throughout the learning process, we can create a more positive, enjoyable and supportive experience for both ends of the lead.

Suitable for all ages, rescue dogs, and all abilities. We explore how emotions, genetics, environment and experiences influence behaviour. Through positive reinforcement, games, free work and decompression, we develop practical skills including engagement, relaxed lead walking, calmness and disengagement from distractions.


With a maximum of four dogs per group, every dog receives individual support, space and choice. Our kind, force-free approach builds confidence, trust, connection and understanding, creating strong foundations for everyday life and future learning.

This course isn’t just about your canine companion; your learning is equally important.  Some sessions will be dog-free, while in others your dog may remain safely in the car with a trusted person for part of the session while we observe other dogs. We’ll always let you know in advance when an extra pair of hands may be needed.

This is not an obedience class. It’s the important bit before training begins. We’ll teach you the knowledge, communication skills, understanding and practical techniques to recognise what your dog is telling you and build strong foundations for future training. 

Course Curriculum

More of the curriculum will be added very soon. 

Maria Dent

Hello, I’m Maria, a qualified dog trainer and behaviourist and founder of Four Paws Training Academy and Trails, established in 2018.

I’m dedicated to helping caregivers see the world through their dog’s eyes, understand what their behaviour is communicating and build a relationship based on trust, choice and connection.

My approach is kind, ethical, practical and force-free, always considering the individual dog rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. I support both ends of the lead, giving you the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to better understand your dog, work together and create positive, lasting changes for everyday life.

Discovery School - In Person 

£198.00


Payment in Full or Two-Payment Scheme 


Online Content
Private Facebook Community
 Free Work Session
Starting With Three Live Zoom Sessions
Five Practical In-Person Sessions
One Out and About Session
Fun Games and Basic Training

FAQ's

Discovery School Online helps you understand why your dog may struggle around other dogs or in certain situations. Learning online removes the pressure of a group environment, allowing you to better understand your dog’s communication and needs. Together, we’ll build your knowledge and confidence, helping you set your dog up for success and progress at a pace that is right for you both.

Every dog and caregiver is different, so there isn’t a set timescale. Progress depends on your dog’s individual needs, experiences, environment and how they are feeling. We’re not looking for quick fixes. We’re building understanding, confidence and skills that can create lasting change. Some changes may happen quickly, while others need more time, patience and support. We’ll work at a pace that is right for you and your dog.

Progress isn’t always a straight line, and sometimes the smallest changes are the most important. If you’re not seeing the progress you expected, we’ll look at what may be influencing your dog and adjust our approach. We may change the environment, exercises or pace, and consider whether further support is needed. You won’t simply be left wondering what to do next.

Yes! Discovery School is a great place to start with your puppy. Before focusing on traditional training, we help you understand your puppy’s communication, emotions and individual needs.

Through positive reinforcement and age-appropriate activities, we build confidence, calmness, engagement and choice. We also explore appropriate socialisation, helping your puppy experience people, dogs, environments and everyday life safely and without becoming overwhelmed, creating strong foundations for future learning.

Discovery School can help you understand your new rescue dog before asking too much of them. You'll learn to recognise their communication, emotions and individual needs while giving them time to settle and decompress. Together we'll focus on building trust, confidence and connection, creating positive foundations before introducing everyday life skills at a pace that feels comfortable for your dog. 

For the lifetime of the website. 

Absolutely. Your learning and your dog’s journey don’t simply stop when the sessions finish. You’ll have options to continue receiving support, guidance and further learning. Whether you need a little extra help, want to continue building your skills or have new questions along the way, I’m here to help you decide on the best next step for you and your dog.

You’ll have the option to book additional behavioural sessions at a discounted rate, should you need further guidance. Or have the option to join our Skills for Life (Membership)Club to continue your journey amongest and supportive community. 

Every dog is an individual, which is why my approach isn’t one-size-fits-all. We work with your dog at their pace, considering their behaviour, emotions, experiences, environment and individual needs.  

Everything is based around choice, understanding and building trust, without force or pressure. If you’re unsure whether this approach is right for your dog, please get in touch. We can discuss your concerns and find the most appropriate way forward together.

For me, it starts with understanding your dog before we start trying to change anything. Behaviour is communication, and there is always a reason behind what your dog is doing. I look at the whole dog, their emotions, environment, experiences, physical comfort and individual needs. My approach is kind, ethical and choice-based, working at a pace your dog can cope with without force or pressure. I also believe knowledge at the human end of the lead is key. The more you understand your dog, the better you can support them, build their confidence and move forward together.

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