Our First Puppy Class!

Puppy Patch Class 1 - Photographed by Andy Mills Photography

The day of our very first 6 week puppy classes (we call Puppy Patch) in Huntley, Forest of Dean was filled with anticipation. Not only was it my first, but it was also Beth’s, my best friend and fellow trainer from Doo’s Dog Training.

Our small group of gorgeous puppies quickly showed us just how unique they were:

• Two spaniels, each with their own personality, one shy and cautious, the other confident as they come, bounding into every exercise with enthusiasm.

• A Welsh Collie, sharp as anything, picking up cues in an instant, yet hilariously spooked by the stuffed stooge dog we used for practice.

• And a Golden Retriever, affectionately nicknamed the “big fluffy bear,” who melted hearts with every wag and cuddle.

Spaniel Puppy - Photographed by Andy Mills Photography

Together, Beth and I guided the group through essential life skills:

• Confidence building, helping all take brave steps forward.

• Recall games, where they learn to overcome different distractions and back to their guardians.

• Loose lead walking, showing them that calm steps could be just as rewarding as bounding ahead.

• Engagement techniques, celebrating those moments where they can overcome different distractions and engage with their guardians.

• Settle training, teaching pups the "art of doing nothing" is a skill as vital as play and recall.

• Healthy socialisation, giving each puppy the chance to interact safely, learn boundaries, and build positive associations with new dogs, people, and environments.

Watching the puppies learn was incredible, the class itself was fantastic. Every dog made progress, every person left smiling, and both Beth and I walked away with our confidence boosted. This is what training is really about, not perfection, but progress. Not control, but connection.

Leaving the hall, we felt proud, lighter, and excited for what’s to come. Huntley Village Hall were brilliant, and allowed us to book more sessions, we're looking forward to meeting new puppies from the Forest of Dean. Sharing this journey with Beth makes it even more meaningful.

We cannot wait to do more classes, more learning, more laughter. Together, we’re just at the start of something truly special, and we’re excited to see these puppies grow in confidence.