Welcome to Dogs First, where we believe that dogs come first in every paw-step of their training journey. Our mission is to create a harmonious and enriching environment that is centered around our four-legged companions and their unique needs.
Our training philosophy revolves around creating a space where comfort and safety are paramount. We understand that every dog is an individual, and we tailor our methods to ensure a positive and stress-free learning experience. Through rewards-based training, we encourage your furry friends to thrive, building a strong bond between you and your pup as you grow and train together.
You can find out more about how we train here.
Scentwork
At Dogs First, we embrace a “nose first” approach, recognising that dogs experience the world primarily through their keen sense of smell.
Scentwork is such a great sport to introduce your dog to. It is the only dog sport in which the dog guides the handler and not the other way around! It’s fun and it’s challenging and can be done by ANYONE – young, old, quick, slow, friendly and sociable, or a little more choosey with who they want in their space – we welcome them all.
We help dogs and their owners prepare to qualify in Scent Sport Assn NZ (SSANZ) trials, Dogs NZ trials, but just as important, we help those who just want to do scentwork for enjoyment!
See and book our scentwork classes here.
playful paws
There is no better way to learn than with FUUUUUUN! And that’s what Playful Paws is all about.
Using a series of tried-and-true games, we teach your pup how to be confident and brave, how to problem-solve, how to engage and disengage, how to self-calm and how to be resilient.
Help dogs of all breeds and ages build essential skills for coping with the demands of daily life, and improve your dog’s well-being by enriching their everyday with stimulating games and play.
See and book our Playful Paws classes here.
In-home ‘translation’
Unfortunately, we’re unable to take on new clients for our In-Home Translation dog training services at the moment.
coming soon…
Specialised seminars
Throughout the year, we will be offering a series of specialised sessions covering scent work topics and other focused areas of dog training, with guest trainers. These seminars are designed to deepen your understanding, refine your skills, and give you practical tools you can apply in everyday life with your dog.
Whether you’re looking to build on existing foundations or explore something new, these sessions will provide the guidance and insight to support you and your dog as a team.
Trick training
Add a little fun, focus, and flair to your training with our Trick Training Workshops.
Designed to build connection as much as skill, these sessions guide you through the foundations of trick training before progressing to more creative and challenging behaviours. You’ll develop your timing, communication, and understanding of how dogs learn, while teaching a range of tricks that engage both mind and body.
We hold small group workshops 2-3 times per year, with hands-on coaching, even offering the opportunity to complete in-person trick titles on the day.Â
new goodies
We’re constantly bringing in new, top-quality products – all handpicked and tested to meet our standards.
Got something in mind? Let us know what you’d love to see on our shelves.
Enquire here or sign up for our newsletter (below) to hear the latest information.