Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy home or guiding an adult dog through behaviour challenges, the right training sets the foundation for a calm, confident and well-socialised companion.
We provide humane, science-based dog training in Melbourne, led exclusively by National Dog Trainers Federation (NDTF)–accredited trainers. Our programs use positive reinforcement methods, helping your dog learn in a way that is safe, enjoyable and fear-free.
Book your class now
Call us 03 9287 6429
Email us dogtraining@lortsmith.com
Our dog training programs
We offer training options designed for both you and you and your dog’s unique needs.
Puppy school: 5-week group classes
Our small, supportive Puppy School classes introduce essential skills in a fun and encouraging environment. You’ll learn how to teach your puppy basic manners and how to prevent common behaviour problems before they start.
What’s covered:
- Basic obedience (Sit, drop, recall, loose leash walking)
- Modifying and managing challenging puppy behaviours
- Understanding dog body language
- Confidence-building exercises
- Strengthen relationships through play and engagement activities
Age range:
Puppies aged 8–16 weeks with at least their first vaccination.
One-on-one training sessions
Some dogs need individual attention, especially if they’re displaying behaviour challenges or need more time to feel comfortable around other dogs.
Private sessions provide personalised support for issues such as reactivity, anxiety, impulse control, jumping, fearfulness, or trouble settling in the home.
Sessions are tailored to your goals and delivered by NDTF-accredited trainers using positive, science-based methods.
Learn about one-on-one training
Why choose Lort Smith dog training
Our accredited trainers (NDTF)
All training is delivered by National Dog Trainers Federation–accredited trainers who are skilled in humane, science-backed methods.
Positive, reward-based methods
We never use fear, punishment or dominance-based approaches. Our methods build confidence, trust and lasting behaviour improvement.
Supporting the Adoption Centre
Every training session helps fund Lort Smith’s not-for-profit Adoption Centre and veterinary care, supporting vulnerable animals who need a second chance.
Desexing and pet behaviour issues
While desexing can help reduce hormone-driven behaviours, training remains essential for teaching manners, confidence and calm decision-making. Our trainers can guide you through behaviour support both before and after desexing.
FAQs
Puppy School runs in 5-week blocks, with classes held on weeknights and weekends. Contact us to find out about availability in upcoming programs.
The program includes basic obedience, modifying and managing challenging puppy behaviours, understanding dog body language, confidence-building exercises and strengthen relationships through play and engagement activities.
We keep class sizes small to ensure personalised attention and a safe learning environment for all puppies.
Yes. Private sessions are customised to your dog’s needs, behaviour concerns and learning style.
All in-person training takes place at Lort Smith Campbellfield. Puppy School is offered at both our Campbellfield and North Melbourne locations.
We use positive reinforcement and evidence-based training only – no punitive or aversive methods.
Yes. All Lort Smith trainers hold NDTF accreditation.
All training profits help fund veterinary care and support for animals in our Adoption Centre.
Ready to start training?
We’re here to help your dog learn, grow and thrive.
Book your class now
Call us 03 9287 6429
Email us dogtraining@lortsmith.com
Book puppy school online here.
