Puppy and dog training
Positive, reward-based training for puppies and dogs at every stage, from first lessons to tricky habits.
Dog training
Helping you and your dog learn together
Our accredited trainers help your dog feel calm and confident, and help you understand what they need. Whether you’re starting out with a new puppy or working through a tricky habit with an older dog, we’ll help you find the right kind of support for you both. And because we’re a not-for-profit, your training fees help care for animals in our Adoption Centre.
Why train with Lort Smith
Every Lort Smith dog trainer is accredited by the National Dog Trainers Federation (NDTF). We only use positive, reward-based methods, and never fear, punishment or dominance-based approaches, so your dog learns in a way that’s safe and enjoyable.
- NDTF-accredited dog trainers
- Positive, reward-based, science-based methods
- Small Puppy Preschool classes of four to six puppies
- Training profits help fund care for animals in our Adoption Centre
Choose the right training for your dog
Puppy Preschool
Small, fun group classes for puppies up to 16 weeks old, at North Melbourne and Campbellfield.
Dog training program
One-on-one training for dogs of any age, whether it’s pulling on the lead or reacting to other dogs.
Learn more
Behaviour consultations
Support from our behaviour vet for cats and dogs with more serious concerns, such as severe anxiety.
Meet our behaviour vet
Training prices
Prices for each program are listed below. If you’re not sure which option suits your dog, our training team is happy to help.
Training
Standard price
Location
Puppy Preschool (5 × 45-minute classes)
$185.00
North Melbourne, Campbellfield
Dog training program (3 × 1-hour sessions + follow-up call)
$320.00
Campbellfield
Behaviour consultation (1 hour)
$345.00
Campbellfield
Not sure where to start?
If your puppy is under 16 weeks, Puppy Preschool is a great way to start. If your dog is older, or you’d like help with a particular habit, our one-on-one dog training program is the place to begin. It’s also the best choice if your dog is reactive or anxious around other dogs, as group classes aren’t the right fit for them.
If your pet’s behaviour is severe, sudden or affecting their wellbeing, book a behaviour consultation. If the change is sudden, talk to your vet first, as pain or illness can sometimes cause changes in behaviour.
Still unsure, or can’t get to Campbellfield? Call our training team on 03 9287 6433. Our trainers also offer phone consultations to dog owners anywhere in Victoria.
Ready to start training?
We’re here to help your dog learn, grow and thrive. Book Puppy Preschool online, or call our training team on 03 9287 6433.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Puppy Preschool run?
Puppy Preschool runs in five-week blocks, on Wednesday evenings at North Melbourne and Saturday mornings at Campbellfield. Call us on 03 9287 6433 or email [email protected] to check upcoming dates.
How old does my puppy need to be?
Puppy Preschool is for puppies from 8 to 16 weeks old. You’ll need to show us your puppy’s current vaccination certificate before their first class.
What do I need to bring?
Your dog’s current vaccination certificate, a flat collar or harness, and a standard lead. Retractable leads and choker collars aren’t allowed. Please wear closed-toe shoes. Handlers need to be 18 or over, but children are welcome to come along.
What’s the difference between dog training and a behaviour consultation?
Our dog trainers teach skills and help with everyday habits, like pulling on the lead or jumping up. A behaviour consultation is with a vet who specialises in behaviour. They can assess conditions such as severe anxiety and prescribe medication if it’s needed.
What if I need to cancel?
If you let us know in writing more than 48 hours beforehand, we’ll give you a refund. If your dog seems unwell on the day, please keep them at home and give us a call.
How many puppies are in each class?
We keep classes small, with four to six puppies, so every puppy gets attention and feels safe.
Dog training in Melbourne
Lort Smith offers puppy training and obedience training for dogs of all ages, with NDTF-accredited dog trainers in Campbellfield and North Melbourne. Every class uses reward-based methods, so your dog learns in a way that feels safe and fun.
Puppy Preschool helps young puppies build good habits from the very start. Older dogs can work one-on-one with a trainer on things like lead walking, focus or reacting to other dogs. And because we’re a not-for-profit animal hospital, your training fees help care for animals in our Adoption Centre.