Frequently asked Questions

We take reactive dogs on a case-by-case basis. But at this early stage we simply don't have enough trainers to allow highly reactive dogs to participate in class. We do have options for you through: 

1. Work through some private lessons to get your dog ready for a class environment with AbiK9 dog training 

2. Once we've run a few foundations classes we'll be allowing dogs working through reactivity - and their humans - to be present and watch classes from a safe distance until they're ready to be involved. 

Not at this stage. I'd recommend going through our EQUIPMENT INFORMATION page well ahead of your scheduled class and buy direct from the links. Alternatively, you can buy some equipment from our local pet shop, The Hound and Feline

Due to the sheer volume of treats we use in class, we recommend that you use their actual food for training (e.g. their kibble). Alternatively, the Prime100 rolls can be cut up and used as treats if you need something a little more valuable during class. 

We use motivational, rewards-based methods for all sport training. We're heavily influenced by notable trainers like Denise Fenzi (and her online school faculty), Susan Garret, and Michael Ellis. 

Our classes are designed for flexibility - we’re called Dabble for a reason! We want you to be able to try different activities and discover what your dog truly enjoys.

Many of our entry-level classes, like scent work and earthdog, don’t require any prior preparation. However, some of the more structured sports - such as agility, obedience, and rally - do need a bit of groundwork first.

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To join these, you’ll need to complete the Foundations Course Checklist. This ensures everyone is familiar with core training concepts like luring, shaping, and marker cues, so we don’t need to repeat the same material in every class.

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You don’t need to attend the Foundations class itself - you just need to be able to demonstrate the skills on the checklist. If you’ve done training elsewhere, chances are you’ll already meet most of the requirements.

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While I’ve recently moved to a rolling curriculum, which means the markers, motivation, and engagement topics are no longer part of Foundations, they’re still incredibly valuable. To support beginners, I now run a dedicated Markers, Motivation & Engagement class every few weeks. It’s perfect for anyone who wants extra hands-on guidance before jumping into other Dabble Dogs classes.

A rolling curriculum means that classes don’t run in fixed “terms” or start all at once. Instead, lessons are taught in a continuous loop - so you can join in at almost any time.

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Each week covers a different topic or skill, and over several weeks the full cycle repeats. This way, you don’t have to wait for a new course to begin; you can start when it suits you and pick up the remaining lessons as they come around again.

It’s a flexible setup that works especially well for busy schedules or for dogs who might need to progress at their own pace.

Absolutely! Dabble Dogs was created for exactly that reason. After years of working with pet dogs, I saw how much they benefited from having “extra-curricular” activities that tapped into their natural instincts and drives. 

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Our focus isn’t on building an army of competitors, it’s about giving you and your dog a safe, supportive space to play, learn, and explore together. Every class is designed to help meet your dog’s mental and physical needs, whether you’re aiming for titles or just a happy, tired dog.

Our training approach stays the same no matter your goals - the difference is simply in how far you want to take it.

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And for those who enjoy a bit of friendly fun, in 2026 we’ll be introducing Fun Matches - relaxed, low-pressure events that mimic trials but in a familiar environment, complete with prizes and plenty of laughs.