Perth Hills Loose Leash Walking Training
WALK WITH ME — Specialist Loose Leash Walking Course | $150
4 x 1 hour classes
Limited to 4 attendants (additional attendants may attend at the trainer’s discretion)
Location: Alan Anderson Reserve, Walliston
Pulling on the lead is one of the most common reasons people struggle to enjoy walks with their dog. It is also one of the most fixable.
Walk With Me is a specialist 4-week course for dogs aged 16 weeks to 18 months who need to learn that walking with a loose, relaxed lead is the way to go — not because they are forced to, but because they want to.
HOW WALK WITH ME WORKS
Over 4 weeks we build the skill step by step. Your dog learns to check in with you, to stay close without tension on the lead, and to settle even when distractions are around. You learn to read your dog, reward at the right moment, and use heel position as a tool for trickier moments — not as the whole walk.
The lead can be loose wherever your dog is — in front, beside, or behind you. That J-shape in the lead is always the goal.
We also make sure your dog gets to sniff. Sniffing is mentally enriching, stress-relieving, and an important part of every good walk. It is built into how we teach — not treated as a distraction.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN CLASS
Small group — maximum 4 dogs — so every pair gets individual attention throughout.
Sessions run for one hour and are practical from the moment you arrive.
Feedback is given on the move, not in a static huddle, which keeps dogs calm and engaged.
Each week you will receive a short Walk With Me homework email so you can keep building the skill between sessions.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
A harness is preferred for your dog — flat collar is fine if that is what you have.
High-value treats your dog loves — think cheese, chicken, or whatever makes their eyes light up.
Please leave flexi or retractable leads at home for class.
WHO IS WALK WITH ME FOR?
This course is ideal if your dog pulls constantly, reacts to other dogs or distractions on walks, or if you have simply been meaning to sort the lead walking and just have not found the right help yet. Dogs from 16 weeks to 18 months are welcome and mixed ages work well — just like in real life.
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About your trainer
Karen Bertoncini is an IMDT qualified dog trainer. Karen’s dog training journey began when her older dog "Ollie" became anxious and unable to socialise due to being confined to her property until he was fully grown as the result of a leg operation. The crucial window was lost. Karen decided that she wanted to learn how she could help Ollie regain confidence and trained him on all the basic foundation behaviours. Six months after his recovery, and with consistent training Karen was confident with loose leash walking Ollie along with his recall outside of the property. Now, at age five he is still a little anxious but loving life and still enjoys learning new tricks.
A Personal Note:
Ollie passed away on October 16th, 2024. He taught me so much, and I will always be grateful for the lessons he shared with me. His absence is deeply felt, and I miss him every day. Moving forward, Molly will now be assisting me in class, continuing the journey that Ollie and I started together.
Karen decided to take what she had learnt to help other dog owners in her local area and developed a range of dog training programs. Karen has the skills, experience and knowledge to help you achieve your goals from puppy school to one to one for the dog that needs that little bit extra.
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"Karen is the best, she’s so patient and gentle with the puppies and the owners. My puppy loves Karen. Karen teaches at the speed the puppies and owners learn, she doesn’t rush you.. My puppy and I have learnt so much from Karen."
Jean & Cider
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"Karen is so good with the puppies I think she speaks 'dog'. Highly recommended."
Lenore & Shadow
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“Highly recommended Karen. Her love and passion for dogs really shows. In just 4 sessions we have a very well behaved pup who is now house trained and we are able to redirect the chewing and destructive behaviours with positive reinforcement. Thank you Karen."
Renee & Lexi