WELCOME
TO
ACTIVE DOGS NZ
K9 Coaching

Kapiti Coast - Horowhenua

Where games change lives

Dog Training

Class Enrollment

2025 Classes

OUR SERVICES

6 week
Group Classes

Daytime and Evening classes available

Small class size - maximum 5 dogs

Online Options

Online courses and Facebook groups

1-on-1 Coaching

Home: About

ABOUT US

Let the games begin!

Welcome to Active Dogs NZ – Where Training is Fun and Effective!

At Active Dogs NZ, we help you achieve real-world results with your dog—whether you have an energetic 8-week-old puppy, a rebellious adolescent, or a wise senior companion. With over 20 years of experience coaching in both pet dog training and competitive dog sports, I use games and choice-based learning to make training fun, engaging, and effective.

Training That Fits Your Needs

We offer a range of options to suit every dog and handler:
🐾 Small Group Classes – Perfect for learning in a supportive, structured setting with like-minded guardians.
🐾 1-on-1 Private Coaching – Personalised sessions tailored to your specific goals, available at your home or at our fully fenced private training paddock. (Undercover in the Shed when wet)
🐾 Workshops & Specialty Training – Dive deeper into topics like Reliable Recalls, Rocking Relationships, and Calm Confidence to build essential life skills.

Step Into the World of Dog Sports!

If you're keen to take your training to the next level, we also offer fun introductions to dog sports, including:
✨ Agility – Build speed, confidence, and teamwork.
✨ Scentwork/Nosework – Tap into your dog’s incredible sense of smell.
✨ Trick Training – Strengthen your bond while having a blast.
✨ Rally O & Flygility & Hoopers – Enhance focus and communication. (Coming Soon!)

Whether you want to improve your dog's everyday manners or explore the thrill of dog sports, Active Dogs NZ is here to support you every step of the way.

Join Us and Discover the Power of Games!

Find out more about Jane!

PLEASE NOTE:

We do not work with any of the following behaviour challenges...

Reactivity - towards humans, dogs or other animals
Separation Anxiety
Resource Guarding

(we will refer these cases onto a veterinary behaviourist)

🛌 When you’re so tired, but gravity has other plans… 🤣💤

Torin has mastered the art of unconventional napping! 🐶✨ Does your dog sleep in a hilariously weird position too? Drop a pic in the comments—we need to see those ridiculous snoozing styles! 📸👇

🎶 [Insert a playful, dreamy, or slightly chaotic song to match the vibe]

#dognapgoals #weirdsleeper #upsidedowndog #dogsofinstagram #naplikenooneiswatching #snoozesquad #doglife #activedogsnz #ShowMeYourSnoozer

Thank you Carey and your gorgeous spaniel, Douglas! It was a joy to show you the games and skills that build a confident and happy pup!

✨ Set Your Pup Up for Success! ✨
Whether you’re starting out with your playful puppy or navigating the tricky teen stage, our Open Enrolment classes are here to help! 🐾💖

✅ Active Puppies (Preschool): Tuesdays at 10am or 6pm
✅ Pups to Teens: Mondays at 10am or 6pm, Wednesdays at 6pm

🐶 Why join?

• Build a strong bond with your pup through positive reinforcement and games 🎯
• Lay the foundation for lifelong manners and confidence 💡
• Get the support you need during those challenging adolescent phases 🐕✨
• Flexible start dates – jump in when you’re ready!

🌟 Give your dog the best start in life and enjoy every step of the journey together. Let’s make training fun and rewarding!
📍 Ohau, Levin
📍 Limited spots available – enrol now at: https://www.activedogs.co.nz/classbookings

#PuppyTraining #puppiesnz #PositiveReinforcement #ActiveDogsNZ #DogLovers #dogsnz #dogtrainingnz #dogstagram

🎯 Training Day for Intermediate Scentwork Trial 🐾
Tink and I are gearing up for our intermediate scentwork trial tomorrow afternoon! Today, we fine-tuned our skills with:
🚗 A 2x vehicle search (my trusty ute & a ride-on mower)
🌳 An exterior search
📦 A container search

All on Birch odour! 🍃 Watching Tink work with focus and determination is such a joy. She’s been doing amazingly well, and I couldn’t be prouder of her progress. Let’s see what tomorrow brings! 🏅

Wish us luck! 🤞🐕

#ScentworkTraining #DogSports #ScentDetection #IntermediateScentwork #BirchOdour #DogTrainerLife #ActiveDogsNZ #PositiveReinforcement #CockerSpanielMix #WorkingDogs #NewZealandDogs #DogTrainingJourney #DogsThatWork #ScentworkTrialReady

“🌞 Torin’s Summer Life Hack: When it’s too hot to handle, the shower becomes the ultimate chill zone! 🐾❄️

How does your dog stay cool in the summer heat? Share your best tips or quirkiest moments in the comments below! ⬇️💧

#ActiveDogsNZ #KeepingCool #SummerPups

Agility isn’t just for athletes, it’s for any dog and owner who want to play, bond and learn together! Classes start this Thursday 16th Jan. https://www.activedogs.co.nz Would your dog love Agility? #activedogsnz #agilitydog #agilitytraining

Wrapping up for the year with a show of Potter’s Ribbons and certificates earned in 2024.

We don’t travel far, so I’m pretty stoked by how well we have done in the past year.

We earned 1 Challenge in Agility and 3 in Jumpers A. These count towards reaching our dream of Champion at some point in the future.

Potter also earned his JDX Silver award and is 1 clear away from gaining his JDX Gold.

We head to our first show in 2025 this weekend, so here’s hoping the year starts off well!

Super proud of my gorgeous lad.. 💖#activedogsnz #dogagility #dogagilitynz

🎉🐾 Happy New Year from Active Dogs NZ! 🐾🎉. A huge THANK YOU to everyone who supported us throughout 2024. Your dedication, smiles, and the joy of training your amazing dogs have made this year unforgettable! Potter, Torin, (your demo dogs) and I are so excited to see what 2025 has in store. We can’t wait to welcome new and returning dogs and their guardians for another year of fun, learning, and strengthening bonds. Here’s to new adventures and wagging tails in 2025! 🐶💛With love, Jane, Potter & Torin (and the rest of the family) 🐾

🌟 WORKSHOPS 🌟

🐾 Start 2025 on the Right Paw with Active Dogs NZ! 🐾

Looking to strengthen your bond with your dog while mastering essential skills? Join us this January for our short specialised workshops that make training fun and effective! 🎉

1️⃣ Mastering Loose-Leash Walking
🗓️ Mon 6th Jan | 10 AM or 6 PM
🐕 Tips and tricks for a relaxed, enjoyable walk together.

4️⃣ Rapid Recalls – Call Your Dog Like a Pro!
🗓️ Mon 6th Jan | 12.30pm
🛑 Ensure your dog comes back every time, no matter the distractions.

2️⃣ Human Mechanics – Sharpen Your Skills!
🗓️ Tues 7th Jan | 10 AM
🦴 Master luring, shaping, and capturing skills to train like a pro.

3️⃣ Trick Training – Tricks, Titles & Tail Wags!
🗓️ Tues 7th Jan | 12:30 PM or 6 PM
🎩 Build life skills, boost focus, and have fun earning trick titles!

✨ Why Join?
Our workshops are perfect for every dog and handler, no matter your skill level. With a focus on positive reinforcement, games, and connection, you'll leave with tools to set your dog up for success. Combine two or more to supercharge your 2025 training journey!

📍 Location: Ohau, South of Levin
📋 Limited Spots Available – Book Now!

👉 Click Here to Register:
https://www.activedogs.co.nz/classbookings?category=1451cc6c-3518-4169-99b2-e3c1a29ee694

Let’s start 2025 with happy tails and confident teamwork! 🐾

Super fun in only the 2nd Dogs NZ Novice scentwork trial for Tink today!
She blew it out of the water with 5 out of 5 super searches. 2 containers, 1 each of Vehicle, Interior & Exterior.
Thank you to Janine & her team at Horowhenua Dog Club.
She’s such a clever girlie!
We also popped down to Wellington yesterday for Confident Canine’s Scent Investigators first fin trail. 3 out of 4 successful searches, but let down by her person in finding the suspect in the human part of the investigation. Thank god I’m not a cop!! 🤪
One tired Tink after her sniffy weekend!

Sausage Tree – Torin’s Favourite Game! 🌳🐾

Looking for a quick and fun game to engage your dog? Try the Sausage Tree! Find any tree, wall, or fence, and tuck treats (like sausage, cheese, or Possyum) into cracks or bark. Then, send your dog to “Search!”

👉 Getting Started: Start with treats placed at low heights. As your dog gets the hang of it, vary the levels – even add a few treats just out of reach, so they’ll “indicate” for you to help!

This game builds confidence, encourages focus, and helps dogs who may feel overwhelmed or too excited by new surroundings to settle in.

🌟 Challenge: Head outside, find your Sausage Tree, and tag us in your adventures! #sausagetree #activedogsnz

Super day in the sun at Feilding for 3x Jumpers A runs with Potter. 3 fabulous runs. JA1 super clear with a 2nd place & a Challenge. JA2 was great too, but just clipped the 2nd to last rail for 5 faults and another lovely run in JA3 with a massive argh moment as the very last rail dropped! All in all a fabulous day of jumpers!! 🎉 #activedogsnz #dogagility #agilitynz #dogsofinstagram

5 item retrieval October Challenge with High performers with The School of Canine Science with Tink. Plus having her favourite ball dropped behind me as a distraction when sending away to retrieve a hat. Once retrieval is done she is the rewarded by being sent to get her ball! Super hard challenge for this ball obsessed girl! Post your dog’s retrieving and tag activedogsnz or leave a comment. #activedogsnz #highperformers #schoolofcaninescience #dogtraining

Fun agility training sessions for Torin, Potter and I here in Feilding with Kevin (Tag Team). Torin & I working on connection, focus and building desire to play this game of agility & Potter & I finessing our skills in preparation for NZDAC being held in Upper Hutt over Labour weekend. So much fun being coached and learning loads! 🤩💖 #activedogsnz #dogtraining #dogsnz #dogagility #workingcockerspaniel #dogagilitynz

Saturday evening, Torin came up lame on his left hind leg—no idea what he did, probably just being a typical Spaniel, tearing around the property doing Spaniel things! It’s still not better, and after a check at the vet today he’s back in on Wednesday for an x-ray under sedation to figure out what’s going on. 🤞 Hoping it’s just a bad strain that rest and pain meds will sort. In the meantime, we’ll be focusing on enrichment, mental stimulation, and gentle training like loose lead walking (nice and slow during toilet breaks) and trick training to keep him busy. Poor lad just wants to run and play! #activedogsnz #doginjury #workingcockerspaniel

When it comes to safety and control, training your dog to remain calm around gates and doorways is invaluable. Teaching an automatic sit as you approach these thresholds helps your dog learn to pause and focus, avoiding the excitement and potential danger of bolting through.

Begin by reinforcing an automatic sit whenever you approach a gate or doorway. Consistency is key—practice this behaviour in a variety of locations to generalise the response. Once your dog is reliably sitting, introduce the next step: staying in a sit while the gate or door is opened. Start by slightly opening the gate, rewarding your dog for staying seated. Gradually increase the challenge by opening it wider or longer before releasing your dog.

To maintain control and focus as you move through the gate, incorporate simple games like loose leash walking or having your dog go into a “middle” position between your legs. This not only keeps your dog engaged with you but also reinforces the idea that calm behaviour leads to freedom. Once your dog demonstrates calmness and control, give a release cue to signal they can go off and enjoy their playtime.

This approach not only creates a safer environment but also strengthens your dog’s ability to listen and respond to you even in exciting situations.

#DogTrainingTips #CalmAndControlled
#DogBehaviour #PositiveReinforcement
#FocusAndControl #LooseLeashWalking #DogTrainingGames #SitStay #CanineManners
#DogTrainer #DogSafety #activedogsnz

Last night (NZ time) 11.30am (UK time) my family in the UK gathered to celebrate my Dad Cornelius Brian O’Callaghan and my Uncle Christopher Woosnam-Mills (passed away in 2021). Sadly Gwen & I couldn’t be there, but did managed to WhatsApp in for the church service. It was good to be just a small part of it and we will visit this site in the churchyard when we visit next. So hard being so far away at times like this. Love to everyone and huge hugs to my Mum, brother and family on the other side of the planet in the UK. 💖

“Big milestone for Torin! 🎉 He’s just completed his first-ever 12 weaves in agility training, and we couldn’t be more proud. Watching him grow in confidence and skill has been such a rewarding journey. Onwards and upwards from here! 🐾”

Tags:
#AgilityTraining #FirstWeaves #ProudMoment #DogSports #ActiveDogsNZ #Milestonedog #DogTraining #AgilityJourney

Here’s a quick clip of Potter getting ready for the team trials this weekend! We’re training hard to see if we can represent Zone 3 at the Nationals in October. The energy and focus in these sessions are vital as we fine-tune our teamwork. Wish us luck as we aim to secure our spot and make our zone proud!

#AgilityTraining #DogSports #ActiveDogsNZ #WorkingTogether #DogTraining #AgilityDogs #CompetitionReady

Torin’s weaves are going from strength to strength! Today he nailed 6 straight weaves for the first time and with me on both sides. Such a good boy! Now to build confidence before challenging entries! 💖. #activedogs #activedogsnz #dogagility #dogagilitytraining #nzagility #agilityspaniels #spanielsofinstagram #workingcockerspaniel

In dog training, understanding different types of reinforcement is key to building strong, reliable behaviours. Just like Cookie and Patches, who eagerly come when called for their favourite rewards—pignuts and ear scratches—each dog (or pig!) has their own preferences. Positive reinforcement, like food rewards or a good scratch, can make training enjoyable and effective. What’s your dog’s favourite reward? Let me know in the comments below!
#DogTraining #PositiveReinforcement #Kunekune #TrainingTips #ActiveDogsNZ #PigsOfInstagram #DogLovers #RewardBasedTraining #PetBehaviour #DogTrainerLife #kunekunepigs #kunekunesofinstagram

Finding your inner Spaniel means embracing the simple joys of life—like Torin here having a good roll around in a pile of branches! Dogs remind us that sometimes, the best moments are unplanned and a little bit messy. Let your playful side out, just like a Spaniel, and enjoy the world around you with a wagging tail and a carefree spirit.

#DogLife #SpanielJoy #EmbraceTheMess #PlayfulPups #LiveLikeADog #DogLovers #ActiveDogsNZ

🌟 Training Torin with a Chin Rest for Agility Measurements! 🌟

Check out Torin confidently demonstrating his chin rest technique! 🐶✨ This simple yet powerful behaviour has so many benefits:

1. Accuracy: Ensures precise measurements for agility, so Torin can start his agility competition journey in a couple of months time.
2. Calmness: Promotes relaxation and focus during training sessions.
3. Bonding: Strengthens the connection between handler and dog through positive reinforcement.
4. Versatility: Useful in various situations, from vet visits to grooming.

Training a chin rest is a fantastic way to enhance your dog’s skills and build trust. Ready to give it a try with your pup? Let us know how it goes! 🐾💙

#ActiveDogsNZ #DogTraining #AgilityTraining #PositiveReinforcement #DogLovers #ChinRestTraining #highperformance #schoolofcaninescience

Accept the Name Treat Challenge & post your pups doing the challenge! #nametreatcgallenge #activedogsnz #treatchallengefordogs

**Trick Training: Fun and Functional!**

Who says tricks are just for fun? While they certainly bring joy and strengthen the bond with your dog, trick training also has real-life benefits! Take the “chin rest” trick, for example. It’s perfect for making husbandry tasks and vet visits less stressful. Your dog learns to calmly rest their chin in your hand or on a chair/stool, making it easier to inspect and handle them. This also gives them a way to signal their comfort or discomfort with just a lift of their chin. Cooperative Care at its best!

Then there’s Treibball, a fantastic game that channels your dog’s natural herding instincts into a structured and enjoyable activity. This not only provides an excellent physical and mental outlet but also fosters teamwork between you and your dog. Not just for herding breeds either!!

So, dive into trick training and discover the many ways it can enhance both your lives! 🌟

#ActiveDogsNZ #TrickTraining #DogTraining #DogSports #PositiveReinforcement #cooperativecare

🐾 New Classes Alert! 🐾

Got a pup or a teen pooch eager for adventure? 🐶 Dive into our exciting new classes at Active Dogs NZ!

🐾 Pups to Teens: Open enrolment for pups and teen dogs! Build foundational skills and good manners.

🎯 Intro to Scentwork: Unleash your dog’s detective skills! Perfect for those curious noses.

🎉 Trick Training: Teach fun tricks and wow your friends! From paw shakes to high-fives, let’s get playful.

🐕‍🦺 Active Dogs Club: For our alumni! Join our community, expand your training, and have a blast together.

🏃‍♂️ Fun Agility: Jumps, tunnels, and ramps! Agility for beginners – let’s get active.

⚡️ Rapid Recalls: Master the art of speedy returns. A must-have for every dog parent.

Classes filling up fast! Secure your spot today and let’s make training fun. 🎾✨

📍 Ohau, Levin, North Island, NZ
📞 Call us at 021442018 or visit www.activedogs.co.nz

#ActiveDogsNZ #DogTraining #Scentwork #TrickTraining #DogClub #Agility #RapidRecalls #PuppyTraining #TeenPups #PositiveReinforcement #dogsnz

🌟Benefits of Trick Training for You and Your Dog

Mental Stimulation
- Dog: Keeps their brain active and prevents boredom.
- You: Challenges your problem-solving skills.

Physical Exercise
- Dog: Helps them stay fit and active.
- You: Gets you moving and engaged.

Bonding
- Dog: Strengthens your connection.
- You: Deepens your emotional bond.

Behavioural Benefits
- Dog: Improves overall behaviour and focus.
- You: Your dog becomes easier to manage and enjoy.

Confidence Building
- Dog: Boosts their confidence.
- You: Increases your confidence as a trainer.

Socialisation
- Dog: Teaches them to handle different environments.
- You: Connects you with other dog lovers.

Entertainment
- Dog: They love to perform and work with you.
- You: Provides fun and joy for everyone.

Classes starting soon: https://www.activedogs.co.nz/classbookings

#dogsnz #activedogs #activedogsnz #trickdog #trickdogs #dogtraining

We had an incredibly fun weekend at the NZDAC Benefit Show, held in the fantastic indoor Manfield Arena in Feilding.
We came away with clear rounds and three ribbons: 3rd in Jumpers A1, 1st in Jumpers A2 (our first challenge win), and 3rd in Intermediate 3.
We also tackled some pretty tricky courses and did some excellent work in our other runs. #dogagility #nzagility #activedogsnz #dogsport #dogsports #dogs

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211 Muhunoa East Road,

Ohau Levin

New Zealand

5570

jane@activedogs.co.nz

021 442 018

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Cancellation Policies

If you need to reschedule or cancel, please give at least 48 hrs notice:
Up to 72 hours before the class - Refund minus the administration fee of $25
36-72 hour notice - refund of 50% cost of the course
No refund if cancelling within 36 hours of the start of the class
No refund after completion of the first session and inability to continue to full course completion

If cancelling before 48hrs of the start of the class, please let us know if you would like to postpone your spot to a class later in the year - Extra administration fee of $25

Dog Registration and Microchipping

All dogs over the age of 3 months attending classes are required to be registered and microchipped

(Schedule 1 of the Dog Control Act 1996)

WELCOME TO ACTIVE DOGS NZ K9 Coaching