Belfast has a proper spread of trainers, from puppy classes to one-to-one behaviour work for dogs who’ve picked up a few bad habits. We checked each trainer’s own website and only listed the ones who say plainly how they train. If a trainer didn’t spell it out, we left them off rather than guess.
Classes and group training
Teaching Tails
Trainer: Cathy Donaghy, BA(Hons), DipCABT, IMDT and COAPE-qualified
Phone/WhatsApp: 07738 638363
Classes: Carryduff (also covers Belfast, Co. Down and Co. Antrim)
The website says training is reward-based and science-based, and “strictly advocates no fear, no force, no aversives”. As well as puppy classes, Cathy offers one-to-one behaviour consultations for reactivity and resource guarding, plus vet-referred work through the Veterinary Behaviour Portal.
Glen-Craig Canine Training
Address: 28 Moneybroom Road, Magheragall, Lisburn, Co. Antrim BT28 2QP
Phone: 028 9262 2992
Run by Michael and Kate McCartney, both Kennel Club-accredited judges and trainers. The website states “the methodology used throughout is Positive Reinforcement”. They offer puppy classes, one-to-one training at their Lisburn academy or in your home, and competition obedience and agility coaching, a short drive from Belfast.
One-to-one and behaviour help
Just Pawing About
Trainer: Connor, IMDT-accredited
Phone: 07857 454007
Covers: Belfast, Lisburn and North Down; group classes in Belvoir, Boucher and Comber
Describes its methods as reward-based and force-free. One-to-one sessions happen at home or an agreed location, and there’s a dedicated puppy course alongside scentwork workshops if your dog needs something to do with their nose.
My Dog’s Best Friend
Trainer: Al Rankin BSc (Hons), Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant
Phone: 028 9250 8088 or 07989 387407
Belfast-based behaviourist carrying a “force free” badge and affiliated with Pet Dog Ambassador. The focus is one-to-one behaviour work booked online, described on the site as “Positive, Caring, Effective”.
Animist Dog Training
Phone: 07472 048448
Covers: Belfast and around 10 miles of the city centre, plus online sessions further afield
Focused on rehabilitation for reactivity, anxiety and other tricky behaviour through a structured programme called the Reset Protocol. The site talks about working with the dog rather than against them, with a free initial call to discuss your dog first.
Questions worth asking before you commit
- What happens in a session if my dog gets it wrong?
- Do you use any tools that cause discomfort, such as shock, spray or prong collars?
- Will you work with my vet if something looks physical rather than behavioural?
No trainer can honestly promise a result, so treat anyone who does with caution. A settled dog tends to learn more easily, and the dog supplements and vitamins collection at Calmshops is worth a look alongside training. Speak to your vet before changing your dog’s diet.
Listings come from each trainer’s own website and can change, so confirm details before you book. More for Belfast: the Belfast dog services hub, swimming spots and the UK-wide dog trainer directory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there dog training classes in Belfast?
Yes. Teaching Tails runs puppy classes in Carryduff, and Glen-Craig Canine Training runs classes at its Lisburn academy. Both also offer one-to-one sessions. Contact them directly for current availability.
Why are some Belfast trainers not listed here?
We only list trainers whose own website clearly states reward-based or force-free methods. A trainer who doesn’t say how they work is left off until we can check, which isn’t a judgement on their ability.
Should I see my vet before booking a trainer?
If your dog’s behaviour has changed suddenly, or you suspect pain or illness, speak to your vet first. They can rule out a physical cause and may refer you on.
Written by Georgiana & Figo.