Category Archives: Instructor Course Level 1

SA Dog Training

Karlien

Hi Chris and Christine

I would like to thank you both for the most incredible two weeks of my life. I have learnt a lot from you. You are really two very special people. It is good to know that there are still people like you out there who also love dogs as much as I do. Dogs are amazing creatures with wonderful qualities and thanks to you sharing your knowledge I am able to bring out the best in my dogs. ALL dogs need love and to be treated with respect, we as dog owners owe it to them. I really can recommend this course to anyone who wants to make a difference in a dog’s life. This course was a life changing experience for me and you made me see dogs through different eyes. Keep up your good work!

You made them happy too: Gina, Kushka, Kayla, Odie

Regards
Karlien Smit

Training type: Dog Instructor Class Vereeniging | Dog Instructor Class Vereeniging Level 1

SA Dog Training

Janine

The course I did in March 2011 was absolutely brilliant. A very worthwhile and interesting two weeks. I wish all dog owners, and indeed even prospective dog owners would do it – there is so much more to dogs then the average person thinks! I have learned so much and understand so much more now and can’t thank Chris and Christine enough for doing what they do. And I hope that my dogs have benefited from everything I’ve learned and put into practice and feel the same!

Anyway thanks again the course was brilliant.

Janine

Training type: Dog Instructor Class Botswana | Dog Instructor Class Botswana Level 1

SA Dog Training

Adelle

Hi Christine & Chris!

Herewith my course report:

During January 2011 I came across the website of SADTC. After reading a few articles on the website I enquired about the Instructors course and was I mighty impressed with the quick response I received. This made me realize these people were serious and passionate about dog training.

A few days later I contacted Christine and made an appointment to go to SADTC to meet her and get a better idea of what the course would entail. On our arrival at SADTC (which was a Saturday) we noticed several groups of people with their dogs on the field busy with training, it struck me that everything was so organized and structured and again I was very impressed.

Then we met Christine a very energetic, confidant and friendly woman. She made us feel right at home by introducing us to everybody and explained to me what I needed to know. During the conversation Chris joined us, while talking to him I could see the passion he has for dogs in his eyes. That was it my mind was made up, SADTC was the perfect place for me to do my training. While walking back to our vehicle my husband told me that he had peace of mind leaving me in the capable hands of Chris and Christine for two weeks. That was yet another confirmation that SADTC was the right choice.

I started my training on 5 March 2011. SADTC is a wonderful place to study the venue is relaxing and stimulating. I really enjoyed having classes outdoors. (except for the few times the weather forced us inside) The two week course was very intensive with a lot of information to absorb but every day was a new experience. The study material is of the highest quality. I learnt not to only look at a dog but to observe to think and then to act. “Go back to basics” I would highly recommend SADTC to anyone who wish to get involved in dog training and the Instructors course is a must for all who has a passion to work with dogs.

CHRISTINE: I really enjoyed working with you and learning from you. You are brilliant with all dogs your ability to read a dogs behaviour is astounding. Your patience with dogs is out of this world (Referring to Turbo) you really have the interest of dog and handler at heart.

CHRIS: You are an excellent teacher with an abundance of knowledge, but yet you are so down to earth. You are approachable and humorous. You can truly paint a picture with words. Thanks to you I think like a dog and their behaviour make sense to me now.

CHRIS & CHRISTINE: Your Knowledge, passion, patience and professionalism made a huge impact on me and change my life forever. I really enjoyed being with you. Thank you for passing on your knowledge, for the encouragement and fun we had together.

I do believe you two are the BEST in the dog training field. YOU ARE FANTASTIC!!!!!!

Much Respect
Adelle Joubert

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Newlands | Dog Instructor Course Newlands Level 1

SA Dog Training

Michael

Dog Instructor Class NigeriaHello Christine,

My family and i are all doing fine, we thank God for His mercy upon us, I’m doing fine in Dog Business.

So, I decided to train a dog for 2 weeks because I don’t have the facility to board dogs and I allow then to bring the dog food. But I think I will do better in future the way things are going.

I want to open a pet shop in my area so that people can be buying pet items from me.

Am happy to hear that the training went on successful, are you still holding the advance level in September? Pls let me know in time so that i can start my preparation right now.

How is my dear Chris? Please tell Bianta and Her husby that i miss them so much. i can wait to see them by September.

Take good care of yourself
Michael

Training type: Dog Instructor Class Nigeria | Dog Instructor Class Nigeria Level 1

SA Dog Training

Anonymous

Tomorrow I am starting my last week at training, but that will only be the beginning of a very long journey. This is a wonderful place to study, the environment and staff is super. It’s just amazing how much one can learn about dogs in one day, so you can imagine how much that is in two weeks?

I have seen and learnt so much. I will leave this place as a better person to help my people as I have always done in the past, but my understanding will be totally different.
I have been taught to always put the dog first.

I am attending with a bunch of dog lovers and it feels like I’m living in a dog world. We are such an amazing team, though we are from different back grounds and countries. We speak the same dog language and that is what matters. I will definitely miss the team and wonderful instructors. It’s amazing how you can make a difference in a dog’s life within such a short period.

I have worked with several dogs and they are all amazing animals. Looking forward to chat with all of you guys after the course and I will be able to give you a breakdown of the course and the two people who have made such a big impact in my life, Chris and Christine Van Der Westhuizen.

KEEP A “SHORT” NOT A “TIGHT” LEASH, till we chat again.

Training type: Dog Instructor Class South Africa | Dog Instructor Class South Africa Level 1

SA Dog Training

Tufoin

I have done a lot of investigation about people have dogs and the types. I have at hand 15 persons who have been dealing with dogs and are interested to join my classes. I have made arrangements to kick off with training next month.

I got my dogs along when I went out for work. I am able now to use them in Home obedience training. It has been a nice experience introducing this home basic training to my pets.

Accept greetings from my family.

God bless you
Tufoin George

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Cameroon | Dog Instructor Course Cameroon Level 1

SA Dog Training

Delano

Something I must tell ya! One of India’s only channels for pets covered my kennel and me. For 30 mints of air time. Which went on air yesterday, people have been calling and have liked it. I owe much to you guys! Thanks a ton. Hope to see you guys again soon! Sure will be a pleasure to see ya all. Thank you guys again for fine tuning me and building my drive. All the conversation we had, was the best learning experience I have had.

Delano

Training type: Dog Instructor Course India | Dog Instructor Course India Level 1

SA Dog Training

Scotty

The Puppy and Obedience Instructors course that I completed with SADTC so many years ago, gave me a solid foundation for the rest of my career. I thoroughly enjoyed working and learning from the team at SADTC and nothing was every too much trouble for them, despite my many questions! Chris, Christine and family are an asset to the canine profession, run an excellent dog school and are, I believe, the leading authorities in the area. I can highly recommend their course.

Scotty Valadao

Training type: Dog Instructor Class Gauteng | Dog Instructor Class Gauteng Level 1

SA Dog Training

Val

Hi Christine,

Concerning dog training, I have been giving private lessons. Although I still have a lot to learn, I am very grateful for the knowledge I now have because of your course.

Thank you
Val

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Botswana | Dog Instructor Course Botswana Level 1

SA Dog Training

Bronwyn

SADTC training methods focus on positive reinforcement but at the same time do not just pretend and/or ignore bad behaviour – many other schools are only focusing in praise and not correct wrong/bad behaviour.

Also, SADTC accepts that there are pack dynamics and does not claim that the dog does not come and/or is influenced from the wolf. Many “new age” schools are now advising the dog and wolf have no connection or similarities.

Also their methods make sense and are based upon knowledge and experience and clearly work.

After training at SADTC for a few weeks it was abundantly clear that handlers are encouraged to keep learning about their dog, and continued experience and knowledge is important.

The overall ability and knowledge of the members as a whole shows us clearly that SADTC and their members have a huge interest and a love for dogs – this is infectious and makes one want to be a better and more informed dog owner.

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Randburg | Dog Instructor Course Randburg Level 1

SA Dog Training

Mduduzi

Hi Christine

Thanks for the assessment. I really appreciate your honesty and encouragement.

I am doing well over here still teaching Swazi students.

Concerning the job at our SPPC, i am very glad to inform you that I was called by the Chairman to inform me that hey have accepted my request to train their rescued dogs. I am still looking forward to that new challenge.

I am enjoying some of the lessons and dog advises given in the internet. At least now, everything makes sense to me. Thanks to your course. I am also trying to follow any dog program in TV and the amazing thing is that whatever they do, it is exactly what we learned during the course. Like you have said, once I start working with dogs here, I hope to improve my handling ability. There is a program called dog cell in Animal Planet, which work with transforming or correcting behavioral problems in dogs and its amazing how the behaviours change in 4 weeks. Another one in National Geographic channel is Dog whisper, which shows how dogs are trained in the USA. It is exactly what we have been doing. I am really enjoying watching this with so much relevant knowledge!

Thanks a Lot Hope to hear from you.
Wishing you all the best.
Mduduzi

Training type: Dog Instructor Class Swaziland | Dog Instructor Class Swaziland Level 1

SA Dog Training

Michael

Hello Everybody, Just to inform you all that I arrived safely and I narrated all my experience to my people.

My experience with you people show how wonderful and lovely you are, I really enjoy myself and I will miss you all. Please have wonderful week.

From
Michael

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Nigeria | Dog Instructor Course Benoni Level 1

SA Dog Training

Anonymous

Hello Christine

How are you and Chris? It is good to hear from you again. Below is my assessment for the instructor course.

I learnt From SADTC that all dogs are the same, Good Dog Good Owner. I enjoyed the course; it was constructed and well delivered. It was a great foundation for me to start with in life.

The school is a home learning, a place to be all the time. The venue is a relaxing one and a pleasant working environment.

To Chris: – You are excellent Motivator, a Connector full with abundant knowledge. From you, I have learnt how to think like a dog in order to get thing right. You are my mentor, a fatherly one and forever you will be.

To Christine:- You are full of wonder, a professional Instructor. A genuine, concern and lovely mother. Your ability and capacity speaks a lot about you.

Your patience, your passion encourage both handler and dogs. I really enjoyed being with you, forever my heart will continue speaking about you.

Thank you Chris and Christine.

Also, my thank also goes to my friend Biata and her lovely Hubby Darrel, for their encouragement and hospitality during my course. You people are lovely family. I am putting all the knowledge into practice here in my Country and if I forget anything at all – I WILL ALWAYS GO BACK TO THE BASES.

Training type: Dog Instructor Course International | Dog Instructor Course International Level 1

SA Dog Training

Estey

To Whom It May Concern

I attended the September 2010 Basic Obedience Course that was presented at SADTC where I completed the course and am now a basic obedience instructor. I had no background in this field and it was all new to me. I started off doing research on the net for the most competent training facility and SADTC came out tops.

The two week course was drilling and exhausting but with all the experience and knowledge Chris and Christine had to offer, two weeks felt to short. There were so many bases to cover from raising your pup, diseases, as well as poison proofing and this was only the technical side of things. We still had to attend the practical, have first hand experience on how to present a class and how to handle difficult dogs as well as owners.

Every day was a new experience, a new learning curve; there was never a dull moment. Both Chris and Christine have been in their field for many years and they had all the experience on the do’s & don’t, previous harsh methods used and what’s the better option in today’s day and age and why? There wasn’t a question they couldn’t answer, a dog they couldn’t train. I was in awe of these two people.

SADTC facilities are clean, open and friendly. A very relaxed environment, where you could just let your mind wonder to the possibilities and take in as much information as possible.

I highly recommend SADTC, not just to take your dog for training but also if you are keen on becoming an instructor. Go for the best in the field you won’t ever look back.

I didn’t just learn about dogs and training, but I also became part of a family.

Yours sincerely
Estey

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Linden | Dog Instructor Course Linden Level 1

SA Dog Training

Belinda

1. What I didn’t like

Well honestly, there’s not much I didn’t like, so this is a short bit…Very short, because I loved it!

2. What I liked

I took this course because I wanted to find some way to help Leah and my other dogs, and I’ve walked away with so much knowledge, I’m still trying to absorb it all! Thanks to Christine and Chris I have learnt to be more observant, to really look at a dog, look at his body posture, his handler’s body posture, and then to connect all the dots. Needless to say, that’s a skill that I find myself using with people now, because I’ve been taught to really look, and not just glance.

For me, Christine and Chris are the closest to dog whisperers I think I will come across in my life. From Chris I learnt how a dog thinks, what motivates (and de-motivates) him and how to understand him, and from Christine I’ve learnt how to read body language, how to speak to a dog and how to communicate with the handler… If I heard “don’t solve the problem, solve the cause” once, I heard a thousand times, but it must have sunk in at number 970, because I find myself trying to do it with every dog I see!

Christine and Chris you both answered every question patiently, even for the 10th time, and not once did I ever feel that you guys were getting impatient, despite how slow I was learning!! I’ve seen more than a hundred dogs on your training grounds on a Saturday, and not once have I seen a dog humiliated, hurt or yelled at … They all come in for some “school”, their tails are wagging and you can just see that they are having a ball! And that’s thanks to you guys … Thank you so much for one of the best experiences of my life!

It was such a nice positive experience, please keep it like that!! We all had lots of laughs, I loved sitting there watching the horses and breathing fresh air. For me it was the most stimulating environment to be in…

Regards
Belinda

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Henley On Klip | Dog Instructor Course Henley On Klip Level 1

SA Dog Training

Kristyl

I learnt the S.A.D.T.C. way to communicate with my dog in an easier, kinder and more humane way, from the dog’s point of view. The entire course was very informative. I was humbled and ashamed by how little the human race actually knows about “mans’ best friend.”

Chris is an excellent teacher with an abundance of knowledge regarding every topic dog-related. He humbled the entire class with his passion for dogs and his genuine concern for what is in the dog’s best interest. He was professional at all times, while remaining open to opinions & suggestions and his humourous, down-to-earth attitude made the lessons more interesting and understandable.

Christine is brilliant with any and all dogs. Her ability to recognize and react to a dog’s mood or behaviour is so interesting. She has a genuine concern & love for dogs and people. She is excellent practically and is able to teach inexperience handlers & beginner dogs in a short amount of time. Her patience along with her passion to aspire handlers & dogs makes her so successful. She was professional throughout the course, while remaining approachable & humourous.

The venue was relaxing and it was pleasant working outdoors, the tuck shop was also very useful. Overall the course was insightful, interesting, kind & motivational.

From
Kristyl

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Gauteng | Dog Instructor Course Gauteng Level 1

SA Dog Training

Despina

The most valuable information I learnt was how to read the different behaviours of dogs and realizing how little mistakes can make a big difference.

Chris & Christine are very knowledgeable. I enjoyed both the theory and the practical.

I thoroughly enjoyed the course, the topics were really interesting and there was just so much to absorb. Thank you to Chris & Christine for passing on all their knowledge and experience. I also enjoyed all the practical sessions working with the different breeds and learning their characters.

From
Despina

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Johannesburg | Dog Instructor Course Johannesburg Level 1

SA Dog Training

Liezel

I learnt that all dogs are the same inside and to never discriminate against any breed because a dog will be what you make it. Also to never listen to housewife’s tales. I enjoyed Chris & Christine’s presentations.

From
Liezel

Training type: Dog Instructor Class Centurion | Dog Instructor Class Centurion Level 1

SA Dog Training

Mduduzi

The presenters knew the subject matter very well and the presentation was excellent.

(Mduduzi is from Swaziland and has a BSC in Agriculture, he had never worked with any dogs before. He is now planning to open up his own training school in Swaziland.

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Swaziland | Dog Instructor Course Swaziland Level 1

SA Dog Training

Jan

I think the course was well constructed, well delivered and an absolute must for all dog lovers. A great base to start with.

From
Jan

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Hibberdene | Dog Instructor Course Hibberdene Level 1

SA Dog Training

Yolandi

I have learnt from Chris & Christine to think like a dog. Love, patience, care, bonding, etc. is very important. Chris & Christine were very good, I am amazed at how good they are and I hope to be that good some day.

The venue was very good, everything was amazing. I loved the protection work display.

Chris, Christine you are 2 amazing people, I look up to you.

From
Yolandi

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Thabazimbi | Dog Instructor Course Thabazimbi Level 1

SA Dog Training

Chantal

I thought everything was fine, the information was always given in such a way that everyone participated, which kept it interesting. I have been blown away by S.A. DOG TRAINING COLLEGE. The people are amazing; I have no suggestions as I think it is perfect! This was a highlight of my life, to have met awesome people and learn so much about one of the animals I adore.

Thanks Chris and Christine.
Regards
Chantal

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Bedfordview | Dog Instructor Course Bedfordview Level 1

SA Dog Training

Naomi

Thank you very much for your time, effort and understanding during the course, I would love to find out and learn more.

Hi guys,

Here is my comments on the instructors course:

The “Meet and Greet” the night before the course started was an excellent idea! Your warm welcome and introduction to everyone made me feel right at home even though I was so far away from home

Information and practical experience given throughout the course was an excellent way of laying down a foundation of knowledge to be able to start our own dog training club.

The only “downfall” that I found was that the afternoons with the theory felt a bit long. Even though Chris spoke with great enthusiasm, I thought that if you could somehow manage to sometimes maybe have the theory class in the morning and practical in the afternoon.

I am very satisfied with the course and the information supplied to us. And will definitely come back for more!

When I left Ladysmith to attend your course I thought I had a great love for dogs, but when I returned I loved and respected them even more because I understood so much more.

I can’t wait to start educating my fellow dog owners so that they may also experience the same love and respect for their companions.

Thank you to both of you (Chris & Chirstene) and to Biata and Darrel for your laughs and support and sharing of knowledge! You are the perfect family and absolutely my role models!

I also hope to get my practical assessment from you soon!

Barkingly Yours,
Naomi Coetzee

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Ladysmith | Dog Instructor Course Ladysmith Level 1

SA Dog Training

Delano

Thanks for the good words! It is great too hear coming from you, I sure will bug you if I feel I am stuck with something. Like I said “I think your course was not only puppies and home obedience, but much more. I think you should rename this course like “The dog instructors bible” because that is what it is. One can branch out into any field of training from here, but this is a must do.

Hope to work with you again soon. See ya just now!

Thedogsbestfriend
Delano Henriques

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Mumbai India | Dog Instructor Course Mumbai India Level 1

SA Dog Training

Cindy

Chris and Christine

My journey started on the day we contacted you stressed about Somoya growing up and having me for breakfast and you went out of your way to assist me with the problem. The first day I arrived at the college I never could dream what was lying ahead. My whole life changed there and then. I made a decision which at the time I did not realize Was going to be such a rewarding intense decision. I have always wanted to do something for the animals but was not sure what now I knew this could be the way to do it And I thought “this is easy and rewarding”, well was I in for a surprise.

I continued my training with Somoya and enjoyed it but my actual course started with SADTC on the 5/09/2009 and it was amazing from the first day forward, even though the course was very intense I really enjoyed every minute of it and have never had such an interesting experience every day I just wanted to learn more and more, leaving today wondering what I will learn tomorrow and you did not disappoint me one day.

I have always loved animals but the last couple of months, particularly the course, has opened my eyes as to why I love animals. I always thought it was because they are cute and furry but It is because they are such amazing animals and you both have helped me see a different side of them Thank you so much for the wonderfull experience and for making me aware of what I did not know and realised, I learned so much from you both and hope that you will continue sharing your Expertise with us and others.

When is the next course?

Enjoy your holiday and thanks again the course was absolutely wonderful

Regards
Cindy

Training type: Dog Instructor Class Benoni | Dog Instructor Class Benoni Level 1

SA Dog Training

Lindy

Hi Christine

The seminar was brilliant, 10/10 for the subjects presented. your knowledge on behavior and training is astounding.
The venue was great, 8/10 a few more comfortable chairs would be great.

I would most definitely attend more seminars, I think you guys are exceptional presenters. What I like about you guys is that you talk normal language, and make it easy to understand. Also if I didn’t understand something you were more than willing to show and discuss things with me.

If anyone ever ask me where I learned the most on behavior it would be from you guys. I think all the people that study ethology must attend your seminars, you guys put everything into perspective.

I would like to say this course was intense, and maybe recommend that when you do another 1 that you give the guys a bit more time off. maybe a Sunday afternoon.

thank you guys for everything, you made me realize that it’s not just a job, it is a lifestyle. I thank God that I met you guys, you gave me confidence and something to work for and believe in.

I wish maybe 1 day to have just a little bit of your knowledge and drive.

Regards
Lindy Maritz

Training type: Dog Instructor Course Benoni | Dog Instructor Course Level 1 Benoni