Back to Basics
Back to Basics is a comprehensive, relationship-focused training course designed to build confident dogs and capable handlers for real-life living. This is not a quick-fix obedience class. It’s a thoughtfully structured program that teaches you how to understand, communicate with, and train your dog in a way that lasts well beyond the course.
- Format: 8-week course
- Investment: $450
- Limited to 8 participants
Over eight weeks, we work through foundational skills, real-world reliability, play, engagement, exposure, and problem-solving — giving you the tools to build a dog you can live with, travel with, and take into everyday environments.
To ensure quality and individual support, the course is capped at just 8 participants, with multiple experienced trainers present each week. This allows for genuine one-on-one coaching within a group environment, so you’re supported at your own pace while still benefiting from shared learning and community.
What This Class Focuses On
- Building strong engagement and relationship between dog and handler
- Clear training mechanics and effective communication
- Structured play and motivation
- Core obedience — sit, down, recall, loose lead walking
- Obedience under distraction and in real-world contexts
- Exposure and socialisation done thoughtfully and safely
- Confidence building and emotional regulation
- Handling and grooming foundations
- Emergency skills for real-life safety
- Canine conditioning and body awareness
- Addressing common problem behaviours
- Helping owners understand how and why training works
- Ongoing support through access to the Private EpicDog Community Facebook Page, including class recaps, photos, videos, and shared learning
Current Term Dates
See the single current schedule on our Term Dates & Special Events page. Places are limited to 8 participants per intake and bookings are essential.
Where to Next
Dogs and handlers who complete the Back to Basics course are eligible to join our Basics & Beyond casual classes — designed to push training to higher distractions, increased complexity, and real-world challenges while continuing to build relationship, reliability, and confidence.
What Makes Back to Basics Different
- Capped at 8 participants for a high-quality learning experience
- Multiple trainers present for individualised coaching
- One-on-one support within a structured group environment
- Access to the EpicDog Facebook community for recaps, videos, and support
- Real-world training, not just controlled class exercises
- A clear progression pathway into advanced casual classes
By the end of the course, you’ll walk away with a stronger relationship, clearer communication, and a dog who is better equipped to navigate everyday life with you.