FAQ
Where is Tautahi Canines based and which areas do you serve?
Tautahi Canines is based in rural Pukekohe and works with clients throughout Franklin and the wider Auckland region . Travel may apply for distances outside Pukekohe.
What training methodology do you use?
We use R+ (Positive reinforcement) utilising clicker as the marking system. The aim is to teach handlers the observational skills to read their dog accurately, then build correct behaviours moving forward. Our methods are evidence based and welfare first.
Are sessions group or one-on-one?
Most training is one-on-one. The initial assessment consult is 1hr during which a baseline is observed and a customised plan can then be created. Subsequent follow-up sessions are also 1 hour in duration. The exceptions are Puppy socialisation or Scent detection which are run as group classes for a defined number of weeks.
How old does my puppy need to be for the Puppy Socialisation class?
Puppies need to be aged 8-16 weeks at the start of the 6-week course and must have had at least one vaccination, at least two weeks prior to the first session. Bring your vet card to the first class to confirm.
Can you help with reactive or aggressive dogs?
Yes - Behaviour and aggression cases are part of our core work. Every plan starts with an assessment consult so we can identify the underlying triggers, the household environment and the dog's history. From there we build a step-by-step plan focused on mamagement first, then behaviour change.
What is Scent work and is my dog suitable?
Scent work uses your dog's olfactory drive to find a target odour. It suits virtually any dog - all breeds, sizes, ages and temperaments. It is especially useful for older dogs that need low impact mental work, anxious or reactive dogs that benefit from a constructive job, and high-drive dogs that need a productive outlet.
What's the difference between scent work, tracking and trailing?
Scent work (also known as nose work) trains a dog to find a specific target odour, often in a container setting. Tracking trains a dog to follow a step-by-step ground scent left by a target (either human or animal). Trailing is similar to tracking but the dog also utilises air scenting alongside ground tracking odour and is allowed more flexibility in path of travel. All three disciplines draw on the same olfactory hardware but the picture and criteria are different.
How long does it take to see results?
Every dog is an individual, so it depends on the goal and the animal. Most clients see meaningful change within 3-4 sessions for foundational skills like recall and lead manners. Behaviour cases (reactivity , aggression) typically take longer - weeks to months - because the goal is durable change, not a quick fix.
How much does training cost?
the Pricing is built around the customised plan we agree on at the initial assessment consult, because every dog and every household has different requirements. Please get in touch for a quote - we'll discuss your goals and how we can help.
What's Alex's background?
Alex has been working and training dogs for the past 40 years. He is a certified USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) live-find search dog specialist with the NZUSAR Search Dog Association and was an operational team member of NZUSAR Task Force (now retired). He is a former CVL trainer for the SPCA and also a former Therapy dog hander and trainer with St Johns.
How do I book?
Email alex@tautahik9s.co.nz, call +64 22 8073300, or use the form on the Contact page. Tell us your dog's age, breed, your location and what you're hoping to work on. We'll come back to you with the next available consult slot.