Care & Settlement Guide

Your companion may experience mild stress during travel — this is normal. Allow 2-3 days of quiet settling.

Establish a consistent routine: feeding times, toilet breaks, sleep schedule. Dogs thrive on predictability.

Create a safe space: a crate with familiar bedding, away from noise and chaos. This becomes their sanctuary.

Introduce your home gradually — one room at a time. Avoid overwhelming them with too many people or experiences.

Maintain the same food and water schedule as during training. Any dietary changes should be gradual (over 7-10 days).

Your dog has been exposed to a variety of environments during training — continue this exposure gently.

Introduce new people, sounds, and experiences one at a time, at their pace.

The first month is about confidence-building, not pushing boundaries. Praise calm behaviour.

If your dog seems anxious, return to quieter environments and build gradually.

By week 4, most dogs are significantly more confident and ready for slightly busier environments.

Your handover sessions have taught you the methods — consistency is everything. Use the same commands and cues.

Practice 10-15 minute sessions daily, not longer. Short, focused sessions build better habits.

Always end on a positive note, even if it's just a simple command executed well.

During follow-up sessions, your trainer will identify any areas to focus on and provide additional guidance.

Remember: training never really stops. Ongoing practice maintains what your dog has learned.

Continue the food your dog arrived with. We provide detailed nutrition guidelines at handover.

Fresh water should always be available. Hydration is critical, especially during warm months.

Do not leave food out constantly. Scheduled feeding (typically 2x daily for adults) is healthier and aids toilet training.

Avoid toxic foods: chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol (in sugar-free products), and excessive table scraps.

Schedule a vet check-up within 2 weeks. Share our health documentation and discuss any concerns.

Young adults (under 2 years) benefit from 1-1.5 hours daily exercise, split into 2-3 sessions to avoid fatigue.

Adult dogs (2-7 years) typically need 45 minutes to 1.5 hours daily, depending on their training level.

Avoid strenuous exercise (jumping, running on hard surfaces) until growth plates close (around 18 months).

Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise. Training, puzzle toys, and scent work provide this.

Always exercise before meal times — this aids digestion and reduces bloat risk.

Brush 2-3 times weekly to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Daily during shedding seasons.

Bathe every 4-6 weeks or as needed using dog-specific shampoo. Human products can irritate skin.

Check and clean ears weekly — Labs and Spaniels are prone to ear infections.

Trim nails every 4-6 weeks, or when you hear them clicking on floors.

Brush teeth 3-4 times weekly. Dental health impacts overall wellbeing.

Persistent anxiety, aggression, or significant behavioural changes — don't wait, reach out immediately.

Toilet accidents beyond the first 2 weeks — this may indicate a health issue or training adjustment needed.

Refusing food, lethargy, or signs of illness — contact your vet first, then update us.

Struggles with specific commands or environments — this is what follow-up support is for.

General questions about settling, socialisation, or routine adjustments — we're here to help.