Getting Started
The simplest first step is to complete the registration form. Darren will be in touch within 24 hours to discuss your dog's situation and recommend the most appropriate program. Alternatively, you are welcome to to have a conversation before you commit to anything.
If you are unsure, select "Not sure — I'd like Darren's advice" on the registration form and describe your situation. Darren will review your information and recommend the most appropriate starting point. There is no obligation and no pressure — the aim is simply to understand your dog's needs and point you in the right direction.
Dogs can begin basic training as early as 8 weeks of age. Early socialisation and foundation skills are strongly encouraged. However, it is never too late — adult and senior dogs are equally capable of learning new behaviours. The approach and expectations may differ depending on age and history, but learning does not stop.
The obedience program runs as ten lessons across five levels, from basic foundation through to real-world reliability. Each lesson is a one-on-one session with Darren, backed up by written notes, videos and homework in your online client area.
You move to the next lesson when your dog is ready, not on a fixed schedule. Darren checks how you have both gone with the previous lesson at the start of each session, and releases the next one when your dog is there. Some dogs move quickly, others need longer on a particular skill — both are perfectly normal, and rushing a dog through is how gaps appear later.
Before your first session you also receive the Foundation Skills starter course, so you arrive already familiar with the marker words used throughout the program. The client area is free and comes with your training.
For in-person sessions, bring your dog on a secure lead, proof of current vaccination if requested, and high-value treats your dog enjoys. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe footwear. Darren will advise on any specific equipment prior to your session. For online sessions, all you need is a device with a camera and a stable internet connection.
Training Philosophy & Methods
Darren's training is grounded in positive reinforcement and clear, practical communication. The focus is on rewarding what you want, building understanding, and developing a genuine working relationship between dog and owner. Methods are always tailored to the individual dog — breed, age, temperament, and history all shape the approach. The goal is lasting, real-world results.
Darren's approach prioritises clear communication, confidence building, and reward-based learning. If you have specific questions about methods, Darren is happy to discuss them openly before you book.
This depends on the dog, your consistency at home, and how much you practise between sessions. Some skills show improvement within the first one or two sessions. Others — reliable recall, a solid stay, calm behaviour around distractions — take weeks or months of steady work, built up in stages across the ten-lesson program.
Yes. The idea that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks is a myth. Adult and senior dogs are perfectly capable of learning — in some cases they are easier to train than puppies because they have better focus and impulse control. Age alone is not a barrier to effective training.
Programs & Pricing
Great Southern Dog Training offers Obedience Training (5-level progressive system), Puppy Training, Private Lessons, and Online Sessions. See the Training Programs section for full details.
For current pricing across all programs, please see the pricing page.
Yes. Online sessions via video link (Zoom, FaceTime, or Google Meet) are available. They are suitable for clients outside Albany, those with busy schedules, or anyone wanting affordable professional guidance. A written follow-up summary is included. See the Online Sessions page for full details.
Yes. In-home sessions are available for private lessons and behaviour cases. A travel fee of $20 applies for locations more than 15km from Albany CBD. Contact Darren to discuss in-home options for your situation.
Bookings & Administration
Complete the registration form and Darren will be in touch within 24 hours to confirm your booking. Payment is required to secure your place. Alternatively, to book directly.
Cancellations made more than 7 days before a session will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 7 days of the session will receive a 50% refund. Please contact Darren as soon as possible if you need to reschedule.
Payment can be made via bank transfer or cash. Payment is required prior to or at the time of your session. Bank transfer details will be provided upon booking confirmation.
Darren aims to respond within 24 hours. If you have not received a response within that time, please check your spam folder or .
Please contact Darren as early as possible to reschedule. Contact via or .
Health & Safety
Yes. All dogs attending in-person sessions must be current on their vaccinations. If your dog is not vaccinated or you are unsure of their status, please consult your veterinarian before registering.
Please do not attend if your dog is showing any signs of illness or is otherwise unwell. Contact Darren as early as possible to reschedule. The health of all dogs in the program is a priority.
Please disclose it when you get in touch, whatever the answer turns out to be. It matters for the safety of every other dog and owner present.
Working with aggression and reactivity is something Darren has done for over thirty years and is qualified for, but it is not what he is taking on at present. These cases need months of consistent work from the owner, and he does not have the time to commit to them properly.
Prevention is a different matter. If you have a young dog showing early signs — staring, stiffening, or starting to bark at other dogs — that is far easier to work with before it becomes a habit, and it fits inside the puppy and early obedience programs. Get in touch early rather than waiting to see whether it settles.
Yes — all dogs must be on a secure lead at all times unless specifically instructed otherwise by Darren. In some cases, a muzzle may be required. Darren will advise if this applies to your dog.
Children are welcome to attend. However, you are responsible for their safety and behaviour at all times. Please mention if you intend to bring children when booking.
Online Sessions
Online sessions are highly effective for assessment, consultation, training plan development, and coaching — particularly when you have video of your dog's behaviour to share. Many clients find that a combination of online and in-person sessions works very well.
Online sessions are conducted via Zoom, FaceTime, or Google Meet — whichever works best for you. Darren will send you a link prior to the session. A smartphone is ideal as it allows you to move around and show your dog's environment.
Yes, and it is strongly encouraged. Short video clips of the specific behaviours you want to discuss are extremely useful for assessment. Send them by ahead of your session.
Training Agreement
All clients must read and agree to these terms before their first session.
- Responsibility for My Dog. I am responsible for my dog's behaviour and safety at all times during training.
- Health and Vaccination. My dog is healthy, free from contagious illness, and appropriately vaccinated.
- Full Disclosure of Behaviour. I have fully disclosed all known behavioural issues, including any bite history. Withholding information may result in termination of services.
- Assumption of Risk. I understand that dog training involves some risk of injury and I accept these risks.
- Release of Liability. I agree that Darren Scahill is not responsible for any injury, accident, or damage during training sessions.
- Use of Training at Home. Applying training techniques outside sessions is my responsibility, and Darren Scahill is not liable for incidents at home or in public.
- Equipment Use. I agree to use all training equipment exactly as instructed. Use outside the trainer's guidance is at my own risk.
- Children and Visitors. Anyone I bring to training (including children) is my responsibility.
- Medical and Veterinary Costs. If I or my dog is injured, I am responsible for any related expenses.
- No Guaranteed Outcomes. I understand that training cannot guarantee specific results.
- Termination of Services. The trainer may discontinue services if safety concerns arise or instructions are not followed.
The full Training Agreement is presented on the registration form for your agreement before enrolling.
Still Have a Question?
If your question is not answered here, Darren is happy to help.