Dogtaggs - Dorchester

Andrew L.

We have participated in a wide variety of events at Dogtaggs, over the years having taken 3 dogs there. We have participated in tracking training and development, “murder mystery” tracking over 1 or 3 days - a great laugh, and tracking on hard surfaces, through rivers (who knew they could do that?) and across fields. Even tracking “criminals” that have absconded in vehicles. The photo below is Bonny tracking someone across a river - yes dogs can do that. She is finding the scent difference where the foot has been placed. They are a fun day out for you and your dog. A safe space for those working on behaviour issues and a sure fire way to help you solve them. More recently we have been in Shepherd School learning about the herding techniques used in Germany - a real revelation. The photo is of me with Dolphus. I am using the German shepherd’s staff to indicate a stop. If you want a closer bond with your dog and to learn to really communicate with them I would thoroughly recommend Dogtaggs.

meg O.

What a day! This was a game changer, I have done a lot of tracking with different dogs over many years but recently was having some issues with my present tracking dog, the day with Dogtaggs changed this, great instructor, patient, understood my dog so well, helped me with handling, lovely, helpful people on the course, I look forward to attending again asap.

Gail L.

Dogtaggs: Not all Dog Trainers are Equal.
Having put my dogs with “traditional” trainers for years, I hadn’t realised what a dis-service this was for them. Starting with Pat on her “Get Cracking with Tracking” completely changed my mindset. Instead of commands and tricks to get dogs to perform, Pat taught me how to be in relationship with our amazing pups, to listen to what they teach rather than believing I had the answers. When we have these truly reciprocal partnerships with “our best friends” you will be amazed how transformative it is, I was.

Since the sad loss of my dog, I have been tracking with 7 different German Shepherds kindly loaned by Pat. It has been the wisdom of Pat, the natural expertise of her dogs, and me learning to trust the process that has enabled some awesome tracking experiences and beautiful relationships with all her dogs from youngsters to the old Master himself. I cannot recommend this way of being with dogs highly enough. Thank you Dogtaggs for such an enriching experience. x

Ann S.

Tracking in a VTP group allows me to learn how my dog is operating in the environment. If I pay attention we can communicate in the tracking endeavour and the result is chemically rewarding, especially for the dog! Guided by Pat we support one another as we accept new challenges and develop our skills. Plenty of fun and laughter along the way. Highly recommend.

Pippa B.

I first met Pat probably 20 years ago through working trials at which we both competed, tracklaying and generally helping out. Since then I’ve been on several tracking courses with Dogtaggs which have been all excellent as well as great fun, the locations we’ve been to have been varied and challenging, Pat’s approach to tracking is refreshing as it promotes a real understanding from the handler of what’s going on and more importantly for me, how to not interfere with the dog and let it get on with what it knows far better than me, that is following the track.
I’ve also attended shepard school for a couple of years, what a revelation this has been, wow is all I can say, what I have learnt in shep school has stood me in good stead in everyday life with my 3 collies, mum and 2 of her lockdown pups who had the most amazing fortune to attend phenomenal puppy classes with Pat and Jo. The experience set them up perfectly to cope with pretty much anything that comes their way in a calm thoughtful manner.
Dogtaggs training can be challenging but you’ll always receive full support from Pat and fellow participants, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the farm, learnt loads, met some wonderful people and had lots of laughs. Thank you Dogtaggs.

Karen E.

I have a found Pat Tagg and I am delighted. I took my taster tracking course with Dog Tagg’s a few days ago and It was so interesting. I have not tracked with my GSD Finley. We do play hunting/sniffing games. Tracking is more fun. I really appreciated how I had to get out of the way to allow my dog to be the expert he is. Let your dog use his superpowers get them on this course.

I am a better more informed more interesting dog owner now.

A few of the best hours training I have experienced and I will be back very soon.

Kelly C.

As a complete novice to tracking I've never enjoyed a course more. Pat is incredibly knowledgable, offering fascinating insight into the way each dog works and why. Each dog is seen as an individual and the 'lessons' tailored accordingly. Pat provides a safe supportive environment that makes learning a pleasure.
I’ve since been on several more courses for tracking and learning about shepherding, each one has been a delight to attend.
I'm hooked and we'll be back for more.

Linda H.

I have been attending Pats workshops with two of my dogs over the last 3 years and have been meaning to write a review for probably the same length of time!
I attended a development day Sunday and again came back blown away with what we achieved and learnt in a matter of hours. Verity farm is such a beautiful place!
How Pat reads the handlers as well as the dogs, then gives them the right skills personal to them is a joy to watch and I find I learn so much from that. No matter what breed of dog you have, dogs love to track!
As well as tracking with my dog I have also done shepherd school which is also amazing.
I recommend you give it a go!