Free virtual events to prepare your family for dog ownership
This article is sponsored by Wood Green, The Animals Charity that supports pet owners through education and dedicated services including rehabilitating and rehoming pets in Cambridgeshire.
Family Dog Workshop: Engaging All Ages
Suitable for family members aged 4 to 94, the interactive Family Dog Workshop introduces your dog’s basic needs, safety around dogs, and how to make feeding times enjoyable. These sessions are ideal for households with young children to foster safe and respectful dog interactions.
The upcoming workshop is held via Zoom on Sunday 12th September from 10:00 to 11:15am. You can book your family’s place here. If a live session is not convenient, a self-led version is available online at this enrolment page.
Additional Free Online Resources for Families
Besides Wood Green’s workshops, numerous free virtual events help prepare families for dog ownership responsibly:
- Free Virtual Dog Training: A live 4-week course teaches fundamental training skills suitable for new dog owners to build a good relationship with their pets.
- Your Dog's Friend Webinars: These include sessions on helping dogs settle in, basic commands, and integrating dogs safely into family life, with many recordings available online.
- Be A Good Pet Neighbor Online Course: Crafted by expert trainers, this covers responsible dog ownership essentials like managing barking, safe play, and social introductions.
- AKC Family Dog Program: Focused on good manners and socialisation, this virtual programme helps build lasting bonds within the family dog dynamic.
- Summit Dog Training Online Classes: Self-paced training covering basics from loose leash walking to polite greetings.
Why Responsible Preparation Matters
Participating in these workshops and courses equips families with knowledge and practical skills to ensure dogs are welcomed into happy, safe, and well-prepared homes. Educating all family members, especially children, reduces common behavioural problems and accidents linked to misunderstanding dog needs and communication.
As one participant from the Family Dog Workshop shared, "We all learnt so much. The kids have been talking about it non-stop and really putting into practice what they learnt. If only all people who wanted a dog had to sit through a class like this, I truly believe we would have happier dogs and fewer accidents caused by misunderstandings or poor owner behaviour."
Get Involved and Learn More
For more free events, support, and advice on responsible dog ownership, contact Wood Green directly or visit their pet advice page at www.woodgreen.org.uk/pet-advice. Taking these steps early helps ensure a rewarding and joyful experience for the whole family and their new canine companion.
