Dog Training at Big Valley

At Big Valley Pet Resort, we’re excited to offer a specialized training course designed to help your dog master Impulse Control and Door Manners. This two-hour lesson provides hands-on guidance, demonstrated examples, and the tools you need to create a tailored practice plan for both home and public settings.

Our goal is simple: to give you the confidence and skills to help your best friend become the best dog they can be—all while making training fun and engaging!

This single-session course is packed with value and designed to leave you with actionable skills you can practice on your own schedule. You’ll learn through two in-depth demonstrations, as well as interactive discussions and Q&A. You’re also welcome to retake the course in the future to refresh skills or show off your dog’s progress.

The lesson covers:

• Introduction & Overview
• Fundamentals of Dog Training
• Patterns, Repetitions & Consistency
• Demonstrated Impulse Control & Door Manners Practices
• Q&A with the Trainer
• Wrap-Up & Key Takeaways

In addition, you’ll also get an overview of different types of dog training and a presentation on the fundamentals to help build a strong foundation for you and your pup.

To make the most of your lesson, please bring the following:

• A camping chair or beach chair (the session lasts two hours)
• A broad-brimmed hat for sun protection
• Something to keep you hydrated (water bowls will be provided for dogs)
• A beach towel that is not green (patterns and graphics are best)
• Your dog, on a non-retractable leash, so you can work together on skills

If you’re unsure how your dog will behave around other dogs, you’re welcome to attend without your pup and apply the lessons at home.

We are thrilled to have Gideon Potgieter leading this course. Gideon brings over 27 years of experience as an Interagency Contractor for the Navy, Army, and other government agencies. With a strong science background, he has developed K9 training programs and worked across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

Gideon’s journey with dogs began in 1979 on a wildlife farm in rural Africa, where he trained his first four working dogs. After retiring, he shifted focus to civilian dog training, graduating as a Certified Level 4 Dog Pro from the Wonder Dog Training & Games Academies in Tennessee.

In March 2025, Gideon joined Big Valley Pet Resort as a Pack Leader, bringing his extensive expertise in behavior, handling, and training. He now lives in Poulsbo with his dog, Frederick Promethius Potgieter (a Korthals), and enjoys spending summers with his three granddaughters.

• Cost: $100 per dog (due at registration)
• How to Register: Call us at (360) 697-1451 or email petresort@bigvalleyanimalcarecenter.com
• Payment Policy: Payment is due at registration and is non-refundable, unless the class is canceled by the trainer.
• Waiver: A Dog Training Liability Waiver must be signed and returned before attending.
• Open to All: You do not need to be a Big Valley client to participate.

This course is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen your bond with your dog, learn practical skills, and have fun while doing it. We can’t wait to see you and your pup at Big Valley!