Structured Walks Dog Training

Walking your dog should be one of the best parts of your day—but for many pet parents, it’s a constant battle with pulling, distractions, or reactivity. At Big Valley Pet Resort, our Structured Walks Dog Training lesson is designed to give you the tools, confidence, and knowledge to transform your daily walks into enjoyable, stress-free experiences for both you and your pup.

This two-hour lesson focuses on the fundamentals of structured walks and how to tailor them to your dog’s unique needs. Training isn’t just about discipline—it can (and should!) be fun. You’ll leave with practical skills you can start using right away.

Here’s what the lesson covers:

• Introduction & Overview
• Walking Gear: Learn about different types of collars, leashes, harnesses, and vests.
• Leash Reactivity: Understand the causes and discover methods to address it.
• Heel Position: Why it matters and how to achieve it.
• Designing a Walk: Customize structured walks for your own dog.
• Hands-On Practice: Put your new skills into action.
• Q&A & Wrap-Up

Along the way, you’ll see demonstrations of structured walks, get guidance on handling real-life scenarios, and have the chance to practice with your own pup.

To make the most of your session, please bring:

• A camping or beach chair (lessons are two hours).
• A hat and water for yourself (hydration is key!).
• A beach towel that’s not green—patterns and graphics work best.
• Your dog on a 5'–6' non-retractable leash.
  (Water bowls will be provided for the dogs.)

If you’re unsure how your dog might behave around others, you’re welcome to attend without your pup. You’ll still learn plenty to apply at home.

Our lessons are led by Gideon Potgieter, a certified dog trainer with decades of experience. Gideon began training working dogs in Africa back in 1979 and went on to spend 27 years as an interagency contractor for the Navy, Army, and other governmental agencies. His career took him across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and North America, where he built training programs for K9 units and beyond.

After retiring, Gideon graduated as a Certified Level 4 Dog Pro from Wonder Dog Training & Games Academies in Tennessee. In March 2025, he joined Big Valley Pet Resort as a Pack Leader, bringing his deep knowledge of dog behavior, training, and handling to our community.

When he’s not training, Gideon enjoys life in Poulsbo with his Korthals, Frederick Promethius Potgieter, and spending time with his three granddaughters.

• Thursdays: 5:15 – 7:15 PM
• Saturdays: 9:30 – 11:30 AM and 12:30 – 2:30 PM

(Impulse Control/Door Manners training sessions are also available.)

• Cost: $100 per dog
• Payment is due at registration (non-refundable unless the class is canceled by the trainer).
• A Dog Training Liability Waiver must be signed before attending.
• You don’t have to be a Big Valley Pet Resort client to participate!

📞 Call us at (360) 697-1451
📧 Or email petresort@bigvalleyanimalcarecenter.com to register.