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Instructor Academy

Training for Trainers and Coaches

For the professionals, coming soon.

Specialist canine paddlesports training is thin on the ground. The Instructor Academy is our answer to that: training for dog trainers, paddlesport coaches and outdoor instructors who want to work safely with dogs on the water.

Who it’s for

  • Qualified dog trainers and behaviourists adding paddlesports to what they offer
  • Paddlesport instructors and coaches who regularly meet dogs on the water
  • Outdoor centres and clubs wanting to run dog-friendly sessions safely

What it will cover

  • Canine-specific water safety, risk assessment and incident response
  • Assessing whether a dog is suited to the water, including breeds that struggle
  • Session planning, group management and working with owners
  • Kit standards for canine buoyancy aids and vessels

If you work in this space and would like to help shape it, we’d genuinely like to hear from you.

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Our Blog

Remote Dog Training for Paddlers in Ireland and Europe

From Irish loughs to Alpine lakes, remote video sessions bring specialist canine paddlesports training to owners across Ireland and Europe, with no time-zone gymnastics required.

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Kayaking With Your Dog: Preparing for the First Trip

Getting ready for kayaking with your dog? A Scottish trainer’s guide to choosing a kayak, building confidence and staying safe on the water.

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Doggy Paddle: Can All Dogs Swim?

Doggy paddle isn’t a given. A Scottish trainer explains which breeds really struggle in water and why a canine buoyancy aid matters for every dog.

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Remember how to REACT to reduce the risk to you and your dog around water 

R -Reduce Risk E -Enrichment A -Alert C -Conditions T -Treatment Reduce Risk Regularly check your dog’s leads, collars, and harnesses: Ensure they are in good working condition. Winter conditions & salt water can lead to rust...
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Your first adventure on the water with your dog

Your First few trips together on the water should be short & broken up with lots of breaks on the shore, Take time to make sure this is positive for everyone involved. Planning the location for your first outing and being confident you ...
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Ensure you R.A.F.T when out on the water with your dog 

Recall –I would advise against paddling with your dog with a leash attached, if your dog enters the water this can create a hazard by getting caught on items underwater or other passing vessels.Not only can leashes present a risk of c...
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Dog Water Safety: Essential Checks Before Every Trip

Dog water safety comes down to a few checks you do every time. Here’s the routine I run before any paddle, built around R.A.F.T. and REACT.

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Pack Raft Adventures With Your Dog in Scotland

Pack raft adventures open up Scotland’s wild waterways with your dog. A trainer’s guide to kit, claws, cold water and building up to remote trips.

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Thinking about heading out on the water with your dog?

If you’re heading out on the water please wear a buoyancy aid. Not only is this mandatory to comply with Scottish Loch bylaws, it could also save your life. During the pandemic, the popularity of watersports increased dramatically. Wi...
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What Is a SUP Pup? Your Perfect Paddleboard Partner

A SUP pup is more than a dog on a board. Here’s what makes a great paddleboard partner, and how we train calm, confident SUP pups in Scotland.

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