A CHARITY is offering families the chance to take part in free dog training classes during the summer holidays.

The Dogs Trust’s Dog School and Education team are running five free training sessions on 24 and 31 July and 7, 14 and 21 August from 10.30am until noon.

The sessions are carried out by professional coaches and education officers, and are for one adult and up to two children, aged seven to 11, with their family dog.

The free workshops include an introduction to clicker training, basic commands, how to ‘Be Dog Smart’ to stay safe around dogs and a grand finale, where there will be the chance for families to try their hand at a fun assault course to showcase the skills they have learnt.

Michelle Radcliffe, Dog School Merseyside head coach, said: “The free workshops are a great opportunity for families to learn some valuable skills they can quickly put into practice at home with their dog, and help keep children and dogs occupied during the summer holidays!

“The sessions will not only help them train their dogs more effectively but also help them to be safer around other dogs and understand dog behaviour.”

To find out more or to book a place contact Dog School Merseyside by e-mailing merseysidedogschool@dogstrust.org.uk or calling 07388 377386.