Dog Training Narrabeen

Narrabeen wraps around one of Sydney’s most loved lagoons, with surf beaches on one side and bush covered hills on the other. It is a fantastic playground for an active dog, and a big test of manners.

Cyclists, runners, families and other dogs all share the paths, and the lagoon is full of birds and other wildlife.

Dogs At Work offers dog training in Narrabeen that helps you enjoy the lagoon paths, local parks and quiet streets with a dog you can trust, using science based methods and a plan built around your household.

Sharing the lagoon path

The shared path around Narrabeen Lagoon is popular with runners, cyclists, families and other dogs. It is a wonderful place for a walk, and a challenge for a dog who pulls, lunges or freezes when a bike goes past. Shared paths are also one of the most common places for dog and owner conflict, because everyone is moving at different speeds and a lead stretched across the path is a hazard.

We teach dogs and owners how to share the path safely:

Keep to one side

We teach your dog to move calmly to the edge of the path when someone approaches from behind or ahead, so the path stays clear and no one trips on the lead.

Stay close and keep the lead short near others

A loose lead is still essential, but on a shared path you want your dog within a metre or so of you when others pass. We teach a comfortable position at your side.

Ignore fast moving things

Bikes, scooters and joggers trigger chasing in many dogs. We use gradual exposure and rewards to help your dog learn that fast movement is not an invitation to chase.

Pause and let others pass

A calm sit or stand at the edge of the path, with your dog focused on you, keeps everyone safe.

Jamieson Park and the lagoon edge are lovely spots to practise these skills once your dog has the basics down. Narrabeen Beach itself is off limits to most dogs, so we focus on the paths and reserves where your dog is welcome. Rules can change, so always check current council information and signage.

Dogs who chase bikes and joggers

Chasing moving objects is one of the most common problems for Narrabeen dogs, and it can be dangerous for both dog and rider. The behaviour is driven by instinct. Fast moving things trigger a dog’s prey drive, and once a dog has practised chasing, it becomes more entrenched.

Effective training combines management and skill building:

Management

While your dog is learning, keep them on a secure lead or long line in areas where bikes travel, and avoid busy times where possible.

Distance and value

We start with moving objects far enough away that your dog can notice them without reacting, and reward calm behaviour generously.

Alternative behaviours

We teach your dog to look at you, sit or move behind you when something fast approaches, giving them a job to do instead of chasing.

Gradual progression

Over time we reduce the distance and increase the speed and unpredictability of the moving object.

This is exactly the kind of work that suits private sessions, where we can set up controlled practice on your own route.

North Narrabeen, Elanora Heights and Oxford Falls

North Narrabeen

This area has a laid back surf town feel, with plenty of foot traffic near the shops and the water. Dogs here need to handle crowds, food smells and constant activity. We teach settling at cafes and calm behaviour around other dogs and people, both of which make daily life much easier.

Elanora Heights

Set in the hills, with bushland close by and many homes that back onto reserves, Elanora Heights brings wildlife and the temptation to escape through a gap in the fence. We help you check your yard for weak points and build a reliable recall so that a possum or a bird does not send your dog over the fence. Steep streets also make loose leash walking on slopes a useful skill.

Oxford Falls

A semi rural valley of larger properties, Oxford Falls calls for a reliable recall and clear boundaries. Larger blocks mean dogs can roam further, and a dog who does not understand the limits can get into trouble quickly. We work on boundary awareness, calm behaviour around vehicles on the driveway and a strong response to cues at a distance.

In every one of these areas, we come to you and train in the setting where your dog needs the skills.

How we can help

Puppy Program

Four weeks that prepare you for every stage of development and build a strong bond, including confident exposure to the sights and sounds of the lagoon and local streets.

Private obedience sessions

One hour sessions covering engagement around dogs and people, loose leash walking, positions and advanced work on request. Private training.

Behaviour support

For dogs with more complex behaviours, tailored to temperament and age, including chasing, reactivity and anxiety.

Training at home and on your street

Hands on practice in your own neighbourhood, from farm stays to your own street.

Farm Stay and Train

10 days of immersive training on a private 99-acre farm.

Ongoing support

Progress videos and follow up guidance after day one, with a trainer in your corner as your dog grows.

A farm stay for active dogs

High energy dogs thrive on structure and space. During Farm Stay and Train, your dog spends 10 days learning on a private farm with a small group of no more than five dogs. There is time for training, time for play and plenty of individual attention. The smaller number of dogs keeps the atmosphere calm and avoids the overwhelming noise and chaos you find in many large boarding facilities.

Because every stay is personalised, each dog is approved before booking. Call or text our trainer to discuss your dog’s needs, and together you can decide whether a stay is the right step. Video updates keep you connected throughout the stay, so you can see your dog learning, playing and settling in.

Your dog does not have to enjoy other dogs to attend. If they find them difficult, our trainer will work with them one on one to build positive associations. You provide a collar or harness, which is returned when your dog goes home, and any medication your dog needs. Stays suit dogs who have energy to burn, dogs who need practice with recall and dogs whose owners want a fresh start in a distraction light setting.

Narrabeen owners often pair a stay with sessions at home, so the skills transfer to the lagoon path and local streets.

Frequently asked questions

Does my dog need to be well behaved before starting?

No. We help dogs of all ages and experience levels, from first time puppies to dogs with complex behaviours.

Can you help my dog stop chasing bikes?

Yes. We combine management, gradual exposure and alternative behaviours to reduce chasing and keep everyone safe.

My dog pulls on the lagoon path. Where should we begin?

Start with loose leash walking in quiet places, then build up toward busier paths. A private session can give you a clear plan.

Do you train dogs who live on larger properties in Oxford Falls?

Yes. We work on your property and focus on recall, boundaries and manners around vehicles and visitors.