West Lakeland Dog Training Club (WLDTC) has been a cornerstone of dog training in West Cumbria
West Lakeland Dog Training Club
Founded in 1980 by Kevin and Jeanette Wilson, the West Lakeland Dog Training Club (WLDTC) has been a cornerstone of dog training in the West Cumbria region for over four decades.
by Danielle Murphy
Originally formed with a vision to improve the relationship between dogs and their owners, the club quickly became a trusted community resource.
Agility classes began in 1982 in Seascale, with the club being officially registered with the British Kennel Club in 1983. These early steps laid the foundation for what has become a thriving and inclusive dog training community.
A Fun, Positive Approach to Dog Training
Today, West Lakeland Dog Training Club remains true to its founding principles of education, fun, and positive dog handling. The club is run by its volunteer members and has become a welcoming space where pet owners can bond with their dogs, learn valuable life skills, and challenge both their dogs’ brains and their own. Whether you have a lively Affenpinscher or a charming Yorkshire Terrier, the club is open to all breeds, offering an inclusive environment where every dog can thrive. They can also recommend a number of local reputable behaviourists if a group environment isn’t quite right for your dog. As a member’s club they offer something a little bit different, focusing on the sports of dog agility and hoopers, with some of their competing members getting to the biggest dog show in the world, Crufts.
Core Aims and Objectives
The club’s mission is rooted in fostering a positive, rewarding experience for both handlers and their dogs, helping dogs and their owners to be valued community members. The main objectives of West Lakeland Dog Training Club include:
- Educating Handlers and Dogs: The club emphasizes the use of motivational techniques, promoting positive reinforcement methods that nurture a strong relationship between dogs and their owners.
- Eliminating Harsh Training Methods: The club is dedicated to eliminating the use of punitive or harsh handling techniques, focusing instead on creating a supportive and stress-free learning environment.
- Promoting Well-Behaved Pets: WLDTC strives to help all dogs become well-behaved, socialized pets that are a joy to live with and interact with others.
- Improving Dog Health and Well-Being: The club encourages practices that enhance the overall health and well-being of dogs, helping them lead happier, healthier lives.
- Recognized Certification Opportunities: Through WLDTC, members can access opportunities to take nationally recognized tests, such as the Canine Good Citizen awards, which provide official recognition of a dog’s good behaviour and training and the club has many competing members in dog sports.
Community Engagement and Education
West Lakeland Dog Training Club is deeply committed to promoting responsible dog ownership throughout the community. One of the key aspects of this commitment is their educational outreach, which can include offering displays and talks to local schools and community events, where available.
These initiatives help spread awareness about positive dog training techniques, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of training in creating well-adjusted dogs and improving owner well-being.
The club also hosts various fundraising events to support charitable causes such as their Companion Dog show held in Seascale. Their charities are chosen each year at an AGM and in 2025 they will be donating £700.00 each to Hospice at Home West Cumbria and The Cumbria branch of the Greyhound Trust.
A Wide Reach Across West Cumbria
Members of West Lakeland Dog Training Club come from all over West Cumbria and beyond, including Whitehaven, Cleator Moor, and Workington. They are also available through social prescribing for anyone without a dog but who wants to get involved.
Their outdoor training base is found at the Seascale SRA field, with indoor classes held at Egremont market hall. The club has been a supporter of these two excellent venues for many years and can highly recommend the facilities.
Join the Club
Whether you’re looking to train a new puppy, improve your dog’s behaviour, or just have fun with your four-legged companion, West Lakeland Dog Training Club offers a welcoming and supportive environment for all. As attested to by their current waiting lists to start classes. With a focus on fun, positive reinforcement, and community involvement, WLDTC is more than just a training club – it’s a place to build lasting bonds with your dog while making a positive impact on the community.
For more information or to inquire about joining, please contact the club at [email protected].
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