Our curated list of the best professionals in the Irlam area.
With the Manchester Ship Canal and local nature reserves, trainers in Irlam are experts at teaching dogs to be well-behaved around water and in natural environments.
Morley's Ln, Astley, Manchester M29 7EW
We were recommended to Sinead by our dog trainer, as we had been struggling with our male malamute after some negative dog experiences, but also battling frustration and lead walking for years. As we aren’t local Sinead has been happy to work with us and our trainer to help guide us through the early work ensuring we are getting the foundations right. The change in my dog after 3 sessions with Sinead is immense! We are just at the very start of our journey and we are already in the best position we have ever been! I can’t express how life changing Sinead has been for not only us but my dog too. The sessions are so informative and real, not sterile environments but also not setting the dogs up to fail. Every small part of the process is explained in so much detail to ensure we understand exactly so that our communication is clear between us and Swayze. But it doesn’t just stop there, Sinead is always at the end of the phone giving advice and feedback when we send over how we are getting on. We set new goals as the weeks go on. The goals are attainable and are set to work around us, she’s our biggest cheerleader too! And celebrates our wins just like we do! She really cares for the dogs and wants to see them thrive. Swayze loves the sessions and Sinead! We can’t thank her enough, we are now not battling with our dog and we are enjoying him and our walks as a team! I can’t wait to see what the rest of this training journey has to come!
Our dog a Zuchon is only small but has a big attitude. He had behaviour issues due to not socialising like he should have due to covid. He would bark at strangers and some dogs. We tried numerous things but we then came across Unity K9. Lewis & Sinead have been amazing not only having patience with Harvey but also with ourselves whilst going through the different training aspects. They are so knowledgeable and nothing is too much trouble. I've sent videos to Sinead to check we are doing everything correctly and always had a response. We've had one to one sessions. Been on a group session and also a home visit. The difference in Harvey is amazing and it's not just us that have noticed the difference. So thank you Sinead and Lewis for not only helping Harvey but us also. It's now a pleasure to go for a walk. We would highly recommend.
If you need to train your dog, this is definitely the place to go. Sinead and Lewis are great. They definitely know their stuff, have a lot of time, and patience. My dog, Boris, had been attacked by an XL bully, so he was really reactive. I've been going to Unity K9 now for 4 months and Boris is already a different dog, better behaved, and a lot more chilled. I can't thank them enough.
When a well-known dog charity told us we had no other option but to put my 2 year old German Shepherd to sleep, we found Unity K9 who saved us. We have been working with them for over a year, and they have helped me to see a future where we can live our best lives with our dog. You won't find more caring, knowledgeable, and supportive trainers. We have also used Unity K9 for boarding, I can't recommend this enough. Training was maintained throughout his stay and he came home calmer than ever. Amazing option to have, 100000% recommend.
Lewis and Sinead have worked magic with my very dog-reactive dog. When he first came to me on foster in may 2024 he was two days away from behavioural euthanasia for his reactivity. After working with Lewis and Sinead he was a different dog. It took time and hard work but now I can walk him anywhere and we both have the skills to deal with real life situations such as off lead dogs with no recall, a situation that would have filled me with dread this time last year and prevented me from enjoying my dog. Now we enjoy out time together and out walking. THANKS GUYS
Boundary Industrial Park, Liverpool Rd, Irlam, Manchester M44 6QJ
We have been going to Rixton Dog School for years, and with multiple dogs, which tells you everything you need to know. The team of trainers are very good, and support a positive method of training which does not involve the use of punishment of any kind. They carefully observe each dog's behaviour and adjust training as-needed accordingly. I've seen everything from nervous dogs, to stubborn pups who would rather do ANYTHING other than the task at hand (this would be mine), to exuberant, energetic dogs all too eager to please. All are trained according to standards but with the individual's needs always on mind. 100% recommended to absolutely anyone.
Helping me train my easily distracted pup. Is all based on care and reward. There is the prospect of higher level recognised training. Just the place I had been looking for. It's me that needs the training and I'm going to get it.
I highly recommend Rixton Dog School, Debra and Sue are so knowledgeable and helpful aswell as making the clases fun not only for the dogs but us owners too! My dog knows exactly where we are when we pull into the car park and is so excited which is testament to how much enjoyment he gets from all of the new things he learns using positive and force free methods only!! Rixton Dog School go above and beyond for their members and their dogs so you really won’t regret joining them! =)
William has been going to Deborah’s training since he was a puppy . He loves her and really enjoys the class we attend. He has become a well trained happy spaniel and a pleasure to own thanks to her expertise and encouragement. The class we attend incorporates a good mix of obedience , agility and proprioception activities. It’s always fun and enjoyable and I’d highly recommend Deborah as a brilliant teacher with the knowledge to get the best out of dog and owner.
TheHeart, MediaCity M50 2TJ
I adopted a beautiful bouncy reactive rescue dog and needed help and advice to make both our lives better. Kirsty was patient, kind, non-judgemental and offered lots of great insight into what was happening in his doggy brain which helped me lots. We now have training and tactics to keep on with that will help him thrive. Very grateful for her help and support which has been totally worth it! ☺️
We had a brilliant 5 weeks with Kirsty. We were revisiting some of the basics with our 7 year old cocker spaniel. Charlie loved it too and we all found the sessions fun and encouraging. We feel set up now to continue improving and building up the fun and control, knowing too that Kirsty is only a message away for ongoing support.
Kirsty was excellent, really knowledgeable, helpful and supportive. The training we received had resulted in a much calmer and more well-behaved puppy overall. We did 1:1 sessions with our puppy and would happily recommend the service
Kirsty is very efficient, hard working and professional. Nothing is too much trouble. She is patient with owners and dogs. Never raises her voice and deals with all situations both calmly and efficiently. The training doesn’t stop after sessions. I know I can contact her at any time if things are not working out and she will advise me accordingly. I can’t thank her enough for all her help and patience with me and my lovely dog. I would not hesitate to contact her again if any other problems occurred.
Kirsty is amazing I can’t praise her enough. She came to my home and with my puppy and 3 other puppies from the same litter had basic training. She explains everything so clearly the puppies all responded to the training as did we. It gave us all the foundation to carry on and have lovely well behaved puppies. If you need any help training your dog I can’t recommend Kirsty enough.
Ryefield farm, Cadishead, Manchester M44 5JT
I was asked if I could take part in training the sniffer dogs by posing as someone carrying drugs. It was an interesting experience, and the dogs (and handlers!) were pleasantly behaved!
Had fun today helping to train the doggos at birchwood shopping center 😄
Absoultely amazing trainer, using real live venues exposing detection dogs to real life situations. Preparing our dogs for going out into the real world to help keep the public safe.
Walking through the centre today we saw the dogs training. We were asked if it was ok for the dogs to check us. My children were fascinated watching them train. Found trainers polite and my kids learnt alot. I think this is a great way to not only train the dogs but to educate the public.
Private company decided to walk through birchwood shopping centre getting the dog to sniff people without concent. You don't get to train you dog on the general public
Focus on building a strong, positive bond with your dog.
Finding qualified dog trainers in Irlam means connecting with professionals who understand the unique character of this historic Salford town situated along the Manchester Ship Canal. Whether you're training a new puppy near Irlam Locks, managing recall issues in Irlam Linear Park, or addressing behavioural concerns in the residential areas around Cutnook Lane, our experienced trainers deliver personalised obedience training and behaviour modification programmes tailored to local life.
Serving Irlam, Cadishead, and surrounding communities including Flixton and Davyhulme, we've successfully trained over 850 dogs in the past eight years. Our expertise addresses the specific needs of dog ownership in this close-knit community, from navigating paths along the River Irwell to enjoying safe exercise in local green spaces.
Irlam presents distinct training considerations shaped by its semi-rural character combined with proximity to Greater Manchester. The town's excellent walking routes including the Trans Pennine Trail and Ship Canal towpaths provide wonderful exercise opportunities but require dogs with reliable recall and lead manners. With housing predominantly consisting of terraced properties and semi-detached homes with modest gardens, proper socialisation and community-appropriate behaviour are essential.
Our trainers understand local conditions including the busy A57 Liverpool Road, popular walking spots like Silver Jubilee Park, and the community atmosphere where responsible dog ownership matters to neighbours. We address common challenges such as canal-side distractions, wildlife encounters along woodland paths, and the socialisation needs of dogs in this friendly, active community where you'll encounter other dogs daily on local walks.
Our puppy programmes build essential foundations during the critical 8-16 week period, introducing young dogs to Irlam's environment including traffic noise, canal-side activity, and diverse people and dogs. Training covers house training, basic commands, lead walking, and controlled socialisation in local parks, creating confident, well-adjusted dogs ready for community life.
With excellent local walking routes along the Trans Pennine Trail and various open spaces, reliable recall training is essential. We develop bombproof recall despite distractions including wildlife, other dogs, and cyclists, ensuring your dog can safely enjoy off-lead exercise while remaining under your control in all situations.
Our behaviour modification programmes address leash reactivity, fear-based responses, and aggression issues using positive reinforcement techniques. We work in real-world environments around Irlam, gradually building your dog's confidence and teaching appropriate responses to triggers encountered on local walks and in community spaces.
Dog training in Irlam typically costs £35-60 per hour for private sessions, with 6-week programmes ranging from £220-380. Group classes average £10-18 per session, offering affordable socialisation and training opportunities for local dog owners.
Popular training locations include Irlam Linear Park, Silver Jubilee Park, and quieter sections of the Trans Pennine Trail. We also provide home visits throughout Irlam, Cadishead, and surrounding areas, bringing professional training directly to your door for maximum convenience.
Professional dog training in Irlam creates well-mannered, confident dogs who thrive in this friendly community. Our proven methods combine expert techniques with local knowledge, ensuring your dog becomes a valued companion whether walking canal towpaths or enjoying local parks. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward achieving a perfectly trained dog who's a credit to Irlam's welcoming community.