Shepherd School 2026

What is Shepherd School?

Shepherd School is a learning environment where handlers (the “shepherds”) develop a clear, coherent relationship with their dogs through self-awareness and refined body communication.

Handlers work with tasks of their own creation, bringing together the non-cognitive elements of body language — posture, movement, and subtle cues — into a unified, observable whole. By mastering this internal and external coherence, handlers become legible to their dogs.

Dogs, who are naturally attuned to reading human cues, respond voluntarily and accurately, joining in the task in a way that is accessible and mutually reinforcing. This approach emphasises shared responsibility and self-regulation, not control or coercion.

Unlike traditional behaviourist methods, where dogs must infer hidden intentions, Shepherd School makes the structure of the task fully visible — like a clear newspaper headline — allowing dogs to engage meaningfully and predictably.

Participation fosters increased cooperation, reduced frustration, and a deeper, more secure relationship between handler and dog. Dogs who may have struggled with emotional or behavioural regulation benefit from a safe, structured environment in which they can exercise choice and control.

What do our Shepherds say?

Booking onto a programme is just the start. Here are some words from our Shepherds who have seen immense changes in themselves and their dogs since attending Shepherd School.

“If you have been searching for a different way to interact with your dog that is meaningful, and deeply rewarding then shepherd school is the answer. It will challenge how you behave with your dog and best of all they will love it. I have been attending shepherd school since the beginning and thoroughly recommend it.” Claire and Ghost

“Here’s where Shepherd School is a bit different. Instead of looking at what the dog does wrong, or what we can fix in the dog as per traditional training, Shepherd School is all about what WE do. This can be quite challenging for us human beings, but by stripping back what we are doing, the changes in how the dog’s respond is amazing to watch. Relationships blossom, dogs are calmer, they come back with the smallest cues, they ignore distractions, they make great decisions all by themselves, and much more.”  Carolyn and Jess

“It’s the most ethical methodology I’ve had the fortune to come across for educating people on entering and creating a shared space and relationship with dogs. Ethical, that is, for dogs and also for people. It’s a feeling. It takes practice and self awareness, open-mindedness, and the ability to observe with senses other than your vision.” Bryony and Skye

If you would like to find out more about Shepherd School, do take a look at our Blog where you will find lots of articles about the programme and the Dogtaggs approach.

Environment and Conduct

Shepherd School takes place on a working farm with livestock and dogs. Clear, direct instruction is used at all times, particularly where safety is concerned. Instructions may be given without explanation in time-critical situations and must be followed immediately.

Participants are expected to:

• manage their own dogs at all times
• follow all safety instructions
• take full responsibility for their own learning and conduct

Shepherd School is a professionally bounded environment. Emotional support, mediation, or third-party negotiation are not part of the programme.

Who Shepherd School is for

Shepherd School is suitable for handlers who:

•  can commit to the booked programme
•  are able to take full responsibility for attendance, payment, and dog handling
•  are comfortable with clear, direct instruction
•  are seeking structured learning rather than emotional support

Dogs of all breed types aged approximately 6 months to 12 years are welcome, provided the handler is able to meet the booking requirements. Maximum four participants.

Strictly no observers, including family members or support persons. Shepherd School requires full, independent participation by the registered handler.

Important Suitability Information. Shepherd School may not be suitable if you:

• are currently managing significant medical, mobility, or health issues that may affect participation
• are experiencing financial instability or uncertainty about committing to the full programme
• require flexibility around attendance, payment, or programme structure
• are uncomfortable with firm boundaries or direct safety-related instruction

If you are unsure whether Shepherd School is appropriate for you, please contact admin before booking. 

Fees and Commitment

Payment for each programme is either in full, or by instalment plan. Fees for 2026 - 6 dates £648, 5 dates £540.

Instalment plans are a payment method only. Booking Shepherd School constitutes a commitment to the full programme. Cancellation terms apply regardless of payment method. Stopping payment does not cancel a booking.

Important – please read before booking

The information linked HERE forms part of the booking conditions - https://dogtaggs.co.uk/policies/engagement-expectations-at-dogtaggs/ 

By completing your booking, you confirm that you have read and agree to these terms.

What to do now

To secure your place use the booking link below. 

Places on our programmes only become available occasionally. If there are no options showing and you would like to be included on our waiting list please email admin at hello@dogtaggs.co.uk.

If no options are showing, why not join into one of our exceptional Shepherd School Experience Days in the meantime. Pop back to the Courses and Bookings page to find out more.