Why group classes aren't right for every dog.

Group classes don’t suit every dog or handler. Discover why private Gundog holidays in Mid Wales might be the better option for calm, fun training.

Ever felt like your dog’s struggling in a group class – or worse, that you are?

You’re not alone. My own dog hates it when people raise their voices or when other dogs come sniffing at her. It makes her worried and withdrawn, and honestly, it’s not fair on her. She’s not learning anything in that headspace – she’s just trying to cope.

And it’s not just the sensitive ones. I’ve seen plenty of dogs get frustrated in group settings – especially when they have to sit and wait while six others go for their retrieves first. You can almost see the tension building. They start barking, getting twitchy, or worse, end up developing “keep away” habits because they feel like they’re constantly in competition.

But it’s not just the dogs who feel it. I see handlers getting flustered too, nervous about getting it wrong in front of strangers, rushing to “keep up”, or just losing confidence because the group dynamics are off.

If any of that sounds familiar, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with you or your dog. Group classes aren’t for everyone – and they don’t have to be.

⸻

When Group Settings Just Don’t Work for Dogs

We often think dogs are naturally sociable, but the truth is, not every dog thrives in a busy, noisy environment – especially not one full of unfamiliar dogs, people, and expectations.

Some dogs, like mine, just can’t relax when there’s too much going on. Raised voices – even when they’re not aimed at them – set them on edge. Another dog sniffing a bit too long? That’s enough to knock their confidence. In group classes, those little stressors add up fast, and instead of learning, your dog is just trying to keep it together.

Then there are the working dogs who struggle with the waiting game. Sitting on the sidelines, watching dog after dog get sent for a retrieve, can be maddening. You see the frustration build – whining, barking, even lunging. It’s not disobedience; it’s emotional overload. And when dogs get wound up like that, it’s much harder for them to make good choices.

Worse still, this frustration can morph into tricky behaviours. Dogs that feel like they’re constantly in competition may start playing “keep away” with the dummy. Instead of a clean retrieve, you get a game of chase. That’s not fun for you, and it’s not building the skills they need in the field.

Group classes have their place, but if your dog leaves more wound up than when they arrived, it’s worth rethinking the setup.

Watch your dog’s body language in group settings. Are they focused and engaged, or distracted and tense? A dog that’s shut down or hyped up isn’t learning – they’re just coping. That’s your cue to explore different training options.

⸻

What About the Handlers? Pressure Isn’t Productive

Let’s be honest – it’s not just the dogs who can find group classes overwhelming. I’ve worked with plenty of lovely handlers who are more nervous about class than their dogs are. And I get it.

When you’re in a group, especially with people you don’t know, there’s this unspoken pressure to “get it right.” You start overthinking your timing, your body language, even your voice. You worry about being judged, by the trainer, by the others in the group, sometimes even by your own dog. It’s no wonder things start to unravel.

One little mistake can snowball. You forget a cue, your dog hesitates, and suddenly you’re flustered. That energy transfers to your dog, who’s now just as unsure as you are. It becomes a cycle – you second-guess yourself, your dog picks up on it, and neither of you can settle into the flow.

And let’s not forget the awkward group dynamics. Maybe someone’s loud and overbearing, maybe someone else’s dog is constantly interrupting, either way, you’re now trying to train while managing distractions you didn’t sign up for. It takes the joy out of it, and it can shake your confidence more than you realise.

If you find yourself dreading the class or breathing a sigh of relief when it’s over, that’s a sign. Training should build your confidence, not chip away at it. There’s no shame in choosing an environment that supports you instead of stressing you out.

⸻

The Power of Private Groups and 1:1 Training

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to stick with the group class model if it’s not working for you or your dog. There are other ways to train – ways that actually feel enjoyable and productive, not stressful or overwhelming.

One of the best options? Creating your own small training group. Get a few like-minded friends together – people you trust, whose dogs your dog is comfortable around – and suddenly the pressure melts away. You’re all there for the same reasons, and the dynamic feels safe and supportive. No awkward strangers, no overexcited dogs bowling into yours, no pressure to perform.

Even better, you can go for 1:1 training if you want full focus on your own journey. Whether you’re working on the basics or tackling more advanced Gundog work, having undivided attention lets you go at your own pace. No waiting around, no one else’s schedule to stick to – just you, your dog, and a plan that suits exactly where you’re at.

Both of these options give you the space to notice the small wins, build your confidence, and actually enjoy the process. And that, in my experience, is when dogs really start to thrive.

Think about who’s in your dog training circle. Could you create your own mini group? Or would 1:1 time give you and your dog the clarity and calm you’ve been missing? Choose the option that helps you both feel good about training again.

⸻

Tailored Gundog Holidays at Mid Wales Holidays

If the idea of a small, relaxed training group sounds appealing, you’ll love what we offer here at Mid Wales Holidays.

We host private Gundog training holidays set on 15 acres of beautiful training ground, surrounded by peace, space, and plenty of room to learn. With two on-site cottages, you and your group can stay comfortably on-site – no rushing around, no traffic, no stress. Just you, your dogs, your friends, and time to train in a way that works for you.

Right now, we’ve got a lovely group of spaniel owners staying – all mates, all here for the same reason: to enjoy their dogs, build skills, and have a bit of a holiday while they’re at it. No pressure, no showboating – just a supportive space where the training flows naturally, and the laughs are just as important as the retrieves.

These private group holidays are ideal if:

• You have a small group of friends who train together already

• You want a break that combines fun, fresh air, and focused dog work

• You’re fed up with crowded group classes and want a better fit for your dog

As a trainer, I love working this way. Everyone’s more relaxed, the dogs are calmer, and the progress we make feels effortless because everyone’s actually enjoying it.

Got a training buddy or two you already work well with? Round them up and plan your own tailored Gundog holiday. You’ll get more from the experience – and your dogs will thank you for it.

⸻

Training That Feels Good, Not Forced

Group classes can work well for some, but they’re absolutely not the only way to train – and they’re certainly not the best fit for every dog or handler.

If your dog struggles with the chaos, the waiting, or the pressure… or if you find yourself second-guessing every move in front of strangers, it’s worth stepping back and asking: “Is this actually helping us?”

There’s nothing wrong with needing a calmer, more personalised setup. In fact, for many dogs and their owners, it’s the best way to make real progress without the stress.

So if you’re ready to try something different, why not book your own private Gundog holiday here in Mid Wales? Bring your own group, or reach out to see what we can arrange. You’ll get space, support, and a training experience that actually feels like a holiday – for you and your dog.

➡️ Ready to ditch the pressure and enjoy your training again? Get in touch and let’s plan your perfect Gundog break.