I have had the pleasure of knowing Gem Smith for around 5 years. Over these years I have trained under Gem at Little Stars Dog Training in Agility with my 2 border collies. With a great deal of patience and understanding, she has helped me and my dogs to enjoy agility. Tommy was a very nervous dog who didn't know how to play or connect with me, and with Gem's guidance and knowledge, she has helped me understand how to motivate him to the point where he is excited about training. Gem has a very refreshing approach to understanding dogs and her passion for dogs, their wellbeing and their training is easy to see. Gill Walker
I have trained at 4 different agility clubs over many years and can honestly say that Little Stars is the best in my experience. I really like the fact that we concentrate on the basics first, like getting the dog’s attention and firming up obedience, teaching the ‘touch’ which is so useful for several exercises, and ‘watch’ - essential. Also, as I train a boxer, we have experienced some ‘collie bias’ in the past but not with Gem; she treats, and trains, all dogs the same. Now that we are training over obstacles my dog is now really starting to show that he is thinking for himself, and following my directions, because the basics were instilled beforehand. He is also really enjoying the lessons and can’t wait for his next turn. I am looking forward to being able to compete in the future with a good basis behind us. Val Jackson and Tighe
Gem is patient and thoughtful in her training. She listens to what you want to achieve in your partnership with your dog and helps you to reach those goals. She doesn't bully you into doing what she thinks is best, but instead explains why she prefers certain techniques for training in agility and explains what the benefits are for both you and your dog.
She is passionate about agility and this comes across in her teaching. She is kind and caring and wants to make sure both you and the dog have fun whatever your training goals are. Every lesson finishes on a high for both of you and leaves you excited about what you might achieve in your next lesson.
I guarantee you will enjoy your training, learn loads and gain the skills and confidence to reach for more than you thought you and your dog could ever achieve when you first started. Soraya
I started agility as a total novice and using all the techniques Gem has taught me and Yanik I have managed to get a couple of rosettes in my first two competitions. But better than that is the bond formed with all my dogs as I have used the training tips and games for all of them. Can't recommend this really friendly group highly enough Josie
Gem has been great during out initial training. We are just beginners and she has been very patient, kind and generous of her time during these tentative first steps. Both Laura, Bono, Blu and I have really enjoyed our sessions and are looking forward to our continuing agility training with her. Any dog and owner could try these classes and gain so much pleasure from them and their developing relationship with their dog. Thanks Gem denise.
The best thing I have ever done in Masson's short life is get in touch with Gem at Little Stars Dog Training, on 19th November 2015 we started our one on one training, to say I was nervous was an understatement, I didn't need to be Gem was friendly and encouraging right from the start and put both Masson and myself at ease, the wicked sense of humour she has certainly helps, I was not prepared to be standing in the middle of a windy field arms outstretched with Masson learning to behave and Gem shouting I think words of encouragement or friendly p taking banter!!!!
On a more serious note in the short space of time that Masson and I have been having one on one training we have mastered many things that I never thought we would, Masson was an extremely nervous dog and with Gem's teaching of both Masson and myself we have been able to do things I never thought possible, a visit to the vets was a complete nightmare previous to this training but Gem listened to the issues Masson had and helped me to devise a plan, even the vet could not believe the calm Masson sat in the waiting room and it wasn't just a one off, he can now sit in the middle of the waiting room with dogs around him.
Just recently Masson had a big change to his routine and was a bit out of sorts at training but Gem was very patient with him and made a massive effort to bring him round and within two weeks he was back to his normal self in training. I also love the fact that Gem is on the other end of the phone if I get stuck during the week and the texts flow back and forth, the fact she will change her training methods to suit my loveable doughnut of a dog is a real credit to her ability to read a dog so well, the very best thing I ever did was e mail Gem regarding Masson. Clare.