AniMate Advent Calendar

24 Days to a Calmer, More Confident Christmas with Your Dog - Build Skills that Last Longer than December

With holiday season fast approaching, your mind might be taken over with thoughts of preparing for the big celebrations. But where does your dog fit into that picture? As the evenings become darker and colder, it can be harder to find the motivation to provide your dog with the training and enrichment you know they really need.

The AniMate Advent Calendar contains 24 training exercises that slot easily into your day to help you keep your dog on track and build skills that last longer than December.

What you will achieve

• In the first four days you’ll learn the skills you need to work through the month and get the best out of your dog
• By the end of week two, you’ll have established the basics of useful behaviours to make Christmas more manageable, such as mat training, leave, drop, and lead walking exercises
• By Christmas Eve, you’ll be on your way to building solid life skills that will see you through more than just the Christmas period – including cooperative care, confidence building, and pattern games

Every exercise includes a practical video demonstration, an explanation of why the skill matters, and advice on adapting it to suit different dogs and their humans.

What’s included

24 bite-sized training videos

One exercise for each day of your advent calendar. Each video is approximately five minutes long, making it easy to watch, learn and get started without setting aside a whole afternoon.

Written instructions for every exercise

Prefer to read the steps or want a quick reminder? You'll have written guidance to help you work through each activity.

A downloadable training booklet

At the end of the course, you'll receive a PDF booklet explaining all 24 exercises, giving you a handy reference to revisit whenever you need inspiration.

Lifetime access

Once you've purchased the course, it's yours to return to whenever you like. There's no pressure to complete everything before Christmas or worry about losing access.

Simple exercises with minimal equipment

You won't need to invest in expensive toys, specialist equipment or a dedicated training space. Many exercises can be practised using everyday items and situations.

Practical guidance from a dog behaviourist

These aren't simply 24 random tricks. The exercises have been selected to help you work on useful life skills, enrichment, focus and self-control, with explanations of how and why they matter.

Frequently asked questions

How much time do I need to commit every day?

Each video is approximately five minutes long, and the exercises are designed to fit into everyday life. You can practice in short sessions at home or incorporate activities into your usual walk.

Some exercises may take a little longer, but the training doesn’t have to stop in December; these are skills that you can continue to develop in the New Year.

How much does it cost?

The AniMate Advent Calendar costs £19.99 for lifetime access to all 24 exercises, written instructions and the downloadable PDF booklet.

How long do I have access to the course?

You’ll receive lifetime access after purchase, so you can revisit the videos and instructions whenever you like. There's no deadline to finish the course.

What if I miss a day?

Life happens, especially in December! There's no need to feel guilty if you miss a session or two. Simply pick up where you left off, revisit an exercise, or work through the activities at your own pace.

Will my dog be able to do the exercises?

The course is designed to help owners get started with practical, everyday training. Each video demonstrates the exercise and explains how to adapt it for different dog-human partnerships.

Dogs learn at different rates, so some activities may need to be simplified or practised in smaller steps. Focus on your individual dog's needs and progress rather than expecting perfection.

If your dog has significant behavioural difficulties, fear, or aggression, a general online course may not provide all the individual support you need. Personalised advice from a suitably qualified behaviour professional may be more appropriate.

Do I need any special equipment?

No expensive equipment is required. Some activities use everyday items or situations you already have access to.

Is this just about teaching my dog tricks?

Not at all! While training should be fun, the exercises have been selected to work on practical life skills, enrichment, focus, self-control and cooperative care. The aim is to give you useful things to practise together that can support everyday life well beyond the festive season.

Is this course only useful at Christmas?

Although it's designed around the 24 days leading up to Christmas, the skills you'll practise can be useful throughout the year. With lifetime access, you can revisit exercises whenever you'd like a little extra inspiration or want to refresh a particular skill.

What if my dog struggles with an exercise?

Go at your dog's pace and make the activity easier if needed. The demonstrations and guidance will help you understand how to approach each exercise. Remember, training isn't about getting everything right first time. It's about creating positive learning opportunities and helping your dog succeed.