South Africa's Trusted Dog Training Specialists Since 1999
Founded in 1999, McKaynine Training has grown from a single puppy class into
one of South Africa's leading dog training schools.
Today, we offer more than 40 classes per week across multiple
training venues in Gauteng, helping hundreds of dogs and their
owners build stronger relationships through practical, science-
based training.
Over the past 25 years, McKaynine has also played an important role
in developing the wider dog training community. Many professional
trainers, behaviourists and dog sport competitors began their training
journey with us, and numerous training schools across Johannesburg can
trace part of their roots back to McKaynine. We are proud that dog
professionals continue to attend our classes with their own dogs and trust our
programmes for ongoing learning and development.
Our programmes include:
Puppy training and puppy socialisation classes
Beginner, intermediate and advanced obedience training
Behaviour support and problem-solving
Canine sports conditioning and K9Yoga
Agility and Hoopers
Tracking and scent work
Working trials and advanced dog sports
Tricks and enrichment training
Whether you have a new puppy, a rescue dog, a family
companion or a competitive canine athlete, our experienced
instructors can help you achieve your training goals.
Our Training Philosophy
At McKaynine, we believe dog training should be effective, ethical and enjoyable for both dogs and their
owners.
Our training methods are based on modern
behavioural science and focus on building
trust, engagement and clear
communication. We use reward-based
techniques that encourage dogs to make
good choices while helping owners develop
practical handling skills that work in
everyday life.
We maintain high standards and expect
commitment from our students, but we
never push dogs or handlers beyond their
capabilities.
Our goal is to create confident dogs and confident owners while keeping training positive, achievable
and fun.
Dog Training for Every Breed and Every Family
We welcome dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages.
Our instructors regularly work with:
Great Danes
German Shepherd Dogs
Border Collies
Labrador Retrievers
Golden Retrievers
Rottweilers
Boerboels
Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Mixed breed dogs
Toy breeds and companion dogs
From energetic working breeds to laid-back family pets, our methods are tailored to the individual dog
and the goals of their owner.
Expert Dog Trainers in Gauteng
McKaynine provides dog training classes throughout Gauteng, including:
Midstream
Randburg
Randpark Ridge
Honeydew
Delta Park
Randfontein
Kyalami
Our team consists of experienced instructors, behaviour consultants, canine sports coaches and support
staff who are committed to maintaining the highest standards of dog training and client service.
All instructors undergo internal training and assessment to ensure consistency across every McKaynine
location.
Led by Shannon McKay MSc CBCC-KA®
McKaynine is owned and directed by Shannon McKay, one of South Africa's
most experienced dog training professionals.
Shannon holds a Master's Degree in Zoology and internationally recognised
professional dog training certifications. She has authored
research projects on canine behaviour and scent work,
contributed to television, radio and print media, provided
expert evidence in court matters and successfully trains and
competes with record-setting Great Danes.
Through McKaynine, Shannon has helped thousands of dogs
and their owners develop stronger relationships through education, practical training and
ethical behaviour modification.
Why Choose McKaynine?
Established in 1999
Over 25 years of training experience
Science-based, reward-focused methods
Multiple training locations across Gauteng
Programmes for puppies through to advanced sport dogs
Experienced and qualified instructors
Supportive and welcoming training environment
Proven results with dogs of all breeds and temperaments
Helping Dogs and Owners Succeed Together
Our mission is simple: to help owners build well-mannered, reliable and happy dogs through effective
training and education.
Whether you're attending your first puppy class, working through obedience goals or exploring canine
sports, McKaynine provides the expertise, support and community to help you succeed.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to find the right class for you
and your dog.
What makes McKaynine different from other dog training schools?
McKaynine prides itself on outcomes-based training with dynamic programmes. Goals are clearly
defined and measured - ensuring owners and dogs gain maximum skills. Simply put, we want you to
gain the best value in a very enjoyable environment.
Do professional dog trainers attend McKaynine classes?
Yes. Over the years, many professional trainers, behaviourists, veterinary staff and canine sports
competitors have attended McKaynine classes with their own dogs. While our programmes are
designed for dog owners of all experience levels, we are proud that dog professionals also choose McKaynine
as a place to train, learn and enjoy time with their dogs.
What training methods does McKaynine use?
We use reward-based, science-backed training methods that motivate dogs to learn and enjoy the
training process. Our focus is on teaching dogs what to do rather than relying on punishment or
intimidation. By building strong communication and positive associations, we help owners develop reliable
behaviours that can be maintained long after classes have ended.
Where are McKaynine classes held?
McKaynine offers dog training classes at multiple venues throughout Gauteng, including Kyalami,
Midstream, Randburg, Randpark Ridge, Honeydew, Delta Park and Randfontein. Our range of
locations makes it easy for dog owners across Johannesburg, Pretoria and surrounding areas to access
quality training close to home.
Do you train all dog breeds?
Yes. We welcome dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages. Our instructors regularly work with everything
from toy breeds and mixed-breed dogs to large working and guardian breeds. Training is tailored to
the individual dog, their temperament and their owner's goals, ensuring that every team receives the support
they need to succeed.
Can older dogs attend training classes?
Absolutely. Dogs can learn at any age. While early training and socialisation are beneficial, older dogs
can still develop new skills, improve obedience and build confidence. Whether you have a young adult
dog that missed formal training or a senior dog looking for mental stimulation, we can help you find a suitable
class.
How do I choose the right class for my dog?
The best class depends on your dog's age, previous training and your goals. Puppies typically start in
our puppy socialisation programme, while older dogs often begin in Elementary Obedience before
progressing to more advanced classes.
If you're unsure where to start, contact us and we'll be happy to recommend the most appropriate class for
you and your dog.
Do I need to wait until my puppy has completed vaccinations before starting training?
No. In fact, waiting until a puppy has completed all vaccinations can mean missing a critical
socialisation period. The most important window for socialisation occurs during the first few months
of a puppy's life, when they are learning how to interact with people, dogs and the world around them.
McKaynine puppy classes are specifically designed to balance the benefits of early socialisation with sensible
health and safety precautions. Puppies attending class must meet our vaccination requirements, and classes
are conducted in a controlled environment to minimise risk.
If you have a young puppy and are unsure whether they are ready to start training, contact us and we'll be
happy to advise you on the most appropriate class and starting date.
When should I start puppy training?
The ideal time to start puppy training is as soon as your puppy joins your family. Puppies are learning
from every experience, whether formal training has started or not. Early training helps develop
confidence, focus, good manners and appropriate social skills, giving your puppy the best possible foundation
for life. Many puppies begin classes between 8 and 12 weeks of age, depending on their vaccination status
and individual circumstances.
© McKaynine (Pty) Ltd t/a McKaynine Training Centre - Established 1999
About McKaynine Training