top of page

Vanguard Canine Academy

Strength Through Service

At Vanguard Canine Academy, we prioritize foundational training, behavior development and student handler programmes.

We focus on structured, purpose-driven training that builds strong dogs and capable handlers through discipline, mentorship and real-world experience.

Join Us

Book Your Spot

Store

Handler courses

Dh1 to Dh5 courses

dh, Handler courses, Benoni

DH 1 Basic Care of a Service Dog

  • Students learn the foundations of service dog care, including kennel hygiene, health management, and identifying common injuries, illnesses, parasites, and diseases. This module also covers kennel standards and daily operational procedures required for working dogs.

 

DH 2 Deter Crime with the use of a K9

  • This module teaches correct patrol procedures with a K9, including preparation, handling techniques, reading canine alerts, and the safe and lawful apprehension of suspects.

 

DH 3 Supervisory Kennel Practices

  • Students learn how to set up, manage, and maintain a professional kennel facility, including kennel design, drainage, sizing, and compliance with PAPA licensing and NSPCA regulations.

 

DH 4 Apprehension of a Suspect with the use of a K9

  • This section focuses on suspect apprehension using a K9, including deployment techniques, maintaining control during engagements, and completing required documentation such as OB entries and incident reports.

 

DH 5 Handling a Trained Detection Dog​

  • Here students will go into depth on how to work with a trained detection dog to detect illegal substances like narcotics and explosives. Emphasis is placed on proper handling, deployment, and legal responsibility.

IMG_7688_edited.jpg

Our Mission

To empower owners and develop dogs through clear structure, proven training, and honest guidance. We help owners understand their dogs, build strong leadership, and create lasting trust.

At Vanguard Canine Academy, training is about more than obedience — it’s about communication, clarity, and partnership. We work to resolve behavioral issues, unlock each dog’s potential, and equip handlers with the skills needed for long-term success.

We don’t just train dogs. We build capable handlers ready for the real world.

Reviews

Rochelle is an exceptional dog trainer who truly understands canine behaviour . Her approach is patient, positive.
Rochelle's expertise and passion shine through in every session, and her support doesn't end when the training does - she's always available for follow-ups and guidance.
 
If you're looking for a trainer who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated to results, look no further. Highly recommend Rochelle - she'll work wonders

​Terrance

​Rochelle trained my beautiful ridgeback girlie when she was a puppy. I have in the past taken my ridgeback puppies to puppy training with other trainers. They learnt very little. None of them managed to make my puppies lead trained. Rochelle achieved that with Casey. Casey comes and sits when called and runs with my partner most mornings on either a loose lead or off the lead Rochelle has an amazing understanding of dogs and their individual characteristics. She does not allow her lessons to be boring for the puppies or the owners. I can highly recommend her.

Heather Stevens

When I got Nala as a rescue puppy, she was very antisocial and aggressive. She would constantly growl and lash out at my other dogs. She also was not very people friendly and either cowered or wanted to bite any strangers that came to our house.
I took her to Rochelle for training, as I was almost at the point of giving up with her. 
After a few months of training, Nala was a completely different dog and thanks to Rochelle and her kindness and patience with her, she is now so loving and getting on so much better with the other dogs.
I would highly recommend Rochelle as I have seen her love and kindness towards all animals.

​Cindy

Get in Touch

If you have any questions or want more information about our programs, feel free to reach out. We're here to help you and your dog succeed!

bottom of page