Open to all dog owners, the Masterclass combines both theoretical and practical components, addressing topics such as basic obedience, effective communication between dog and handler, and essential concepts of canine ethology. The session is designed to give participants tangible tools to improve their relationships with their dogs.

“Training dogs is ultimately about educating people and giving them the tools they need to make conscious and informed decisions,” says João Paulino. “My mission is to make knowledge accessible and effective, always focusing on building a balanced bond between dogs and their handlers while respecting animal welfare, without resorting to extremes.”

Paulino accepted the invitation to lead this session as part of a broader nonprofit initiative: “The Masterclass Algarve is designed to highlight valuable professionals and businesses in the Algarve and provide a unique opportunity for participants to learn and network at no cost. I saw myself in this mission and embraced the opportunity to give back,” he explains. “It’s simply another way to meet our social responsibility goals—just like the free training sessions we already conduct with volunteers from animal shelters, forming teams and rehabilitating dogs pro bono, among many other initiatives.”

João Paulino has served as president of Iron Dog Algarve since 2016. He is a certified trainer from the Portuguese Government for dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs, with extensive experience that includes numerous training certifications and participation in national and international competitions. He currently manages the IGP-IFH-FCI sport for the Portuguese Kennel Club (Clube Português de Canicultura) and is the Tracking National Champion (IFH).

To ensure an effective and controlled learning environment, participation is limited to 10 attendees with dogs and 10 without. Dogs participating in this event

should be fully up to date with their vaccination schedule, specifically rabies vaccine, kennel cough vaccine and recently dewormed. Although the event is free, advance registration is required via the official website.

📍 Event Details
Event: Masterclass with Trainer João Paulino
Date: May 23, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Iron Dog Algarve School – Quarteira
Cost: Free (registration required)
Capacity: 10 participants with dogs + 10 without dogs
Topics: Basic obedience, dog-owner communication, principles of canine ethology
Registration & Info: https://masterclassalgarve.org