Training Methodology

I do not strictly conform to any "style" of dog training. I always consider the dog in front of me and utilise a range of techniques and tools suited to the dog and human I am working with. I am open to using the full spectrum of communication to support your dog’s development and your goals.

I firmly believe that training your dog should be abundantly positive and that punishments involving heavy and harsh use of force should not be applied to young puppies. Punishments (a word that makes many people cringe) will be included but not necessarily in the way you might think. A punishment is simply anything that reduces the frequency and likelihood of a behaviour, some of which are based on a dog’s natural communication with other dogs and animals.

Punishments can include the removal of things your dog finds valuable, time alone, the use of body language, verbal communication, or withholding something of value. Importantly, you will learn effective management strategies to prevent the rehearsal of bad behaviours.

Crate Training

I advocate for crate training and, in some cases, may consider it a critical tool to help you achieve your goals, especially if you are raising a dog in an environment where there is a likelihood of exposure to kids. All puppies should be crate trained. If this is relevant to you, we will discuss it further, and I can explain how it may assist you and any possible alternatives if this is a "non-negotiable" for you.

Intensive Phone Support (Included)

Sessions come with daily phone support (message, voice memo, or video) between sessions and for 12 weeks after the final session or until your puppy is 6 months old. This service is crucial and enables you to receive ongoing training and support for four to five months. I spend more time with many clients in the support phase than in face-to-face training. The feedback I get is that the support is the most valued part of my service offering, as it gives clients clarity and confidence to succeed daily. Replies are delivered on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. You can still contact me 24/7 (I manage my notifications, so you don’t need to worry about that). We’ll stay in touch on WhatsApp to support you between and after sessions as needed, and you're welcome to include anyone else who cares for your dog.

Commitment and Expectations

Expect to wake up in the middle of the night for toilet outings. Expect toilet "accidents" in spaces you give your dog access to. Expect biting in play and destructive behaviour when unsupervised. Expect barking and whining at times your dog is frustrated and demanding. Expect behavioural challenges if you leave your dog unattended for extended periods or are not meeting their daily needs for physical and mental stimulation and leadership.

When it comes to raising dogs, you'll reap what you sow. Committing to immediate implementation and practice of taught skills and concepts is crucial for our program to progress on schedule. Our sessions aren't about training your dog; they're about training you. Your interactions with your dog post-session shape their behaviour.

Raising puppies isn't a weekend project; it requires daily attention, ideally multiple times a day, even if briefly. If your aim is a calm, well-adjusted dog capable of navigating various environments without issue, consistent guidance, play, training, and impulse control development are vital during their critical development phases in the first two years. Meeting your dog's daily needs is essential for their well-being; without fulfilment, expecting good behaviour is unrealistic.

I don't directly train or fix your dog; that's a separate service I don't promote but can discuss. Instead, I equip you with the skills to navigate life together in the most efficient and easeful way. I coach you in canine leadership, but post-session, the responsibility falls on you. Failure to implement advice, put in the work, or utilise available support may lead to new problems, exacerbation of existing ones, and regression in your dog's behaviour.

It’s all how you raise them right?…. wrong.

It’s well understood now that the old saying "it’s all how you raise them" is categorically false. This belief has caused so much harm to many dogs, who have been raised by people believing every dog can just behave perfectly well with training. Yes, your dog’s behaviour is impacted by learning, and this is where we have the greatest sphere of influence, but it’s also impacted by their environment, personality, and genes. Poorly bred dogs from inexperienced breeders or breeders who breed purely for appearance without regard for temperament and health may suffer from issues that training cannot overcome and require a lifetime of management.

Results Guarantee is not applicable for puppies

Because they’re puppies. If it isn’t totally clear why it cannot apply, please contact me.

Satisfaction Guarantee (Puppy program)

I want my clients to have a fantastic training experience and feel clear about what to do, how to do it, and, importantly, why they are doing it. I want everyone to love the training sessions! If you didn’t enjoy a session, didn’t learn anything, and you let me know on the day of the session, then you can choose to pay as you please for that session, including choosing to pay nothing at all. I will also refund any sessions we haven’t completed yet. I don't know any other trainer/behaviourist that offers this guarantee.