Doggy Days Out - Behaviourism and Training

As a dog trainer and qualified dog behaviourist, I train dogs from puppies to rescue dogs, dealing with cases from aggression to running away.

My behaviour methods are based on kindness and I always seek full cooperation with the dog’s owner. This is because I have found that often it is the owner who wants guidance, more knowledge about what is going on inside their dog’s head and perhaps most importantly, to gain confidence in training their dog. There is a very close link between the mental state of the dog and its owner.

I come across dogs with behaviour problems on an everyday basis. More and more I deal with troubled dogs and repeatedly find that the problem is not with the dog but (much as we don’t like to admit it) the owner. As a student of human psychology, I recognise that we as humans can transmit feelings and inner mental power to our dogs. For instance, if we are stressed our dog does pick up on that emotion – and is then more likely to misbehave because it can! As you then become more stressed it empowers the dog to be mentally stronger and you become weaker. The more in control you become, the more peaceful life you will have with your four-legged friend.

I use reward-based training. I do not believe in using strong physical force such as electric collars, as it reinforces pain and fear in the dog and it is my strong belief that using fear and pain is never the answer. I use kind and very relaxed methods but that does not mean I am not strict and assertive too.

Sometimes the dog’s problems are just purely down to lack of training or even not giving enough attention to the dog. Bringing home a dog for the wrong reasons is another aspect or bringing home the wrong type of dog for the particular family or person. And many more… Fortunately, it is always possible to bring improvement – and yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks.

A typical consultation lasts for about 45minutes and I like owners to be prepared to get involved, learn and take charge – all with my personal guidance. I help you to take control and start to build a close bond between you and your dog (strengthening the pack) so you can work together. The emphasis is always on the right training for you and your dog – training that works.