FAQs

I use force-free training methods. This means I’ll teach you how to reward your dog for getting things right and show you how to set your dog up for success so they’re less likely to get things wrong. This will help you build a strong relationship with your dog and you’ll both have fun training together. I will never use any form of punishment like telling your dog off, slip leads, e-collars and prong collars because these harm your relationship with your dog and aren’t necessary for your dog to learn new skills or change their behaviour.

There are no ‘quick fixes’ in dog training. Changing behaviours and learning new skills takes time for both you and your dog. You’re not going to get results that last for your dog’s whole life in one training session. So I work through programmes of multiple training sessions. This means I can create a training plan that teaches you and your dog foundation skills that we can then progress in later sessions. And knowing you’ve got another session will keep you motivated to practise outside of those training sessions. We can also revisit any exercises that you’re struggling with to make sure you’re actually making progress.

However, choosing a dog trainer is a big decision. It’s important you choose the right trainer for you - someone you feel comfortable working with. So if you’re unsure about signing up to one of my training programmes you can book a single, initial training session. You’ll get some advice to get you started with your training. And then you can sign on to the rest of the training programme after that session if you feel I’m the right trainer for you.

No, every dog and family is unique so it’s not possible (or ethical) to guarantee the results of any training programme. How quickly your dog learns any new behaviour will depend on their previous learning and experiences as well as how often you practice outside sessions. You and your dog are both learning new skills and that takes time and practice - especially if you want those skills to last for years.

No, I’ll teach you how to train your dog. You’re learning new skills as much as your dog is. If you don’t learn how to teach your dog each exercise then you won’t be able to practice between training sessions - which is vital if you want to achieve your training goals.

Yes. You’re not alone between training sessions - you can email me to ask questions and get any support you need.

It’s best if everyone who lives in your home (including any children) comes to the sessions so you can all be on the same page when it comes to training your dog. But don’t worry if not everyone can be there. You’ll get a training plan after every session as well as written and video training instructions and advice. So anyone in your family who missed the training session can catch up.

All 1-2-1 training programmes start at your home because you and your dog will learn your new skills faster there. When you and your dog are ready, we can go to practice out in the real world if that’s where you’ll need those skills.