About Dog Scout Training & Behaviour

Thanks for finding out more about your trainer! My own journey with dogs began not as a career choice, but as the everyday reality of a childhood filled with a fascinating mix of breeds – from the grace of Dobermans to the gentle hugeness of Irish Wolfhounds, the lively spark of Terriers, the ever-willingness of Labradors, and the characterful charm of Schnauzers. Growing up in a home where we bred these wonderful dogs, I wasn’t just around dogs; I was immersed in understanding their individual quirks, their unique ways of communicating, and what truly motivated them.

Building a bridge of understanding between human and canine.

Even then, I realised that a well-behaved dog wasn’t just about the dog itself. It was about the connection with the person on the other end of the lead. It was about understanding you – your lifestyle, your frustrations, and your hopes for your relationship with your dog. Seeing those puppies go to their new homes, I learned that successful training is about building a bridge of understanding between human and canine, smoothing the transition and laying the foundations for a long and happy partnership.

I also pursued a significant career as a psychologist. This wasn’t a detour from my love of dogs, but rather a parallel path that has enriched my understanding of dog training immeasurably. My work in psychology has given me a deep insight into human behaviour, the nuances of communication, and the science behind learning and change – skills that are just as vital when working with dogs as they are with people. Throughout my psychology career, my passion for dogs remained, and I continued to train the beloved companions of friends and neighbours, constantly refining my practical skills. My time as a trainer at Dogs for Autism further illuminated the profound impact dogs can have on our lives, deepening my appreciation for their potential.

Unexpected opportunities

Then, like many, the arrival of the pandemic in 2020 brought unexpected changes. For me, it brought the opportunity to focus on our newly adopted dog, a wonderful soul who had experienced more than his fair share of hardship. I had a strong instinct that giving him a purpose, a ‘job’, could help him find his footing and redirect some of his anxieties. This intuition led me to train him to become my hypoglycaemia alert dog, a vital role given my Type 1 diabetes. The journey has been nothing short of remarkable. He now alerts me to low blood sugar levels with incredible accuracy, often surpassing my medical technology. This deeply personal experience has solidified my belief in the transformative power of training – how it can provide focus, reduce anxiety, and forge an unbreakable bond between dog and owner.

All of these diverse experiences – a childhood steeped in canine understanding, a career dedicated to human behaviour, and the profound experience of training my own life-saving companion – have shaped my approach to dog training. I understand the sigh of exasperation when your dog doesn’t quite grasp what you’re asking! I’m here to offer not just training techniques, but genuine support, patience, and positive methods tailored to both your dog’s unique personality and your individual needs.

Moments of connection

My greatest reward comes from witnessing that wonderful moment of connection – when the frustration melts away and is replaced by understanding, when those boisterous behaviours transform into calm companionship, and when walks become a joy you share, not a battle. I’m genuinely looking forward to being a part of your journey, helping you unlock the incredible potential within your dog and build the harmonious home you’ve been hoping for.”

Member, Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT)

Additional training: