Dogs have been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in a family where dogs were always part of the picture, and from a very young age I learned that living with dogs isn’t just about ownership — it’s about communication, patience, and understanding them as individuals.

My own dogs are the reason I chose this path. Loki, my German Shepherd, showed me the importance of structure and clarity. My beautiful Leonberger — a wonderful dog who was, frankly, a nightmare to train — taught me more than any textbook ever could about consistency, adaptability, and humility. And then there’s Woody, my much-loved chocolate Labrador rescue. Although he’s pretty grey around the muzzle now, he still lives life to the fullest and continues to help me with training work and videos. Each of them has shaped the trainer I am today.

Professionally, I have spent the last three years building hands-on experience across a wide range of environments, dogs, and clients. During this time, I’ve worked directly with dog owners to help resolve everyday training and behavioural challenges, while also working alongside several experienced trainers to develop my skills and deepen my understanding of canine behaviour. I’ve handled packs of dogs on group walks in the UK and spent time working at a rescue in France, where I learned first-hand about pack dynamics, social structure, and training philosophies in real-world settings.

For two seasons, I worked at the UK’s number one dog swimming facility, Canine Dip and Dive, as a dog swim teacher and lifeguard. During that time, I worked with thousands of dogs — from confident swimmers to those terrified of water — as well as their owners, helping improve confidence, overcome fear, and build trust through a completely new skill. I’m also a qualified dog swim instructor, a role that sharpened my ability to read dogs quickly and adapt my approach to suit each individual.

I’ve also worked at one of the largest dog walking paddocks in Devon, giving me the opportunity to interact with — and learn from — thousands more dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments. Alongside this, I continued supporting private clients with their training goals, reinforcing the practical, real-life application of the work I do. Few things teach you more than seeing dogs in motion, in play, and in social situations day after day.

Ongoing professional development is incredibly important to me. I firmly believe that only a fool thinks they know everything, and the best trainers never stop learning. I am currently completing my Level 4 Dog Training Qualification with ISCP, and I am also studying under a Kennel Club Good Citizen Scheme Trainer. I assist with weekly group classes — sometimes involving up to 40 dogs per evening — while continuing to work with my own clients, as I move towards achieving my Kennel Club Good Citizen Instructor Award, which I hope to complete later this year.

My position within the dog training industry is one I’m very clear about. I am fully qualified and experienced in all areas of basic training, and I regularly work with a wide range of common behavioural challenges such as barking in the home, poor manners, confidence issues, and destructive behaviours like excessive chewing. Where I believe I truly add value for my clients is in knowing my limits. If I encounter a dog whose needs fall outside my current level of experience, I won’t guess, exaggerate, or leave you without support. Instead, I draw on a trusted network of highly experienced trainers and behaviourists that I continue to learn from, ensuring you are guided toward the right help for your dog. This means that when you book with me, you’re not just booking a trainer — you’re gaining access to honest advice, professional guidance, and a clear path forward, even if that path ultimately leads beyond me.