Master Trainer and Dog Behaviourist
Where to begin
Every dog is different...
...and choosing the right starting point is one of the most important parts of successful training.
Whether you are struggling with behaviour at home, lead walking, recall, over-excitement, or looking to progress into scent work or gundog training, I will help assess the bigger picture and recommend the most appropriate pathway for your dog.
Training vs Behaviour – Understanding the Difference
Many owners understandably look at the presenting issue:
- pulling on the lead
- poor recall
- barking
- over-excitement
- inability to settle
However, these behaviours are often symptoms of an imbalance in the relationship, lack of understanding, communication, structure, confidence, arousal levels, or unmet breed-specific needs.
Effective training is not simply about teaching commands. It is about understanding how your dog thinks and how it processes the information we provide.
Why Foundations Matter
Dogs learn best when they are content, fulfilled, calm and able to make good decisions.
If a dog lacks focus and engagement outside the home scent work or gundog training can often be too challenging for both dog and handler.
By addressing underlying behavioural and relationship issues first, we can reset and build the solid foundations required for a successful and fulfilling training journey for both dog and handler.
A well-trained dog that is under control can enjoy the freedom required to live it’s best life.
Absolute life-changer! Best decision we have made as dog owners.
Working with Penny is quite simply the best decision we have made as dog owners.
Our six-month American Cocker Spaniel Finley wasn’t listening or engaging with us. He frantically barked whenever the doorbell rang, jumped up at everyone, ripped up all the plants in our garden and was constantly pulling on the lead. We were overwhelmed and exhausted.
From the moment Penny arrived at our house to evaluate the issues first hand in our own environment, her calm, reassuring and completely non-judgemental approach instantly put us at ease.
Unlike other methods, Penny explained the root causes behind Finn’s behaviour and taught us how to see the world through his eyes. Penny’s approach was clear, practical and demonstrated step-by-step with hands-on-guidance. We even received a written report; Behaviour Modification Programme for us to follow and keep referring to, along with 24/7 support via the phone, texts & emails to keep us on track between training session.
The results were very impressive and within 24 hours we had a much calmer puppy and household. Within 4-weeks Finn’s behaviour improved dramatically, he was engaging with us. Listening to us during his short daily training session and walks are finally enjoyable instead of a daily stress test.
We are now looking forward to starting the Scent Detection course which is a high reward game for dogs.
I only wish we had found Penny sooner. She is an outstanding canine behaviourist and worth every Penny!
Thank you and kindest regards
Lisa Morrison
The Assessment Process
With the exception of the Puppy Training Course, all new clients begin by completing a questionnaire that you can find below.
Behaviour is rarely as simple as the presenting issue alone. Rather than self-diagnosis, the assessment form is designed to gather the most relevant information required to properly evaluate your dog so I can recommend what I believe to be the correct pathway. The form is a few pages so do grab a coffee!
My goal is to ensure all clients receive bespoke guidance and support to achieve the very best outcome.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to build a better relationship
with your dog?
To start your journey
Please complete this
initial questionnaire
For puppies beginning their training journey
and building strong foundations from the
very beginning.
Please complete this
puppy training form
Not Sure what to do?
Please get in touch so I can hear about you and your dog.
I'm happy to discuss your requirements and recommend the most suitable journey.
FAQ's
Find answers to common questions about pricing, booking, and my training services.
How do I know whether my dog needs training or behaviour support?
Many owners understandably focus on the behaviour they can see, such as pulling on the lead, poor recall, barking or over-excitement. However, these behaviours are often symptoms of an imbalance in the relationship, lack of understanding, communication, structure, confidence, arousal levels, or unmet breed-specific needs.
The assessment process helps identify the root cause so the most appropriate pathway can be recommended.
Can my dog go straight into scent work or gundog training?
No, not always, which is why I need to assess first. Some dogs benefit from behaviour foundation work first, particularly if they struggle with recall, over-arousal, frustration, lack of engagement or general behavioural issues. By addressing these first, you are setting yourself and your dog up for a successful and enjoyable training journey within the two disciplines.
Why do I need to complete an assessment form?
The assessment form allows me to build a clear picture of your dog, their lifestyle, daily routine, current behaviours and your goals as an owner.
This helps ensure you are guided towards the most suitable training or behaviour pathway from the outset.
Ready to Build a Better Relationship with Your Dog?
Discover how my expertise can transform your dog's behaviour and your bond.