How I Became a Dog Trainer

I have owned dogs for coming close to 30 years now. All of my dogs have been well rounded individuals and the type of dog I never had to worry about when taking them to the dog park. They were easy to train and had excellent social skills so I could let them off their leads, allow them to mooch, watch them play and then recall them when it was time to go home! I was also guilty of being in the “my dog is friendly” brigade and being oblivious to the sensitivities of other dogs that might have been in the same vicinity.

Then in 2018, I added a little pup called Scamp to my already two-dog household. Using the same principles as before i.e. pop him down in the centre of the mix and let them all get on with it, I had a big shock, and a rude awakening to fact that my way, in reality wasn’t the best way!

That little pup Scamp completely revolutionised my attitude and inspired me to improve my approach to dogs, dog training and my understanding of dog language and behaviour. Scamp was nervous, a resource guarder and if he perceived a need in his canine world, he was a fighter. I had to get savvy, I had to learn, read books, go to trainers and delve into the world of behaviourism by revisiting my psychology education. I had to learn how to become a competent dog trainer.

I was determined to find a balance within my multi-dog household and support them all to feel safe in each other’s company. Through employing positive behavioural training, I was fortunately, successful.

I left my job in social care, took a bit of time out and made it my mission to give other dogs the same good experiences my own dogs were having and support their holistic wellbeing. The seeds of Bristol Dog Days were sown.

Initially, I provided a dog walking service that catered for everyone’s needs, group walks, solo enrichment walks and I even provided a sitting service. Later, I decided upon walking dogs on a solo basis, particularly for those that showed nervous reactivity toward stimuli in their environment. It’s been a pleasure to do this, seeing dogs enjoy building a bond through training and games.

Now it’s time to up the ante and move on to supporting owners to train their dogs so that a strong bond can be made, and a fantastic, life-long relationship can blossom. Professional training, my background in psychology, endless research, trial and observation have enabled me to reach a place where I feel confident to do this. It’s the best feeling to watch an owner and dog reach a deep understanding of one another and really enjoy each other’s company.

Follow my blogs as I take you on a journey with Bristol Dog Days, laying the foundations of the relationship between you and your canine companion so you can enjoy every single moment you have together.