Struggling with a problem behaviour?
Living with a dog who has a behaviour problem can be tough on the owner, dog, and all their relationships. On the one hand you love your dog, but the limitations and potential dangers prevent you (and your dog) from living life to the fullest.
What is a behaviour problem?
How do I know if my dog has a behaviour issue or training breakdown?
A behaviour problem is a psychological issue the dog exhibits through abnormal unwanted actions that are harmful, dangerous, or immobilising. This is due to an emotional or neurological response to a certain situation or trigger. Think something similar to counselling or therapy as a human.
Common Issues
- Separation Anxiety
- Resource Guarding
- Dog/Human Reactivity
- Low Confidence
- Over Arousal
- Fear
OCD Behaviours
- Car Chasing
- Shadow Chasing
- Excessive Self Grooming
- Licking Objects
- Tail Chasing
How it works
- Get in touch — Drop me a message detailing your problem. The more info you can give me the better. I may ask you to send me a video if it’s safe to do so. I will also ask you to fill out our info form so that I can gather some background.
- Initial advice — Once I have all the basics I will be able to advise if I feel a full assessment is required, or if we can resolve via a video consult or one-off session.
- Behaviour assessment — This comprises discussing the issue in depth, finding out what you have already tried, and pinpointing the issue. Practical assessment of handler skills, relationship with the dog & owner, plus up to six quick exercises using basic equipment to look at the dog’s overall ability levels. We will also do some play, walk or run the dog so that I can look for any possible pain/gait abnormality that may be contributing to the behaviour.
- Report & recommendations — I will write up a report and my recommendations going forward including management. You can either take this to a trainer (we recommend Jack Warrington), have a go yourself, or I can produce a bespoke behaviour modification plan and work with you to progress. At this point I will be able to advise on how many sessions I think will be required.
If I notice any pain or gait abnormality during the assessment, I will let you know immediately and refer you to either the vet or physio.
Please note: There is no quick-fix magic wand I can wave to solve your dog’s issue immediately, especially if it’s become a ritualised habit. I avoid using harsh aversives to preserve the dog’s bond with the handler, maintain ethics & welfare, and prevent the dog shutting down or masking. Behaviour modification done right takes time, consistency, and patience — but is totally worth it.
Can’t make it to in-person sessions? I have a range of options available at various times and prices.