SPECIALISING IN DOG SPORT TRAINING

All private sessions are based from my facility near Castle Coombe and charged at an hourly rate.

Dog Sport demands more than technical behaviour. My approach builds clear communication, emotional resilience, and authentic drive — creating teams that can perform under pressure without compromising partnership.

Obedience for Performance Sport

My primary experience lies in IGP, a discipline that demands clarity, precision, and emotional control under pressure.

While rulebooks differ across sports, the principles that underpin strong performance remain consistent. I focus on developing:

  • Clear communication between dog and handler

  • Engagement that is thoughtful, not frantic

  • Emotional stability alongside drive

  • Precision built on understanding rather than repetition

This foundation transfers across disciplines. Whether your goal lies in protection sport, obedience competition, or another structured performance environment, the work begins in the same place: relationship, clarity, and accountability.

I do not believe in producing behaviours in isolation. I build teams capable of performing with confidence and cohesion when it matters.

Tracking for Sport and Operational Work

Tracking is not simply about teaching a dog to follow a scent line. It is about developing problem-solving ability, emotional control, and sustained concentration under environmental pressure.

My experience spans IGP tracking, operational tracking, and Working Trials — each with its own demands, but all requiring clarity, patience, and intelligent handling.

When I lay a track, I am laying a lesson. The design of the track is deliberate and adapted to the individual dog — building understanding, resilience, and independence step by step.

Across all tracking disciplines, my focus remains consistent:

  • Designing tracks that teach the dog the lesson it needs in that moment

  • Developing intensity and commitment to the track while maintaining a calm, stable mindset

  • Teaching handlers to read subtle behavioural changes and respond appropriately

  • Building confidence through progressive exposure to increasingly complex challenges

Strong tracking is not rushed. It is developed through thoughtful progression, honest assessment, and respect for the dog’s cognitive and emotional capacity

Detection Training

Detection work demands independence, mental resilience, and disciplined handling. It is a powerful way to develop clarity of thought, environmental neutrality, and sustained commitment to task.

My experience spans competitive Detection Dog Trials and operational scent work, working with teams who require reliability and composure in varied environments.

In detection training, I focus on:

  • Developing genuine motivation and search commitment

  • Building confident, independent problem-solvers

  • Strengthening the handler’s ability to read behavioural change accurately

  • Creating calm, methodical searches under increasing environmental pressure

Detection is not about frantic activity or over-handling. It is about clarity, patience, and trust in the dog’s capability.

Relationship, Play & Motivation

For any serious dog sport handler, relationship and motivation are not optional extras — they are foundational.

Drive without clarity creates chaos.
Technique without connection creates fragility.

I work with handlers to develop play that builds engagement rather than dependency, motivation that is authentic rather than manufactured, and relationships that hold steady under pressure.

This work is not a one-time adjustment. It must be revisited and refined throughout a dog’s (and handlers) career.

Online Coaching

For handlers unable to train in person, I offer structured online support designed to maintain clarity and progression.

1:1 Online Lessons

Live sessions tailored to your current stage of training, allowing us to analyse mechanics, decision-making, and communication in real time.

Video Review & Support Package

A structured feedback system where you submit training footage and questions for detailed analysis. This allows for precise critique, progression planning, and ongoing accountability.

Remote coaching requires commitment and honesty from the handler. When approached seriously, it can be just as effective as in-person work.

Companion and Behaviour Training

Puppy Foundations

Early training is not about producing obedience — it is about establishing clear communication and a strong, trusting relationship from the very beginning.

In these sessions, I provide guidance on managing the early stages of puppyhood, including toilet and crate training, the development of purposeful play, and navigating common early challenges. More importantly, we focus on building mutual understanding — teaching the puppy how to engage with the handler, and helping the handler learn to read and respond with clarity and fairness.

The aim is not quick results or rigid structure. It is to create a young dog who feels understood, secure, and connected — laying the groundwork for a partnership that will shape everything that follows.

Behavioral Challenges

Every challenging behavior—whether it’s recall struggles, over-arousal, lead pulling, or cooperation issues—stems from a gap in communication, clarity, or confidence. My approach focuses on identifying the “why” behind the behavior, guiding you to reshape it at its foundation. We’ll work to create mutual understanding, so your dog’s behavior aligns with a trusting relationship. The goal isn’t just to fix symptoms—it’s to foster long-term clarity for both of you.

Dog Sports

If you’re curious about trying dog sports as a fun way to engage your dog’s mind and build your teamwork, we can explore the foundations. Together, we’ll find what activities spark joy for both you and your dog. It’s not about competition—it’s about discovering new ways to play, bond, and grow together.”

Online Options

No matter where you are, we can connect! I offer online sessions tailored to your needs—whether you want guidance on training, behavior, or just strengthening your relationship with your dog. You can also send me videos for detailed feedback. We’ll work together to help you and your companion thrive—right from the comfort of your own home!”

Residential Training

If you’re facing a behavior challenge or want to jumpstart your dog’s training, residential training is an option. Your dog stays with me for immersive, personalized work, and I ensure you’re involved throughout the process. Once your dog returns home, I’ll guide you so the new skills transfer smoothly into your daily life.