FAQs

What’s the difference between a dog trainer and a dog behaviourist?

This is a really common question, and understandably so, it’s easy to get muddled up. A dog trainer is someone who is perfect for teaching your dog to do certain things, obeying commands for example. A dog behaviourist is someone who focuses on problems that a dog might be having, like displaying aggressive or anxious behaviour. A behaviourist will work to try and identify the cause of the issue, and create some form of plan to help overcome the difficulties caused by the issue.

What is positive reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement encourages behaviours we want by adding something the dog values, such as food, praise or play. When a behaviour leads to a rewarding outcome, the dog is more likely to repeat it in future.

Positive reinforcement is one part of a broader learning framework known as operant conditioning, which includes four distinct ways behaviour can be influenced, all of which are explained in more detail here.

We’ve tried behaviourists before, and they didn’t work?

Each person you deal with may well have a different approach, and a different personality. It may well have been that, like anyone that you have in your lives, they weren’t a good match. We all have people we prefer to see, a favoured doctor we feel really listens to us, a hairdresser we get along really well with, or even a cafe we like to go to as they remember our names, and remember how we like our coffee.

Having someone you enjoy the company of, and who listens and understands, can contribute heavily towards success. It’s also important to manage expectations—some dogs may never fully recover from certain problems, but they can still make significant progress. If your previous behaviourist didn’t explain this, you might feel as though they failed you. However, if your dog is no longer reacting as severely as they once did and seems happier, the treatment may have achieved the best possible outcome, even if this wasn’t clearly communicated to you.

Can you work remotely?

Yes! We can work remotely! Whilst we love meeting other dogs, actually being with you isn’t always necessary in order to help. In fact, there are times when our presence could hinder your progress. Have you ever said something similar to a previous trainer or behaviourist: “This is embarrassing – the dog always barks at the postman, and now you’re here, they aren’t doing it!”? Sometimes our influence on your dog can prevent it from showing the very issue you want to fix.

Together, we can work using videos you take of your dog exhibiting the problem behaviour. We can video call each other, and you can record your training sessions to show what you’re doing and how you’re progressing. We’ve successfully worked with clients all over the world and relish the challenge of working ‘together-apart’.

What locations do you cover?

For in-person consultations, we currently work across parts of Suffolk and Essex. Travel within approximately 30 minutes of my usual operating area is included; for appointments further afield, an additional mileage charge may apply. Any additional travel cost will always be agreed with you in advance.

We’re also happy to travel further by prior arrangement. For remote consultations, location is no barrier, if we both have an internet connection, we can work together.

You aren’t anywhere near me, how can you help?

While in-person sessions can be helpful, we’ve all embraced technology in recent years. With tools like WhatsApp, Facebook video calls, Zoom, and Teams, and good old email, distance is no obstacle. We've worked with dogs in the USA, France, Sweden, and India whilst in the UK. If you can take targeted videos of your dog’s behaviour and explain the situation over a call or in writing, we can easily work together. Time differences are the only challenge, but we’re also experienced in managing those.

Will this work quickly? My dog has had this issue for years

Every situation is unique. Some problems can be resolved in under an hour, while others may take months to address, especially if they are deeply rooted. When tackling an issue, we consider factors like your time, ability to stay consistent (not always easy!), any health challenges, and more. We promise to work as efficiently as possible because we want your problem solved as quickly as you do. As mentioned earlier, it’s important to manage expectations. While your dog may never fully recover from certain issues, significant progress and an improved quality of life are fantastic achievements in themselves. One thing is certain, the sooner a problem is addressed, the less chance it has to escalate.

This could be expensive!

Addressing problems often comes with a cost, whether it's a vet, mechanic, or plumber. Investing in your dog’s well-being is investing in both their physical and mental health, and your peace of mind. Consider how often your dog’s behaviour has spiked your anxiety or led to frustration, despite seeking advice from friends or online videos. Consulting a dog behaviourist* can save you time, stress, and uncertainty. We develop customised plans to address your dog’s needs, leading to a happier, healthier life for both of you. Have a little read of the next FAQ for more details, and our reviews to see what others have said. From a personal point of view, we want to fix any issues quickly, and that also means that we want it to be affordable for you too. More money in your pocket means more money for dog treats!

*It is worth checking to see if behavioural issues are covered by your dogs insurance policy.

Can you guarantee that the behaviour will stop?

No responsible behaviourist can guarantee a particular outcome. Behaviour is influenced by many factors, including health, environment, previous learning and the consistency with which a plan can be followed. We will, however, provide honest guidance, realistic expectations and practical support.

Do I need to see a veterinary surgeon first?

Some behavioural changes may be influenced by pain, illness or other medical factors. Where appropriate, we may recommend veterinary assessment before or alongside behaviour work.

What do we get?

Your support begins before we meet, with a detailed questionnaire and any additional information needed to understand your dog and circumstances properly. During the consultation, we will work together on an individual plan, which you can review afterwards alongside my notes and guidance.

You will also have ongoing contact to discuss progress, clarify anything that is unclear and make reasonable adjustments where needed, so you are not left to manage the plan alone.

Our approach is evidence-led and informed by current research, scientific studies and continuing professional development with highly qualified practitioners worldwide. The aim is always to provide practical, reliable support tailored to you and your dog.

Why should we choose you?

We are certified, insured, and hold the highest level of DBS checks, (proof available upon request). In addition to this, we are truly dedicated to making a difference.

Our approach is shaped not only by experience working with dogs, but also by Damo’s own experience of ADHD and PTSD. This has given us a strong appreciation of how stress, fear, frustration and previous experiences can influence behaviour, and how important patience, consistency and realistic expectations can be.

It also helps us understand how overwhelming behavioural difficulties can feel for owners. We adapt our approach to the individual dog and the people living with them, rather than relying on a fixed formula.

My dog is terrified of fireworks. Can you help?

We can! We have trained with Dr. Else Verbeek, of the Swedish University of Agricultural Science, (SLU), in Uppsala, Sweden. Dr.Verbeek, an international lecturer and an expert in ethology, stress physiology, and the neuro-biology of cognition and emotion in animals, uses only the latest evidence-based science in her teaching, ensuring that everything is based on tireless research rather than ‘the latest fad’. In conjunction with you, we can assess your dogs anxiety to, not only fireworks, but any noise that frightens them, and create an individual plan that we can work on together to bring more calm to you and your dog.

What’s your opinion of (famous dog personality)?

We have watched and learned from many famous dog personalities. Growing up in England in an era that looked up to the late Barbara Woodhouse, and then seeing the world introduced to others such as Cesar Millan, and Victoria Stilwell, we believe we can learn something from everyone, though we’re naturally drawn to those who resonate with our values. For us, one principle stands out: the importance of positive reinforcement. It’s a method we consistently favour, ensuring that dogs are motivated and treated with kindness as they learn and grow.