Experiencing Behaviour problems…

Does my dog need more training or the expertise of a behaviourist?

That’s a good question! The best answer is, let’s talk about the issues you are having and I can advise you on whether your dog needs some targeted training, or whether we need to explore your dog’s emotional responses, in which case you and your dog need a behaviourist.

Life can be pretty challenging when…

…your dog is anxious, fearful, or you just can’t understand why they are behaving as they are!

So who do I need, trainer or behaviourist?

Confusing maybe, but there are distinct differences between the two but any professional trainer or behaviourist should refer you to the other if necessary.

Trainer

Trainers teach the ‘HOW’. They can help dogs of all ages learn how to sit and settle, walk nicely on the lead and come back to you when called.

As well as life skills for your dog, they can also teach you and your dog how to do fun stuff, like agility and scent work.

Behaviourist

A behaviourist digs deeper into the cause of unwanted behaviour to investigate the ‘WHY’.

Training cannot resolve every issue because the dog needs to learn to feel differently about a particular thing or situation. For example, emotional/psychological issues like separation anxiety or compulsive behaviour need a behaviourist.

“Help! I’ve tried different trainers but seem to be getting nowhere. That is what I felt like when I called Lucy but she explained that my dog needed some understanding. He wasn’t being disobedient or bad, he was crying out for help.”

How Can I help?

Firstly, get in touch. I will offer an understanding and non-judgemental ear. I can then listen to what issues you are having with your dog and make an educated assessment of how to proceed.

Every owner and their dog has a unique blend of challenges, but to make things simple I offer bespoke training packages if that is the way forward. Alternatively, if your dog is experiencing emotional difficulties I will work with you and your vet to offer a tailored behaviour modification programme.

Behaviour Support

Behaviour consultations address concerns such as anxiety, fear, frustration, aggression, separation-related issues, house soiling and repetitive behaviour. Problem behaviours are fully assessed before any behaviour modification plan (BMP) is devised. These are bespoke and designed to be as manageable as possible for owners to implement, and are kind, ethical and evidence-based. Due to the potential overlap between health and behaviour, veterinary referral is essential.

What can I expect?

Following your initial enquiry, you will be asked to complete a veterinary consent form and a detailed behavioural questionnaire. This questionnaire is a vital part of the process, as it enables me to gather a thorough history and assess the situation prior to our consultation, allowing us to make the most effective use of our one-to-one time.
Once I have received both documents, we can schedule your consultation. After our meeting, you will receive a BMP, and if necessary, your veterinarian to ensure continuity of care.
Ongoing support via email, WhatsApp or video call (duration dependent on discussion)

My Fees:-

Pre-consultation Meet & Exploration of behavioural issues – £45

Initial consultation £225: 90-120 minute face-to-face consultation, professional administration, including liaising with your veterinarian, reviewing your completed questionnaire, and preparing your BMP report.

Additional support following the initial consultation is charged on an hourly basis at £50 per hour.

This approach ensures a tailored, evidence-based plan that supports both you and your dog with clear, compassionate guidance.

Other behaviour packages are available that include follow up support and implementation of the BMP.

I would like to know more…

Training Support

Training is provided on an individual level as every owner and dog is unique. Trying to provide a ‘one size fits all’ approach just does not work so we passionately believe in talking to every owner first to talk through problems and issues and give an honest assessment of the best approach for the way forward.

To keep things as simple as possible, my training services include an hourly fee and packages.

Initial Contact & Consultation

A phone call can be enough to identify an initial course of action. The first 15 minute phone call is free of charge of course.

If needed, an initial consultation will be recommended, perhaps to see you and your dog in a particular setting. In this case, a visit will be made and charged at a reduced hourly rate. The fee is £45

Hourly Training

You should never be promised that training will take an exact amount of time to resolve. However, you will always be directed to the most appropriate and cost effective service to best suit you and your dog’s needs.

For ad-hoc training needs, an hourly charge is used for training services. The fee is £50/hr

Book, or i’d like to ask a question

For clients requiring a tailored but more predictable package to get training established we offer some packages designed with you in mind. You are investing in your dog’s future and we want to do the best for you.

Two Weeks

A 60 minute consultation to understand your goals and challenges and get started on training in your own home or our secure field.

A 30 minute follow up visit to talk through progress and next steps.
Support and guidance via WhatsApp, for the duration of the training programme.
Additional resources and training materials.

Fee £100

Four Weeks