I will start with a thorough history-taking. This typically takes 45+ minutes, as I drill down into detail to get an accurate picture of what's going on. If you have video, this can often be useful (but not required).

After that, I will give my interpretation of what's happening, and this often involves a reframing of the behaviour (e.g. your dog is not being 'dominant' and needs to be shown who's the boss). I will then explain some foundational concepts around management, safety, behaviour change.

I then get into detail about what we can do to improve the situation. I use many handouts, videos and demonstrations during his explanation.

Depending on the time and individual case, this may or may not involve going for a walk to see your dog outside, and start practicing the new lead handling skills and techniques. If this is a priority for you, please let me know. Otherwise, we often focus on the theory and I will visit again in a couple of weeks to work closer with you on the implementation.

After the initial consult, you will receive a complete transcript (AI meeting minutes transcript), and a top-level summary of the consultation including specific action items.

I work with a wide range of behavioural issues, including:

- Reactivity towards dogs or people

- Aggression

- Fear and anxiety

- Resource guarding

- Puppy behaviour

- Adolescent behaviour

- Excessive barking

- Jumping up

- Pulling on lead

- Poor recall

- Multi-dog household issues

- General manners and obedience

If you're unsure whether your dog's behaviour is something I can help with, feel free to contact me before booking.

Many owners contact me after a bite incident or following a complaint made to Council.

The first step is understanding why the bite occurred. Dogs bite for many different reasons, and effective behaviour modification depends on accurately identifying the underlying cause rather than simply addressing the bite itself.

Where appropriate, I also provide independent Behavioural Assessments for owners whose dogs are facing proposed Dangerous Dog or Menacing Dog declarations.

Yes.

My approach is based on modern behavioural science, learning theory, and positive reinforcement. Rather than relying on punishment or intimidation, I focus on teaching dogs alternative behaviours while changing the emotions that drive unwanted behaviour.

Every training plan is tailored to the individual dog, their environment, and the goals of their family.

Every dog is different.

Many families find that a single consultation gives them the knowledge and confidence to make significant progress on their own.

More complex behavioural issues—particularly aggression, severe fear, or long-established habits—often benefit from one or more follow-up consultations to monitor progress and adjust the training plan as needed.

Yes.

Behaviour change takes time, and questions often arise once you've started working through the recommendations.

Follow-up consultations are available where additional guidance or coaching would be helpful, and I'm happy to adjust your training plan as your dog's progress develops.

Puppy classes are ideal for most puppies between 8 and 14 weeks of age, provided they are healthy and comfortable around other puppies.

My Puppy School focuses on early socialisation, confidence building, practical life skills, and helping owners understand how puppies learn.

If your puppy has significant medical or behavioural concerns, I'll let you know whether a private consultation would be a better starting point.

Separation Anxiety is one of the few behaviour problems that I generally do not manage as a standalone issue.

Effective treatment usually requires a highly structured program involving very gradual exposure to being left alone, often over many weeks or months.

Because I believe owners are best served by someone who specialises in this area, I'm happy to recommend experienced colleagues whose practices focus specifically on Separation Anxiety.

If your dog has Separation Anxiety alongside other behaviour problems, I'm happy to discuss whether I can assist with those additional issues.

Yes.

Online consultations can be an excellent option for owners outside my service area or for follow-up appointments where observing the dog in person isn't essential.

Depending on the situation, I may ask you to provide video footage beforehand so I can observe your dog's behaviour in its normal environment.

No.

Most clients contact me directly.

However, behaviour and health are closely connected, and there are times when veterinary assessment is an important part of the process. If I believe pain, illness, or another medical condition could be contributing to your dog's behaviour, I'll recommend that you consult your veterinarian before or alongside behavioural training.