Question 1

Why Karen's DOGS

Accepted Answer

It's a bit of a minefield with regards to finding a suitable trainer and making the wrong decision isn't just a waste of money, it's also potentially damaging to your dog and can cause you (and your dog) significant problems in the long run. ​ Karen has numerous academic qualifications, along with approval from Victoria Stilwell and Karen Pryor, to ensure you and your dog are in safe hands.  ​ To view her qualifications, experience and recommendations please read our 'About' page.

Question 2

What is positive reinforcement?

Accepted Answer

Our training involves setting your dog up for success! We use treats, toys, praise and anything else your dog loves to reward their desirable behaviours. When we reward behaviour we like, it is more likely going to occur again in the future - perfect! ​ I will teach you everything you need to know about training your dog in our 1-2-1 behavioural sessions.

Question 3

Why is remote training a good idea?

Accepted Answer

Often people are told to attend group classes and/or to get a person into your home to help you and your dog. This can be beneficial for some dogs, but not all. Dogs are individuals and not one approach will suit everyone. It can be difficult for a dog to learn new cues in front of big distractions (like a new person in their home, or in front of lots of dogs in a class). This is why learning online can be helpful. It gives you and your dog time and space to learn new training BEFORE asking your dog to listen to you in front of distractions - it can set everyone up for success! We always use the kindest and most effective training methods, and sometimes that can mean remote training is the best option. In our remote behavioural packages we do cover distraction training exercises and games you can work on with your dog to prepare and help them manage to listen to new cues in front of whatever distracts your dog.

Question 4

Can you guarantee that you can solve the problem?

Accepted Answer

Quite simply, no. Nobody can guarantee anything when it comes to a dog's behaviour because they are not machines that we can simply re-programme. For that reason, you should be very wary of anyone who guarantees anything of the sort! ​ The successful outcome of the situation depends on several factors: our assessment of the situation and advice, your involvement and active participation in the progress and your dog's response.  ​ What we can guarantee you is that we will use our skill and expertise to determine the issues and develop a personalised plan based on sound, scientific understanding, using ethical and kind strategies to help you to achieve the outcome that you want.

Question 5

Why could my Vet be involved?

Accepted Answer

It is important to liaison with your Veterinary Practice and to view your dog's clinical history before we start behavioural training together. If working on training (i.e. teaching your dog new behaviours like recall, lead walking etc. rather than solving an issue like reactivity or separation anxiety) your Vet will not need to be consulted before we start our sessions.  Many medical conditions can contribute to behavioural issues, this needs to be taken into account when working on training. Simply put - we could do all the training in the world to help your dog overcome their issues, but it is unlikely to help if a medical issue is fueling your dog's behaviour. We need to cover this base.   When you sign up for the behavioural solution package a Veterinary Referral form will be sent to your Veterinary Surgery for completion via email.   This ensures your Vet is happy for us to work together and keeps them up-to-date.

Question 6

Can I book additional sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I have created this package as from experience this is the best combination of services to help you reach your training goals. However, some clients would like more practice together. Additional one hour remote calls (£50), one hour in person sessions (£60, excluding travel expenses) or four one hour sessions (£200 excluding travel expenses) can be arranged.   We can organise this once we reach the end of your package.

Training & Behavioural Sessions

Who is this service for?

If you want to enjoy outdoor and indoor life with your dog stress-free.

You understand that your dog needs help, support, guidance and patience throughout their training programme.

You want a dedicated, knowledgeable, caring person to support you and your dog (trust me, I will be your biggest cheerleader!)

You desire a tailored made plan to suit your dog (and special family member).

You are ready to commit to a training plan to help your dog. Please do not worry, I will make sure the training plan fits into your everyday life.

What does the training look like?

I will demonstrate the training to you with your dog (if appropriate) and then I will support and guide you while you practice.

"Obama was extremely reactive to dogs. After working on building his confidence he greets and plays with dogs with no problems and I can easily call him away from dogs he seems wary of.

It's honestly like having a new dog."

Rosie with Obama the Chihuahua

How it works

Karen's DOGS offers in-person training and behavioural solution packages, rather than one-off sessions. I find this more effective because -

I can support you throughout your dog's training journey.

I can tailor-make the training to your and your dog's needs.

We can progress the training at each visit and ensure we are on track.

You know what commitment is needed to ensure you have all the tools you need to help your dog.

Sessions can take place Monday to Saturday; with morning, afternoon and evening* sessions available.

*Evening sessions throughout winter are available for initial zoom calls only. It is always best to train in the daylight.

Behaviour Session Package
£350

What is included -

Gathering details on your dog and training goals so I can plan for our time together.

Veterinary referral and liaison, as required.

90-minute Zoom consultation with Karen.

We will talk about the issues you are having, your goals, why your dog behaving the way they are. With behavioural cases we will work through how to reduce your dog's stress (and yours!) and how to set your dog up for success before we start training.

A written summary sent to you to help you implement changes.

2 hour in-person session with Karen on one of your regular dog walks, in your home and/or in your garden - where ever you need the help.

A written summary sent to you to help aid your training.

Immediate and unlimited access to an online course most suited to what you would like to work on with your dog or a course of your choice.

Email/phone support for 3 months after our initial meeting.

Follow-Up Sessions