Question 1

What's the difference between a behaviourist and a trainer?

Accepted Answer

A trainer focuses on teaching your dog new skills and manners — things like recall, loose-lead walking, or learning cues. A behaviourist helps when your dog is struggling with deeper emotional or behavioural issues, such as fear, anxiety, or reactivity. If you’re not sure which you need, don’t worry — I offer both 1-1 training and behaviour support, and I can help you decide what’s right for your dog.

Question 2

What methods do you use?

Accepted Answer

All of my training and behaviour work is based on positive reinforcement. This approach is the most effective way for a dog to learn and focuses on rewarding your dog with things he/she likes for the behaviours we want to see more of, helping your dog learn in a way that’s kind and backed by science, and doesn’t damage your bond. I’ll never use aversive tools such as prong or shock collars, or any methods that rely on fear or intimidation.

Question 3

What are your qualifications?

Accepted Answer

I currently have a First-Class Bachelor’s (with Honours) degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare and a Master of Science degree in Clinical Animal Behaviour, both from the University of Lincoln. I am currently gaining lots of experience and working towards my accreditation with the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors to become a fully certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist.

Question 4

Why do I need a vet referral?

Accepted Answer

All properly accredited behaviourists work on veterinary referral, in line with the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC) Code of Practice and other organisations. This is to make sure your dog’s behaviour isn’t being influenced by pain, illness, or another medical issue, which is more common than you think — research shows that up to 80% of behaviour cases have an underlying medical component. A vet referral is usually simple to arrange and shouldn’t cost you anything extra. It also means your vet and I can work together to support your dog’s overall wellbeing.

Question 5

Can you guarantee that you'll "fix" my dog?

Accepted Answer

Every dog is an individual, not a robot — and behaviour is influenced by many factors, including genetics, early experiences, environment, health, and daily management. Because of this, no ethical behaviourist can guarantee a specific outcome. What I can promise is that I’ll use science-based, reward-focused methods and create a plan tailored to your dog’s unique needs. With the right support and consistency, most families start to see positive changes after the very first session.

Question 6

My dog is fearful/anxious of strangers, can you still help me?

Accepted Answer

Yes — absolutely. Many of the dogs I work with are fearful or anxious around new people. I’ll always take things at your dog’s pace and do everything I can to make them feel safe and comfortable. If my presence in the home would cause too much stress or there are safety concerns, we can start our sessions over Zoom. This approach often works really well and allows you to begin helping your dog without adding pressure.

Question 7

Do you need to see my dog doing the behaviour to help?

Accepted Answer

No — I don’t need to see your dog showing the behaviour in person to help. In fact, it’s often better not to, as deliberately triggering the behaviour can be stressful or unsafe for your dog. If you already have videos of the behaviour, those can be really helpful for assessment, but they’re not essential. I can gather everything I need through observation, discussion, and your descriptions.

Qualified, supportive, reward-based behaviour support for dogs in Lincolnshire.

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