There are dog trainers, and then there are “dog trainers.”

Recently I ran into a client. We started talking about his dog, and he couldn’t stop raving about the results he got training with me. Turns out, I was his fourth trainer! He mentioned one who claimed to be “the best in Australia.” Funny thing? I’d never heard of them. Over the years, I’ve heard […]
Let Your Dog Sniff, But Don’t Let Them Run the Show 🐶

I’m ready for the pushback on this one, but hear me out: letting your dog sniff endlessly on walks isn’t the enrichment you think it is. The Power of a Dog’s Nose Dogs are scent machines. From the moment they’re born, their nose is working—guiding them to their mum for food, warmth, and safety. A […]
“Dominance” in Dogs: Why It’s Time to Rethink This Term

If you’ve ever heard someone describe a dog as “dominant,” you might picture a bossy pup ruling the roost, growling to get their way, or refusing to listen. But here’s the truth: dominance is an incredibly generalized term that doesn’t accurately describe a dog’s temperament or any single behaviour. Let’s unpack why this label is […]
The Risks of Seeking Free Dog Behaviour Advice Online

As dog owners, we all want the best for our furry companions, and it’s tempting to turn to online pet owner groups or social media for quick, free advice on dog behaviour issues. While these platforms can feel like a supportive community, relying on them for guidance comes with significant drawbacks. Here’s why seeking free […]
The Misguided Pet Owner: Are We Failing Our Dogs?

As humans, our complex thought processes make us vulnerable to misinformation—especially about our pets. Social media amplifies this, showcasing both the best and worst of human nature, as Mark Zuckerberg once noted. It’s a powerful tool for dog trainers like me to connect and educate, but it also spreads myths that harm our dogs. When […]
My Life, My Dogs, My Purpose

I’ve lived a life shaped by pain, resilience, and the unwavering love of dogs. Growing up in a dysfunctional family, I endured abuse, neglect, and narcissistic parents. Years later, my father’s conviction for paedophilic acts cemented the trauma of my childhood. Those early years left me with deep wounds, seeking reassurance and acceptance from others—often […]
Busting the Myth of Food/ Resource Guarding in Dogs

Dog owners are often given outdated advice about managing food/ resource guarding, like taking food from a dog’s mouth or standing over them while they eat. The intention is to “teach” the dog not to guard their food, but this approach often backfires. Let’s set the record straight: these methods do make resource guarding worse, […]
Snake Safe: Snake Avoidance Training Program For Dog

Introduction In 2015, I launched a snake avoidance program called **‘Snake Safe’**. At that time, I was living and working in rural Australia, a country known for its large snake population and some of the most dangerous snakes in the world. Over the years, I received numerous inquiries about snake avoidance training, particularly because the […]
How Do You Get a Dog to Stop Digging Holes

Does your yard look like a minefield of holes thanks to your dog’s constant digging? You’re not by yourself! Many dog owners find this annoying behavior to be problematic, wondering how you get a dog to stop digging holes. While dogs have a natural inclination to dig, it can lead to unsightly damage to your […]
Adding a Second Dog to Your Household: A Comprehensive Guide
As a seasoned dog trainer, I often encounter pet owners who are contemplating the addition of a second dog to their family. The primary motivation is typically to provide their current dog with a companion – a playmate to stave off boredom and loneliness. While I’m advocate for ensuring dogs are not subjected to a […]