Dog Behaviour Support
Behaviour problems are rarely solved by one trick or one generic piece of advice.
Barking, lunging, guarding, chasing, fear, over arousal or aggression can all look similar on the surface while being driven by very different things underneath, which is why the first job is to understand what is actually happening.
Functional Canine Training looks at the individual dog, their environment, previous experiences, the owner and the situations where the behaviour appears before deciding what needs to change.
The aim is practical improvement that makes everyday life safer, calmer and more manageable for both dog and owner.
Learning to Handle Reactivity
In this session, Gavin is coaching Rebecca through how to handle her dog when another dog comes into view.
Previously, seeing another dog could lead to pulling, barking and lunging on the lead, which can look aggressive from the outside even when aggression is not what is driving the behaviour. In this case, the focus is on helping Rebecca recognise the early signs of increasing arousal, improve her handling and give her dog clearer direction before the behaviour escalates.
The aim is not simply to avoid other dogs forever. It is to build calmer responses, better communication and the ability to move through real situations with more control and confidence.
The work is as much about teaching the owner as it is about teaching the dog, because lasting progress depends on knowing what to do when the trainer is no longer standing beside you.
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Reactivity Is a Description,
Not a Diagnosis
Reactivity is often a symptom of underlying emotions such as fear, frustration, or anxiety. It is not a fixed personality trait, but rather a way for your dog to communicate that they are struggling with their environment or the triggers they are facing.
By shifting our focus from simply stopping the reaction to understanding the root cause, we can begin to address the internal state of the dog. This approach leads to more sustainable progress and a deeper bond between you and your companion.
Behaviour We May Work With
- Dog-to-dog reactivity
- Reactivity towards people or strangers
- Resource guarding (food, toys, or spaces)
- Excessive barking or lunging
- Separation related distress
- Noise sensitivities and phobias
- Generalised anxiety and fearfulness
Every case is assessed individually. We look at the unique history, environment, and temperament of your dog to create a tailored support plan that works for your specific situation.
We Look at the Whole Dog
Instead of just suppressing symptoms, we address complexity by evaluating your dog’s entire environment, physical health, and history. Our training is not a temporary bandage; it’s a sustainable shift in the way your dog experiences the world.
We focus on building resilience and confidence, allowing your dog to navigate real-life situations with ease through tailored, thoughtful interventions.
Breed Matters
Genetics dictate how a dog processes information and what their natural outlets are. A terrier’s motivation differs wildly from a gundog’s, and understanding these breed-specific traits is essential for solving behavioural issues.
We work with your dog’s natural instincts rather than against them, ensuring their needs are met in a way that is compatible with modern living.
What Does Behaviour Training Involve?
Behaviour training is about more than just obedience commands like 'sit' or 'stay'. It involves changing how a dog feels about a specific trigger, using techniques such as counter-conditioning and desensitisation.
Our goal is to give you the observational skills to read your dog’s subtle body language, allowing you to intervene effectively before a situation escalates.
Management Has a Place
While we work on long-term behaviour change, management is crucial for keeping everyone safe and reducing stress. Using tools like gates, muzzles, or adjusted walking schedules prevents your dog from practicing unwanted behaviours.
Think of management as a safety net that allows the brain to stay in a learning-capable state while we build new, positive habits.
Health Can Affect Behaviour
Pain, hormonal imbalances, and gastrointestinal issues are often hidden drivers of 'bad' behaviour. A dog who is physically uncomfortable will have a much lower threshold for frustration and reactivity.
We often recommend a veterinary check-up as part of our initial assessment process to ensure we aren’t trying to train our way out of a medical problem.
What Happens First?
Initial Consultation
The process begins with an in-depth Initial Consultation. This is where we take a full history, look at your dog's lifestyle, and understand the triggers for the behaviour. We will discuss the biology of what is happening and set out a clear, manageable path forward.
We look at the environment, diet, health, and daily routine to identify all contributing factors. This holistic approach ensures we aren't just treating symptoms, but resolving the underlying emotional state.
By the end of this session, you will have a clear understanding of your dog’s behaviour and immediate safety and management strategies to put in place while we begin the training process.
Initial Consultation Price
£100
Approximately 90 minutes. This is the normal starting point for behaviour cases.
Serious Behaviour and Aggression
We have extensive experience working with serious aggression cases, including bite histories and multi-dog households. Safety is our priority, and we use equipment and management strategies that protect everyone involved while we work through the rehabilitation plan.
We provide a supportive, non-judgemental environment. We understand the stress and isolation that owner's feel when living with a dog displaying aggressive behaviour, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges safely.
Your Role Matters
Training happens between sessions. While we provide the expertise and the structure, the lasting progress happens with the consistency you provide at home. We ensure the plan is realistic for your lifestyle and ability.
We provide ongoing support throughout your journey. You are never left to 'just get on with it'. We are your partners in your dog's progress, offering guidance and adjustments as your dog evolves.
No Quick Fixes
True behaviour change takes time. Beware of anyone promising a 'fix' in a weekend. We focus on ethical, sustainable methods that build trust and understanding, rather than suppressed behaviour through fear.
Our goal is to give you a dog that can cope with the world, not just a dog that is too scared to act out. This requires patience, but the results are far more resilient and long-lasting.
Who Is Behaviour Support For?
If your dog is reacting to people, other dogs, or noises, displaying fear and anxiety, guarding resources, or showing signs of separation distress, behaviour support is for you. Whether the issues are recent or long-standing, we can help.
We work with all breeds and all ages. From puppies who are already showing signs of struggle, to older rescues who need help adjusting, our methods are tailored to the individual.
Important Safety Information
In cases of aggression or severe reactivity, we may require a muzzle to be worn during practical sessions for the safety of all parties. We will guide you through a positive muzzle training process so your dog is comfortable and happy.
All practical work is conducted under strict control. We never 'throw' dogs together to see what happens. Every step of the exposure is carefully measured to ensure your dog stays within their threshold of learning.
Ready to Understand What Is Really Going On?
Step one is the Initial Behaviour Consultation. Let's get to the bottom of your dog's behaviour and start building a better relationship today.
Booking is the first step towards a calmer, happier life for both you and your canine companion.