What I Do

My passion is helping dog guardians build and maintain a fulfilling relationship with their canine companions. When dogs struggle because of what’s expected of them, they can only show us through their behaviours. They may resort to aggression, barking or continual whining or even displays of over-excitement. I focus on teaching ways to compassionately solve and prevent behaviour problems by understanding what our dogs are communicating to us.

I take part in continual professional development to ensure my methods are scientifically up to date. All of my methods are guided by the unique needs of each dog and their individual situation. All dogs and their guardians are treated with respect and compassion, without exception.

I’m based in Weiterstadt, Hesse and I’m available to meet in person in this and surrounding areas (Darmstadt, Büttelborn, Erzhausen or Pfungstadt). For other areas, please contact me to ask about extra costs. I’m also available for online or telephone appointments for anyone living too far away or when it’s more suitable to meet virtually. 

I hold a BSc in Animal Behaviour (University of Liverpool, UK); an MSc in Animal Biology and Welfare (University of Essex, UK) and I am a fully qualified canine behaviour practitioner with the ISCP (International Society of Canine Practitioners). I am a member of the ISCP and adhere to their code of ethics and conduct. Also, according to regulations in Germany, I have been assessed by the government’s veterinary department of Hesse and hold a license to practice as a dog behaviour practitioner (Erlaubnis nach: § 11 Abs. 1 Nr. 8 (f) TierSchG).

What can I expect from a consultation?

Before the session I will send out an information form, to gather details about the dog and your reasons for seeking help. At the beginning of each session, I will discuss your customised plan and make any changes you would like. Any training sessions will be in several short blocks to ensure the dog remains motivated and in-between you’ll have plenty of time for questions. During each session I will also give you practice exercises to complete for our next session.

Behaviour work will first and foremost, try to find out what’s bothering the dog. Then we will work on strategies to help your dog cope.

Where will the sessions take place?

Depending on what the behaviour problem is, I can meet you at a dog walk location near me, in your home or online. We can decide what’s best during the free initial phone call.

Does my dog need a behaviour or training consultation?

Training is valuable in keeping our dog’s safe and demonstrating what’s expected of them. If you are happy with your relationship with your dog and just want to learn something new or improve the skills you have, then a training or information consultation will suit you. Those guardians who would like to learn how to prevent behavioural problems, will also benefit from these sessions.

On the other hand, if your dog’s behaviour bothers or worries you, training alone won’t be the solution. Our dogs have limited ways of showing us that something is wrong and “problem” behaviour is one of these ways. Their “bad” behaviour is often the only sign they will give us that something’s not quite right. If we simply train it away, we’ve just suppressed their symptoms and haven’t helped them with the real issue. Behaviour consultations look at the reasons behind the behaviour and aim to help your dog cope with what they’re struggling with.

I will always discuss what I can offer in your individual case, during our initial free telephone call.

How many consultations will I need to book?

If you are booking a training or information session, the number of consultations is entirely up to you. It just depends on what and how much you want to learn. You can book an individual session or could choose to book them on an ongoing basis.

For behaviour consultations, you will need a minimum of three sessions. The first session will give you a chance to explain the issue in detail and will allow me to assess your dog’s behaviour. I may also ask you to record behaviour between the first and second sessions to give me more precise information.

During the second session, we will work on how to implement the individualised behaviour plan and the third session is for assessing progress and adjusting the plan as necessary.

As each dog and what they’re struggling with is complex and unique, it isn’t possible to say how long they will need before you see an improvement. Most dogs need a fair amount of time to respond to any behaviour work, just like people who are struggling with emotional issues. After the initial sessions you may choose to have more feedback and support from subsequent sessions or you may want to continue the work with your dog independently.

Please note: Multiple issues will also need more sessions.