Hi, I’m Leah and I have been a dog trainer since 2009 but my history of learning and working with animals began in 1998 where I was fortunate enough to attend Sparsholt College studying a BTEC National Diploma in Animal Care. After completing my course in 2000 I went to university to study my BSc Hons Degree in Animal Science and Welfare during 2001 – 2004 in East Anglia. It was my dissertation that sparked my interest in dog training. 

Over the years I have worked as an Animal Care Assistant for the RSPCA dealing with a range of animals and I’ve worked for Southampton City Council dealing with stray dogs. Both jobs gave me the chance to learn more and I was able to set up Positive Training For Canines in 2009. Puppy classes started at Colden Common on 1st September 2009 and I have been fortunate enough to build my classes to offer services for the Tearaway Teenagers and adult dogs. In 2019 I was asked to run puppy socialisation classes in Winnall for Companion Care Vets.  

I became a registered member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (MAPDT 1067) in 2009, a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG) in 2013 and a member of the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) in 2014. 

Over the years I have had the privilege of working with lots of different breeds, ages and problems but I have turned my attention to puppies, teenage tearaways and loose lead. Pups will often pull on lead from day one and we humans follow them because whilst they are small it isn’t a problem but of course the problem will grow with the pup. Loose lead is about teamwork, consistency and teaching the pup what we expect of them. Does your pup/dog pull like a train? Does your pup/dog choke himself and you feel like your arm is getting longer? Have you tried everything and feel nothing works? Look no further and contact me today to book either a one to one or join us for one of our workshops. 

I love working with the pups. We often have families attend class and it’s fabulous to get to know everyone and be a part of the special journey. Sometimes people feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of raising a puppy but classes, one to ones and virtual sessions can ease the mind and give you the skills and information you require to enjoy your bundle of fluff. I run classes in Colden Common so why not check out our Perfect Puppy Program Packages and book yourself and your pup in?

The one thing I love about working with the teenagers is watching them develop. It is often a difficult stage for many owners where the dogs ‘forget’ their training and their confidence grow. Many owners feel at a loss and frustrated by their dogs behaviour but help is at hand through classes, one to ones and virtually. Get in touch and we can discuss the help and support that suits your needs.  

2020 proved to be a difficult year for us all with the Covid19 pandemic. Thankfully technology provided a huge help with transferring classes online whilst we all stay at home and it helped me stay in contact with clients. Although we have returned to normal it has highlighted the importance of virtual work which certainly makes it easier to support my clients with regular check in sessions.    

In 2021 I was very lucky to become a Mum and I now juggle my time with a toddler and working with my lovely customers. I am often slow to respond to emails and voicemail but I do aim to respond in 48 hours so please bear with me. One thing I have learnt is how similar children are to dogs and my training skills are definitely coming in handy!! 

If you would like to book your pup in to class or would like help with loose lead, anything puppy or adolescent related please get in touch to see if I can help. 

I look forward to hearing from you 

Leah