Leah Holdaway BSc (MAPDT 1067)

Hi, I’m Leah and I started Positive Training For Canines in 2009.

I began my journey gaining my BTEC National Diploma in Animal Care at Sparsholt College in 2000 and my BA Hons Degree in Animal Science and Welfare at UEA in 2004. I have worked for the RSPCA and Southampton City Council dealing with the strays before setting up Positive Training For Canines. 

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, a member of the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) in 2014, a Kids Around Dogs professional in 2022 and a Separation Anxiety Consultant in 2025.

I have held my classes at Colden Common Community Centre since 2009 and I offer 6-week courses for Puppy (up to 16 weeks of age), Juniors (17-24 weeks of age) and Adolescent and Above (6 months +). I now offer puppy classes at Companion Care Vets inside Pets at Home for pups aged up to 16 weeks of age. 

Over the years it became apparent that many people struggle to teach loose lead, recall and not to jump up so I started my workshops to help people, giving them ideas to try, working out why the dog is doing the unwanted and how to improve the situation. I now only offer these workshops to clients who have attended my classes or completed one to ones with me. I have found by having some ground work from classes the workshop complements this and we can build off it. 

I am often asked how many dogs I have. Currently I don’t have any dogs at home. In 2021 I had a baby and in 2022 I lost my best friend, Nellie, aged 16. After a long grieving process I decided not to introduce a puppy to my family as I’d like to focus on my daughter’s development. I’m sure when she goes to school this will change. 

In 2024 I was voted 3 Best Rated Dog Trainer in Winchester for the 6 year in a row. I’m incredibly grateful to receive this award and that my hard work is noted. 

This year, I am focusing more on the Adolescent stage and have rolled out my membership. The Pawsome Crew to my class attendees, past and present. This is a really exciting time, to help my clients even further and to watch their progress develop further.  

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