1:1 Dog Training in Manchester & Greater Manchester
Personalised, force-free training to help you and your dog navigate real life with more confidence, understanding and enjoyment.
Is there something about everyday life with your dog that just isn't working?
Maybe walks are stressful because your dog pulls or struggles around distractions. Maybe recall isn't reliable, settling is difficult, or your dog finds certain situations overwhelming.
You don't need another list of commands to practise. You need training that makes sense for your dog, your life and the situations you're actually struggling with.
I provide personalised, force-free 1:1 dog training using games and rewards to teach the skills your dog needs to navigate real life more successfully.
We'll work together to understand what's happening, build the foundations your dog needs and gradually take those skills into the situations where they matter.
Sessions are available across Greater Manchester, with online support available further afield.
What can we work on?
Every dog is different, so your plan will be tailored to the things that matter most to you.
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Loose lead walking — helping your dog walk with you rather than constantly pulling ahead
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Recall — building the skills and habits needed for a more reliable recall
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Settling — helping your dog learn to switch off at home and out and about
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Reactivity — working on barking, lunging and struggling around dogs, people or other triggers
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Confidence — helping nervous or uncertain dogs feel more capable in everyday situations
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Barking — understanding what's driving the barking and teaching alternative behaviours
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Vet & grooming visits — preparing your dog to cope more comfortably with handling and procedures
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Crate training — helping your dog learn that their crate is a safe, comfortable place
And that's just the starting point.
If the issue you're dealing with isn't on the list, get in touch. We can talk through what's happening and work out whether 1:1 training is the right support for you.
Why Games-Based Training?
Training shouldn't just happen when your dog is already struggling.
If we wait until your dog is pulling towards another dog, running off after a scent or barking at someone through the window, we're asking them to use skills they may not yet have in a situation where they're already excited, distracted or overwhelmed.
Games-based training allows us to build those skills first.
We practise in situations where your dog can succeed, gradually increasing the level of difficulty as their skills develop. Over time, those skills become easier for your dog to use when real life gets more challenging.
Think of it like learning anything else: we don't wait until someone is sitting their exam before we teach them the subject.
We build the knowledge and skills first, then gradually put them into practice.
We're building skills in manageable situations so the dog is better prepared for real life.
You wouldn't teach a child their 12 times table for the first time while they're sprinting towards a rollercoaster.
So why expect our dogs to learn a brand-new skill when they're already overwhelmed by the environment around them?
How does 1:1 training work?
1. We start with a conversation
Once you've booked, I'll send you a questionnaire so I can understand what's happening, what you'd like to change and what life currently looks like for you and your dog.
2. We build the foundations
At your initial session, we'll work through the priorities you've identified and I'll show you games and practical strategies you can use with your dog.
You'll receive a written plan afterwards so you know exactly what to work on between sessions.
3. We build the skills into real life
You'll practise for around 10 minutes a day, giving your dog the opportunity to learn and rehearse their new skills.
You can send me videos of your progress and ask questions between sessions, and our follow-up sessions can take place at home, out on a walk or wherever you need the support.
I usually recommend leaving at least three weeks between sessions so your dog has time to practise, learn and progress. How many sessions you need will depend on your dog, your goals and the support you want.
Some dogs need training. Some dogs need more specialised behaviour support.
If your dog's behaviour involves significant fear, anxiety, aggression or complex behavioural challenges, 1:1 behaviour support may be a better fit. If you're unsure which service you need, book a free chat and we'll work it out together.
Ashley
"Ralph is becoming the dog we always wanted and we can't thank you enough.
We will always thoroughly recommend your services to everyone we meet".
Monica
"We used to dread walks...our walks are becoming more and more enjoyable".