Meet the Team
Essex based Dog trainers with the passion and patience to transform even the most unruly dogs into well-behaved companions.
It was a tough decision, but I left law school and decided to pursue my passion for working with dogs. I was only 21 when I became the head trainer at what was one of the largest residential training companies in the UK.
I used to train up to 60 dogs every day, each with unique challenges. As part of my work, I dealt with some of the most aggressive dogs in the country. It was challenging, but ultimately, it was incredibly rewarding when a dog with such issues trusted me enough to bond with them and teach them a happier and more positive way forward in life.
My experience includes working with dogs of all breeds and ages, addressing a wide range of training needs, from teaching basic commands to puppies to rehabilitating aggressive dogs. I love working with dogs and have never regretted my choices.
Going to work each day is a pleasure, and I want Pooch Academy to go from strength to strength. Influencing our clients' and dogs' lives positively and seeing the differences we can make is truly rewarding!
If I had to give one piece of advice to someone we were training, it would be to have consistency and repetition in your training!
I grew up in a household filled with animals and always took it for granted that I love animals, especially dogs. I would take them for walks, play with them, and try to teach them tricks. It wasn't until we got our two chihuahuas - Honey and Teddy - that I realised I loved training dogs. Despite being small, they have such big personalities. Watching them rule the roost also taught me never to judge a book by its cover. I started working with dogs at a local kennel when I was 15. I'd clean out kennels, help exercise the dogs, and be there for the dogs that struggled to be away from their owners. Here, I realised I wanted to train dogs as a career. I'm an enthusiastic trainer who uses many positive training techniques to help build strong bonds between dogs and their owners. I have always been passionate about rescue dogs and helping them and their owners build the foundations for a long and happier life. I personally took on a reactive rescue dog called Hunter. As so many rescue dogs are, he's a fantastic dog and has helped shape me into the trainer I am today. If I had to give one bit of advice to someone training their dog with us, I'd tell them to train them as soon as possible before the bad habits start and escalate.
Welcome to Pooch Academy, where we're committed to providing your pup with the best possible dog training. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions people ask about us and our dog training services. Sadly, we won't be able to answer specific questions about training via our online form, as all dogs are different, and many mitigating factors need to be considered, but if you still have questions about Pooch Academy or our services, please don't hesitate to contact us using our simple online form.
How do I get started with Pooch Academy?
We recommend that you contact us by phone. However, all of our contact options work! We can then arrange the introductory session and discuss what you want to do at a place and at a time most suitable to your plans.
Which training class is suitable for my dog?
We get asked this question often, and there are many factors to consider. It depends on your dog's age, experience, whether they've had training before, why you want them trained, your schedule, budget, and family situation. Rest assured, Pooch Academy has a dog training program that's right for you and offers the training you need when needed.
The suitable class for your dog can all be discussed in our introductory session before you commit to anything more.
What should I bring to a group class?
A hungry dog! And yes, we're serious! A hungry pooch will do far more for a reward than one with a full belly that would prefer a nice nap. This is to help inexperienced dogs and owners learn quicker and achieve an all-round happier and more motivated picture.
We suggest you bring the things you usually take with you on a decent-length walk—their favourite small treats, their lead, and maybe a favourite small toy.
We also recommend you wear suitable outdoor clothing depending on the weather forecast.
What should I do if I can't attend a group class?
If you cannot attend the class, please get in touch with us as soon as possible. Unfortunately, we can't offer alternatives, as classes run in a specific order, and you must complete them in order to progress to the next class. You can pay an extension fee for an extra class session for puppy class and basic manners.
My dog is boisterous. How do I keep my dog quiet during class?
As trainers, we are very experienced in handling noisy dogs. Please do NOT feel embarrassed; all of our dogs have funny quirks! Our trainers will give you specific advice during the session on how best to address this issue.
How long will it take my dog to overcome its separation anxiety?
Thankfully, separation anxiety is a highly treatable condition, but the rate of progress is slow, particularly in the early stages. Every dog is unique; as owners, we may inadvertently cause separation anxiety, and as trainers, we can teach them how to prevent unnecessary issues.
However, there is no magic wand, and as each dog is different, progress can happen within a few weeks or not for months. Things will accelerate once we've made tentative gains. However, as with many emotional issues, an owner can speed up progress by being consistent and devoting time to their issue.
We are thinking of using your residential training service. Can we contact you while we are away?
Yes, we are contactable during your dog's residential stay. You'll receive updates on the dogs training throughout their stay, including photos and video.
Can you provide references?
Yes, we can. There are online reviews we can point you to. Alternatively, if the internet isn't for you, we can provide customer testimonials.
Do you train in all weathers. For example rain and snow?
For any dogs staying in our residential training service, we have the capability to work the dogs at a time around these extreme weather events.
There are exceptions.
We will not train in extreme heat for the dogs and your well-being. We will also cancel in the unlikely event of thunderstorms being forecast or if the weather makes it difficult for us or you to get to or from classes.
At Pooch Academy, we understand that every dog is unique, and we are here to offer compassionate and effective training solutions for dogs of all ages, breeds, and behavioral challenges. We provide both group and personalised training sessions, using positive training methods to ensure a nurturing and supportive environment for your furry companion throughout Essex.
