Got questions?

Find clear answers about how my business and methods work here. Got something on your mind still? Use the contact form below or shoot me an e-mail at hi@beentheredogtraining.com. I reply within one business day.

FAQ

What's this page?

This page answers common questions about my business and methods. How do I train dogs, work with human clients, manage my bookings and everything else you can think of.

Why choose Been there Dog Training?

Because I've been there. I have experienced the frustration, embarrassment, overwhelm, and self-doubt that can come with living with a dog who isn't fitting neatly into everyday life, or your expectations of what everyday life with a dog should look like. And I have fixed that.

Whether you're struggling with reactivity, pulling, poor recall, overexcitement, or simply feeling disconnected from your dog, you're not alone. 🫶

My goal is to help you understand your dog, build clear communication, and create a relationship that works in the real world—not just during training sessions

What kind of dogs do you work with?

All kinds. 🤓

Puppies, adolescent dogs, rescue dogs, working breeds, family pets, and dogs with behavioural challenges are all welcome. And if I'm completely honest... the spicier, the better! No dog is "too much" or "too old to learn" –they all deserve love and guidance, and I'm all for it. That's why I also often foster difficult shelter dogs while they are still waiting for their forever home, but that's a whole other story.

Whether your goal is better manners, more freedom, or overcoming specific behavioural struggles, we'll create a plan that suits both you and your dog.

I've read somewhere that you are a "balanced trainer". What does that actually mean? 🤔

Balanced training means using a fair, thoughtful approach that considers the individual dog in front of us.

Dogs need clarity. They need to understand when they're making good choices, and they need guidance when they're not. I use a combination of motivation, rewards, structure, boundaries, and accountability to help dogs learn how to navigate the human world successfully.

Will you train my dog for me?

Short answer: no, I won't. But let me explain...

Training is always a team effort. Your dog may and for sure will learn new skills during our sessions, but lasting success comes from helping you become confident in applying those skills in everyday life. Consistency is key in everything dog training and behaviour modification.

✨ My job is to coach both ends of the leash. ✨

Do you use treats?

I do use food rewards and positive reinforcement, absolutely!

Food rewards can be a fantastic way to teach new behaviours, build confidence, and motivate learning.

That said, my goal isn't to create a dog that only listens when treats are present. On the contrary, we work towards reliability in everyday life, using rewards strategically while building clear communication and understanding.

Can you help with reactive dogs?

Yes, ma'am! 🫡

Reactivity is one of the most common reasons people reach out –and to be honest, one of my favourite things to work with.

Whether your dog reacts to other dogs, people, bikes, or other triggers, we'll work together to understand what's happening, identify the root cause and type of reactivity we are dealing with, and create a practical training plan that improves both behaviour and quality of life, for your dog and for you. Walking your dog will become your favourite time of the day!

My dog pulls on the lead. Can that be fixed?

100%, yes. ✨

Lead pulling is incredibly common and often becomes frustrating for both ends of the leash.

Together, we'll look at why your dog is pulling, improve communication, and teach the skills needed for calmer, more enjoyable walks.

Do you offer puppy training?

Yes, I certainly do! 🤸

Puppyhood is the perfect time to build strong foundations. We'll focus on the skills that matter most for everyday life, including:

Recall
Lead walking
Confidence building
Socialisation
Household manners
Engagement and focus
Preventing unwanted habits before they become problems

How many sessions will I need?

That depends on your goals, consistency and your dog's individual needs.

Some owners need help with a single issue and see significant improvement within a few sessions. More complex behavioural challenges may require ongoing support.

After our first consultation, I'll recommend the best path forward for your situation.

What if I've already tried another trainer?

That's completely okay. This is a judgment-free zone. 🧚

Many clients contact me after trying group classes, online advice, social media tips, or previous trainers.

Every dog is different, and every family is different. We'll start with where you are now and build a plan that makes sense for you.

Do you guarantee results?

What I can guarantee is honest guidance, a customised training plan, ongoing support, and a commitment to helping you and your dog make meaningful progress.

The results depend on many factors, including your consistency, practice, lifestyle, and the individual dog. What happens outside our session is as important as what we do together, and that isn't something I can oversee 24/7 –but I'm always happy to receive videos and updates of what you're doing at home and provide feedback. 📲

Is my dog too old to learn?

Not at all.

Dogs can learn throughout their lives. Whether your dog is six months old or ten years old, positive change is possible.

Sometimes older dogs simply need a training approach that better matches their needs and learning history, but no dog is too old to learn new things.

How do I get started?

Getting started is easy. And... You kind of already did! 🔥

Fill out the contact form, tell me a little about your dog and what you're struggling with, and we'll figure out the best next steps together. Or even better, book a completely free of charge first consultation, we will have 30minutes together (online) to discuss everything that's going on and agree on next steps.

You don't need a perfect dog to reach out. You just need to be ready to start.

Still have questions? 📨

Send me a message. No judgement, no pressure—just a conversation about how we can help make life easier for both you and your dog. 🐩 I will reply within one business day.

— Get in touch

Tell me everything

Not sure what type of service is the right fit for you? Gotcha. Drop me a message via this page and describe the behavior upfront — pulling, jumping, reactivity, whatever it is. I read every message carefully.

I will reply within one business day. Weekday and weekend sessions available, in-home and outdoor – and even online.