Hi, I'm the trainer behind Canine Connexion.
For the last decade I've been helping owners and their dogs to really understand each other — through clear communication, partnership, and a healthy dose of fun.
I started my canine career when I was a teenager, working at a boarding kennels for four years. I absolutely loved that job and can still remember the names of all my favourite dogs over 30 years later! I grew up with dogs (a cocker spaniel and an airedale cross) and got my first dog, the amazing Mr Sykes (a bull terrier cross), from Battersea Dogs Home. He was probably the reason I became interested in training and behaviour — because he was quite a handful! I joined a local training club and, after a couple of years of hard work, I was invited to join their display team with Sykes, showcasing obedience and trick training at local events.
I studied for my FdSc in Canine Behaviour and Training from 2013 to 2016 at Bishop Burton College (in partnership with the University of Hull), and graduated with a Merit. That same year, I set up Canine Connexion in Normandy, France.
Qualifications & CPD
- FdSc Canine Behaviour and Training — Merit (2013–2016)
- Continuing CPD with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT)
- Continuing CPD with Scentwork UK (SW UK)
- Four years experience in boarding kennels
- Member of a dog training display team
- Established 2016 France; in 2019 Canine Connexion moved to North Devon
Communication, connection, teamwork & fun
I focus on helping you to recognise your dog's body language, to communicate clearly with them through reward-based training, and build a partnership built on fun, trust and mutual understanding. Training is broken down into manageable building blocks which make it easy for both dog and owner to succeed, and which build confidence.
Every dog and every household is different, so sessions are tailored to include what you specifically need help with — whether that's the steep learning curve of having a puppy, a teenage dog testing your limits of endurance, or a long-loved companion who could do with a fresh challenge.
Qualified, insured and committed to education
I'm a registered Scentwork UK instructor and a regular attendee of courses run by the IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers) — both of which mean ongoing assessment, regular CPD (Continuing Professional Development) and a dedication to ethical, evidence-based methods.
Would you like to learn more about how I can help you and your dog?
Tell me a little about you and your dog, and I'll suggest a route that suits.
Get in touch