Behaviour struggles can feel exhausting, emotional, and isolating — but you do not have to navigate them alone.

My behaviour consultations are designed to provide compassionate, practical, and science-based support for dogs experiencing behavioural challenges, while also supporting the humans who live alongside them every day.
I’m Jo, an ethical and science-based dog trainer working across Newtown, Powys, and surrounding areas, offering personalised behaviour consultations focused on understanding the why behind your dog’s behaviour — not simply suppressing the symptoms.

Understanding Behaviour, Not Just Controlling It
Behaviour is communication.
Dogs are not trying to be “stubborn,” “dominant,” or “naughty.” Many behavioural struggles are rooted in:

• Fear or anxiety
• Frustration
• Stress or overwhelm
• Lack of coping skills
• Unmet needs
• Past experiences
• Physical discomfort or pain

My approach focuses on understanding the emotional and physical factors influencing behaviour so we can create realistic, ethical, and sustainable behaviour change plans.
 

A collaborative, welfare focused approach
Behaviour cases are rarely solved with a “quick fix.”
I believe the best outcomes happen when professionals work together to support the dog as a whole. I regularly work collaboratively with:

• Veterinary professionals
• Physiotherapists
• Clinical canine massage therapists
• Groomers
• Walkers
• Other ethical trainers and behaviour professionals

I am proud to receive referrals and recommendations from vets who value a modern, welfare-focused approach to behaviour support. Pain & Behaviour
One of my key professional interests is the connection between pain and behaviour.
Emerging research continues to show that pain and physical discomfort can significantly influence behaviour, including:

• Reactivity
• Aggression
• Handling sensitivity
• Noise sensitivity
• Anxiety
• Changes in social behaviour
• Reduced tolerance
• Avoidance behaviours

Dogs experiencing pain may not always show obvious signs of limping or injury. Behaviour changes are often one of the earliest indicators that something may not be physically right.
Because of this, I strongly believe behaviour support should always consider potential underlying medical or physical contributors.
Where appropriate, I may recommend veterinary investigation or collaborative support with other professionals to ensure dogs receive the most appropriate and ethical care possible. Behaviour Consultations Can Help With

• Dog reactivity
• Fearful or anxious behaviour
• Aggression concerns
• Resource guarding
• Separation-related behaviours
• Noise sensitivities
• Handling and grooming struggles
• Rescue dog adjustment
• Hypervigilance outdoors
• Multi-dog household tensions
• Visitor-related behaviours
• Adolescent behavioural changes
• Stress-related behaviours

Every behaviour plan is tailored specifically to the individual dog, their environment, emotional wellbeing, and family situation. What Happens During a Consultation?
Behaviour consultations are thorough, supportive, and completely judgement-free.
We will explore:

• Your dog’s behavioural history
• Daily routines and environment
• Triggers and patterns
• Emotional responses
• Health considerations
• Management strategies
• Training history
• Lifestyle factors

Following the consultation, you will receive a personalised behaviour plan with practical strategies and clear next steps.
Where needed, plans may include:

• Environmental management
• Behaviour modification exercises
• Confidence building
• Enrichment recommendations
• Stress reduction strategies
• Collaborative veterinary support
• Referral recommendations to appropriate professionals
• Ethical training practices