Bristol Dog Training and Clinical Animal Behaviourist

Dog Trainer and Behaviourist

Welcome to Generals Dogs Bodies

Debs is a highly qualified Clinical Animal Behaviourist and Dog Trainer based in Bristol. Since 2009, she has been providing expert training and behaviour services for dogs, leveraging her extensive education and experience. Debs holds a degree in Animal Training and Behaviour and is actively working towards full membership with the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors (APBC) by handling complex cases across various species.

Her credentials include being a provisional member of the APBC, as well as accreditations from the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT), The Dog Training College, and Professional Dog Business UK. Debs is also a Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Trainer, mentored by Julie Naismith, and a Canine Hoopers World Instructor.

Debs stays current with the latest science-based, positive reinforcement, and force-free training methods by regularly attending courses and webinars offered by APBC, IMDT, Susan Garrett, Lesley McDevitt, Simone Mueller, Canine Hoopers UK, and The Dog Training College. She has also been mentored by Roz Pooley from The Mutty Professor, further enhancing her expertise.

My Approach:

With extensive experience, qualifications, and accreditations in animal behaviour and training, I am committed to providing the highest quality of care and education for your dog. I have undergone thorough interviews and assessments and continue to complete 30 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each year to maintain my memberships. This commitment ensures that I stay up-to-date with current legislation, science-based methods, and force-free approaches to learning.

My approach guarantees that your dog will be treated kindly and ethically. I use gentle and humane methods to teach and modify behavior, always keeping your dog's welfare as the top priority in any training or behaviour modification plan. I exclusively use force-free and positive reinforcement techniques, which are not only ethical and compassionate but also build a strong, trusting relationship between you and your dog. This approach eliminates the need for harsh or unnecessary tools to correct unwanted behaviour.

If you’re unsure about which service is best for you and your dog, please explore the range of services I currently offer. I’m here to help you find the perfect fit for you and your dogs needs!

Dog Training Classes, Behaviour & Training Packages

Hoopers Classes

Hoopers
From £85
Saturdays
11am, Fishponds
To Find Out More or to Book On:
[email protected]

Puppy & Dog Training Classes

Puppy & Dog Training Classes
From £85
Every Saturday
Rolling Classes
9am & 10am Fishponds
To Book or To Find out more:
[email protected]

Behaviour Packages

Behaviour Packages
from £300
Online or In Person
Consultation & Practical Support
Full Report & Training Plan
To book or to find out more:
[email protected]

Choosing the Right Dog Trainer and Behaviourist

Selecting the right dog trainer and behaviourist can be challenging, especially with so many options available. It can be difficult to identify trainers who genuinely adhere to force-free, positive reinforcement methods. Unfortunately, dog trainers and behaviourists in the UK are not currently regulated, which makes it even more important to choose wisely.

There are, however, several reputable organisations that recognise and endorse trainers committed to ethical practices. Some of these include:

PACT (Professional Association of Canine Trainers)
APBC (Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors)
ABTC (Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors)
IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers)
Canine Hoopers World
Gundog Academies

These organisations and others like them set high standards for their members, ensuring they are skilled in force-free and science-based training methods.

To help you make an informed decision, I have listed my qualifications, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities for the past few years, and the organisations with which I am accredited. This transparency allows you to clearly see my credentials and assures you of my commitment to your dog's well-being.

Feel free to explore my qualifications and accreditations, and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need more information. I’m here to help you and your dog build a positive and rewarding relationship!