FAQ | Bespoke Behaviours

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all classes in person?

Private training and reactivity training walks are in person.

Separation Anxiety training is completed remotely through online technology allowing the dog's behaviour to be observed with no person present. You can't do separation training with a person present in the room!

What qualifications do you hold?

Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Applied Animal Behaviour (Canine) - Distinction

Separation Anxiety Pro Trainer - Julie Naismith Academy

Level 3 Diploma: Foundations of Canine Behaviour Management - Distinction

View certificates here

Are there any dogs you can't help?

Some dogs have behavioural issues which are outside of our specialisms. We will gladly provide onward referral details for these dogs.

We do not accept dogs with a bite history as these dogs require aggression specialists.

We do not accept dogs for reactivity whose aggression issues are towards specific familiar dogs.

How long does training take?

Training takes as long as it takes.

If any trainer gives you a guarantee of the length of time to a result, or indeed of guaranteeing results, run for the hills!

Training will depend on the individual dog, their history, their breed and traits, their thresholds, the owner's time and dedication to training, medical issues etc

Is weather a problem?

Private training takes place inside.

Separation Anxiety takes place online.

Reactivity training walks may be affected by extreme weather conditions. In these situations, if the session is cancelled by us, an alternative session will be offered.

Cancellations, refunds, T&Cs

Please see our terms and conditions before booking training

There is a minimum cancellation / rescheduling period of 7 days notice.

How far will you travel?

For reactivity training walks, these can be done from a home address (if living within Swindon) or we can meet at Lydiard Park, Swindon.

What is fear- and force-free training?

Fear- and force-free training is science based training which is kind, humane and motivating for our dogs.

It is the opposite of 'dominance' based methods which are flawed in their theory and are extremely abusive in nature and application.

Our training will never look to place your dog in a situation which causes anxiety, mental or physical discomfort, fear or distress. We teach dogs using reward based training that is fun and enjoyable to encourage engagement with and use no aversive equipment or methods which simply create ticking timebombs of anxiety and aggression.

We respect our dogs individuality and choices rather than forcing them into situations that they cannot cope with.

Learn more here.

Do you train XL Bullies?

Yes. XL Bullies are welcome subject to several conditions imposed by insurance criteria:

1) Certificate of exemption is supplied at time of booking

2) Public Liability insurance cover certificate is supplied at time of booking

3) All training is 1:1

4) Dogs must be microchipped and neutered (if of legally imposed age).

5) Dogs must be muzzled and on lead in any public access areas

6) Any online training is provided through live video streaming (which all of my training is anyway)

Any other questions, please contact us!