Well Behaved Woofs
Canterbury, Kent
Well Behaved Woofs
A journey to help rehabilitate & train dogs
Our Goals
Our Mission
At Well Behaved Woofs, our mission is to help you create a well-behaved and happy dog. We understand that not everyone is an Expert Dog Trainer and many dog owners encounter undesirable behaviours they don't know how to correct. Just like owning a car doesn't make you a mechanic, owning a dog doesn't make you a dog trainer. It's not a failure to ask for help; it's a sign of a responsible owner.
Training Philosophy
A well-behaved woof is a dog that understands what's expected of it. By setting clear rules and boundaries, dogs can lead happy and content lives. Most people have the basic dog knowledge only, therefore require expert help when issues arise. Dog training requires expertise from experts in their field that have dedicated many years to understanding dog behaviour and physiology.
Our Approach
We believe every dog is unique, and so is our training approach. We take the time to understand your dog's breed, history, current lifestyle etc to create a tailored training plan. Our team consists of two humans and two dogs, who step in to help assist with the training process when needed. At Well Behaved Woofs we don’t only train the dog, but the owner too, so that we can ensure a comprehensive understanding and ability to manage any future issues.
While we primarily use positive reinforcement methods to ensure both the dog and the owner enjoy the training sessions, there are times when a firmer approach may be necessary. Our goal is always the welfare of the dog, aiming for fun and effective training sessions that help your dog become a well-behaved woof.
Why Choose Us as Your Dog Trainer
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Experienced Professionals: We bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and practical skills to every training session.
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Specialised Expertise: We specialise in working with nervous or anxious dogs, Romanian rescues, street dogs, big dogs, high-drive dogs, and dogs with aggression issues.
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Customised Training Plans: Every dog is unique, and so is our training approach. We tailor our training plans to fit the specific needs, history, and lifestyle of your dog.
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Positive Reinforcement: We primarily use positive reinforcement techniques to ensure that training is enjoyable and effective for both the dog and the owner.
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Comprehensive Training: We don't just train your dog; we also educate you, the owner, to ensure you understand your dog’s behaviour and can manage future issues independently.
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Team Approach: Our unique team consists of two humans and two dogs who assist in the training process (where required), providing a balanced and effective approach.
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Commitment to Welfare: The welfare of your dog is our top priority. We aim to create a happy, well-behaved dog through compassionate and effective training methods.
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Proven Results: Our training methods have been proven to transform even the most challenging behaviours, helping dogs become well-behaved and content members of your family.
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Supportive and Approachable: We pride ourselves on being approachable and supportive. We are always here to offer guidance and advice, making the training process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
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Positive Testimonials: Our satisfied clients can attest to the effectiveness of our training methods and the positive impact we’ve had on their dogs' behaviour.
Choosing us means investing in our unique team dedicated to your dog’s success. We’re here to help you and your furry friend achieve harmony and happiness. Contact us today to start your journey towards a well-behaved woof!
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FAQs
How long does dog training take?
Training your dog is a journey that requires time, patience, and consistency. This is why we packages are the perfect way
Here’s why multiple sessions are essential for effective dog training:
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Should I consult a veterinarian before starting any training program with my dog?
Yes, we always recommended to consult a veterinarian before beginning any training program with your dog. Behavioral issues can sometimes stem from underlying medical conditions, such as pain, which may not be immediately obvious. A veterinarian can help identify or rule out any physical causes contributing to your dog's behavior. At Well Behaved Woofs your dogs welfare is always our priority, therefore these issues early on ensures that the training efforts are effective and tailored to your dog's overall health and well-being.
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How long does it take to build trust with a dog?
There is no exact answer to this question. For puppies, this process might be quicker, but for rescue dogs, especially those with a difficult past, it can take much longer. As trainers, we also need to build a relationship and trust with your dog. This process can't be rushed and requires time and multiple interactions.
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Is dog training a quick fix?
Dog training is not a one-session quick fix. Just like learning any new skill, dogs need time to understand and adapt to new behaviours. Over the course of several sessions, we can gradually build on the progress made, ensuring that your dog fully grasps each lesson before moving on to more complex commands and behaviours.
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How important is consistency?
Consistency is key in dog training. Multiple sessions allow us to consistently reinforce positive behaviours and correct undesirable ones. This ongoing process helps in solidifying good habits and making them a natural part of your dog's behaviour.
Tailored Training Plans. Every dog is unique, and so is their training plan. With multiple sessions, we can tailor our approach to suit your dog's specific needs, adjusting techniques as we see how your dog responds. This ensures that the training is effective and specifically suited to your dog's personality and behavioural challenges.
As the owner, do I need to be involved?
Training your dog also involves training you, the owner. Multiple sessions give you ample opportunity to learn, practice, and refine the techniques we teach you. This way, you can continue reinforcing the training at home between sessions, leading to more effective and lasting results.
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Sustainable Change
Behavioural change doesn't happen overnight. By committing to a series of sessions, you are setting your dog up for success with sustainable, long-term improvements. This approach helps in creating a well-behaved woof who understands what is expected and enjoys a happier, more harmonious life with you.
1 session only
While we believe that comprehensive training programs are the most effective, we also understand that there are select cases where a simple fix may suffice. In such instances, a single session might be all that's needed, along with some homework for you and your dog to work on. If you think this applies to your situation, please don't hesitate to reach out. We'll be happy to assess your needs and provide the appropriate guidance.
STUART
Meet Stuart - The Rehabilitator
Stuart's Story
Hi, I’m Stuart and I love dogs…well all animals, but especially dogs. Dogs are the animal that saved and changed my life and that’s why I’m making it my mission to help rehabilitate dogs and give them the best life they deserve. I'm also a professional dog walker that specialises in working with reactive dogs to help support a better walking etiquette.
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My childhood in Shropshire was spent on a farm and naturally that farm had a dog, Laddie. He was my first dog so to speak but his loyalty was with my Grandad, he was really his dog. So I didn’t really experience my first dog until many years later when Rocky entered my world in 2008. Rocky was a Labrador, the runt of the litter and was supposed to be my wife’s dog, but things didn’t pan out that way. My wife became my ex-wife and Rocky came to live with me.
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Rocky (and my kids) became my everything and anyone who goes through a divorce will know that there are some dark days…some very dark days. He was there when I needed him the most and I was there for him. In the year after he came to live with me he lost his eyesight and a front leg to cancer. Seeing how resilient he was gave me purpose. It also gave me a role which is what I needed to get me out of the darkness. I became his guide human and helped rehabilitate him back to the dog he used to be.
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Rocky gave every day his all and for two and a half years after his amputation he lived life to the full and I learnt a great deal about working with disabled dogs and I also learnt a lot about myself. I knew that from this moment on I could never be without a dog in my life ever again.
The cancer came back for him in 2019. He gave it his everything but at age 11 Rocky had to leave this world and my heart was shattered but my path to becoming a dog rehabilitator had started to forge.
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​Then I rescued Willow….or did she rescue me? Willow was two and a half when I rescued her from death row. She was a husky/border Collie cross…essentially a perfect herding predator and she had been allowed to enter a field of sheep to recreate her own version of The Silence of the Lambs. It was after this that she came to me and I fell in love with her, and also had my work cut out for me. The nervousness of a Collie lead her to have many a reactive moment with anything, people, dogs, trucks, coconuts…yes that did happen! But then on top on this I had the stubbornness and independence of a Husky . For four years I’ve worked with Willow to form an amazing bond and she has become a huge inspiration for Well Behaved Woofs.
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I started as a dog walker, thinking it would only be a part time job, but that was not the case. Word got around as I was somebody that specialised in rescue and reactive dogs and soon my new part time business, 'Dodd's Dog Walking' expanded into this. A business that focuses on the training and rehabilitation of dogs...and I absolutely love the challenge and more importantly the reward when we finally see the well behaved woof at the end.
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FRANKIE
Meet Frankie - The Trainer
Frankie's Story
I’m Frankie and ever since I can remember I have loved all animals, especially dogs. As a child, I dreamed of having my own dog but due to my parents both working full time it was impossible. Therefore I resorted to a substitute canine companion which was a stuffed toy on a rope which I dragged along behind me everywhere I went.
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Despite a nasty bite from a Collie when I was just four, my love for dogs never wavered; instead, it fuelled my desire to understand them better.
My journey with dogs took a professional turn when I became a police dog handler, serving with Kent Police from 2002 to 2012. During this time, I had the privilege of working with two incredible German Shepherds, each with their own set of challenges. My first, was a 2 year old serving police dog called Rooney who had lost his confidence, as such had been removed from duty to have some rest bite. At the time I was a brand new dog handler on my handler course where you get given a dog, spend 13 weeks training it to be able to hit the streets. I had gone through 4 dogs in this time that didn’t make the grade, as such there were none left, except Rooney, so he became mine. He was a difficult dog for a novice handler fresh out of dog training, although to cut a long story short, he taught me the power of gentle, patient training, transforming from a timid dog into an award-winning police dog.
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My second dog Axel ,a boisterous and stubborn young 12 month old pup, reinforced the importance of perseverance and tailored training techniques with a completely different type of dog. It showed me that despite the breed being the same, their personalities were so very different and presented very different challenges.
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I took a while to find my second dog, again I had gone through multiple dogs to which hadn’t made the grade…Unfortunately working police dogs are required to be great from the get go, with only 13 weeks, there is no time to preserve, hence why they are quickly discarded if not suitable for the role. Where as the benefit of working with our own dogs is having the time and patience they require - humans are not created in quick time, neither are balanced and well rounded dogs.
Working with police dogs exposed me to the often rigid and outdated methods of dog training. I quickly realised that a one-size-fits-all approach was ineffective. Instead, understanding a dog's psychology and employing positive reinforcement became my guiding principles.
As a female handler in a predominantly male field, especially dealing with big, powerful breeds, I faced my share of challenges. Yet, these experiences only strengthened my resolve and deepened my love for working with dogs. An old-school trainer once told me I had a natural affinity with dogs, a compliment that has stuck with me and drives my passion to this day.
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With over 20 years of experience, I now focus on sharing my knowledge and skills to help others understand and train their dogs. At Well-Behaved Woofs, we believe there are no bad dogs, only misunderstood ones. Our mission is to guide both dogs and their owners towards a harmonious, happy relationship. Whether it's training, rehabilitation, or just a bit of advice, we are here to help.
Finally - In my dream world, I'd be surrounded by dogs, perhaps even be one myself. Until then, I'm dedicated to making sure every dog I work with knows they're understood, loved, and can become the best version of themselves.
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LOGAN
Meet Logan - The Bionic “confidence giver”
Logan's Story
Hi there! I'm Logan, and my job here at Well Behaved Woofs is the "Confidence Giver." I'm a 4-year-old German Shepherd with a story that might tug at your heartstrings but ends on a high note!
My early days were tough, as I was born with bilateral hip dysplasia, which meant I had undergone two full hip replacements by the time I was three. Because of this, I missed out on a lot of socialisation and exercise during my crucial growing years and became reactive to other dogs. But it wasn’t my fault, I was often in pain and felt pretty down.
But now, with my new bionic hips, I'm 1.5 years post-op and living life to the fullest and I've worked hard to become a well-behaved non reactive woof and now, I help other dogs do the same.
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Some dogs find me a bit intimidating because I'm big, have a striking black face, and look a bit like a wolf, so to them I can look super scary. But that's where I come in to show them there's nothing to fear from us big guys. I lead the way, especially for those fearful dogs who find other dogs and the outside world a bit overwhelming.
At times I can be a bit of a boisterous “bull in a china shop” – however, my “ready to go through or past anything” shows others it's not scary. I have a knack for reading other dogs' energy, quickly identifying those who are fearful, anxious, overly energetic, or display dominant behaviours. While I naturally prefer calm dogs, I provide a steady, confident presence that helps all dogs become well-behaved woofs, enabling them to enjoy life to the fullest.
I also adore people and children and love showing those who are afraid of big dogs that German Shepherds are really just big babies who love a good bum scratch.
Come meet me and let me show you just how fun and rewarding training can be with a bit of canine assistance!
Love
Logan
WILLOW
Meet Willow - The rehabilitated "energy giver"
Willow's Story
Hi, I'm Willow, a 7-year-old Romanian rescue who’s a unique mix of Husky and Collie. My journey has been tough, but it’s also shaped me into the incredible dog I am today. Born as a street dog in Romania, I started life with a fear of everything, especially humans. After being passed through three homes where my needs weren’t understood, I finally found my forever home with Stuart.
My high prey drive and fear of most things often got me into trouble.
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Before finding Stuart, I even faced near-death for chasing and killing sheep, a behaviour driven by my Collie’s herding instincts and my Husky’s hunting nature. Luckily, Stuart saw beyond my challenges and opened his heart to me and my problems. Over the past four years, he has learned so much from me, especially about handling fearful rescue dogs and those, like me, who are often misunderstood.
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I’m far from perfect; my high prey drive, stubbornness, intelligence, and fear of sudden loud noises keeps Stuart on his toes. But I’ve come a long way, and most importantly, I’m still here. My greatest strength lies in my nature with other dogs. My superpower is reading the energy of every dog I meet. Despite my wolf-like appearance and intimidating black face, I quickly show other dogs that I’m friendly, helping to calm their reactive behaviours.
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At Well Behaved Woofs, I take the lead role when it comes to meeting new dogs that require our assistance. My calm, assertive energy sets the tone for success, showing other dogs that there’s a better way. I’m excited to meet all your dogs and assist them on their journey to becoming well-behaved woofs.
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Can’t wait to help your furry friends thrive!
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Love​
Willow
