Ethical and force-free • Science-based expertise • Fully accredited behaviourist

College 4 Canines Logo

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 100+ 5-star reviews from happy dog owners

Force-free dog Behaviour in Blyth and Northumberland

I have dedicated my life to being able to help owners with dogs that are otherwise considered write offs using only force free training. At College4Canines, we wholeheartedly believe that every dog is an individual, deserving of a training experience that caters to their specific needs.

🐶 I use reward based training not just because it's scientifically found most effective but because it's putting your dogs welfare first

🐶 Over 10 years experience working with all types of reactive and aggressive dogs

⭐️ 5-Star Reviews & Testimonials From Happy Dog Owners

👩🏻‍🎓 Qualified Canine Behaviourist with Bachelor's Degree in Canine Behaviour (Bishop Burton) & currently studying Msc in Clinical Animal Behaviour (University of Edinburgh)

🤝 Recommended by vets, groomers, dog walkers and dog trainers across Northumberland

Qualified, accredited, and committed to best practice

Qualification Badges

LogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogoLogo
Croatian sheepdog looking at dog trainer

Reactive dog training tailored to your dog

1:1 Training and Behaviour

Who it’s for

Owners of reactive dogs wanting to use force free training or those with dogs considered "write offs" by others.

What we help with

Reactivity, emotion-led behaviours, aggressive behaviour, fearful & anxious dogs and unique behavioural challenges.

Every plan is tailored to the individual, using effective, force-free methods that prioritise ethical treatment regardless of the intensity of the behaviour.

How our Reactive Dog Training Works

Free Assessment Call

Book a free Assessment call with our fully qualified and accredited Dog Behaviourist Denise Bsc (Hons) CBM, FdSc CBM.

During the Assessment call we will gather more information about your dog and the problems yous are experiencing to help determine the reasons behind your dogs behaviour and what areas we need to work on. We will address the reason, motivation and emotion behind your reactive dogs behaviour to work on the root cause of the behaviour to help improve your dogs wellbeing using only force-free ethical dog training methods.

In-Person Sessions

In-depth consultation at your home to analyse the reason for the reactive dog behaviour and develop a plan tailored to improve your dog's well-being and reduce the reactive behaviour.

During the consultation we cover management to prevent any future incidents and introduce force-free training from the first session addressing your dogs individual issues.

Each session we cover exposure training which aims to reduce the intensity and frequency of the reactive behaviour using force-free training methods to change your dogs emotional response to triggers.

Personalised Reports

Easy to follow Personalised reports following each session covering;

- Management to prevent repetition of unwanted behaviours and improve your dogs wellbeing.

- Behaviour aimed at addressing the underlying emotions and motivations behind your dogs reactivity and what to do in the moment.

- Training to train new alternative behaviours where needed

- Monitoring to ensure reactive behaviour is reducing and set next training goals

dog behaviourist in graduation robe with her two dogs sitting

Ongoing Support

Direct access to our accredited and qualified dog behaviourist to support you every step of the way via email or WhatsApp. You get ongoing support available 24/7 between sessions. Plus weekly check ins to review monitoring and set weekly training goals.

Our behaviour training comes in various packages depending on severity, intensity and frequency of the reactive behaviour.

Struggling with a reactive dog? Secure a free 15-minute phone assessment to discuss a tailored plan. No judgment, just science-backed support

Our Qualifications & Accreditations

Professional Accreditations

  • Member of Pet Professional Guild

  • Member of The Pet Professional Network

  • Student member of APBC working towards Clinical Animal Behaviourist

  • Accredited Detection Dog Handler and Scentwork Instructor through

    the UK College of Scent Dogs

  • Assessor for PAWS Therapy Dog Training

  • Assistance Dog Trainer for Pawsability (Owner Trained Assistance Dogs)

Formal Qualifications

Currently studying Msc in Clinical Animal Behaviour at the University of Edinburgh

Completed Bsc (Hons) Canine Behaviour at Bishop Burton in 2023

Completed FdSc Canine Behaviour and Training at Bishop Burton in 2021

Trusted by local dog owners

Reviews

We’re proud to be recommended by families across Northumberland.

Our reviews reflect our calm approach, clear support, and commitment to dog welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my dog is aggressive towards other dogs or people?

We are fully qualified and experienced in handling aggression cases safely. We will implement strict management protocols to keep everyone safe while we work on changing your dog's underlying emotional response.

How long does Behaviour Modification take?

Behavior change is a process, not a quick fix. The timeline depends on the severity of the issue, frequency of the behaviour, how long the dog has been practicing the behavior, and your consistency with the training plan. We focus on long-term, sustainable results rather than temporary suppression.

Do you use treats in your training session?

Yes! We use positive reinforcement, which often involves high-value food rewards, toys, or praise to motivate your dog. This science-based approach builds a strong, trusting bond and makes learning enjoyable for your dog.

Do I need Vet Referral?

For sudden behavioral changes, we always recommend a vet check first to rule out pain or underlying medical conditions. While a formal referral isn't always strictly necessary, we often work collaboratively with your vet for the best outcome.

Where do the sessions take place?

Initial consultations typically take place in your home, where your dog is most comfortable and where many behavioral issues occur. Subsequent sessions may take place at home, in your local area, or at a secure field depending on what we are working on.

What training approaches do you use?

We exclusively use force-free, science-based training methods. We focus on positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior rather than using physical corrections or punishment.

What does force-free training mean and why does it matter?

Examples of our methods include clicker training to clearly mark good choices, capturing and rewarding desired actions, teaching incompatible alternative behaviors (like 'go to your mat' instead of jumping), and using desensitization and counter-conditioning for anxiety or reactivity. We set the environment up for success and never use shock collars, prong collars, or intimidation tactics.

Force-Free Behaviour Advice Blogs

Dog Lunging on Walks: Understanding and Improving Reactivity Using Force-Free Training

Understand why dogs lunge on walks and how to Improve Reactivity Using Force-Free Training by a qualified dog behaviourist ...more

Common Training Problems ,Reactive Behaviour

May 29, 20264 min read

Dog Lunging on Walks: Understanding and Improving Reactivity Using Force-Free Training

Why Dogs Bark at Other Dogs: Understanding Reactive Behaviour Using Force-Free Training

Dogs can bark at other dogs for many reasons, understanding why your dog barks at other dogs is the first step to understanding your dog ...more

Common Training Problems

May 28, 20263 min read

Why Dogs Bark at Other Dogs: Understanding Reactive Behaviour Using Force-Free Training

Understanding Dog Adolescence: Why Training Suddenly Feels Harder

Adolescence in dogs can be hard when selective hearing can occur, learn why it occurs and how to continue setting your dog up for success during adolescence ...more

Common Training Problems

May 27, 20263 min read

Understanding Dog Adolescence: Why Training Suddenly Feels Harder

Teaching Loose Lead Walking Using Force-Free Training

How to teach loose lead walking using force-free training methods ...more

Common Training Problems

May 26, 20262 min read

Teaching Loose Lead Walking Using Force-Free Training

Toilet Training Your Puppy Using Positive Reinforcement

How to toilet train your puppy using positive reinforcement methods ...more

Puppy Training ,Common Training Problems

May 24, 20262 min read

Toilet Training Your Puppy Using Positive Reinforcement

Impulse Control Games: Luxury Dog Training Guide

Explore force-free impulse control games for dogs, enhancing harmony in canine companionship. ...more

Common Training Problems

May 01, 20268 min read

Impulse Control Games: Luxury Dog Training Guide

Struggling with a reactive dog? Secure a free 15-minute phone assessment to discuss a tailored plan. No judgment, just science-backed support

Force-Free Reactive Dog Training in Morpeth and Northumberland

Fully accredited Force-Free dog behaviourist with Bsc (Hons) Canine Behaviour. Contact us today for Compassionate, science-based behavioral support and start a happier life together

College 4 Canines

07795199208

[email protected]

Kind, professional support for dogs considered "unsuitable" elsewhere. Book your classes or an assessment call today.

College 4 Canines | Phone: +44 7795 199208 | Training Venue: Acklington Village Hall, Acklington, Northumberland, NE65 9BW.

© College4Canines 2026