
‘Steve visited us one week ago to help with our newfoundland Ernie. We had been struggling with some of Ernie’s behaviours since we arrived from Australia one year ago, despite having two other trainers in to help. Ernie’s long flight, combined with his first time away from the family, didn’t help with the development of his behaviours. Steve came to address the problems of excited jumping and biting at home, which due to his enormous size (70kg) was problematic. We were also fearing Ernie was becoming aggressive after a few incidents of him lunging and growling at strangers on a walk, as he thought we needed to be protected, which was preventing us taking him out. Steve assured us Ernie was not aggressive, just very excitable. He showed us how being calm, but assertive could influence Ernie, while reinforcing Ernie’s positive behaviour with food rewards. He also advised us of the yellow dog products that make dog jackets to assist in preventing people approaching us on a walk until he becomes used to being around people again. Steve’s sensible, easy to understand techniques have already made a difference in Ernie’s behaviour and reactions. It was a long day, but worth the reward of seeing Ernie less anxious and understanding what we wanted from him and us knowing how to communicate more effectively. I have already recommended Steve to another anxious dog owner, who feels she can’t trust her dog around people. Highly recommend Steve to train owners and their dogs.’