Hi. I'm Clair
the founder of Mindset Dog Training
I’ve owned large breed dogs since I left home 30 years ago my first being a beautiful yellow Labrador called Simba. He was challenging! He scaled 6ft fences to roam the neighbourhood, he chewed everything he could get his teeth into and seemed to forever be stealing socks to carry around. I took him to training classes taught by trainers using what are classed as ‘traditional’ training methods where we were told to be dominant and use a firm hand. I don’t think I ever really questioned the teaching style as it seemed to work, however I wasn’t comfortable and didn’t see a bond building with my boy, so we didn’t go back after the first couple of classes.
Jumping ahead a fair few years I knew I wanted to do things differently with the dogs I now live with. I knew I wanted us to enjoy a strong bond with each other. I knew I wanted to face and work through the challenges as a team. Above all I knew I wanted us to have FUN together! I discovered Absolute Dogs, Canine Hoopers World and The IMDT and love their ethos of training based on proven, ethical, and science-based teaching methods. All our training methods are about building a bond, trust and respect between you and your dog using food, toys, and affection to grow confidence and strengthen learning. Dogs repeat what works so we look to reward the behaviours we do want.
Dog training is about working with the dog in front of you. There are no rules to dog guardianship but finding the right mindset to how you approach dog training is important from the day you bring your dog home. It is also about being willing to learn, being consistent and ensuring everyone in the house is singing from the same song sheet. Opening ourselves to observing what motivates our dog. Not getting frustrated or annoyed when we don’t get results immediately and acknowledging the little wins. Training must start with the human part of the team!
I know I have made mistakes in my time as a dog guardian. My dogs have taught me a lot about patience, perseverance and trust. I can empathise with your struggles and help you to overcome your challenges by looking at them from a different perspective
