ENJOYABLE and REWARDING Dog Training
Support with dog training and behaviour struggles for a happier dog, a happier you and long term, lasting success.
Proudly positive, force free dog training and behaviour support
Taking a compassionate approach to behaviour change, supporting you as the guardian, as well as your dog, to lead happier and more fulfilling lives together is what it’s all about at Paws & Minds.
Offering a range of services from first steps into puppy classes, through to fully individualised training packages and behaviour programs the approach is the same.
Enabling you to feel confident and capable of working through any training challenges you face.
Frustrated by your dog pulling on lead or not returning when called, no matter what you try?
Worried about your dog seeming aggressive towards other dogs or people?
Has your dog stopped listening or forgotten everything you’ve previously trained?
Bringing a new puppy or rescue dog home and you’re not quite sure where to start?
Puppy blues? Puppy nipping, chewing, or jumping up driving you crazy?
Tried all the different training approaches suggested online and still not getting the results you want?
All training Paws & Minds provides is centred around your dog’s needs.
Individual training starts by considering the complete picture; health, general well-being, daily routine, and your dog’s preferences for food, play and interaction too, as all have a role in behaviour choice.
Training is tailored to work with both you and your dog, building skills at a comfortable pace, not forcing a behaviour your dog doesn’t understand, isn’t comfortable with, or can’t do yet.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t any rules and boundaries. They are created through management of the environment, guidance and clear communication.
My approach is low-pressure and supportive, and I’m always happy to explain what I’m asking you to do and why. Training is designed to be enjoyable and rewarding for both you and your dog, providing the support you need for long term, lasting success.
You can be assured all training classes and workshops follow the same ethos too.
Probably the best dog trainer out there!
“We decided to approach Tara almost at the point of desperation (maybe a bit dramatic but true!). We have had our Labrador, Oban, from a puppy. … at 4 years old, he is immensely strong and going for a walk had become an endurance test, particularly for me.
Not really sure what to do, we contacted Tara for an initial session to see what options we had, and to be honest to see if we could work alongside Tara. Ultimately the best call we made.
Tara has worked with us now for several months, helping us to understand how to support and guide our canine family member. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s the dog that just needs the training. I discovered I needed to change and work on many of my own behaviours too….
Tara takes time to explain different things to work on and … if one thing doesn’t quite ‘fit’ for us, then Tara will have something else to try. … Our sessions are always followed up by a call generally a week later, to see how we are getting on and is a good chance to get some more tips.
We are thoroughly enjoying working with Tara and would certainly recommend her for her knowledge, her never ending support and her obvious love of dogs. Our journey will be a long one, but we made the right choice to make that journey with Tara.”
– Karen and Oban
How can I support you today?
Transform your dog’s behaviour and unlock true understanding with programmes for every life stage. Forget regimented obedience training and choose forward thinking dog training that delivers real life results.
PUPPY TRAINING
Individualised support tailored to meet your growing puppy’s needs.
Supporting you with your puppy from the start,
Services include: Pre Arrival & New Puppy In-Home Consultation, 1:1 Puppy Packages, and Puppy Life Skills Class.
Giving you the confidence and skills to lead a fulfilling and happy life together.
DOG TRAINING & BEHAVIOUR
Fully supported training and behaviour change packages designed around you and your dog’s needs.
Training at your home where your dog is most comfortable, in your local area, and at Paws & Minds’ secure training field for extra peace of mind.
Focus on one or more training struggles, and to tackle those more challenging behaviours like lunging and barking, and guarding.
Bespoke options for any dog, of any age, and any breed, with long lasting results.
Dog training and behaviour in
Carlisle, Dumfries, Brampton, Langholm, Annan, Moffat, Lockerbie, Newcastleton
Based in Dumfriesshire I am happy to travel to North Cumbria, West Northumberland and the Scottish Borders.
DOG TRAINING CLASSES
Join our Life Skills Class to learn the key skills to support your dog’s training and development. From practical everyday skills, through to understanding canine body language and more.
Classes suitable for dogs from 5 months, with no upper age limit.
Training with your dog doesn’t have to stop at the end of traditional skills classes. A variety of activity classes are on offer to take your learning further. Build on skills, teamwork and have fun with your dog.
Located between Canonbie and Chapelknowe.
WORKSHOPS
Unleash your dog’s potential with our skills development, ‘have a go’, and dog sports workshops.
There’s something for everyone, including ‘Kids and Dogs’, and if your dog is reactive try our ‘Reactivity Reframed’ workshop. It’s for humans only; a safe space to develop your knowledge and practical skills, with follow-on options.
Located between Canonbie and Chapelknowe, and other local venues.
Hi, I’m Tara
At Paws & Minds, I’m dedicated to helping dogs and their guardians work through training and behaviour challenges with kindness, compassion, and ethical methods.
I believe that force, fear, or intimidation have no place in shaping behaviour. Instead, I focus on understanding, empathy, and a deep knowledge of dog learning theory and body language. Founded in 2022, my goal is to support both dogs and their humans, especially those who may feel lost or unsure about the path forward.
With a certification from the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, I combine both analytical and holistic approaches to create lasting success for every dog and their guardian.
Ready to learn more about how I can help?
Professional, friendly and empathetic
“Paws and Minds was recommended to me by another pet professional, which gave me confidence that I was going to be speaking to someone who may be able to help me with my dog reactive dog.
When I made the initial contact I was apprehensive, but Tara soon put me at my ease. It really helped that she had a reactive dog herself and was able to share some of her struggles. I knew that she could empathise and that we would be on the same page moving forward.
After our initial chat, I attended a Reactive Dog Workshop and met Tara. After that I booked some sessions to work with her, with a view to making my dog more comfortable around other dogs. I was very pleased that there were payment options and that it was possible to book several sessions at once, giving a feeling of continuity.
Tara came to my home to meet my dog, which was very useful as previously I had to travel long distances to try and find help from a trainer. After our first session Tara provided feedback and a plan and was available for any questions or queries via Whatsapp, which was also very useful for those quick ‘Am I doing this right?’ moments…
I would thoroughly recommend working with Tara if you have any dog training issues. She also runs classes for dogs that are comfortable around others. If you choose to work with her, you will be in professional, friendly and empathetic hands.”
– Lorraine & Fergus
Stay In Touch!
Sign up to the Paws and Minds email list to hear more about how I can help you and your dog, and to get all the latest updates about:
* Group Class start dates
* Upcoming Workshops & Events
* Individual Training and Behaviour support options
* News and special offers
FAQ’s
What area do you cover?
Do you offer in-home training?
Individual training will start off at your home. It’s the place where your dog will feel most comfortable, confident, and be least distracted.
Making it the best learning location for starting to work on new skills.
Are there any age or breed restrictions for training and behaviour work?
How will I know if classes or individual training will work best for my dog?
When you enquire about any services I will ask about your dog’s training needs and your preferences.
I’ll provide information and advice, and answer any questions to help you decide between classes and individual training.
Can I talk with you before I book any training packages?
The call is an opportunity for you to tell me about your puppy or dog, and what you’d like some support with.
I’ll offer you initial advice that you can implement straight away, and explain how the individual training and behaviour services work.
All contact details are on the CONTACT PAGE.
What methods do you use for training and behaviour work?
I will never use fear, intimidation or pain as a means to change behaviour choice.
