COMPASSIONATE Dog Training & Behaviour Transformation.

Overcome your dog training and behaviour challenges for a happier dog and happier you.

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dog training and behaviour Carlisle, Dumfries, Brampton, Langholm, Annan, Moffat, Lockerbie, Newcastleton

You and your dog are in the right place

At Paws & Minds, the focus is on a kind and compassionate approach to behaviour change, supporting both you and your dog to lead happier and more fulfilling lives together.

Individually tailored training packages to meet your dog’s training needs. Assistance with a range of training and behaviour challenges is available. Work with me on a 1:1 basis at and near to your home, or at Paws & Minds’ secure training field near Chapelknowe, DG14.

Local dog training sessions
dog training Dumfriesshire, North Cumbria, West Northumberland and the Scottish Borders.

At Paws & Minds, the focus is always on both ends of the lead, mindset as well as practical skills.

Kindness, compassion, empathy, and without judgment are cornerstones of all training and behaviour assistance.

Packages offer fully tailored support for both your dog and you. Sharing expertise to assist you, explaining why the behaviour is happening and how you can effect the changes you’d like to see. I welcome working with guardians who feel they have lost confidence in their dog’s behaviour choices.

My approach is always low-pressure, working at your dog’s pace and yours. Previous teaching and mentoring experience ensures comprehensive communication, effective delivery, and follow-up support throughout. Questions are always welcome.

As an IMDT-qualified and approved dog trainer, you can be assured all advice and methods are kind and ethical and that my knowledge remains current through continuing professional development.

dog training Dumfriesshire, North Cumbria, West Northumberland and the Scottish Borders.

Dog training 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.

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things have improved dramatically

I have recently been working with Tara with my dog Lola. Unfortunately Lola is very reactive to loud bangs, which caused issues walking.

Tara was very knowledgeable and gave me a few things to try. We are still early in our journey but things have improved dramatically already.

I would highly recommend speaking and working with Tara if you are struggling with your dog.

Thanks again, Yasmin.

– Yasmin & Lola

Behaviours I can help you with

Training and behaviour I can help with includes;

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Reactivity

An over response to people / dogs / noises / traffic. Can often be expressed as; barking and lunging, pulling to get access, cowering, hiding or wanting to run away.

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Resource guarding

Not wanting to give up items, stealing and running away with them, growling and baring teeth if approached when in a space, near a person, food or an item. ​
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Biting or bite risk

Significant concern that your dog will break skin with their teeth on a person, dog or other animal, or already has. Bites happen for many reasons, it’s important to understand what happened and why.
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Multi-dog household issues

Having more than one dog in a household can result in a wide range of associated challenges depending on each individual dog and how they influence any others.
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Unreliable recall

Your dog is great at coming back to you as long as there aren’t other: dogs, people, wildlife, interesting smells…
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Pulling on lead

There are many reasons a dog will pull on lead, not simply to get ahead or to a new smell.
solving your dog behaviour problems
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Jumping up

Young, old, small and larger dogs can often jump up, it’s a common behaviour for dogs to do. Understanding why is part of the solution.
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Excessive barking

Barking is a dog’s natural way of communicating, but lots of barking isn’t. It’s usually a sign that there’s something bothering your dog.

Individually tailored training packages to address these and many more training and behaviour challenges.
Support is just a call or email away.

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Thank you so much for improving my relationship with my dog

I asked Tara to come and help me at home with my Labrador Holly. So pleased I did, Tara has helped us both to go forward with training together. We looked forward to our lessons which were well spaced to let us practice.

Tara is very patient, and helped me with questions I had, and lots of information to help us along.

Thank you so much for improving my relationship with my dog.

– Louise & Holly

Your journey with Paws and Minds

Paws & Minds offers an Initial Consultation and personalised packages with a choice of 3, 5, or 8 training sessions.

Each tailored service is structured and flexible to accommodate both your and your dog’s needs. Plans include practical advice and know-how, training tailored to your individual preferences, and are packed with knowledge to support you on your dog’s training journey.

You have options to work in-person at your home, in your local area, or at the Paws & Minds secure training field.

After each training session, you will receive a detailed recap. All packages also include a follow-up call after each session, and provide continuous support through WhatsApp, helping you to stay on track and ask any questions you have.

Book an initial Calendly call

Schedule a free initial call, lasting up to 30 minutes. Talk with me about your dog and what’s going on. I’ll offer you advice that you can action straight away.

Receive an email recap of our initial call

You’ll receive an email to remind you of the advice we talked through, details of the services I offer, and how to book.

Book your first training/behaviour session

Morning, afternoon and early evening sessions are available. Choose a day and time to suit your schedule (subject to availability).

Before your initial training or behaviour session

To help you feel prepared, you’ll receive information about what to have ready for your dog, and a process for when I arrive for your first booking.
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FAQ’s

Do you offer single sessions or packages only?
I offer an Initial Consultation as an extended single session. If you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, or you’d prefer to find out how I work before committing to a training package this could be a good option for you.
What support do you offer as part of your training packages?

Each of the training options include a written recap of the training session, a follow-up call and support via WhatsApp between sessions.

Do you offer payment plans?
There are options to split the cost of any of the package services I offer. Initial Consultation is a single payment.
Do you work with dogs who are nervous, fearful or aggressive?
I know it can be worrying, and stressful when your dog shows these kinds of behaviours. I’m passionate about supporting both you and your dog to find a more positive way to experience your life together.
How do I get started on a training package?
Book your initial call via the Calendly link. We’ll have a chat to discuss your requirements, and when you’d like to get started.
How will I know this will work for me?
All trainers and behaviour practitioners are individuals, with their own approach to teaching. From our call you should have an idea if you think we could work together, and I’m always happy to answer any further questions you have before you decide to work with me.
How many sessions will I need to book?
The package outlines give an indication of the type of training or behaviour work they are applicable for, and the level of detail that may be possible with each service type.
Can you guarantee results at the end?
No one can genuinely guarantee results. There are many factors that are involved in training and behaviour change. What I can say for sure is that you will have a clearer understanding of your dog, and a plan to work on to continue supporting behaviour change in a kind and positive way.
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now able to go out walking with greater confidence

We approached Tara when our dog’s reactivity was becoming a problem.

Dogs, bicycles, runners and wildlife were all causing a lot of stress for Hettie. Tara listened to our issues and set about improving the situation for both dog and humans at a pace we were comfortable with.

Her calm and logical approach helped us to understand how we could support Hettie. She taught us a variety of techniques to use when out and about and took time to make sure we understood how to deal with different scenarios.

We are now able to go out walking with greater confidence and can see a huge change in Hettie’s demeanour.

– Lorinda & Hettie

Paws & Minds’ Secure Training Field

fun dog workshops

From November 2024 there will be options to run training sessions at Paws & Minds’ Secure Training Field.

Situated near Chapelknowe, DG14 0XU, the site extends to an acre and a half, with 1.8 meter high fencing all round, including the car parking area.

Split into three secure training spaces, the area offers the opportunity to work, fully supported, on your dog’s skills in a controlled environment.

enquire about dog training
fun dog workshops

Whether you need help with a new puppy, behaviour challenges, or want to build your dog’s skills, Paws and Minds compassionate, effective approach is designed to bring lasting results.

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