Sarah Hawkins IMDT

Hi, I am Sarah 20 years ago I was chosen by a Rhodesian Ridgeback called Archie who was 6 years old and looking for a new home. Very little was known about his history at the rescue centre, so I had to learn to understand Archies likes and dislikes and how to help him manage any anxiousness or fear build his trust.

And so began my journey of learning how to help him overcome his fear of men and to be less reactive to things that moved away when he lunged or barked at them, such as motorbikes, cars, bicycles!

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I worked with a dog trainer and behaviourist as I felt this was the best route to help me understand how to work on Archies behaviours, she showed me how using positive rewards when Archie did something well, would help Archie become less fearful and reactive.

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With a lot of patience and consistency, love for each other my doggy soul mate became less reactive and fearful and he lived a happier life until he was 14!

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Since then, having got used to a large breeds I rescued an American Bulldog, Davey who was the softest, big hearted dog I have had the pleasure of owning (this was demonstrated with his relationship with my 3 year old nephew who lived with us for a while – a bond that remains as strong today as it was then!)

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However, due to his strength and reactiveness to other dogs and some hoomans,  Davey presented different challenges that encouraged me to learn more about this misunderstood breed.

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Next, I wanted to have the challenge of working with two dogs so now have Poppy & Manu brother and sister who have 5 different breeds including 3 terrier types in their DNA which has tested my skills as a trainer and owner!  Poppy had no concept of loose lead – she was  always first in the race, keen to find out what was round the corner just in case a squirrel was there!

Now when out and about, receiving comments from fellow dog walkers on her improvement is one of the most rewarding things to happen.

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I realised that I wanted to share my experience and learnings with others so qualified as a dog trainer with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers

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My approach is to work with you to make sure your training plan fits your lifestyle and is tailored to what you need. With practical and flexible programs, group classes or personal 121's we’re here to be your one and only source for quality dog training.