The Thoughtful Dog Trainer
Specialising in walks for dogs requiring behavioural care, management or support
Offering individually tailored dog walks that recognise the unique needs of your dog in Woking and the surrounding areas, The Thoughtful Dog Trainer takes a kind, ethical approach to behaviour management and modification.
About The Founder
The Thoughtful Dog Trainer was set up by Laura, after many years navigating the difficulties of finding dog care professionals for her own dog whilst working full time.
Laura’s aim was to find kind, caring individuals who were empathetic to her dog’s needs, with an understanding of dog behaviour. This was of particular importance owing to her dog’s struggles with some of the situations he encountered on walks.
Expertise
With both academic qualifications in animal behaviour and practical experience working as a behaviour advisor for one of the UK’s leading dog rehoming charities, Laura has significant knowledge of dog behaviour and can keep your dog feeling safe and supported on their walk.
The Thoughtful Dog Trainer aims to provide an individualised walking and care service that meets the needs of dogs who may have additional behavioural needs. Whilst the focus is on solo walks, other care arrangements can be discussed on request.
Services
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Solo Walks
Structured, one-to-one walks designed to maintain your dog’s existing training. Ideal for dogs who have established skills that require ongoing reinforcement or are currently working through a behaviour modification plan. From £20 per hour.
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Training Walks
Specialist, one-to-one walks designed for dogs who need extra behavioural support. The focus is on creating a supportive framework, combining gentle guidance, thoughtful management, and progressive skill building to help your dog feel more confident and secure in the world around them. From £25 per hour.
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Coming Soon
Behaviour consultations on vet referral - virtual and in-person consultations to discuss your dog’s behaviour in detail, a tailored behaviour modification plan, and follow up support.
Who We Are
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Hi, my name is Laura and I run The Thoughtful Dog Trainer. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare from Oxford Brookes University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Animal Behaviour from the University of Edinburgh. I’ve spent the past 7 years working as a behaviour advisor for Dogs Trust, one of the largest dog rehoming charities in the UK. Through my work there, I cared for and supported a wide range of dogs with challenging behaviours, establishing the root cause of their behaviour, and teaching them new skills and better coping strategies to support them in transitioning to their new homes. I always rely on kind, positive reinforcement-based techniques.
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My dog Neville is a 10 year old terrier mix. His fear of being handled at the vet inspired my interest in cooperative care, the idea that animals can be active participants in their care. Teaching dogs skills that allow them agency in veterinary and care contexts is reflective of the principles I apply to all my work, that offering dogs autonomy, choice and control is essential for ethical behaviour management and change.
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I hope that through building a greater awareness of dog body language and behaviour, I can promote a deeper understanding of and empathy for our canine companions. Please explore the site to learn more about the services I offer, and feel free to reach out to discuss your dog’s needs - I look forward to working with you and your dog.