Frequently Asked Questions

Do you only work with dachshunds?

No, I work with all breeds, however due to extensive experience within the breed I specialise and focus on dachshunds. I also work closely with smaller breeds.

What does Perfectly Polite Dachshunds do differently than others in your field?

How can you help me if you are online?

Like many others, over lockdown I transitioned online. I then found this actually empowered owners. Being online meant you guys know from the start that you are responsible for making changes. However I also know how important that ongoing support is. I ensure I am available to support you remotely after each zoom. Being online means I am not putting your dogs under additional stress or pressure and we can build things from scratch in a situation they feel comfortable with rather than trying to combat the conflict they may feel with my presence. Whilst I love face to face sessions, I have found my approach is very successful in helping you and your dogs reach your goals in low pressure and positive way.

My personal, academic and professional experience of the breed gives me extensive knowledge. I offer a holistic, and adaptive approach to all the dogs I meet. I am respected amongst the dachshund community and offer support to all that work with dachshunds.

I have written numerous blogs for the Dachshund Breed Council, support numerous breeders as their behavioural support, and am a trustee with Dachshund health. I get hugely invested in the dogs, I love helping everyone achieve their goals and am passionate about what I do.

However, what sets me apart, is I am humble. I do not claim to know it all, I am always learning and I value my clients view on what is happening with their dogs.

What is your training methodology?

I encourage owners to see things from a different perspective and from the dog's perspective. If owners can understand what is happening they are more likely to react effectively. I encourage fun training and positivity- if its fun, the owners will continue with their training, and if its fun, the dog will enjoy the training.
I do not believe in nagging, chastising and constant negativity - its not healthy or helpful for anyone! A happy owner means a happy dachshund!

Do I work with other companies and trainers

I am frequently asked to share or affiliate with other businesses. Whilst I love collaborating with other businesses on an ad hoc basis, I will not recommend products I would not use myself. I do not exclusively affiliate with other companies as I feel strongly that my good reputation is based on my honesty and independence. I also will only recommend companies who's ethical standards reflect my own. I always put the interests of the dogs before any business decisions and I do worry that affiliations with companies would interfere with this.

I love working with other trainers and behaviourists and do so frequently. I will always recommend someone I have worked with who's ethics reflect my own. Working with others is incredibly important and helps to ensure owners get the best support possible.