Hello, I'm Rachel
I'm the owner of Prim & Proper Academy for Dogs.
I'm a qualified dog trainer, advanced behaviourist and professional dog groomer. I've lived with and loved animals all my life and currently share my life with three fantastic labradors. They are my constant companions and a source of inspiration, each with their own distinct personality and quirks, reminding me daily of the joy and challenges of canine companionship.
I have a background in the NHS, working in occupational and physiotherapy before later working in the community as a renal technician, providing patients with dialysis at home. I've always worked with people to give them a better life. I'm warm and friendly, with heaps of patience and a true desire to help.
About me
My training philosophy revolves around positive reinforcement, patience and a deep understanding of the individual needs of the dog. I have many years of experience having had the opportunity to work with dogs of different breeds, sizes and temperaments - from puppies starting out on their training journey to behavioural challenges.
My aim is to help dog owners get their training right first time and help them correct any unpredictable behaviours that occur during their dog's development. I offer advice that is effective and realistic. My clientele are those who want to work with their dog to understand their behaviour and truly address the deeper issues. This means that I won't promise you an overnight fix for 90% of problems because they don't exist without masking the problem.
People are often unprepared for what is required to develop a well-mannered, obedient dog, and even when you get everything right, circumstances beyond your control can give rise to challenges. I can teach key skills, provide assistance and advice to enable you to correct any issues you are having and help your dogs become well-mannered members of your family.
Dog training is a bit like weight loss - quick fixes and fads may appear to work initially but eventually, the problems re-emerge, they just aren't sustainable and are arguably unethical. Instead, if you follow a goal and work on changing habits, you'll get results long-term. I believe in rewarding dogs for good behaviour and the need for boundaries.
I live in Lichfield and am lucky to have an acre of ground I can dedicate to using as a safe training space for on-and-off lead activities, group work or one-to-one training sessions, along with a fab grooming barn to accommodate you and your dogs. If you want to train in a beautiful location, with a lot of laughs and a lot of growth and learning, get in touch for a free chat to find out more.
Qualifications
I am an Advanced Canine Behaviorist certified by the British College of Canine Studies, an IMDT & PTDI Dog Training Instructor, and a Level 3 OCN Professional Dog Groomer. Backed by full insurance coverage, an enhanced DBS check and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning, I consistently expand my knowledge to ensure the highest quality care for both you and your dog.
Meet the Prim & Proper dogs
Prim, who I named my business after and my first real training experience, definitely gave me a passion for anything dog. I initially trained her to work as a gun dog just as a hobby and for the pure joy it gave us both, watching her do what she was bred to do. She definitely changed my life, gave me the want to train, everything was effortless for Prim and she became a fabulous working dog pet and my best friend.
Berry became a therapy dog as she didn't share the same passion and drive to retrieve as Prim. She is very gentle-natured, calm and biddable, so made a fabulous therapy dog. Berry has visited nursing homes, schools, care centres and special educational needs schools, providing support, comfort and affection using her social instincts and helping to improve human health and wellbeing. You can often see Berry assisting in training sessions with reactive dogs.
Marcey was last to the gang but certainly not least and was a baptism of fire! From very early on I noticed that she was very different to the other Labradors, displaying anxious and nervous behaviours - she even used to hide from the dog treat tin! Marcey had such high energy, she was always on the move, displaying hyperactivity. Training was intense for both myself and Marcey yet so rewarding when I could see her begin to be more accepting in certain situations and her trust in me grew. She gave me the desire to become a behaviourist, realising that no dog is the same and training methods need to be adapted accordingly. She is both endearing and demanding - my partner daily in helping me assist other dogs and their owners overcome training needs or unwanted behaviours.
Get in touch
If you wish to discuss your dog, any problems or needs, to find out which service is right for you, or just get a feel for who I am and how I work, get in touch through the contact form to book a free, no-obligation telephone consultation.
07794 263596
Certifications
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