Hello!
I'm Joanne, an experienced dog behaviourist qualified to degree level in dog behaviour & training. with over 15 years of professional experience. As well as being a freelance behaviourist I work for the Scottish SPCA as a Community Animal Behaviourist and previously worked for Dogs Trust for two years on the Behaviour Support Helpline. I am alsoan associate member of the APBC and am pre-certified as a clinical animal behaviourist.
SEPT 2025 - currently unavailable for new clients due to workload.
WHY CHOOSE ME?
JV Dog Behaviour covers the Edinburgh area as well as the Lothians, Lanarkshire, the Borders and Fife. All of our services use gentle reward based methods backed up by science. We are firm believers that there is no need for force or pain in changing behaviour. Everything we do will strengthen your relationship with your dog and we know that happy dogs make happy owners!
So what makes us different? Joanne has a Bachelors degree in Animal Care plus a Foundation degree in Canine Behaviour and Training as well as over 20 years of experience when it comes to working with animals including 10 years as a behaviourist and trainer.. We believe that dog training and behaviour services should be affordable hence why we do not set prices to match others, we do what we think is right and quite often that makes us cheaper!
My Ethos & Methods
All animals (including dogs) have their own individual personalities and backgrounds and they all deserve to be treated with empathy and a full understanding of dog behaviour based on their genetics, breed traits, early learning experiences and any trauma suffered.
As a qualified behaviourist I only use scientifically proven methods which are kind and ethical. This does not mean simply using food rewards and ignoring bad behaviour. I also teach you how to implement boundaries and how to create consequences for unwanted behaviour but without any confrontation, pain or fear. I also show you how to build trust with your dog and support them with any fears they have. My methods give you the tools to use on a day to day basis in real life situations.
Let's Get Started
Get the ball rolling (no pun intended!) by dropping me a message. I'll ask some questions and get you a booked in for a visit. This is usually within two weeks.
While we wait I will get you to complete a background information form. For behaviour issues this gives me a head start on developing a full understanding of the problem and how we can then help. I will usually also get you to complete a vet referral form as there is a close link between behaviour and medical issues.
Most visits take place in the home environment. For some behaviour issues we will also work where the unwanted behaviour occurs, this is may be on a walk.
