Helping anxious, reactive and aggressive dogs become calmer and cope better - using kind, science-based methods.

If your dog's behaviour is making everyday life stressful, I'll help you understand why it's happening and give you a practical plan that works in the real world.

Why choose JV Dog Behaviour?

✔ Degree-qualified Clinical Animal Behaviourist

✔ Regional Animal Behaviourist for the Scottish SPCA

✔ Former Dogs Trust Behaviour Support Helpline Officer

✔ 15+ years professional experience

✔ Ethical, science-based methods

Is your dog...

Barking or lunging at other dogs?
Growling around food or toys?
Nervous of visitors?
Struggling when left alone?
Frightened of noises?
Difficult to handle at the vets or groomers?
Unable to relax at home or on walks?

JV Dog Behaviour covers the Edinburgh area as well as the Lothians, Lanarkshire, the Borders and Fife. All services use gentle reward-based methods backed up by science. I firmly believe that there is no need for force or pain when changing behaviour. Everything I suggest will strengthen your relationship with your dog.

My Ethos & Methods

I have a Bachelor's degree in Animal Care plus a Foundation degree in Canine Behaviour and Training. I also have over 25 years of experience when it comes to working with animals, including 15 years specialising as a behaviourist and trainer.

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 clinical animal behaviourist I only use evidence based methods. Kind, science-based behaviour support is not about simply handing out treats or ignoring challenges. It is about understanding why a behaviour is happening, teaching your dog alternative ways to respond, and creating clear, consistent guidance that helps them succeed. My methods give you the tools to use on a day to day basis in real life situations.

Let's Get Started

Getting started is simple. Send me a message and I'll ask a few questions about your dog before arranging your consultation. Most appointments are booked 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 I can 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Issues Can You Help With?

I work with dogs and owners who are having trouble with fear or aggression issues, resource guarding, reactivity, excessive barking, high prey drives, chewing/destructive behaviours or grooming/handling issues.

How Fast Can I See Results?

It depends. There is no magic fix when it comes to dog behaviour issues. Bad habits take time to change and if a behaviour issues stems from fear then it takes careful management and lots of repetition for the brain to form new positive associations that are long lasting. Anyone who promises quick fixes is to be avoided!

Having said that you can very often see changes quickly with simple changes. A good understanding and consistency are key. Long lasting behaviour changes should be quiet, slow paced and actually rather dull... There is no magic wand for changing behaviour despite what you see on TV.

Can You Train My Dog For Me?

My job is to help you gain a better understanding of your dog and advising of changes in how you interact with, or manage your dog. I coach you through any practical techniques required to ensure you have good timing and know how and when to 'train'. I may demonstrate with your dog to get things started but it is up to you to continue the work in order to see results. My behaviour advice is tailored to your dog's needs as well as your daily routine and lifestyle. I'm always on hand to provide follow up advice where needed.

Can You Guarantee That You Can Solve The Problem?

Unfortunately, no. Nobody can guarantee anything when it comes to a dog's behaviour because they are not robots. You should be very wary of anyone who guarantees anything of the sort.

The outcome of the situation depends on several things: my assessment of the issue and advice, your willing participation implementing the advice and lastly, your dog's response. There is no guarantee of being able to 'fix' a problem, some dogs have extensive fears and complex issues that cannot be fully remedied and will require lifelong management. Particularly where traumatic events have taken place and when there are health issues involved.

What I CAN guarantee is that I will use my extensive experience, skills and passion to gain a full picture of the issues and develop a personalised plan based on modern scientific understanding, using ethical methods to help you to achieve the outcome that you want.

What Client's Say:

'I can only say thank you, I was desperate following an incident and thought I would have no choice but to have him PTS, thanks to the kind support I received I now know there is hope.'

'She listened to my concerns, she explained to me why my dog is behaving in this way and gave me excellent advice for dealing with the situations to prevent or to minimise Mabel's stress......and mine!'

' Following the advice I have already seen an improvement in the dog’s behaviour and am confident in what I need to do going forward. '