Claire

Claire came into the industry from a hands-on practical approach. She first became interested in training dogs once she became the owner of an over excited Labrador, she attended training classes, and her passion grew from there. Claire has now worked in this industry for many years, working, assisting and shadowing other trainers.  Claire has worked with a variety of breeds, ages and abilities, she is a firm believer that every dog (and owner) are different and you should train the dog in front of you.  Claire uses the most up to date reward based methods and believes in taking the dogs emotions into account and teaching them what is needed to fit into everyday life.  She believes that relationship, bond and play is what is needed to achieve a happy, well-balanced dog.

Claire has a particular interest in reactivity due to owning and working through this personally with her own dog Phoenix (GSD) who sadly passed away May 2022. She enjoys working alongside owners and guiding them to get the best out of their reactive dog and ways to manage that behaviour.  Claire also has a passion in scent work for pet dogs and runs absolute canine's AC Scent-Dogs. She is a bronze UK sniffer dog instructor and a WSDA instructor. Claire believes the power of the nose is not utilised enough and is a firm believer that it can help with in a lot of reactivity cases.  It is a great way to build a positive relationship with your dog. 

Claire has studied all aspects of learning theory and behaviour; she also holds an NVQ in business. Claire is always trying to expand her knowledge, reading, studying and attending seminars including:

• The school of canine science - 3-year behaviour bible Level 6 (currently studying)
• WSDA Instructor with the school of canine science 
• UK Sniffer dog bronze instructor 
• The school of canine science - Behaviourism 101, the art of consultation, the science of scent 
• Rachel Jackson - proprioceptive awareness for canines 
• Cani-fit one day leader's course
• Nando Brown & Jo-Rosie Haffenden - The science or predation and drive, 2-day course
• Certificate in canine first aid 
• 2-day shadowing with a VSDT approved trainer 
• Ian Dunbar - 1 day dog behaviour
• Kim Hunt - 2-day agility, training for trainers' level 1 
• Grisha Stewart - 2-day seminar on BAT for aggressive, frustrated and fearful dogs
• IMDT - aggression and rehabilitation
• IMDT - puppy development and handling

Claire lives at home with her husband, 2 teenage daughters and 2 dogs - Belle (Labrador) and Nya (GSD).

Meet Belle, the heart and soul of Absolute Canine Harmony

Belle is my beautiful nearly 14-year-old Labrador Retriever, and if I had to sum her up in just a few words, she is truly the most sociable, loving, and carefree soul you’ll ever meet. She has been my best friend through thick and thin, always there to offer a wag and a cuddle when I’ve needed it most.

Belle has played a key role in helping us with our dog-to-dog reactivity cases. Her kind and gentle nature means she holds no grudges. She simply carries on with grace, which is why so many dogs have benefited from being in her presence during training sessions.

Belle’s wisdom and patience make her a true teacher, not just to the dogs she helps, but to me as well. She has shown me the power of calm confidence and the importance of kindness in every interaction. Whether she’s gently encouraging a nervous dog to trust again or simply resting by my side after a long day, Belle represents everything I aim for in my work—patience, harmony, and love.

Despite her age, she still loves a leisurely stroll in the park and enjoys scent work. She loves following trails and especially sniffing out all the treats. Belle is more than just my dog; she’s my rock, and I honestly can’t imagine life without her.