Dog Trainer Expert Answers Your FAQs
Looking for clear, reliable guidance from a dog trainer expert? This page answers the most common questions dog owners have about training, behaviour, and what to expect from working with a professional. Whether you are starting with a puppy or dealing with more complex challenges, you will find honest, practical answers to help you move forward with confidence.
What type of training do you use?
At Carrie’s Canines and Friends, we use reward-based dog training methods that focus on building trust, confidence, and long-term behaviour change.
This means:
- We teach dogs what to do, rather than punishing unwanted behaviour
- We focus on understanding the root cause of behaviour
- We support both the dog and the owner throughout the process
Our approach looks at the whole dog, including their environment, emotions, and daily routine, not just the behaviour you see.
Learn more about our approach to our Dog Training Services
Is your training reward-based?
Yes, all of our training is fully reward-based and force-free.
We use:
- Food rewards
- Play and engagement
- Positive reinforcement techniques
This approach is recommended by leading organisations such as the Pet Professional Guild and aligns with modern, ethical training standards.
It helps dogs feel safe, learn faster, and build a stronger bond with their owner.
How long will it take to see results?
Most clients start to see positive changes within the first few sessions, but the exact timeframe depends on:
- The dog’s age and breed
- The specific behaviour issue
- Consistency at home
- The dog’s history and environment
Because every dog is different, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Our focus is on lasting results, not quick fixes.
How long does the training programme last?
Most of our core programmes run for 8 weeks.
This allows time to:
- Build strong foundations
- Practice real-life scenarios
- Create lasting behavioural change
Each programme is structured and tailored to your dog and your lifestyle.
View our Puppy Training or 1:1 Dog Training
What happens after the initial training period?
After completing your programme, you have the option to continue with a maintenance training programme.
This is ideal if you:
- Want ongoing support
- Need help with new challenges
- Want to continue improving your dog’s behaviour
Maintenance support can continue for as long as you feel you need it, giving you long-term confidence and guidance.
What types of behavioural issues do you help with?
We help with a wide range of common dog behaviour problems, including:
- Recall issues
- Lead pulling
- Reactivity to dogs or people
- Barking at home or on walks
- Separation anxiety
- Nervous or anxious behaviour
- Puppy training issues such as biting, toileting, and crate training
Do you offer separation anxiety training in Coventry and online?
Yes, we offer separation anxiety support both locally and across the UK via Zoom.
This includes:
- 1:1 coaching sessions
- Structured behaviour plans
- Ongoing support between sessions
Our online service allows us to help dog owners nationwide, not just in Coventry and Leamington Spa.
Explore our Separation Anxiety Programme
What areas do you cover?
We primarily offer dog training in Coventry, as well as:
- Leamington Spa
- Kenilworth
- Surrounding local areas
For separation anxiety support, we work with clients across the UK via Zoom.
What makes Carrie’s Canines and Friends different from other dog trainers?
We focus on high-end, personalised 1:1 training programmes, not one-off sessions.
What sets us apart:
- Tailored training plans for every dog
- Focus on long-term results, not quick fixes
- Support for both dog and owner
- Structured programmes with clear progress tracking
- Ongoing maintenance support
Carrie is also:
- IABTC accredited
- A Pet Professional Guild member
- Recognised as one of the top dog trainers in Coventry for multiple years
This ensures you receive trusted, professional guidance you can rely on.
How do I get started with dog training?
Getting started is simple:
- Get in touch via our contact page
- We’ll discuss your dog and your goals
- Book your initial consultation
- Start your tailored training programme
Do you offer training for specific breeds like cocker spaniels or cockapoos?
Yes, we specialise in breed-specific training, particularly for:
- Cocker spaniels
- Springer spaniels
- Cockapoos
- Cavapoos
- Sproodles and other poodle crosses
Each breed has different needs, so we tailor training to suit their natural instincts, energy levels, and behaviour patterns.
Is it too late to train my dog?
No, it is never too late to train your dog.
We regularly work with:
- Older dogs
- Rescue dogs
- Dogs with long-standing behaviour issues
Dogs are always capable of learning when the right approach is used. The key is understanding why the behaviour is happening and creating a plan that supports
both the dog and the owner.
While younger dogs may learn faster, older dogs can still make excellent progress with the right guidance and consistency.
Can you help with aggressive or reactive dogs?
Yes, we provide specialist behaviour support for reactive and anxious dogs.
This includes dogs who:
- Bark or lunge at people or other dogs
- Feel overwhelmed or fearful
- Struggle to stay calm on walks
- React at home to visitors or noises
Our approach focuses on:
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Building confidence
- Teaching alternative behaviours
- Supporting owners step by step
We do not use punishment-based methods. Instead, we focus on safe, structured behaviour change that improves your dog’s emotional wellbeing.
Still Have Questions?
If you are looking for help with your dog’s training or behaviour, I am here to support you.
Contact me today to discuss your dog and find the right training programme for you.
Call: +44 2476 932110
Email: info@carriescanines.co.uk
Local Areas Covered
Coventry, Kenilworth, Leamington Spa, Balsall Common, Berkswell, Ryton on Dunsmore, Stoneleigh, Cubbington, Bagington, Burton Green, Tile Hill, Eastern Green, Mount Nod, Allesley, Edgewick, Earlsdon, Keresley, Holbrooks, Ash Green, Neal’s Green, Exhall, Longford, Ansty, Shilton, Bell Green, Walsgrave, Binley, Whitley, Finham, Bedworth.