The science of calm

Dogs with big feelings such as over-excitement, frustration, fear or anxiety, struggle in unpredictable situations and become reactive.

This is typically lunging, jumping, growling and barking. This is an emotional response to something in the environment that triggers them, and unfortunately, we can’t command them not to feel this way, with obedience training.

The By Your Side Dog Training Difference local qualifed dog training in Southern Highlands

Shona Seymour Southern Highlands Dog and Puppy Trainer

Traditional behaviour modification protocols rely on instructing your dog what to do and, rewarding behaviours you have decided ‘you’ would prefer.

Which sounds perfect in theory, but it doesn’t get to the root of the problem for your dog and therefore it doesn’t ‘fix’ the problem and sometimes it can make it worse.

I use a unique science-based method developed by trainer, Leslie McDevitt, called Control Unleashed. Leslie has written three books Control Unleashed, Control Unleased, the Puppy Program and Control Unleashed, Reactive to Relaxed available on Amazon.

Game changing results

You don’t need high level skills for this method to be effective, but the results are game changing. You will discover that you feel calmer and understand your dog more than you’ve ever understood a dog before.

You will feel more in control and unconventionally, your dog will feel more confident, calmer and in control.

You’ll flip those unpredictable, ugly and messy situations, those scary moments; to calm, practised, confident strategies where you are both in control, and ultimately you will become..

The Dream Team!

High level support, for every step of the journey

I’ve been where you are, and I’ve walked in your shoes.

I’ve been dragged down the street convinced that one day, my dog would realise nothing bad was going to happen and we would enjoy ‘normal’ walks together. I was disappointed with my dog, my body ached, and I had no idea what to do with her.

It’s not easy having a dog with big feelings.

They deeply affect your life, test your patience, make you question your ability as a dog guardian, create regrets about adopting them, and change your perception of other dog owners. The impact is all encompassing and I get it.

I understand the frustration, confusion and disappointment of owning a dog like this.

The isolation is real and very bad for mental health and wellbeing. You don’t feel heard, and you don’t feel supported.

You feel judged, dissed, uncomfortable, sidelined and there’s often only a focus on your dog’s obedience.

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Immediate relief for you and your dog, providing rest and alternatives to traditional walks

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Opportunity for you and your dog to reconnect and rebuild a positive relationship

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Identification of your specific pain points and challenges

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Myth-busting to clarify misconceptions about dog training

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Empathy, reassurance, and understanding of your unique situation

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Science-based, effective solutions tailored to your needs

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Ongoing support, with the trainer by your side throughout the process

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Guidance that builds your confidence in doing the best for your dog

Meet Shona

Shona Seymour By Your Side Dog Training Coach

I’ve been in the Highlands since 1997. Married a lovely local and raised a family here.

My obsession and subsequent qualifications grew from adopting a Border Collie called Holly who was 18 months at the time. I get a buzz from teaching people and love to educate them to train their dogs.

I particularly advocate for the underdog.

The dog that’s displaced, not been trained, had a bad start, or is just plain struggling. These dogs turn our lives up-side-down a little bit and it’s a privilege to connect with them, see the look in their eyes that says “you can hear me, you get me, I can trust you”, and then the magic happens.

When I’m not teaching, I’m in the garden, on a bush walk or spending time with friends. In my past I’ve been a creative and a traveller.

ACCREDITED AND QUALIFIED