~ Contact the Dundee Dog Trainer ~
"My goal in life is to become as wonderful as my dog thinks I am."
- Toby Eileen Green
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Jessica Probst BSc
07505 971110
Email: topdog@dundeedogtrainer.co.uk
'I feel incomplete without a dog at my side"
- Jess, Dundee Dog Trainer
~ Qualifications ~
Scientist, Observer, Philosopher and Trainer
I have been in love with dogs for many years, they are a major part of my life. My intention is nothing less than better canine-human understanding.
Previously employed by the Scottish Office, HM Forces and involved in dog training for the BBC, you can be assured of my professionalism, integrity and dedication at all times.
Working in Dundee's University Chemistry and Biochemistry departments for almost 8 years I developed a lasting interest in Science and Genetics. I worked toward my BSc Degree in Biology with Animal Behaviour, whilst working full time. I have studied canids, 'pack theory' canine nutrition and healthcare. My behavioural interests spread to humans too I study human behaviour, sociology and psychology - I believe this helps me to teach you as everyone of us learns in a different way.
I have been asked time and again how I know what I know about dogs. Obviously countless books, courses and formal training, however there is a magical something that was present since a young age. Oddly I never had a family dog growing up (not for lack of asking) so when I was old enough I walked all our neighbourhood dogs. The strange thing however is from a young age, I have memories of training those dogs, but not knowing how I knew what to do. It is as if there were some innate understanding. One in particular could never be walked off lead by his owner, he would run away - yet I never had that dog on a lead, he wanted to be with me. Also the most wonderful Rough Collie, Sabre, used to jump his garden fence, run away from home and wait for me off the school bus. They were the ones that started me on my Life path.
For many years I have taken in dogs for rehabilitation and rehoming. There were always training issues to be addressed, and I believe it is the hands-on experience of working and owning hundreds of different types of dogs and being blessed with the ability to keep my own large pack of dogs, that has enabled me to understand so much about just what it is that makes them tick. I am thankful to each and every one of them for what they have taught (and continue to teach) me.
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Lisa has been involved in running dog training Workshops and Classes, and is can be seen with all 5 of her dogs at our demonstrations. For over 4 years we have enjoyed working side by side within puppy classes and doing promotional work.
Her hobby in behaviour also extends to horses and we have also worked together on horse behaviour issues using natural horsemanship methods.
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Carly and Cody
Cody started as a puppy in our classes 2 years ago, and he and Carly have become our good friends. Cody is one of those rare dogs that nothing phases, every dog makes friends with him, whether they are aggressive or fearful at first, Cody has a calming effect. Carly has such an interest in dog training she has grown the confidence to run the puppy classes and is an invaluable member of the Dundee Dog Training team.
And then there were two...
Carly also recently adopted Field Spaniel Kendal, so Cody has an eternal playmate!
~ Our Methods ~
Our approach is calm and confident towards both owners and their dogs, we work as much as possible using positive reinforcement, but also try to help owners understand the use of punishment and how if used incorrectly can cause long lasting damage to a dog and your relationship.
We don't use check chains or prong collars on any dogs, there is never reason to shout at or smack any dog - we will never achieve compliance that way.
We follow the Complex Associative Learning method not 'Dominance' or 'Wolf Pack Theory' which previously relied on forcing the dog to submit to a higher ranking member through aggressive means. These outdated methods have been proven to cause pain, discomfort and may add to behavioural problems, as they cover up symptoms and do not address root cause.
Aggressive behaviour is very rare in stable groups (Mech 1999)
I have been looking for a picture to complement the above research statement... I think this is it
I tripped over the threshold and burst a bag of dog food the Pack descended... this was a rare chance to observe, they normally eat individually (non 'dog food' !!) I was very pleased to see 10 dogs sharing - everyone knowing their place.
The true nature of a well balanced Pack
