Pups, Mutts and Pedigrees

Dog Training & Behaviour Support in Marshland St James

I’m Michelle LeBourn, and Marshland St James near Wisbech is where I’m based. Being close by can make getting in touch feel straightforward, but the important part is finding support that fits your dog. If you’re unsure how to begin with a puppy, or an everyday behaviour concern is becoming hard to manage, we can talk it through without pressure to have everything worked out first.

Building useful foundations in village life

Puppy training starts with the household your puppy is joining, not a list of things they should already be able to do. We can discuss settling, confidence and early skills, while making room for your questions. Village lanes and farmland may be part of your routine, but a young dog still needs thoughtful introductions to unfamiliar sights and sounds.

One-to-one dog training can help with recall and lead pulling as your dog grows or your needs change. If reactivity or anxiety is making outings difficult, behaviour support looks at what your dog is experiencing as well as what you can see. I use ethical, reward-based methods and keep the pace individual.

A black and grey cocker spaniel sitting upright on a beige armchair

Working with your actual home routines

A home appointment can help us understand the details that are easily missed in a general conversation: when a difficulty happens, what your dog responds to and what you can realistically practise. We may agree another location where appropriate. My initial puppy consultation is 90 minutes; follow-ups last one hour at home or an agreed location. Although I’m based here, we’ll still confirm your address, the appointment and a suitable arrangement before meeting. There is no assumption of a separate training venue.

Start by telling me what matters

The free 20-minute consultation gives you an opportunity to ask initial questions and describe your situation. You might want help choosing puppy priorities, or you might not know whether a concern falls under training or behaviour. We can discuss the difference in the context of your dog and consider a sensible next step. I’d rather hear what life is like for you than expect a polished explanation.

Online sessions are available too

Living near my base doesn’t mean you have to choose a visit. If an online conversation is more suitable for your circumstances, we can discuss that option. Online sessions give us space to talk about your dog, your routines and the guidance you need. I’ll be straightforward about whether the issue can usefully be discussed remotely or whether another format would be more appropriate.

Who you’ll be working with

I hold BCCSDip.ProCanBhvPct and am fully insured and canine first aid qualified. Local veterinary practices, the RSPCA West Norfolk and Second Chance Spaniel Rescue recommend my work. I want you to feel comfortable asking questions and saying when something is difficult. Support should account for your dog’s wellbeing and the practical demands of your household, rather than leave you with advice that doesn’t fit.

Questions about support in Marshland St James

Do I come to a training centre in Marshland St James?

We’ll discuss an appointment at your home or another agreed location. Being based here doesn’t mean I’m offering a separate public training centre.

Can you help me decide what to teach my puppy first?

Yes. An individual 90-minute puppy consultation gives us time to discuss your priorities; one-hour follow-ups are available by arrangement.

Is online support available even though I live nearby?

Yes. We can consider online sessions during your free 20-minute consultation if that format better suits your needs.

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