About Me
Hi, I’m Fiona, the owner of Betsy’s Dog School. I’m passionate about helping people give their puppies the best start in life. Bringing a new puppy home is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming - I’m here to make training easier and more enjoyable for both of you.
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I’ve been working with dogs and puppies since 2016, when I started my own dog care business. Since then, I’ve trained with some of the country’s leading organisations, deepening my knowledge of dog behaviour and reward-based training.
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My training packages are designed to help you understand how your puppy learns, prevent unwanted behaviours, and build good habits - so your puppy grows into a happy, well-mannered companion.
Science-led Training Methods
​​Puppyhood can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. My goal is to help you raise a happy, confident family dog using science-backed, reward-based training.
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I only use positive, force-free methods that are kind, compassionate, and effective. These techniques build a strong bond of trust between you and your dog—without the need for force, fear, pain, or intimidation.
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As a registered dog trainer with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC) and an accredited member of The Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT), I meet the highest industry standards. Dog training is unregulated, so choosing a qualified trainer is important. My credentials mean my skills and knowledge have been assessed by leading organisations, and I follow a strict code of conduct.
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With me, you can trust that your puppy or dog will always be treated with care, kindness, and respect—and that you’re in safe hands.
My Dog Betsy
Betsy's Dog School was inspired by my Miniature Schnauzer, Betsy.
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When she joined our family at just 8 weeks old, I was beginning my career in dog care, running a dog walking and puppy care business. Raising and training Betsy through puppyhood, adolescence, and beyond sparked my passion for dog training. I quickly learned firsthand how challenging it can be when things don’t go as planned with a new puppy!
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I know how overwhelming it can feel - but getting the right help early on makes a huge difference in the kind of dog your puppy grows up to be. That’s why I’m here: to guide you through the tough days and help set your puppy up for success.
Volunteer Work
Veterans With Dogs
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to volunteer as a dog trainer with the amazing charity, Veterans With Dogs.
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As part of this work, I’ve supported a veteran with PTSD in training their dog to become a fully qualified assistance dog.
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The training process focused on building a strong bond between the veteran and their dog, progressing from basic training to advanced exercises, public access training in shops, cafés, and other busy environments, and teaching the dog specific tasks to support the veteren's daily life.
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This experience has deeply influenced my approach to training. It’s shown me firsthand how much dogs are capable of and how the right training can truly transform both a dog’s life and their guardian’s. I bring that same focus on clear communication, trust, and practical life skills into all my training, helping dogs and their guardians build strong, positive relationships.
Professional Qualifications
We are always learning new, improved ways to teach our dogs, so I am always updating my knowledge in the latest training techniques through study and regularly attending courses. I'm also fully insured through Pet Business Insurance, and DBS checked.
My professional qualifications include:
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Fully accredited with The Professional Association of Canine Trainers (PACT) who have assessed my skills & knowledge
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Registered Animal Training Instructor with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC), the leading organisation in promoting high standards in canine training
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Diploma in Canine Care, Behaviour & Welfare ​