About Ryan

If you're here, you might be wondering: 'what made you want to be a dog trainer?'. My journey started years ago with our family dog, a Schnauzer who struggled with both human and dog reactivity and was considered a bite risk. As a child, I didn’t fully understand how to help him, but looking back, those experiences planted the seed for what I do today. Fast forward to when my partner Sarah and I decided to get a dog of our own—a German Shepherd, the breed I had always dreamed of. Like many new dog owners, I initially didn’t fully grasp what it meant to meet the needs of a working breed. I wanted a dog for walks and companionship, without realising what owning a working breed truly entails. Thankfully, Sarah pushed me to understand the responsibility that comes with owning a high-drive dog. She insisted that if we were bringing a working breed into our home, we had to honour his needs—and that set me on the path that led me here. ​

With Obie, we faced plenty of challenges. We made mistakes, navigated reactivity, and worked with more trainers than I can count. Each experience taught me invaluable lessons about patience, understanding, and the incredible potential that lies in every dog and owner partnership.That’s why I do what I do today—to share what I’ve learned, guide others through their struggles, and help you build the relationship with your dog that I’ve worked so hard to achieve with mine. When you train with me, you’re working with someone who’s been where you are, and I’m here to help you succeed. ​

As a qualified field guide in Southern Africa, I’m no stranger to conflict negotiation with animals, which has given me unique insights into handling challenging canine behaviours.​ I also have a deep love for scent sports and could easily spend every day mantrailing.​ My academic background is in primate behaviour, which fuelled my fascination with social relationships and dynamics—skills that translate well into understanding our canine companions. I’m an analytical thinker who enjoys problem-solving and finding creative, outside-the-box solutions to help dogs and owners. ​

When I’m not training, you’ll likely find me adventuring with Obie, expanding my knowledge with podcasts (you’ll rarely see me without a headphone in one ear), or possibly relaxing at the pub!

Favourite Part Of Being A Dog Trainer?

Seeing owners faces light up when they achieve something with their dogs they didn't think was possible.

Favourite Breeds

All of them