ABOUT ME
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Natasha Noori CDT-DTC
I am an accredited, compassionate force-free Canine Behaviour and Welfare Specialist with a particular interest in child-dog interactions (including helping children with a fear of dogs), puppy development, recall training, loose lead walking, and rescue dogs.
I use reward-based training methods that are scientifically proven to help a dog form a secure attachment to their caregivers, increases the frequency of desired behaviours, and helps to strengthen the owner-dog bond. It isn't just about food however, part of my ethos is harnessing the power of play to boost your dog's enthusiasm whilst channelling their natural instincts in a controlled manner. I firmly believe that training should never feel like a chore, it should be a fun activity you do with your dog because you want to, not simply because you feel like you have to. Let me show you how to be a gamechanger!
I am a...
- Kids Around Dogs Approved Trainer
- Certified Dog Trainer
- Puppy Training Specialist
- Canine Body Language Instructor
You can view all of my Associations and Credentials here.
Why I Have Dedicated My Life to Helping Dogs Thrive
As is the case with many dog professionals, I have grown up around dogs in my extended and immediate family. As a young child, I would typically head straight to the dogs at family gatherings! My passion for dog behaviour was first sparked at the age of 6, when we brought home Sandy, an 11-month-old Norfolk Terrier cross Poodle, from Cheltenham Animal Shelter. Sandy was a wonderful dog, but one thing we were always restricted by was her "unpredictable" reactivity towards other dogs. I became hypervigilant of off-lead dogs running over and I found myself choosing quieter routes to avoid any issues - an experience I know many other owners of reactive dogs can relate to.
At the age of 8, thanks to Sandy and animal rescue programmes, I decided I wanted to work with dog behaviour and never looked back. Sandy was both a support system and a friend, which is one reason I decided to specialise in helping families with their dogs.
I know how important dogs can be for children's development, confidence and mental health. I also understand how difficult it can be to manage a child-dog household without the right support. When I was young, I not only had no understanding of how to "speak dog", but also, I did not have any formal education on how to best interact or train Sandy to help her reach her full potential. Now, I am always delighted to work with a family so that I can help guide parents, children, and their dogs to find out how to work as a team,
forming safe, happy relationships in the process.
"Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better." - Mary Angelou
I currently have the pleasure of owning Jasmine, a Cavapoochon, who I welcomed into my home at 10-weeks of age. She has allowed me to put my professional experience and learned theory into practice by training a puppy directly within a home environment. That means I have been exactly where you are and know all about the struggles and the highlights of puppy ownership. Jasmine turned 2 in March 2022, so we have recently worked through that tricky adolescent phase together. I will share these challenges with you during sessions and show you how you can overcome these challenges too.
Jasmine has taught me a great deal about dogs, their behaviour, and how one method certainly does not fit every situation. A "one size fits all" approach often does more harm than good, so I approach each client and their dog as the unique individuals they truly are. Jasmine brings me an unbelievable amount of joy daily, and I am passionate about helping my clients develop a bond as unique as the one I enjoy with this very special dog.
I have a wide range of experience working with dogs, from 4+ years of voluntary dog walking and sitting, to my full-time position at Cheltenham Animal Shelter as an Animal Care Assistant, working in the kennels. During my time there, I also assisted in the on-site Veterinary Clinic, Grooming Parlour, Boarding Kennels and Rehoming Centre, allowing me to see how each sector is managed in order to accommodate behaviour and welfare needs. Over the Covid-19 pandemic, I thoroughly enjoyed sharing free advice for dedicated dog owners online to help them enjoy the best relationship possible with their beloved dog.
"Set them up for success, not distress"
I am always open to discuss the evidence-based methods I use, empowering you with information to not just follow my guidance short-term, but to use as a lifelong skill.
With my interest in psychology and sociology, I am non-judgemental and strive to find a coaching style most suited to your individual learning preference. Once I have this information, I will help you make the most out of day-to-day situations, showing you how to gain cooperation through choice and the power of play.