I’ve been training dogs since 2009. I studied with the Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour and Training (cidbt.org.uk) to complete the Advanced Diploma in Canine Behaviour and Psychology. I also completed the UK Pet Behaviour Council (PetBC.org.uk) course for accreditation in 2015. I use only positive reinforcement and force-free methods and keep up to date on positive, effective training techniques based on well researched learning principles.
My volunteer work includes Hong Kong Dog Rescue (2012-2014), and SPCA Hong Kong (2015 – ongoing). I’m currently a volunteer behavioural trainer for SPCA rescue dogs to help increase their chances of adoption. I thrive on the challenge of working with the rescue extremes – nervous dogs that need help to build their confidence with people to get adopted, and the over-friendly dogs that need some basic good behaviour training to help them fit into a new family.
I have been helping private clients and their dogs in Hong Kong through word of mouth since 2015. My clients are wonderful people with a new family dog or, more often, have given a rescue dog a second chance. They typically find they need a little extra coaching to help the dog enjoy a calm and happy life with their new family. Working to help create a harmonious and joyful relationship is my goal.
Why “Couch Boss”? Yuki, my Westie, first inspired me to delve into dog behaviour and training. He has owned the sofa (and my heart) since 2005. See the Couch Boss gallery page and Instagram couchboss1 for the #caninecouchboss army out there.
Hong Kong Behavioural Trainer Marion Mcdonald 