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South West Dog Skills
Transforming lives through expert dog training and fear therapy in Bristol.
5(5 reviews)
Business
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Transforming lives through expert dog training and fear therapy in Bristol.
South West Dog Skills, based in Hunstrete, Bristol, is a premier dog training and behavior center specializing in agility classes, one-on-one sessions, and innovative fear therapy programs for both dogs and humans. Led by the knowledgeable and compassionate trainer Matt, we offer a calm, supportive environment that builds confidence and strengthens bonds. With a 4.9/5 rating from over 78 reviews, we are trusted for our patient, empathetic approach to addressing dog behavior issues, phobias, and training needs for all ages and abilities.
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Fun, structured group sessions to teach dogs agility skills in a safe, friendly environment, enhancing obedience and owner-dog bonding.
Personalized sessions focusing on specific behavior issues, confidence-building, and tailored training plans for dogs and their owners.
Specialized programs to help individuals overcome fear of dogs through calm, controlled exposure and education on dog body language.
Expert assessments and strategies to address aggression, anxiety, or other behavioral challenges in dogs, with compassionate support.
Inclusive training for owners with neurodiversity or other needs, offering affirmative, patient guidance in a non-group setting.
Matt worked with our dog, Storm, but more importantly he worked alongside my daughter to understand Storm’s needs, behaviours and cues. Matt’s calming presence and approach made a huge difference to both of their confidence. His knowledge and compassion to both dogs and those with additional needs is exceptional. For owners who struggle with group classes, for example ND, chat with Matt and Tam. You’ll have an affirmative and supportive team.
My Cocker Spaniel absolutely loves agility, we've been attending classes for 2 years now. Mat's knowledge of dog behaviour and body language really helps dogs and owners learn new skills in a safe and friendly environment. Which has also really strengthened the bond between me and my dog. I have also recieved great communication from both Mat and Tam with class schedules and membership information. Would highly recommend for anyone wishing to learn something new and fun with your dog.
I highly recommend the dog fear programme run by South West Dog Skills. Our 11-year-old developed a deep fear of dogs following frightening incident with a group of dogs when he was five. We hoped he would grow out of it, but the situation grew gradually worse, preventing visits to friends/family, limiting sporting activities and requiring the careful planning of every outing to avoid dog encounters. An introductory online chat with Matt convinced us that he really ‘got’ the problem and how to help. His calm, kind and empathetic approach really helped our child gain confidence and feel in control around dogs. Matt took the time to build a connection and made him feel in control of every session. By learning how to read a dog’s body language and understand human encounters from a dog’s perspective, our child has progressed from complete panic at the sight of a dog to being able to confidently control a calm dog under Matt’s supervision. This calm, supportive, hands-on approach has helped him develop skills he can use for the rest of his life. Thank you South West Dog Skills!
I am not exaggerating to say that Matt has changed my life - for the better (obviously!). I am a middle aged woman who has been petrified of dogs all my life (due to a childhood experience). Recently I found that this fear was severely curtailing my life - I could not go into coffee shops or pubs if there was a dog there, and recently even going into supermarkets and general shopping was becoming problematic. I never thought that my situation would change but thanks to Matt, and his kindness, patience, understanding and knowledge I am now writing this in a coffee shop with a dog over to my right. I did not expect to be totally “cured” but I now have a knowledge about dogs and how they react (it’s not all about me!!) and have tools and a calmness to deal with situations involving dogs. I would also like to thank the lovely ladies and their dogs that gave up their time so that I could experience dogs in a calm and controlled environment. I would strongly advise anyone that has gone through similar issues to me to reach out to Matt. Honestly, he will change your life!!
Am currently receiving 121 sessions with Matt for my Chihuahua pup Boris, who was struggling to feel confident enjoying his walks. Other than standard puppy classes with another trainer, I’ve not been to a dog trainer before so wasn’t sure what to expect. Matt was recommended to me through a friend who regularly attends their agility sessions. Matt is very knowledgeable and professional and put us at ease straight away. He has a very calm and manner which is definitely something I need… let alone the dog! I’m still not quite sure who needed training most, Boris or me! ! But we have seen a huge improvement, and Boris is now much happier and coming out of his shell more and more. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
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