Jamie Pound and partner Gemma are to dogs and owners what Supernanny is to children and parents. They have a knack of getting dogs to behave by helping people to understand them, and it’s all about communication and building a strong relationship.
The couple, who love dogs, set up Chorleywood Dog Training in 2013 and their passion, together with skill, gets positive results.
They have a reputation for persuading the shyest and most unruly of canines to toe the line.
“We are often asked how to manage young children and dogs at home.” says Gemma, “ Sometimes people are struggling with a disruptive dog when the cause of the problem is obvious to us. One family dog was constantly running after a child indoors. The dog just associated him with a chase game, we solved it in two stages – first by rearranging the circular house layout and closing doors then we showed the child how to connect with the dog in other ways.”
Bushey Councillor Ty Harris called in Jamie and Gemma when he found his rescue dog Staffie, Timba was unmanageable.
“The dog would kick off when it went near other dogs“ says Jamie,
“We did some one-to-one work, gradually built Timba’s confidence around other dogs. We advised Ty to give him a yellow bandana because we are great believers in the Yellow Dog UK project that raises awareness of dogs who need space for psychological or physical reasons. Other dog owners in our classes know they need to give yellow ribboned dogs space. Every dog is entitled to an enjoyable walk! After four weeks of working with Ty and Timba things clicked into place.”
“ We’re making progress, and the dog is too! ” says Ty
“ Helping rehabilitate rescue dogs is the best feeling” adds Jamie, “especially seeing the owners start to enjoy their dogs, but rescue dogs often need more patience and understanding.”
“We specialise in building confidence and understanding between dog and owners. We use proven modern reward based methods to change behaviour which builds up a well rounded, happy puppy but also helps rehabilitate the most reactive of dogs.”
Chorleywood Dog Classes take place weekly all year round in the grounds of Chenies Manor and Jamie and Gemma hold their third Charity Dog Show on the same site this coming May Bank Holiday.
“ Dog shows are great fun” says Jamie. “but it shouldn’t be about the rosette, it’s just good to socialise and meet other dogs in a controlled environment – whilst showing off your pooch!”
“Our show was a great success last year” adds Gemma “there were about 400 dogs involved. This year we have much more going on. Show classes include Cutest Pup, Handsome Boy, Pretty Girl, Best Rescue, Best Trick, Old Age Pooch (over 7s). and Best in Show There will be dog sports sessions like our popular ‘Have a Go’ Agility, Fly-ball and Nosework. We also have lots local of stalls – Nick Jenner of Chorleywood Dogs Trust shop will be there, Pets at Number One from Little Chalfont and Forever Accessories who sell classy hand made collars and leads. There will be fun activities like face painting and a Dog Photo booth and the amazing Smokey Mac’s American style barbecue.
It’s going to be a great day!”