Connor
Connor
Dogs have always been more than just animals to me — they’ve been a passion, a purpose, and a way of life. That passion became something I was able to truly fulfil when, at 16, I joined the British Army and spent 7 years serving in an Explosive Ordnance Regiment, working alongside Military Working Dogs (MWD) and their handlers. At 18, I welcomed my first working dog into my life, and it was through this bond that I began to truly understand the unique desires, motivations, and requirements of high-calibre working dogs.
Over the years, I have immersed myself in almost every corner of the dog training industry, from dog walking and rescue work to private training. Each role has shaped my approach and sharpened my handling skills. I am committed to ongoing learning and most recently became a NePoPo® Silver graduate, adding another layer of knowledge to my toolkit.
My journey has taken me deep into the working dog world. I became a NASDU qualified handler with my first working dog, who gained his NASDU GP level 2 qualification, and have since gained extensive experience in private security, personal and family protection dog training, and supplying dogs to private clients and estates. I take pride in offering discreet, professional, and results-driven services that match both the needs of the handler and the potential of the dog.
Today, I share my life with my Belgian Malinois Alpha, my German Shepherd Halo and my Dutch Herder Ember, all of whom compete in Protection Sports Association (PSA) events. Two of my dogs are already titled, and my youngest is well on her way. Beyond being their handler, I am also a Certified PSA Decoy, a role that allows me to test, challenge, and build dogs in protection work.
Decoying is one of my greatest passions — I am constantly refining my skills by attending seminars and learning from some of the best decoys worldwide. What I enjoy most is building dogs from puppies and seeing them grow into their adult working roles, whether that’s as a family protection dog, security dog, sport competitor, or active working pet. Watching them develop their confidence, power, and purpose is what continues to fuel my drive as a trainer and decoy.
HEAD TRAINER & PROFESSIONAL DECOY
HOLLIE
HOLLIE
DOG TRAINER & RESCUE SPECIALIST
From as early as I can remember, animals have been at the centre of my life. Growing up surrounded by a variety of pets fuelled a passion that has stayed with me and shaped my career. That passion became a professional pathway when I earned both an FdSc and BSc (Hons) in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, giving me a strong academic foundation in animal care, psychology, and training.
My career journey has been diverse, spanning roles as a Doggy Daycare Assistant, Dog Walker, and Veterinary Care Assistant. While working in the veterinary field, I furthered my skills by completing certification in sedation support, deepening my understanding of handling and caring for dogs in clinical and often stressful situations.
I currently share my life with three dogs who have each shaped my training expertise in very different ways. My first, a Romanian Street Dog rescue, arrived with a host of behavioural challenges. Through patient rehabilitation, she has become a balanced, confident dog and now plays an important role as a stooge dog in training sessions, helping other dogs on their journey. My second, a Belgian Malinois rescue, also came with significant challenges, but today she is my sport dog. Together, we compete in Protection Sports Association (PSA) events — she has already achieved her PDC title, and we are now working towards PSA Level 1. My third, also a Belgian Malinois rescue unfortunately has retired from PSA however, we are now exploring the avenue of detection and i’m super excited to see how we get on.
I am particularly passionate about working with nervous and anxious dogs, as well as street dog rescues. There is nothing more rewarding than helping these dogs and their owners navigate the training journey together, session by session, and watching confidence blossom. I have successfully rehabilitated multiple street dogs who now live incredible, fulfilled lives with their families. Beyond my own clients, I also enjoy supporting other trainers in problem-solving complex rescue cases, sharing knowledge and strategies that make a difference for both dogs and handlers.
For me, every dog has potential, and it’s my mission to give them the understanding, guidance, and structure they need to thrive — no matter their background or start in life.
