An Introduction

Hello, my name is David Bayliss, I have had 30 years of experience as a Dog Trainer and Behaviourist.

Over those years I have taken many different courses and attended numerous seminars in Canine Behavioural Psychology and how dogs learn.  As part of my studies I had to chose a specialised subject and chose to  study the effects of canine behaviour linked to canine nutrition in which I got a pass with distinction. I  have been extremely fortunate to have many of the top dog trainers in the UK and abroad as my Tutors. 

I worked voluntarily for 20 years with rescue dogs, rehabilitating and rehoming them and carrying on with working with their new owners providing ongoing training and support for as long as they needed it. 

I chose to specialise in canine aggression & over reactivity in dogs and also with nervous/fearful dogs. Dogs that have these issues are often very misunderstood and their owners can feel very isolated, stressed, guilty and don't know which way to turn and how to move forward in the best way. 

I am one of the very early members of the APDT (MAPDT 00343).  The APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) ensures that only kind, fair and effective methods of training are carried out by their members.  Members of the APDT must continue to develop their knowledge of dogs and training skills, be fully insured and adhere to a strict code of practice. You can be assured that no harsh or aversive methods will ever be used in any of our training.

I am a Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme (KCGCDS) Assessor for all 3 levels being bronze, silver and gold.

I am also CAP (Clicker Trainers Competency Assessment Program) which was devised by Kay Laurence, one of the best clicker trainers in the UK.  I passed level 1 and 2 assessment with distinction. 

I am a qualified canine first aider

Unlike many large organisations Island Canines limits the number of dogs in a class to 6 so that we can give you the personal attention, training advice and support that both you and your dog deserve, not only for the duration of the course but for the rest of your dog’s life.  The emphasis in all of our classes is to create a happy, relaxed and calm atmosphere for both dogs and their owners.  We welcome the family to come along to our training classes, as consistency is certainly the key to successful training.

I truly believe in motivating both you and your dog to achieve the best possible results by showing you that teaching your dog with kindness, patience and fun is truly the best way which will in turn result in the development of a unique relationship of love and trust and the experience of a lifelong bond between you and your dog.  

Thank you for taking the time to read my introduction.  I hope that I will meet you and your dog one day soon.

Dave

Island Canines

dedicated to dogs