EDUCATION - APPLICATION- RELATIONSHIP
We train dogs and coach people - think fantastic dog training with relationship counselling
How can we help?
Every dog and owner face unique challenges, whether it’s recall, loose lead walking, reactivity, or confidence-building. Have a look below to find the area that best fits your needs, and we’ll guide you to the right service.
Behaviour
If you are seeing these types of behaviours:
​Aggression
Anxiety
Reactivity
Compulsive Behaviors
Separation Anxiety
Destructive Behavior
Social Withdrawal​
​ They may stem from underlying factors like trauma, attention deficits, or changes in health. Unlike obedience challenges, these issues require a holistic understanding of your dog’s history and environment to address their root causes effectively
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Scentwork & Trailing
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine advanced skills, we offer a full range of services—from our popular Introduction Course for complete beginners to specialised Masterclass Workshops, 1:1 coaching, and realistic Mock Trials.
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Our friendly, supportive environment is matched by a commitment to high standards of teaching and up-to-date knowledge. With a variety of clubs to support your ongoing development, we’re here to help you and your dog thrive in both Scentwork and Trailing.
Gun Dogs
Shire Gun Dogs was founded with the aim of bringing serious, structured gundog training within reach of the everyday dog owner. Whether you're aspiring to compete in Trials, work your dog in the field, or simply want to provide meaningful mental and physical stimulation for your pet, we offer the ideal foundation.
Our approach blends the latest, science-based training methods with real-world experience from instructors who have spent years both in the field and working with dogs. With a clearly structured syllabus, progressive training levels, and the opportunity to take part in realistic Mock Trials, we support you every step of the way—whatever your goals.
About Us
At our core, we believe that a strong bond with your dog is built on three pillars:
Education, Application and Relationship.
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EDUCATION
We empower you with the knowledge of dog training fundamentals, ensuring you understand the mechanics behind every technique. This educational approach enables you to make informed decisions that benefit your dog’s behaviour and well-being.
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APPLICATION
Our training is primarily play-based, making it easier for you both to tackle challenging tasks in a fun and engaging way. By applying what you learn through interactive sessions, you build practical skills that enhance everyday interactions with your dog.
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RELATIONSHIP
We’re dedicated to strengthening the bond between you and your dog. Our focus isn’t just on teaching commands – it’s on fostering a healthy, supportive relationship. Even when addressing severe behavioural issues, our methods are designed to modify behaviour gently, reducing stress and anxiety while nurturing a happy, confident companion.
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We work on the mechanics of dog training with a special focus on ensuring your relationship is healthy and progressing in the right direction. Join us to build a solid foundation that will benefit both you and your dog for a lifetime.
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Meet the Team
Alex McRobb - DipCABT
Clinical Animal Behaviourist
Alex is a Chartered Clinical Animal Behaviourist (COAPE) specialising in canine reactivity and with extensive experience in managing anxiety and stress in dogs.
With over a decade of experience as a professional dog trainer, working across various disciplines, he is also a Mantrailing Global Instructor, UK Dog Sports Instructor, and a Detection Dog Trials Manager.
Alex has worked with several well-respected dog charities on rehoming and behaviour modification.
He also acts as an Expert Witness in a range of legal cases, including those involving the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and issues relating to animal welfare.
When not training dogs or working with clients, Alex can often be found at the side of a rugby pitch, coaching but wishing he was playing.
Nikki McRobb
Officer Manager
Direct Quote from Alex:
"Nikki is the Glue that keeps everything together and stops it going pirate ship".
Looking after all your emails and bookings, Nikki has previously worked in IT and managed a successful kennel and training facility. More a cat person she is currently growing her own army. Loves ignoring Alex and petting the puppies, enjoys Mantrailing which she calls Hide and Seek with Dogs and has dreams of being the UK's No.1 Misp
Sam Finlayson
Lead Instructor
(Scentwork & Trailing)
Our self-confessed 'Scent Geek'. After attending an Introduction to Mantrailing course to help her Spaniel Ozzie with anxiety and reactivity issues, Sam has continued her development in Trailing and Scent Work to go from a great Client to even better Head Instructor. When not working or spending quality time with her Spaniels Ozzie and Rora and GSD Wilson, she can be found researching and purchasing the newest 'sniff gear' and researching all things Scent.
With a 1st Class Honours degree in Applied Social Sciences, Mantrailing Global Certified Instructor and Assessor and Canine First Aid (not to mention hours of time in the field with her own dogs and clients and lots of courses) Sam is well on track to being one of the UK's leading Instructors.
Amy Taylor
Trainer
Our Gun Dog Lady but can also be found delivering classes and helping clients with obedience challenges. Comes with a a BSc in Animal Care and 18 years of teaching experience in the rural sector specialising in animal handling, husbandry, welfare and behaviour. When not out on a horse or spending time with her family she can be found 'picking up' with her two Labradors Indi and Rosie (ginger dog).​
Buck
Best Boy
Winner of Employee of the Month, every month. Buck is a Belgian Malinois/GSD and boasts understanding of three languages. Fluent Spanish from his street dog days, Sports French from one of his previous homes and now Scottish/Doric in his forever home. He loves being out with Alex and helping him as a 'stooge' dog, providing safe distractions for our reactive clients and demonstrating his training in our classes and at charity events.
He is hoping for a new sister to help him with the small army of cats in his house.