About The Holistic Dog Method
Helping you raise a calm, capable dog that fits into your life.
Dogs were never just pets to me.
They were company. Teachers. A steady presence. Often the place I turned to when the world felt noisy or hard to make sense of.
That connection shaped the way I see dogs today.
Not as something to control, but something to understand.
How It Started
I grew up surrounded by animals.
Wildlife, dogs, and anything that needed care seemed to find its way into our home. From an early age, I learnt to pay attention. Not just to what animals were doing, but how they were feeling.
As I got older, I realised that the way many dogs were being trained did not sit right with me.
It often felt rushed, forceful, or disconnected from what the dog actually needed.
At the same time, I was raising and living with my own dogs, including some that were far from easy.
They taught me more than any textbook could.
They showed me how behaviour develops, how emotions influence responses, and how much our own actions affect the dog in front of us.
The dogs that shaped everything
Jock
2009-2011
A gentle soul who taught me the depth of a dog’s attachment — and the cost of loving deeply.
Jock chose me as his saviour from the big scary world. He and his sister were my first real experience of dogs with a true hunt drive. Which, unfortunately, resulted in Jock's early death from a snake bite.
Pepsi
2011-2023
From fear and uncertainty to steady confidence through patience and consistency.
Pepsi taught me the most about training a dog through a relationship and bond, rather than fear (or food).
She also taught me so much about working livestock, with her natural abilities.
Noisy
2013-2022
My heart dog and the catalyst for me being a dog trainer, and THDM.
Noisy taught me how much dogs communicate when we learn how to listen. As well as how much we can influence them.
One of Pepsi's 10 puppies, she chose us at just 3 weeks old. It was clear then that she had issues with people (hence the name). As she grew her reactivity became more apparent with all new people and dogs. But she eventually became the best dog trainers dog, until her untimely death due to cancer.
Karmala Bimber
2023-Present
Taught me the power of subtlety, softness, and quiet intelligence.
Found at a time when I was finally ready to acknowledge that I was in need of another dog. As a retired registered Working Kelpie Bimber has some quirks but she has become the perfect addition to our little pack. And she has taught me much more about working.
Turbo
2024-Present
An enthusiasm machine who continues to teach me humour, patience, and energy management.
I definitely wasn't looking for another dog when Turbo charged into my life at just 2 weeks old. But his independence, spark for life and apparent liking for me was very hard to ignore. He challenges me every day but I wouldn't have him any other way.
Why The Holistic Dog Method exists
Behaviour
Lifestyle
Communication
Fulfillment
Health
The Holistic Dog Method was created to bring clarity to dog training.
Many owners are trying their best, but feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice. One method says one thing, another says something completely different, and it becomes difficult to know what actually works.
The result is often frustration, both for the owner and the dog.
THDM takes a different approach.
Instead of focusing only on commands or quick fixes, training looks at the whole picture:
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behaviour
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daily routine
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exercise and fulfilment
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environment
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communication between dog and owner
When these elements are working together, behaviour becomes far easier to manage.
The goal is not perfection.
The goal is a dog that fits comfortably into your life.
Experience and Focus
Over the years, I have worked with a wide range of dogs, including:
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high-energy working breeds
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reactive and anxious dogs
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rescue dogs adjusting to new homes
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dogs struggling with everyday behaviour challenges
Working breeds, in particular, have become a strong focus.
Dogs such as Kelpies, Heelers, and Collies are intelligent and capable, but often misunderstood. Without the right structure and outlets, their behaviour can quickly become overwhelming.
Helping owners understand and guide these dogs has become a key part of my work.
Qualifications & More
Formal Training & Education
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Certificate III in Dog Behaviour & Training (NDTF) — Australia’s only government-recognised dog training qualification
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Certificate III in Entrepreneurship & New Business
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Certificate II in Animal Studies
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Provide First Aid & Provide CPR
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Diploma in Agriculture
Hands-On Experience
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7+ years training complex, high-drive dogs before launching my business in 2016
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3+ years working and volunteering with local animal rescues
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8+ years volunteering with the CFA
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Local Community Liaison Person on the Wollangarra Outdoor Education Centre council
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Self-taught photographer specialising in landscapes, dogs, and horses
Licences & Registrations
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Public Liability Insurance
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Wellington Shire Council Domestic Animal Business Certificate of Registration
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Working with Children Check
Our Services
We provide group classes focused on practical routines, ensuring owners understand their dogs’ behaviors while promoting community friendships among fellow dog lovers.
Tailored Training
In-person training in Gippsland integrates lifestyle assessments and behavior modification techniques, reaching dogs of all backgrounds by fostering practical habits.
Behavior Consultation
Our online resources provide educational materials to help owners understand canine behavior better. Join our membership community for continual learning and support.
Join Us
We believe in building a supportive community of dog owners. By joining The Holistic Dog Method, you’ll connect with like-minded individuals dedicated to improving their dogs' lives through shared experiences and ongoing education.
