About Denise

I’m Denise Graham, a qualified Clinical Animal Behaviourist (MSc, University of Lincoln, Distinction) and lifelong dog enthusiast. These studies and my ongoing professional training ensure I can provide evidence-based, compassionate support for dogs struggling with anxiety, fear, and reactivity. I specialise in understanding and changing the emotions that drive challenging behaviour, helping dogs feel secure and confident

I am a Pre-Certified member of CCAB (Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourists), following its ethical, evidence-based standards.

My first experience of a dog with behavioural issues was as an inexperienced dog groomer. I met a Border Collie, Lucky. I’d barely set up my equipment in Lucky’s home when he rushed at me wild-eyed and teeth bared. I instinctively held my arm up to defend myself, and was bitten on forearm and hand.

I was devastated, the job I loved, going so wrong. A few stitches later, I reflected: why did it go wrong? Because I missed all Lucky’s warnings. Every inch of his body language had been screaming “keep away”, “get out of my house”.

Determined to understand, I set about learning everything I could about dog behaviour, body language, and co-operative care. Once I’d started learning, I never stopped!

Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, reactivity, or simply want to build a stronger bond with your dog, I’m here to support you with compassion, clarity, and care. Helping dogs feel secure when left alone – or in any challenging situation – is my passion.

Highlights

Meet the dedicated expert who will guide you and your dog toward lasting harmony.

Experienced

Canine professional since 2007, from dog grooming and dog walking to teaching in dog training classes and lecturing at Hartpury University on BSc Canine Training and Performance.

Public Appearances

Practical demonstrations with Mabel at country shows. Appeared as an interviewee on Radio Gloucester (Separation Anxiety) and Radio Scotland (Real Dog Yoga).

Real Dog Yoga

Calm under pressure? Performing Real Dog Yoga in front of Young Farmers was a real highlight, Mabel gave me an extended paw stretch to calm my nerves!

Trick Dog Ninja

As a Certified Trick Dog Trainer, achieving both ‘Uber Dude’ and ‘Trick Dog Ninja’, I can certainly teach old dogs new tricks.

Dogs Monthly

Formerly, Dogs Monthly’s ‘Ask the Expert’ responding to readers’ dog training questions, and regular columnist.

Proud Owner

My two wonderful dogs, Murphy and Mabel, keep me grounded and remind me why I do this work: because dogs deserve to feel safe, understood, and happy in our human world.

Key Credentials

Have confidence in Denise’s experience and qualifications, dating from 2007 to the current day, from accredited industry providers. These qualifications and ongoing training ensure I can provide evidence-based, compassionate support for dogs with anxiety, fear, or reactivity.

Qualifications

  • MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour, University of Lincoln – Distinction (2021)
  • 6 Credits, Level 3, Principles of Dog Training & Behaviour, OCN (2017)
  • Certificate of Higher Education, Animal Behaviour, Anglia Ruskin University – Distinction (2012)
  • Level 2, Intermediate Certificate in Dog Grooming, City & Guilds (2007)

Continuing Professional Development

  • IMDT: completed the IMDT assessment & passed with Distinction (2019)
  • IMDT courses: Career as a Dog Trainer, Practical Instructors course, Impulse Control workshop, Perfect Puppy Foundations
  • Certified Real Dog Yoga Instructor
  • Certified Force Free Trick Trainer
  • CIBT (Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour & Training) courses: Common Canine Behaviour Problems, Professional Instructor Skills & Management, Basic Dog Handling Skills
  • Workshops: Handling Reactive Dogs, Training Reactive Dogs, Aggression Awareness, First Aid and Injury Prevention