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THE DOG BEHAVIOUR ACADEMY

Professional Dog Training for you and your dog

Certified Dog Training Specialist in Auckland.

Using Enrichment & Play-Based Methods

Understand, Enrich, Transform

Serving Auckland Central, West Auckland, North Shore, and South Auckland. 

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⭐️ 1 Tip, 1 Idea, 1 Quote Newsletter

Training that Teaches your dog 'How to

Pulling, barking, lunging, jumping, chewing, and not listening aren't "bad behaviour" they are Communication. Our approach works on your dog's emotional response (Classical conditioning) and their behaviour choices (Operant Conditioning). We help you build the behaviours and skills you want to see more of while managing, redirecting, and replacing the unwanted behaviours.

We also support you and your dog with training walks to practice and strengthen these skills.

🐕‍🦺 The Training Blog

Are we right for you and your dog?

Force Free Promise

Your dog deserves to learn in an environment where they feel safe, with structured sessions with a consistent approach. 

Our positive approach builds confidence rather than compliance because trust is the foundation of everything we do.

Expertise and Education

Our trainers hold recognised qualifications including NZ Animal Management, Canine Behaviour and Training, and Fear Free Shelter certifications. As APDTNZ members, we're committed to ongoing education.We use proven science based methods

Safety First

All our trainers are certified Pet First Aiders and carry comprehensive first aid kits. Your dog's safety and security are never left to chance. We're prepared, so you can focus on learning and having fun together.

Agency and Choice

Dogs learn faster and retain more when they have real control over outcomes and their environment. We help your dog make good choices while giving them a voice in their training. This approach builds cooperation, and creates calm adaptable dogs

Real World Experience

We've worked with many types of dog from confident puppies to anxious rescues, reactive dogs to shy seniors. Our SPCA experience means we understand that every dog has a story, and we meet them where they are. 

More than just training

We believe in giving back to the animals who need it most. Through our volunteer work and commitment to animal welfare, we're working toward dogs being understood and respected. When you choose us, you're supporting trainers who care about all dogs. 

 Got a question? Get in touch

Learn alongside your dog 

Easy Online Booking to talk about your dog’s unique needs,

Or book a dog training walk and let us do the work.

No obligation, just practical guidance your dog underdstands.

Servicing Auckland Central Suburbs and beyond.

Reviews: What people are saying

Well behaved dog

“Merran worked amazingly with Reggie, my rehomed 1-year-old, energy-packed puppy. She showed patience and brought knowledge, practical ideas, toys, and activities to enable us to live together and develop a lovely relationship.”

Ann & Reggie

Dogs with owner

“We have recently engaged Merran as we needed strategies to handle our 3-year-old Japanese Spitz. She spent time getting to know us and how we worked together and has given us implementable strategies that we can immediately apply.”

Sandy & Alf

Happy customers

“Merran has trained my dog to walk calmly on a lead, no more jumping on people and she now has excellent recall. I highly recommend Merran to any dog owner who needs some help!”

Sarah & Awhi

Take the step today

Contact Your Local Auckland Dog Training Specialist

Line drawing of a hand clasping the left side of a heart shape with the words Fear Free shelters, a logo. Affiliated study.
Line drawing of a dog in a 'Play Bow' position, tail wagging, mouth slightly ajar, wearing a yellow collar. The Dog Behaviour Academy logo icon
Line drawing of a dog looking at an open book with the letters apdtnz below. Four stars signify the Southern Cross on the right. Association for Professional Dog Trainers logo
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