Hi, I’m Vicki – Your Ethical Dog Trainer in Yeovil, Somerset

 

Welcome to The Doghouse FTF – a place where dogs and their humans learn to communicate, connect, and grow together through kind, ethical, and holistic dog training in Yeovil and the surrounding areas.

 

I’m a qualified, professional dog trainer specialising in reward-based dog training, ACE Freework, and emotional wellbeing for both dogs and their guardians. My approach is grounded in science, compassion, and a deep respect for the dog-human bond.

 

Together with my own dogs—Chip the spaniel and Bella the pug—and in loving memory of Bruin and Tai (my big brown boy and my Staffy soulmate), I’ve experienced the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to life with dogs.

 

What I’ve learned along the way? The most meaningful changes happen when we slow down, pay attention, and truly listen to what our dogs are telling us.

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How I Became a Dog Trainer

 

Like many in the dog training world, I was led here by the dogs who shaped me.

 

It all started with my three Staffordshire Bull Terriers—Kane, Kia, and Tess—who sparked a lifelong passion for dog behaviour and welfare. By the age of 21, I was hooked on learning everything I could to improve their lives.

 

In 2004, I began working as an Animal Technician at a land-based college, caring for a wide range of animals from livestock to exotic species. Around that time, I also became a qualified Puppy School Tutor.

 

But my heart was always with dogs.

 

In 2018, I made the leap to build The Doghouse, offering dog training in Yeovil that’s tailored, thoughtful, and truly dog-centred. Since then, I’ve never looked back. I’ve continued to invest in ongoing education, workshops, and professional development so I can offer the best support to dogs and their people.

 

 

What Makes My Approach Different?

 

I specialise in ethical, holistic dog training that focuses on your dog’s emotional and physical wellbeing, not just their behaviour.

 

I’m a proud ABTC Registered Animal Training Instructor, Puppy School Tutor and an ACE Associate Freework Tutor, committed to using kind, science-based methods to help you build a stronger relationship with your dog.

 

I follow my SAFE framework in every aspect of my work:

 

• Secure: Creating a calm, safe environment where your dog can decompress and feel at ease.

• Allow: Respecting your dog’s individuality, needs, and pace—without pressure or judgement.

• Freedom: Supporting natural behaviour through choice, exploration, and enrichment.

• Empowered: Helping dogs gain confidence by making positive, self-directed choices.

 

 

Whether you’re looking for dog training support in Yeovil, help with a reactive dog, or simply want to deepen your connection with your canine companion, I’m here to guide you with empathy and expertise.

 

Want to learn more about ACE Freework? Head over to Tilley Farm to explore this gentle, dog-led approach to observation, choice, and co-regulation.

 

Enrichment & Handmade Dog Toys

 

Play and enrichment are essential parts of life at The Doghouse. That’s why I also offer a range of interactive, handmade dog toys—crafted from durable fleece and designed to engage your dog’s mind and senses.

 

Each toy is lovingly made (sometimes with help from my mum!) and tested by my own dogs. They’re perfect for enrichment games, brain work, and creating positive shared experiences.

 

Browse our full range in our online store or on Etsy – ideal for guardians looking for fun, stimulating toys for their dogs.

 

So… Is Being in The Doghouse a Bad Thing?

 

Not here!

 

At The Doghouse FTF, being in the doghouse means you’re in a space of learning, curiosity, and connection. Whether you’re exploring new dog training methods, looking for support with reactivity or confidence-building, or just want to add a bit more fun and enrichment to your dog’s life, you’re in the right place.

 

Together, we’ll build a relationship that’s rooted in trust, choice, and understanding—one wag (or wobble) at a time.