Positive, kind dog training in Annan, Carlisle and Dumfries
Scentwork specialist and dog behaviourist helping dogs feel calmer, more confident, and better understood.
The Creative Canine approach
My approach is kind, ethical, and science-based. I don’t use aversive methods, pain, fear, or intimidation and I don’t believe in quick fixes. I work at the dog’s pace, supporting both ends of the lead, and focusing on change that is kind, thoughtful and built to last.
Working together
Scentwork runs through everything I offer, whether that’s individual training, group learning, or confidence-building support in Annan, Carlisle and Dumfries.
For dogs who benefit from quieter, personalised support, I offer 1:1 scentwork sessions tailored to the dog’s pace, personality, and needs.
For dogs and handlers who enjoy learning alongside others, I run small, calm group classes and workshops, designed to build skills gradually in a supportive environment.
Alongside my dog training work, I also deliver the Kids Around Dogs programme, helping children and adults feel safer and more confident around dogs through understanding and education.
Whichever route you choose, the focus is always the same: helping dogs feel calmer and more confident, and helping their people understand them better.
Krysia’s background
Before training professionally, I worked in a range of roles centred around care, communication, and support – from running my own dog walking business and working in rescue rehoming, to supporting children in school and healthcare settings, and spending seven years as a Police Officer in London.
These experiences shape how I work today: calmly, thoughtfully, and with empathy.
Everything I offer is rooted in a combination of science, experience, and real life with dogs – helping them feel safer, calmer, and more confident, and helping their people understand them better.
Qualifications & training credentials
I’ve trained extensively with the School of Canine Science (SoCS), completing courses in puppy development, scentwork, and canine behaviour, and I’m currently continuing my studies with the SoCS Behaviour Bible. I’m a United Canine Scent Sports Instructor (UCS) and scentwork sits at the heart of what I do not just as a sport, but as a practical, meaningful tool that can help dogs feel safer, more settled, and better able to cope with the world around them.
Much of my behaviour work is woven into this approach. Scentwork can be especially valuable for dogs who struggle with arousal, anxiety, confidence, or overwhelm, and I use it thoughtfully as part of a wider, individualised training picture.
I’m also an approved Kids Around Dogs (KAD) professional, qualified to deliver their evidence-based Overcoming Fear of Dogs programme for both children and adults.
This work focuses on safety, understanding, and rebuilding confidence around dogs, and is an important part of what I offer alongside my dog training services.
My amazing dogs
Eddie – my soul dog
Eddie came to me as a high-energy, scent-driven puppy, full of curiosity and intensity. Now, at almost 12, he’s the ultimate laid-back companion, happiest curled up on the sofa and soaking up attention.
Sensitive and intuitive, Eddie can find new environments a little overwhelming, but he shines with scentwork, which has become a huge part of our life together. He’s the reason I fell in love with scentwork and the heart of my training journey.
Blaze – my greatest teacher
Blaze came to me with his own challenges. As a pup he was a resource guarder, didn’t want much closeness, and had some health issues that made life tricky.
Over time, with patience, understanding, and the right support, he’s grown into an affectionate, playful, and sensitive dog who loves to work and thrives on scentwork. He’s taught me so much about patience, empathy, and looking beyond behaviour to understand the whole dog.
If you’d like to learn more about working together, you can explore 1:1 training, scentwork training, group classes, or the Kids Around Dogs programme – or get in touch to talk about what might suit you and your dog.
Working with Krysia has enriched all our lives
“My very reactive border collie Dougal has been doing scent work with Krysia for many months. It has helped calm him down and it works his brain.
We are continuing with our training as both Dougal and I love it! Krysia is very knowledgeable and always sends follow on emails summarising our sessions and what homework to do. I thoroughly recommend working with Krysia.
It has enriched all of our lives.”
– Isabelle
FAQ about dog training in Annan, Carlisle and Dumfries
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Booking is done via email, or book a free call.
Ready to make a start?
A free 30-minute discovery call is the easiest way to find out if I’m the right fit for you and your dog. No pressure, no commitment, just a relaxed chat about where you are and where you’d like to be.
