THE CANINE
COUNSELLOR

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Empowering You,

Enriching Your Bond

PHILOSOPHY

WELCOME

At The Canine Counsellor, we believe that every dog is a unique individual, deserving of understanding and respect. Our training approach combines your pups instincts with guidance, patience, and compassion, fostering a strong bond between you and your furry companion.

We focus on building trust and enhancing communication, ensuring that learning is a joyful experience for both dogs and their owners.

Together, we’ll cultivate a well-mannered, happy pup who thrives in your family and community. Let's embark on this rewarding journey together!

"Training a dog is not about dominance, it's about building a relationship based on trust and respect."

- Brittany Senior

About Us

PHILOSOPHY

SERVICES

Expert guidance for dog behavior, training, and well-being.

Strengthen your bond with our range of personalised services.

INITIAL
ASSESSMENT

Set the foundation for your training journey.

Explore the unwanted behaviors you’re experiencing and clarify your goals for training.

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FOLLOW UP CONSULTATION

Following your Initial Assessment, together we address more complex challenges or behaviors that require further support.

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4-LEVEL
WORKSHOP SERIES

Transform your relationship with your dog through our 4-Level Workshop Series,

~ Returning soon ~

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BOARD
& TRAIN

Designed for owners facing serious behavioral challenges. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your dog’s actions, we’re here to help.

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CANINE CAREER COACHING

Are you passionate about dogs and looking to build or grow your career in the dog industry?

Succeed with Canine Career Coaching.

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INTRODUCTION
DAY

The perfect first step for dogs to join our boarding or pack walking & socialisation services.

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IRON IT OUT: CANINE CONFIDENCE BUILDING

A one-on-one experience, designed for our trainer to address your dog's unique challenges, build confidence, and improve decision-making skills.

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TAILS & TRAILS -
PACK WALKING

Designed for owners facing serious behavioral challenges. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your dog’s actions, we’re here to help.

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HOME
STAY

Give your dog a true "home away from home" experience - home stay is for pet owners who want their dogs to feel relaxed, loved, included in daily life.

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Become a member of the ...

Collar Club

The Collar Club is an exclusive community for committed dog owners who want ongoing support, special perks, and priority access to premium training services and events.

Find out more

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Join our email list and receive the latest from The Canine Counsellor.

Tracey & Tom, Silverdale
(Bailey, Harper and Kennedy)

We've worked with Brittany for 6 years, and her knowledge and positive attitude have been invaluable. She’s helped us with everything from puppy basics to specific challenges like excessive barking, grooming, crate training, and managing high prey drive. She's even given advice on allergies. Thanks to her, we understand our dogs better and everyone is happier. Highly recommend!

Canine Memory Continued 🐶

Associative Memory: The Key to Training

Dogs excel at associative memory, meaning they remember things based on associations. If your dog associates a particular sound, action, or command with a reward, they are more likely to repeat the behavior. This is why consistency is key in dog training.

Emotional Memory: Dogs Remember Feelings

Dogs’ memories are also tied to emotions. They remember how they feel in certain situations, which means they can form attachments based on experiences that evoke specific emotions. Positive memories, like playing with you or getting affection, can strengthen your bond, while negative experiences, such as unbalanced punishments or fear, can create anxiety or stress.

It’s essential to keep training sessions positive and enjoyable as much as possible. When your dog associates training with fun and rewarding, they’ll be more motivated to learn and work with you. Negative emotions, on the other hand, can lead to resistance or fear, so always prioritize patience and positive reinforcement safe to do so.

So now that you understand how canine memory works, can you give us an example in the comments of your dog displaying either short-term, long-term, associative, or emotional memory?

#TheCanineCounsellor
#AucklandDogs
#AnimalPsychology #DogTraining #DogBehavior #DogLovers #CanineMemories #CanineMemory

How Do Dogs’ Memories Work? Follow our posts today and tomorrow to fully understand canine memory.

As dog owners and trainers, we often wonder just how much our dogs remember and how that affects their behavior. Understanding the way dogs’ memories work can give us incredible insight into how they learn, respond, and connect with us. Here’s a deeper look into the fascinating world of canine memory and how it can enhance your dog’s training.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Memory

Just like humans, dogs have both short-term and long-term memory. Short-term memory allows your dog to retain information for brief periods, such as remembering where they last saw their favorite toy or recognizing your voice when you call them. In fact, research shows that dogs can remember things for up to 5 minutes, but their memory typically doesn’t last as long as ours.

Long-term memory, however, allows dogs to store more lasting impressions—such as their experiences with training, specific commands, or even their bond with you. For example, if a dog learns a specific command consistently, like "sit" or "stay," they will retain it over time, often with little to no reminder. Positive experiences, like rewards, also leave a lasting mark and help reinforce their behavior.

📸 by @dogandco.photography

#TheCanineCounsellor
#AucklandDogs
#AnimalPsychology #DogTraining #DogBehavior #DogLovers #CanineMemories #CanineMemory

Did you know that dogs are incredibly in tune with their emotions? 🐕❤️ They experience a range of feelings like joy, fear, anxiety, and excitement. And just like us, they need help to navigate and regulate those emotions.

A well-trained dog isn’t just about teaching basic commands — it’s about helping them learn to manage stress, calm their excitement, and feel secure in their environment. 🌟

Through proper training, dogs can develop the tools to self-soothe and respond appropriately to triggers. Whether it’s helping them remain calm during a storm 🌧️ or teaching them to stay focused in distracting environments, emotional regulation is key to a happy, balanced pup.

At The Canine Counsellor, we specialize in creating emotional harmony between you and your dog through techniques that boost confidence and calmness. 🧘‍♂️✨

Let’s help your dog thrive emotionally — because a happy dog makes a happy home! 🏡💕

📸 credit goes to the amazingly talented Kirsty @dogandco.photography

#DogTraining #EmotionalWellness #DogBehavior #HappyDogs #CanineCare #PuppyLove #TheCanineCounsellor #AucklandDogs #AnimalPsychology #AnatolianShepherd #playbasedlearning #playwithyourdog

The Holiday Paw-ty’s Over, But Let’s See Those Post-Holiday Pawsitivity Vibes!

We hope you and your fur babies had the BEST holiday season filled with games, belly rubs, and lots of tail wags! 🐕✨ Now that the festivities are winding down, we want to hear about how your pups celebrated!

👉 Did your dog go on a fun adventure?

👉 Did they get spoiled with some extra treats? 🍖

👉 Or maybe they had a *not-so-perfect* New Year’s resolution (like learning to fetch *without* chewing the ball 😅)?

Share your best holiday moments with us in the comments! We know your pups had a blast, so let’s see those adorable faces and hear those wonderful stories! 🐾🎉

Are you curious about the story behind pic #2? It wasn't so funny then, but it's hilarious now—check the comments for the full scoop! 😉 #punintended

#HolidayPaws #FurryFun #NewYearNewTricks #PawesomeMemories #DogTrainingLife #TCC
#TheCanineCounsellor
#AnimalPsychology #AucklandDogs #DogTraining #AnatolianShepherd

Goodbye 2024, Hello 2025

This past year has been one of the toughest I’ve ever faced. It crushed me and completely broke my heart. I lost my sweet Koru in February, my soul dog Adelaide in September, my sassy Milly just two days after Adelaide, and my anchor Winston in October, among many other life and health challenges. Losing my beloved pack members has been one of the hardest losses I've experienced.

This has led to a gradual journey of rediscovering myself, my purpose, and finding new ways to approach both my work and life. The grief has been overwhelming at times, but through it, I've learned more about backing myself, inner strength, resilience, and the importance of embracing life changes no matter how hard they may be.

As we step into 2025, I’m filled with hope. I’m excited about the new developments on the horizon — from a new rehabilitation centre and expanding our team to fresh approaches in dog training. Yes, there will be a learning curve as I navigate a world without my personal pack and a few other changes, but I’m ready to step into the growth that will come from it.

Here’s to new beginnings, healing, and finding joy again. Thank you to everyone who has supported me through this incredibly difficult year. Your love and patience mean the world to me.

2025, I’m ready for you. 💫

#NewYear #NewBeginnings #GriefAndGrowth #DogTrainerJourney #LookingForwardTo2025 #Goodbye2024 #Hello2025 #Growth #Healing #NewBeginnings #DogTraining #AnimalCare #LetsThrive #Gratitude #NewChapter #TCC #TheCanineCounsellor #AucklandDogs #AnimalPsychology

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas filled with love, joy, and sunshine! 🌞🎄

Today, we've enjoyed a beautiful day on the farm full of laughter, warmth, play, and unforgettable moments. Our boarding pups enjoyed some extra holiday cheer with new toys and delicious tuna on their dinner. 🐾💖

We’re so grateful for the incredible dogs and owners we get to work with and for the wonderful Christmas celebrations we’ve had so far. Here’s to more moments of love and happiness with our furry friends! 🐶✨

#MerryChristmas #DogTraining #FurryFamily #Grateful #HolidayJoy #TheCanineCounsellor
#TCC #AnimalPsychology

Are you looking for extra help with your dog? Do you feel like you need more support than consultations with your trainer?

Our Board & Train program offers complete rehabilitation that goes beyond behavior correction. It’s about transforming the bond between you, your dog, and your home for lasting, positive change.

Here’s what makes our program unique:

✅ **Rehabilitation + Re-integration** – We work on your dog’s behavior first, and once improvements are made, we focus on reintroducing them into your home gradually.

✅ **Owner Support** – We don’t just work with your dog – we train *you* too! We guide you through the process, helping you understand how to maintain the progress we’ve made.

✅ **Home-Based Training** – After your dog is ready, we visit your home to ensure they settle back in smoothly and to address any challenges with the home environment.

It’s a holistic, family-focused approach to lasting change. Our goal is for your dog to thrive in your home with a balanced, happy relationship!

🌟 Don’t wait – our program is in high demand, and spots are limited! We’ll be closing for the holidays soon and will reopen in early January. Book now before the year ends, and give your dog the gift of a better tomorrow.

📞 Contact us today to learn more and reserve your spot!

#BoardAndTrain #AucklandDogs #AnimalPsychology #TheCanineCounsellor #TCC #DogTraining #DogRehabilitation #FamilyFocused #HappyHome #LastChance

🎄Christmas Boarding Now Booking!🎄

Get your pup settled in with us this holiday season! 🐾 We're offering a *limited number* of spots, so book now before they fill up!

✨ Why Choose Us? ✨️
- 🐕 Small, personalized groups for extra attention
- 🌾 A farm & family environment where dogs can play and relax
- 🏃‍♂️ Plenty of freedom in a safe, controlled space

We fill up FAST, so **don't wait**—reserve your spot today and give your dog a holiday they’ll love!

📧 email your dates to info@caninecounsellor.co.nz to book!

#DogBoarding #ChristmasBoarding #FarmLife #DogTraining #AnimalPsychology #AucklandDogs #TCC #TheCanineCounsellor

I'm Back and Ready to Help Your Dog Thrive! 🐾

After some time off to welcome our second beautiful son into the world, I am officially back and accepting new clients! 🌟

👩‍🏫 **Why Choose TCC?**
- Personalized training plans tailored to your dog’s unique needs
- Proven methods that promote long-term behavior changes
- A compassionate approach for both dogs and owners

Booking is now easier than ever through my new website! Get your pup the help they deserve in just a few clicks! 🌐

Don’t wait to see the transformation your dog deserves! Let’s work together to build a better bond and a happier, healthier dog.

👉 caninecounsellor.co.nz

#DogTraining #DogRehabilitation #HappyDogs #DogBehavior #TrainingSuccess #HealthyDogs #BackToBusiness #AnimalPsychology #TheCanineCounsellor #TCC

Lest We Forget 🇳🇿

We remember and thank all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and country. #anzacday

Guess what today is ⁉️

EARTH DAY! 🌿🌏

Share with us one thing you currently do, or plan to start doing, to help with your dogs paw-print on Earth! 🐾

One thing we currently do is we use old clothes and blankets that we can no longer use to stuff dog beds, make snuffle mats and braid tug toys. As fabrics cannot be recycled we are continuously looking for ways we can up-cycle them! 👚

One thing we plan to start doing is composting our dogs feces! Our dogs are on an organic raw diet so not only do their stools breakdown quickly they are also full of organic matter that, when processed correctly, would make great garden nutrients. 🪴👩🏻‍🌾

Awhile back we invited you to enjoy life the way your dog does. How has this been for you?

The amazing Dr Isla Fishburn, @kachina_canine_wellness , once wisely said “Feel into a time when your dog has brought up in you a negative emotion whether it’s impatience, irritation, anger, frustration, a need for perfectionism and explore what is it about yourself that needs to be healed. What is it about yourself where you feel this frustration, this irritation?”

This can be a confronting exercise but I guarantee you will find it helps you achieve deep growth.

Did you spend today being present with loved ones? We hope so! We want to wish you a happy Easter along with all your family members, furry and non-furry! 🦮👨‍👩‍👦

Did you have a Easter egg hunt for the pups or kiddos? 🪺 Tell us about it! 🥰

Happy Good Friday! 🐣

What fun adventures do you have planned this long weekend? 🐰

It’s that time again and we want to hear from you! 🤩 What is your Wednesday Win? Dog related or not all wins are welcome! 🥳

Our dogs live, feel and respond from the heart, their whole existence is from the heart. 💓

For them there is no ego, judgement, shame or blame they do not have these brain oriented ways of making one another or you feel bad. 💞

It is just all about being heart led. 🥰

I invite you to set the goal to enjoy life the way your dog enjoys life. 😌

It is beautiful. 🤩

I have never met a dog that is angry at their owners over the mistakes they have made. However, I frequently meet dogs that wished their owners would worry less. Our worried energy prevents us from being present and negatively impacts those around us.

As humans, learning tends to come with quite a bit of pain attached. We beat ourselves up over the mistakes we’ve made and opportunities we missed. Our regrets. But what does that serve?

I want you to take a deep breath and let it all go before you continue reading this.

Now tell yourself, “I wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t made that mistake. I wouldn’t have learned, grown, shared with others and helped others.” There are so many gifts that come out of learning even when the journey has not travelled the route of perfection. Remember not everything can go perfectly, that’s an unreasonable expectation to hold yourself and others to that will only create deep wounds.

Nobody is perfect and that is apart of what makes us all so beautiful in our own way. Look past the pain as there is so much that can be gained.

Focus on the gained.

Your pet, inner circle and future you will thank you for it.

Happy Fabulous Friday! 💖

Today is National Puppy Day and Wednesday Wins! 🥳

This morning the pack has been on a big bush hike 🌿 and at midday Adelaide and Koru will be hitting the beach 🏝 for some training and looking to make new friends. 🐶 We’ll wrap up our day with stretching and massages for all. 🙆🏻‍♀️💜💆🏻‍♀️

Tell us about your special plans with your pup today and share your recent win. 🤩

80% of your dogs behaviour is determined by their health. 🩺

What’s the foundation of their health consist of? 🤔

Gut Health 👩🏻‍🍳
Immune Health 🦠
Physical Health 🏊🏻‍♀️
Emotional Health 😄
Environmental Health 🏡

Get those five pillars right and then the remaining 20% is their training. 🦮

Sunday Funday! 🎉
Showcasing todays adventure buddies 🐕⛰🐾🏝

What did you do today to destress? 🧘🏻‍♀️

As @odettesuterdvm teaches, stress is the biggest disease humans and their pets currently face. Bacteria and virus’s take advantage of the opportunity presented when the system is stressed. “It’s all about the terrain.”

So true and so empowering. 🔥

The human mind always learns better when you are communicating through positive affirmations and showing it what is possible, and the same goes for our dogs! 🤓🐾

What possibilities have you and/or your dog recently discovered? 💙

🎉Wednesday Wins🎉

Let’s all get through that mid week lull by sharing something you’ve done recently that you’re proud of. It’s important to take a moment to pat yourself on the back and acknowledge your accomplishments!

Our win this week is we have finally gotten Koru over her fear of water! When she first came to us the waves crashing, white water chasing her and wet feeling was all new and a bit overwhelming. So everyday we have gone to the beach and shown her through gradual exposure, training and play that water can be fun. On Monday she went the deepest she has yet wading through and playing in water that was up to her belly! 🥳 Go Koru! 🥰

Share your Wednesday Win in the comments below! 💙

Back by popular demand, our Anatolian Style Glow Up. Happy Monday 🐶🐾

🌿Happy International Women’s Day!🌿

During the evolution of modern man all of the feminine aspects rose to the fore when we found farming and husbandry. Before the alphabet and literacy, in the early days of agriculture all of the spirits were manifested into one all powerful deity known as the Earth Mother. Over thousands of years men killed each communities Goddess to usurp her powers and over time with the start of western civilisation religions the Gods went down to just one God and he was indisputably male. However, Earth Mother never left our planet, she lives on through the energy of Earths plants, animals, winds, mountains and waters encouraging man to focus on slowing down and absorbing the vibrations of nature, connecting to it’s energy and feeling it’s light.

For an in depth history on this we recommend listening to Dr. Leonard Shlain’s lecture ‘The Alphabet vs. The Goddess’.

You are not separate from your dog, your dog is not separate from you, in fact your dog is your mirror… 💞🪞
Happy Monday! 😌

Have you gotten your FREE ticket to the Holistic Dog Care Summit? Click the link in our story to get your FREE ticket now. 🥳

Get life changing information from several highly skilled veterinarians. Your pets will thank you for it with happiness and longevity. 🥰

It’s currently on day 2 of 4 and each days interviews are available for 48hrs. 🤓

Happy Valentines Day from our pack to yours ❤️
•
•
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This was from our first family photo shoot shortly after Asher was born, before Koru joined the pack 🥰

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@caninecounsellor

THE CANINE COUNSELLOR

PHILOSOPHY

WELCOME

SERVICES

INITIAL ASSESSMENT

FOLLOW UP CONSULTATION

4-LEVEL WORKSHOP SERIES

BOARD & TRAIN

CANINE CAREER COACHING

INTRODUCTION DAY

IRON IT OUT: CANINE CONFIDENCE BUILDING

TAILS & TRAILS - PACK WALKING

HOME STAY

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Tracey & Tom, Silverdale (Bailey, Harper and Kennedy)

​

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Connect With Us

THE CANINE
COUNSELLOR

INITIAL
ASSESSMENT

4-LEVEL
WORKSHOP SERIES

BOARD
& TRAIN

INTRODUCTION
DAY

TAILS & TRAILS -
PACK WALKING

HOME
STAY

Tracey & Tom, Silverdale
(Bailey, Harper and Kennedy)